It’s a bittersweet week for Jeopardy! fans, as the show is currently airing the final episodes to feature late host Alex Trebek. Before his death in November, Trebek had already taped a number of episodes, with the final ones eventually being delayed until the beginning of 2021. So far, the episodes have shown Trebek doing what he did best - informing and entertaining the public while also providing some thoughtful messages. One of these final shows also included a surprise appearance from Ryan Reynolds, and the actor took to social media to share a touching message about the experience.
Ryan Reynolds was involved in the episode’s “The Movies” category, in which he virtually appeared to set up a question related to his upcoming film, Free Guy. The actor couldn’t help but acknowledge his brief role in one of Alex Trebek’s final Jeopardy! shows. Take a look at his sweet Twitter post below:
I think most of us would agree with Ryan Reynolds’ sentiments. Like many, the actor was a fan of Alex Trebek, and knowing that he’s now forever linked to the late host’s legacy must be truly special. The fact that Trebek was also a fellow Canadian is sure to add another layer of pride as well.
Since Alex Trebek lost his battle with pancreatic cancer, many of his colleagues have reflected on what it was like to work with him. Jeopardy!’s longtime narrator, Johnny Gilbert, recently remembered Trebek fondly, making note of his sweet interactions with the show’s live studio audience.
The crew has also opened up about what it was like to work with Trebek on his final set of episodes. Jeopardy! executive producer Michael Richards recalled Trebek being an “absolute warrior” despite being in “enormous pain.” At the time of the tapings, no one could have known that Trebek was so close to passing away, but Richard says the host still appeared to be his usual self.
Richards also recalled Trebek’s last day before his death. According to the producer, the host spent a peaceful day with his wife in their backyard. He says the fact that Trebek had this serene day brings some comfort to him and the rest of the Jeopardy! family.
After Alex Trebek’ final Jeopardy! episodes finish airing, former champion Ken Jennings will serve as a guest host. He’ll then be followed by other guests before the show decides on a permanent host.
It’s honestly still hard to believe that Alex Trebek is no longer with us, and the reality will truly set in once his episodes have finished airing. Still, there is comfort to be found in the fact that Ryan Reynolds and so many others have taken the time to honor his memory and contributions.
You can watch Jeopardy! in syndication, and Alex Trebek’s final episode is set to air on Friday, January 8th.
