Following Jeopardy’s rotating celebrity guest hosts after the death of longtime host Alex Trebek, Sony Pictures Television has officially announced Trebek’s permanent replacements, and it is two for the price of one. The Big Bang Theory’s Mayim Bialik will be joining executive producer Mike Richards in a double-host position for the game show.
Mike Richards will be the full-time host of the long-running daily syndicated program starting in Season 38, while Mayim Bialik will join as the host of the show’s primetime and spinoff series, which includes the new Jeopardy! National College Championship on ABC next year.
In a statement, Mike Richards praised Alex Trebek and the legacy he left behind. He’s had his fair share of game show experience, as he hosted Beauty and the Geek and produced Weakest Link. He also served as executive producer for The Price Is Right and Let’s Make A Deal. Although some Jeopardy fans may not have liked this choice, it seems Richards is the perfect successor. Richards commented on taking on the job as Jeopardy! host, saying:
I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to host the syndicated version of Jeopardy! Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined being chosen to step into a role of this magnitude. I am incredibly humbled to step behind the lectern and will work tirelessly to make sure our brilliant contestants shine in each and every episode. Alex believed the game itself and the contestants are the most important aspects of the show. I was fortunate to witness his professionalism, intensity and kindness up close and that will serve as the ultimate blueprint as we continue to produce the show we love. I am thrilled that Mayim is joining the Jeopardy! team. Her academic track record and enthusiasm for the game made her a terrific guest host. It will be a privilege to produce the primetime series with her as host.
Meanwhile, Mayim Bialik is keeping busy even without Jeopardy! The actress is getting ready for the second season of her Fox comedy series Call Me Kat, which former Big Bang Theory co-star Jim Parsons produces. After news broke that she would indeed be hosting the iconic game show, Bialik took to Twitter to confirm and share her excitement for the opportunity of a lifetime:
IT’S TRUE!!! Been waiting a long time to tell you all. Really really honored and astounded and excited for this - it’s beyond anything I ever imagined could happen.
Jeopardy! is set to start Season 38 production later this month, with new episodes premiering on September 13. Both Mike Richards and Mayim Bialik were part of the rotating of hosts for Season 37 so it will be interesting to see how they will do in a more permanent position. One thing for sure is that no one can truly fill the shoes of Alex Trebek, though seeing these two step into the hosting position will be something to look forward to.
