Earlier this month, the trivia game show ‘Jeopardy!’ included a special montage at the end of an episode dedicated to the host of ‘Jeopardy!’, Alex Trebek, who passed away in November 2020. 

‘Jeopardy!’ has been around for more than 30 years, airing daily on most weekdays. Millions of people around the world, both young and old alike  watch ‘Jeopardy!’, including some Amador Valley students.

“I’ve been watching ‘Jeopardy!’ for about 9 years now. I started when I was 8 years old because it was one of my great-grandmother’s favorite TV shows and I really wanted to be able to have conversations with her about the show,” said Grace MacNeil (‘22).

Because ‘Jeopardy!’ has been around for a long time, it holds a special place in many people’s hearts.

“My family and I used to eat pizza and take turns trying to answer the questions before the contestants did! My favorite memory was when I finally got one of the questions right,” said Nikki Bondale (‘21).

Sadly, Alex Trebek passed away in November 2020, due to stage IV pancreatic cancer. He had been fighting for over 18 months. Many fans of ‘Jeopardy!’ were saddened to hear this news, as he had been the beloved host of the show for more than 30 years. 

“I was really upset over his passing because I feel as though I have grown up with him and have been watching the show for so long,” said Bondale.

As a result of Trebek’s death, a tribute was made in honor of him airing at the end of an episode on January 8th, 2021. This was Trebek’s last day hosting the show. The tribute showcases moments from Trebek’s life, specifically his time as a host on ‘Jeopardy!’, meant to commemorate his life, and his legacy. 

“My initial reaction to the tribute to Alex Trebek was that I thought it was very thoughtful and depicted some great memories while he hosted the show. I think the show in general required a great amount of well rounded just general knowledge and I think the tribute showed the more enthusiastic side of the show where Alex was able to be himself and have fun and bond with the contestants and I thought the tribute was a great representation of him and the show,” said MacNeil.

Even though Trebek has sadly passed away, his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of many.