Alex Trebek shown in his Los Angeles home in 1988.
I’ve been back and forth about whether I think I’ll be able to watch these last five episodes of Jeopardy. I know that sounds silly. I didn’t know him. But he’s been my post-dinner activity for about 20 years and I don’t know that I can see him in discomfort.
Trebek, who lost his battle with pancreatic cancer in November, will be honored during the showing of his final episode Friday with “a special tribute to the life and work of the man who captained America’s Favorite Quiz Show with skill, style, and sophistication for 36+ years,” according to a statement from “Jeopardy!” producer Sony Pictures Television.
Trebek’s final episodes were originally slated to air during the week of Christmas, but producers pushed the showtimes back because they said the holidays might be too chaotic for viewers to tune in.
The Canadian-American game-show host announced his cancer diagnosis in March 2019 but powered through to tape episodes for the 2020-21 season before passing away at the age of 80.
Producers say he did not know that what ended up being his final show would in fact be his last.
“Jeopardy!” will continue airing new episodes starting Jan. 11 with guest host and $4,370,700 lifetime show winner Ken Jennings at the helm.