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Celebrating The Legendary Alex Trebek And His Best 'Jeopardy!' Moments

Jeopardy!

Alex Trebek hosted more than 8,000 episodes of the most iconic game show in history. We take a look back at some of his best moments.

It is impossible to put into words the incredible gift that Alex Trebek gave to viewers at home who tuned into his show every evening for good old-fashioned family fun. The legendary figure hosted more than 8,000 episodes of Jeopardy!– the world's most historic game show.


The American classic premiered in 1984, with Trebek hosting the franchise for 36 years prior to his passing from pancreatic cancer on November 8, 2020. Throughout his entire run on the show, the star made every contestant feel welcomed, safe, and important. To honor Trebek's legacy, we take a look back at some of his best moments.

First Ever 'Jeopardy!' Episode 

The renowned game show aired on September 10, 1984. Today, we look back at the first ever introduction to Jeopardy! that has maintained its heart throughout the entirety of Trebek's run. Features such as the answer and question format, three insightful contestants, and the prominent double jeopardy have remained from beginning to end.

What Happens In Utah Stays In Utah

In the October 8, 2004 episode, contestant Ken Jennings and Trebek had the audience laughing on their feet. Ken Jennings, who now holds the title of Jeopardy's Greatest of All Time, had an unexpected answer to the prompt: This term for a long-handled gardening tool can also mean an immoral pleasure seeker.

Ken answered, with "What's a hoe?" which left Trebek speechless.

"Woah...woah...woah. They teach you that in school in Utah, huh?"

This memorable exchange is still remembered 16 years later with Trebek's clever, quick-witted responses to surprising moments never forgotten.

Pantsless Trebek 

Alex Trebek is clearly willing to do anything to make his contestants feel more comfortable. On the 2005 Jeopardy! Tournament of Champions episode, the classy host came on set missing an essential part of his attire: pants. Trebek explained this hilarious decision, stating:

"I was informed backstage a few minutes ago that our three contestants... wanted to relieve some of the tension. They said we must do the program without trousers."

This moment helped contestants Jerome, Brad, and Ken loosen up and feel more at home, and made the entire audience break out into laughter.

Trebek's Bullhorn 

On the July 13, 2012 episode, Trebek had a new prop during one of the categories titled "Bull." He jokes at one of the contestants who called the device a megaphone despite the category's title being restricted to words that contain the word "bull."

GMA Highlights Comical Trebek Moments

After Good Morning Americainterviewed Alex Trebek back in the spring of 2019, they released a segment on their show honoring their favorite Alex Trebek moments. These include lovingly dissing contestants, enhancing his rapper skills, and responding to comical contestant responses.

Trebek Gets Emotional In Mom's Birthday Tribute

In the April 14, 2016 episode of Jeopardy!, the host did not perform his regular routine of introducing his contestants and returning champion. Rather, he gave an emotional shoutout to his mother Lucille who he describes as his "biggest fan" at 95 years old.

"I want to send our birthday greetings to a longtime fan of 'Jeopardy!' A woman named Lucille who today celebrates her 95th birthday. Way to go, Ma!"

This emotional moment warmed the hearts of fans at home who were touched by Trebek's vulnerability.

We Love You, Alex!

In 2019, contestant Dhruv Gaur gave an answer during Final Jeopardy that everyone across America can agree on. Rather than writing an answer to the prompt, he took a moment to highlight his gratitude for the legendary host, writing:

"What is we love you, Alex!"

This left Trebek holding back tears.

Alex Trebek made his instrumental mark on families at home who felt a sense of joy and positivity when watching Jeopardy! We wish his family and friends all the love, support, and peace during this difficult time.

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Charlie McDonald