Jeopardy! reveals when Ken Jennings will host his last episode.
Undoubtedly, Jennings has found success as the show’s interim host. According to reports, his debut week in January garnered an average of 10.3 million viewers. This rating is second this season only to Alex Trebek’s final week as host. So, why isn’t Jennings staying? Well, the answer is two-fold. First, the show scheduled a whole cast of celebrities to guest host the show while they decide who will permanently fill the role. Celebrities include iconic journalist and host Katie Couric, football-start Aaron Rodgers, actress Mayim Bialik, and CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta.
Secondly, Ken Jennings may be returning to the show. Producers have not yet announced who will be the next full-time host of Jeopardy! However, fans are wondering if Jennings will return to fill the role. After all, Jennings is the “Greatest of All Time” show champion. Regardless of rumors, the show is not likely to announce the permanent new host before Spring. So, fans will just have to wait. Meanwhile, Jeopardy! producer Mike Richards will play host for two weeks (after Jennings) starting on February 22.
Interim Jeopardy! Host Ken Jennings Pays Nightly Tribute To Alex Trebek
Certainly, dedicated fans of Jeopardy! are grateful for Trebek’s contributions to the show. That’s why, since he started hosting the in January, Jennings has ended each episode with a special sign-off. Each night Ken ends the show by saying “Thanks, Alex.” And fans are loving it, with some even getting emotional.
Ken even responded to the fan’s praise. He explained that also appreciates the phrase. However, he didn’t come up with it. In fact, the phrase was suggested to him by Jeopardy! producer Mike Richards.
“‘Thanks, Alex’ was suggested as a sign-off by executive producer Mike Richards, and I am glad he did. There wouldn’t be a show without Alex,” replied Jennings.
