Alex Trebek dead: Jeopardy! host dies at 80 after battle with pancreatic cancer

TV legend Alex Trebek, best known as host of the game show Jeopardy!, has died at the age of 80 following a public illness battle.

. Alex Trebek has died at 80 years old after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Picture: Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

TV legend Alex Trebek, best known as host of the game show Jeopardy!, has died at the age of 80.

“Jeopardy! is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends,” the program said in a statement on Twitter.

“Thank you, Alex.”

Jeopardy! is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends. Thank you, Alex. pic.twitter.com/Yk2a90CHIM

— Jeopardy! (@Jeopardy) November 8, 2020

We don’t yet know the cause of death. In March of last year, Trebek revealed he had been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

The Canadian personality hosted Jeopardy! since its debut in 1984, and won seven Daytime Emmy Awards for outstanding game show host.

He hosted a string of other shows popular in the US including The Wizard of Odds, Double Dare, High Rollers and Battlestars.

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau led tributes, declaring, “We have lost an icon”, among other high profile names including Ryan Reynolds and Reese Witherspoon.

We have lost an icon. Almost every night for more than three decades, Alex Trebek entertained and educated millions around the world, instilling in so many of us a love for trivia. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who are mourning this tremendous loss. pic.twitter.com/XoobAfJwBv

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 8, 2020

I’m so saddened that Alex Trebek has passed. Growing up, he made me feel like my nerdiness was valuable and I loved learning from watching jeopardy. It was our family’s nightly pleasure. https://t.co/MQLfQz6Fa1

— Padma Lakshmi (@PadmaLakshmi) November 8, 2020

My heart is heavy hearing of Alex Trebek’s passing. The soundtrack of my life was hearing his voice every night at 7pm. There will never be a host quite like him ever again. God bless him and his family. And may his legacy forever live on. (Insert final Jeopardy music here.) pic.twitter.com/Qz61Bkamet

— Charlie Puth (@charlieputh) November 8, 2020

Alex Trebek was kind enough to film a cameo for our film Free Guy last year despite his battle. He was gracious and funny. In addition to being curious, stalwart, generous, reassuring and of course, Canadian. We love you, Alex. And always will.

— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) November 8, 2020

We’re saddened by the passing of legendary @Jeopardy host Alex Trebek. Earlier this year, he helped us recruit the next generation of astronauts – a testament to his dedication to challenging us to expand our knowledge. pic.twitter.com/Z4vwbLy1yn

— NASA (@NASA) November 8, 2020

Alex Trebek was a gentleman, and it was a privilege to share the stage, even briefly, with such a kind, thoughtful guy. Rest in Peace. pic.twitter.com/moZrpOhLwA

— Stephen Colbert (@StephenAtHome) November 8, 2020

Sending love and prayers to Alex Trebek’s family & the whole Jeopardy crew. Rest In Peace. 🙏🏻

— Reese Witherspoon (@ReeseW) November 8, 2020

Trebek, who was reportedly worth $US75 million ($A103 million) was contracted to host Jeopardy! until 2022, which he signed in 2018.

He held the Guinness World Record for the most gameshow episodes hosted by the same presenter, having hosted nearly 7000 episodes of Jeopardy!, according to Variety.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Jean Currivan Trebek, and their two chidren Emily and Matthew.