Alex Trebek’s final ‘Jeopardy’ episode was ratings bonanza
Alex Trebek finished with a flourish.
The final episode of “Jeopardy!” featuring the longtime game show host, which aired Jan. 8, drew a whopping 14 million viewers.
The stunning showing was the highest-rated show in 19 months, reported The Hollywood Reporter on Wednesday. The previous high was June 3, 2019, the final day of James Holzhauer’s masterful 33-episode run.
For Trebek’s final week, beginning Jan. 4, the show averaged 11.1 million fans — its most-watched five-day stretch since April 2020.
The affable host died Nov. 8, 2020, from pancreatic cancer at the age of 80.
During his Jan. 4 show, Trebek addressed his “Jeopardy!” audience regarding the coronavirus crisis.
“You’ll recall that about a month ago I asked all of you to take a moment to give thanks for all the blessings you enjoy in your lives,” explained Trebek after his introduction. “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, but today I’d like you to go one step further. I’d like you to open up your hands and open your heart to those who are still suffering because of COVID-19. People who are suffering through no fault of their own. We’re trying to build a gentler, kinder society and if we all pitch in just a little bit we’re going to get there.”
At the conclusion of the Jan. 8 episode, the program ran a short montage of Trebek’s most memorable moments during his amazing 36-year run on the series.
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A title card then appeared, which read: “Forever in our hearts, always our inspiration.”
Currently, Ken Jennings, who holds the “Jeopardy!” record for most consecutive victories at 74, has been filling in as guest host.
Other celebrities pitching in until a permanent host is secured include journalist Katie Couric, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and “Big Bang Theory” actress Mayim Bialik.
