Jeopardy is a classic game show that always ranks high on the list of family favorites.
It’s popular with the young and old alike because of the challenging way it tests one’s general knowledge. Instead of the question being asked to a contestant, the host supplies the answer and waits for contestants to respond with the right question. The show smoothly merges learning and enjoyment together. What also makes it a fun show to watch regularly is how entertaining the exchange is between contestants and the show’s warm and easygoing host, Alex Trebek.
His hosting stint on Jeopardy spans over three decades and counting, hosting more than 36 reasons and nearly 8,000 shows. Because of this, Trebek has become one of television’s most recognizable figures. However, an unexpected twist to the show rocked his usual cool demeanor. Just recently, the award-winning host teared up in the “Tournament of Champions” episode of the show because of a contestant’s unexpected response.
A few months back, the host revealed in a video clip that he was battling Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. In typical Alex Trebek fashion, he expressed optimism and good-naturedness throughout the announcement.
“I plan to beat the low survival rate statistics for this disease. Truth told, I have to! Because under the terms of my contract, I have to host Jeopardy! for three more years!”
Recently, in a Final Jeopardy challenge, the seasoned host was caught off-guard by a contestant’s heartfelt answer.
Alex read, “In the title of a groundbreaking 1890 exposé of poverty in New York City slums, these 3 words follow “How the”. Contestant Dhruv Gaur who was in third place with $2,000, unfortunately, did not know the right answer, but he sure gave the perfect one.
Placing a bet amounting to $1,995, he scribbled,
“What is we love you, Alex!” Reading the message caused the host to choke up momentarily. After a few seconds, he managed to respond by saying, “That’s very kind. Thank you.”
Jeopardy’s official Twitter account shared the winning moment on their page, complete with the hashtag #WeLoveYouAlex. It gained more than 2,000 retweets and over 16,000 likes.
The contestant also shared on social media that the episode was taped right after Alex Trebek shared how he was re-entering cancer treatment. He also proceeded to explain that he simply expressed what he knew everybody else was thinking.
Despite the refusal of Jeopardy officials to disclose further details on the host’s physical state, the latter’s explanation a few months back shows his glass-half-full response.
His optimism and high spirits only make him more endearing to his colleagues and fans. Alex Trebek’s sincere warmth and friendliness, coupled with his smooth delivery and hosting skills on the show, make him a cut above the rest. It comes as no surprise that contestants like Dhruv Ghaur don’t hesitate to show their support and appreciation for the loveable host.
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