NEWSRevealed: Ex-'Today' Anchor Katie Couric Will Be Temporary 'Jeopardy!' Host Following Alex Trebek's Death
Television journalist Katie Couric will be one of the first hosts to take over Jeopardy! after the late Alex Trebek's final episodes finish airing this week, a source revealed.
While Couric, 63 — who anchored NBC's Today for over 10 years and CBS Evening News — has yet to confirm her new position, Jeopardy! producers shared that they plan to invite temporary hosts onto the show until they find Trebek's permanent replacement.
As OK! previously reported, Jeopardy! champion Ken Jennings is also set to take the podium on the long-running trivia show after the veteran host's recent death.
The beloved Trebek died at 80 after battling Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. After he announced his diagnoses in 2019, Trebek continued filming up until his final episode, which took place 10 days before his death.
On the Monday, January 4, episode, Trebek — who hosted more than 8,200 episodes — left viewers with a powerful and moving message before his final departure.
"You'll recall that about a month ago, I asked all of you to take a moment to give thanks for all of the blessings that you enjoy in your lives," he said. "Now, today, a different kind of message. This is the season of giving. I know you want to be generous with your family, your friends, your loved ones."
He then challenged his viewers "to open up your hands and open up your hearts to those who are still suffering because of COVID-19.
- Katie Couric 'Hoping' Permanent 'Jeopardy' Job Will Become Hers, But If Producers 'Hire The Wrong Person, The Show Is Over'
- Katie Couric Didn't Want To 'Mess Up' Hosting 'Jeopardy!,' Watched Game Show 'Religiously' To Prep For Hosting Stint: Watch
- 'No One More Worthy': Ken Jennings Was Alex Trebek's Top Pick To Carry The 'Jeopardy!' Torch
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"People who are suffering through no fault of their own," he said. "We're trying to build a gentler, kinder society, and if we all pitch in — just a little bit — we're gonna get there."
The episode, which was filmed in October, ended with a dedication to Trebek that read: "Forever in our hearts, always our inspiration."
According to a statement from Jeopardy! producer, Sony Pictures Television, the father of two's final episode will include "a special tribute to the life and work of the man who captained America’s Favorite Quiz Show with skill, style, and sophistication for 36+ years."
His last episodes were originally set to drop during the week of Christmas. However, Sony pushed back the dates so fans could enjoy Trebek's final moments on air.
Trebek is survived by children Mathew, 31, and Emily, 28, and wife Jean Currivan Trebek.
Click here to find out the drama surrounding temporary Jeopardy! host Jennings.
The Los Angeles Times was the first to report the news about Couric being a guest host on Jeopardy!.
