‘Jeopardy!’ Is Airing Alex Trebek’s Very First 1984 Episode, Mustache Included
One of the few benefits of the lack of new programming during the ongoing pandemic, especially as it relates to Jeopardy!, are all the episode gems the game show has been re-airing.
We’ve seen Ken Jennings on his first time on the show, as well as his final, 75th game. James Holzhauer’s appearances have also been amazing to witness once again.
Now, on July 20th, 2020, Jeopardy! is taking us back to Alex Trebek’s first day on the job as host of the classic quiz show, and fans can’t wait.
Alex Trebek’s very first ‘Jeopardy!’ is airing on July 20, 2020
The very first episode of the syndicated Jeopardy! aired with Alex Trebek on September 10, 1984 and, according to zap2it, it’s being aired on Monday, July 20, just two days before Alex Trebek’s 80th birthday.
With Johnny Gilbert announcing the show on that first day, as he still does today, the show presented three players who, differently from the way things are done on the show now, walked out, stood in the center of the studio while Gilbert introduced them, and then walked over to their separate podiums.
Finally, Gilbert introduced Trebek. “And now, here is the host of Jeopardy!, Alex Trebek!”
The Canadian-born television personality, with much darker hair and a full mustache at the time, walked out, saying, “Thank you very much, ladies and gentleman, on behalf of all of us, welcome to America’s favorite answer-and-question game, Jeopardy!“
Alex Trebek’s memoir is publishing on July 21
As if seeing Alex Trebek’s first Jeopardy! episode isn’t enough, just one day later, the host’s memoir, The Answer Is…: Reflections on My Life will be available a day later on July 21, 2020.
Sean Manning, executive editor at Simon & Schuster, stated in an April 2020 press release, “Today, when there is so much uncertainty and turmoil in the world, Alex Trebek is a beacon of stability and positivity. This wise, charming and inspired book is further evidence why he has long been considered one of the most beloved and respected figures in entertainment.”
Trebek himself writes in his book, “I want people to know a little more about the person they have been cheering on for the past year.”
‘Jeopardy!’ is still on hiatus but eager to get back on the air
According to show sources, Alex Trebek wants to get back in the game, literally, when studios get the thumbs up to resume filming.
A Jeopardy! rep told TVLine in June 2020 that “Alex is looking forward to resuming production as soon as we are able to do so. He’s told us he wants to be one of the first shows back in production.”
