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He’s been hosting the iconic game show Jeopardy! since 1984 and even though Alex Trebek has no plans on slowing down, he already has a replacement in mind when he bids farewell to the beloved American television game show. While making a guest appearance on Live! With Kelly and Ryan on Thursday, February 21, the 78-year-old revealed who he wants to take over as host of the show and how he’d announce the bittersweet news.
“Yeah, I’ll just go to the director and say, ‘Leave me 30 seconds at the end of the show.’ I’ll thank the audience for their support over the many years, and hopefully it’ll be more than 35,” Alex dished to Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest. “And then I will say, ‘And now ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to introduce my replacement as the host of Jeopardy, Ryan Seacrest.”
The crowd erupted in applause and yells as Alex revealed that he would like to see Ryan, 44, take his place. Not even a second later, the American Idol host gushed, “I accept, yes!” His pal Kelly, 48, even supported the potential gig. “You know Alex, he has time in his schedule. You have the hours between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m,” she insisted. “And we tape two days a week only and you already commute to Los Angeles,” Alex added.
By the looks of it, we don’t think Ryan would object. Although he would have big shoes to fill, the handsome stud’s expertise and impressive resume proves that he would be a perfect pick. “Hey Gelman, nice knowin’ ya!” he joked.
Rumors have been circulating lately about the TV host potentially saying goodbye to the show he’s been hosting for over 30 years, so Alex discussing replacements is sure to put a pit in every Jeopardy! fans’ stomachs. Even recently, Alex shared some insight on who could be taking his job when he finally decides to retire. “It’s probably going to be a woman, somebody younger, somebody bright, somebody personable, somebody with a great sense of humor,” he said at the 92nd Street Y, joking, “So I nominated Betty White.” Ha!
Page Six also reported that other serious contenders consist of CNN’s Laura Coates, LA Kings announcer Alex Faust and TCM’s Ben Mankiewicz. Though Jeopardy! seems to have a good list of people lined up, we’re just going to continue to hope that Alex doesn’t leave the beloved show anytime soon!
