When Alex Trebek passed away in November of 2020, plenty of people speculated that uber-player Ken Jennings would take over the hosting duties of "Jeopardy." Sure enough, Jennings was announced, but as a 'guest host.'
Sony TV, which produces the game show, has decided to give several people a short at the hosting gig. Those taking turns at the podium include Katie Couric, Aaron Rodgers, Bill Whitaker, and Mayim Bialik.
After Jennings' stint, Executive Producer of the show, Mike Richards will man the podium.
So, how's Jennings doing so far?
In week one, he opened each episode with a heartfelt message about Alex that seemed not only incredibly sincere and comforting for viewers but entirely appropriate. Jennings also ended each show by saying, "Thank You, Alex."
Hosting 'Jeopardy' isn't just reciting the answers to the contestants and confirming or denying that the question they've posed is correct, there's also the opening and closing statements and the banter with the participants.
Jennings is excelling at all of it.
Given this, he has a real shot at the taking over the position permanently. And, his history as a contestant, something that the other previously announced guest hosts don't possess, doesn't hurt either.
In fact, one contestant who appeared during Jennings' time on the broadcast has already used this as a way to make a joke in Final Jeopardy. (The contestant wrote 'H&R block' as his question, referencing the answer Jennings gave when his long winning streak came to an end.)
Once Jennings' time on "Jeopardy" concludes, it's up to the other guest hosts to show the audience what they've got, making the answer, "This is Ken Jennings the new host of 'Jeopardy,' a question which can't be as yet posed.
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