Much of Jeopardy's decades-long relevance can be attributed to the skill and care of host Alex Trebek, whose passing due to pancreatic cancer shook the nation at its core. Because the show must go on, executives began giving potential new hosts a chance to fill Trebek's shoes, with Star Trek actor LeVar Burton quickly becoming a fan favorite choice among internet circles. Now, in an appearance on Trevor Noah's The Daily Show, Burton has confirmed that he is no longer pursuing the coveted position of being the next permanent Jeopardy host after Trebek.
To say that Burton is a respected figure in American media would be an understatement. The actor is a permanent fixture in pop culture history, playing the visor-sporting Geordi La Forge in the original Star Trek series as well as the seasons and films of Star Trek: The Next Generation. In addition, Burton starred as Kunta Kinte in the slavery drama Roots as well as Reading Rainbow, the latter of which tasked Burton with teaching reading and life skills to millions of children. Burton had also been a voice actor, as he starred in supporting roles on Captain Planet and Gargoyles. (As an aside, Jordan Peele is interested in a Gargoyles reboot.)
Burton revealed to Trevor Noah on Thursday night that he is no longer interested in hosting Jeopardy long-term. Burton explained that when he came short of getting the job of long-term Jeopardy host (with Mike Richards being the initial recipient), the doors to many exciting opportunities were opened for him, specifically as a result of not getting the gig. Burton also explained that while the pace of Jeopardy might not be the best fit for him (as a variety of question topics quickly come and go), he would still be open to other game show hosting gigs similar to Jeopardy.
Richards was offered the role of permanent Jeopardy host, but the former television producer stepped down after incidents involving insensitive remarks resurfaced. Former Jeopardy contestant Ken Jennings and The Big Bang Theory star Mayim Bialik were then selected to serve as alternating hosts through the end of 2021. Other potential candidates have included big names such CNN commentator Anderson Cooper and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
While Burton may not be moving forward with his bid to host Jeopardy, fans of the actor will fondly remember his stint as a particularly desired hosting candidate by vocal internet circles. It will be very exciting to see where Burton goes from here.
Source: The Daily Show