Much ofJeopardy’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, withStar Trekactor LeVar Burton quickly becoming a fan favorite choice among internet circles. Now, in an appearance on Trevor Noah’sThe Daily Show, Burton has confirmed that he is no longer pursuing the coveted position of being the next permanentJeopardyhost 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 inthe originalStar Trekseriesas well as the seasons and films ofStar Trek: The Next Generation. In addition, Burton starred as Kunta Kinte in the slavery dramaRootsas well asReading 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 onCaptain PlanetandGargoyles. (As an aside, Jordan Peele is interested in aGargoylesreboot.)
RELATED:Frogger Game Show Trailer Brings The Konami Arcade Classic To Life
Burton revealed to Trevor Noah on Thursday night that he is no longer interested in hostingJeopardylong-term. Burton explained that when he came short of getting the job of long-termJeopardyhost (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 whilethe pace ofJeopardymight 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 toJeopardy.
Richards was offered the role of permanentJeopardyhost, but the former television producer stepped down after incidents involving insensitive remarks resurfaced. FormerJeopardycontestant Ken Jennings andThe Big Bang Theorystar 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 forwardwith his bid to hostJeopardy, 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.
