‘Jeopardy!’ Announces Who Will Be The New Host – But There’s A Twist

The replacement for the late great Alex Trebek on the iconic game show “Jeopardy!” was finally announced on Wednesday, but there was a twist that nobody could have seen coming: Instead of one host being named, there were two!

Former “Big Bang Theory”actress Mayim Bialik and “Jeopardy!” executive producer Mike Richards were announced as Trebek’s replacements. Richards will be hosting the long-running daily syndicated version of “Jeopardy!,” while Bialik will be hosting the prime-time spinoff series called “Jeopardy! National College Championship,” according to CNBC. 

Network Head Explains Decision 

“We are thrilled to begin the next chapter of America’s Favorite Quiz Show with Mike hosting our daily show and Mayim hosting new versions of ‘Jeopardy!,'” Ravi Ahuja, Chairman of Global Television Studios and Corporate Development for Sony Pictures, told Entertainment Tonight. 

“We took this decision incredibly seriously,” he added. “A tremendous amount of work and deliberation has gone into it, perhaps more than has ever gone into the selection of hosts for a show — deservedly so because it’s ‘Jeopardy!’ and we are following the incomparable Alex Trebek.”

Related: ‘Jeopardy’ Has Banned Certain Wagers Because They Are Deemed Racist, Satanic, And Sexual

Two Hosts Was Always The Plan

Ahuja went on to explain the decision to have two hosts of the show, revealing that unbeknownst to fans, had always been the plan.

“We knew early on that we wanted to divide the hosting responsibilities and it became very clear that Mike and Mayim were the undeniable choices,” he said. “They were both at the top of our research and analysis. Mike is a unique talent, at ease behind the podium and a double threat as producer and host.”

“Mayim has a wonderful energy, an innate sense of the game, and an authentic curiosity that naturally represents the Jeopardy! brand,” Ahuja continued. “We are excited to get to work with them both and are confident that they will carry on the legacy of this iconic show.”

Related: Fans Campaign Hard With Petition For LeVar Burton To Be Permanent ‘Jeopardy!’ Host

Richards Responds

The two hosts each responded to the news with statements of their own, with Richards saying: 

“I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to host the syndicated version of ‘Jeopardy!’ Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined being chosen to step into a role of this magnitude. I am incredibly humbled to step behind the lectern and will work tirelessly to make sure our brilliant contestants shine in each and every episode.

“Alex believed the game itself and the contestants are the most important aspects of the show. I was fortunate to witness his professionalism, intensity and kindness up close and that will serve as the ultimate blueprint as we continue to produce the show we love. I am thrilled that Mayim is joining the ‘Jeopardy!’ team. Her academic track record and enthusiasm for the game made her a terrific guest host. It will be a privilege to produce the primetime series with her as host.”

Not everyone’s thrilled about Mike Richards being one of the hosts.

Bialik Speaks Out

Bialik’s excitement was just as apparent, as she said, “What started out with my 15-year-old repeating a rumor from Instagram that I should guest host the show has turned into one of the most exciting and surreal opportunities of my life!”

“I’m so grateful and excited to continue to work with Mike Richards, and I’m just over the moon to join forces with him and Sony,” Bialik continued. “After all the conversations we’ve had about this partnership, I am just so ready to get started!”

Trebek hosted “Jeopardy!” for 37 years before he passed away in November after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

While he left some big shoes to fill, we can’t wait to see how Richards and Bialik host the show in the years to come!