Photos: “Jeopardy!” host Alex Trebek

Alex Trebek, the awesome “Jeopardy!” animator with all the answers and a reassuring presence in the game show landscape for five decades, has passed away. He was 80 years old.

“Jeopardy! Is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends, ”said a statement shared on the show’s Twitter account on Sunday. “Thanks, Alex.”

The cause of death was not immediately announced. Trebek revealed in March 2019 that he was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, triggering a wave of support and wishes at the time.

In 37 seasons, Trebek has hosted over 8,200 episodes of “Jeopardy!” – most by a single game show host, according to a Sony Pictures release.

Born in Sudbury, Canada, he studied philosophy before becoming a journalist, working as a reporter for the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. In 1966, when he was in his mid-twenties, he made the switch from journalism to animating game shows, starting with a trivia game called “Reach for the Top” and followed a few years later by another. , “Jackpot”.

Besides his animation work, which included shows such as “Classic Concentration” and “High Rollers”, Trebek was active as a philanthropist, taking part in USO Tours visiting US troops abroad and serving as a spokesperson. for various charities, including WorldVision.