Trebek

Trebek is a surname most commonly associated with Alex Trebek, a Canadian-American television personality and longtime host of the U.S. game show Jeopardy! from 1984 until 2020. He became one of the most recognizable figures on American daytime and syndicated television during his tenure on the program.

Early life and career: Trebek was born July 22, 1940, in Sudbury, Ontario. He began his broadcasting career in Canada with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation in the 1960s, where he hosted a range of programs, including the CBC music show Music Hop and the quiz program Reach for the Top. His work in Canadian television helped pave the way for his move to the United States.

Jeopardy! and citizenship: Trebek relocated to the United States to host Jeopardy! in 1984, a position he held for more than three decades and which became the defining role of his career. He became a naturalized American citizen in 1998 while continuing to identify with his Canadian roots.

Illness and death: In 2019, Trebek announced he was undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer. He died on November 8, 2020, at the age of 80. His death was widely mourned by fans and peers and prompted renewed attention to pancreatic cancer research and awareness.

Legacy: Trebek’s calm, cordial hosting style and emphasis on knowledge contributed to Jeopardy!’s enduring appeal and helped shape television game shows for generations. He received multiple awards and nominations for his work and left a lasting imprint on American television culture. The Trebek surname remains closely linked to his public legacy and to the broader history of Jeopardy!.