Yesterday, we learned that beloved Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek died at age 80 after having pancreatic cancer.
Since then, Jeopardy! contestants and viewers have shared their stories about the ways Alex impacted their lives.
Alex wasn’t just the best ever at what he did. He was also a lovely and deeply decent man, and I’m grateful for every minute I got to spend with him.
On an episode just last week, Jeopardy! winner Burt Thakur tearfully explained Alex's impact on him and that he learned English while watching the show sitting on his grandfather's lap.
Alex's impact is immeasurable. Thank you for sharing, Burt!
And so many people have really similar anecdotes:
The beautiful thing about this story is that many of us have had similar stories over the years. We watched Jeopardy after dinner with our parents and grandparents. We bonded. Alex Trebek bought families together every single weeknight (& some Saturdays). 💙🥺 https://t.co/5qCgC1bMAn
Many people have shared how Jeopardy! was a way to connect with their grandparents or elder loved ones:
Alex Trebek was a massive part of evenings with my grandmother, growing up. Around 4PM, sitting at her feet or on her bed, listening to him and muttering answers at the TV was part of a daily ritual that fostered a lifelong love of learning. Good Night, Mr. Trebek, and thank you
Or how Alex Trebek made it actually feel cool to be a nerd:
What is, I can’t quite emotionally process the death of Alex Trebek. This is the one I was truly dreading. I’m a nerd, and he made being a nerd the coolest thing in the world. I will miss you and your dry wit and your utter passion for your job and for the people you loved.
And so many people feel that he changed their lives:
rest in peace alex trebek ❤️ this absolutely breaks my heart. every single day after school, my dad and I would watch Jeopardy. when i would have a bad day, alex cheered me up. this game show changed my life. no one can take his place
For me, it's nothing unique, but watching Alex Trebek host Jeopardy! is something that solidified my love of trivia and games. I've bonded with family members of all ages over it, and some of my favorite memories include watching the show with my parents and now with my husband. I am so grateful for the many years of fun.
