Chris Connelly To Honor Alex Trebek On ABC's News Special
While the year has been filled with such tragic news, Alex Trebek's death took a toll on the entire entertainment industry. The 80-year-old television personality announced in 2019 that he has been battling pancreatic cancer and after a long battle, he passed away on Nov. 8.
Trebek's work will be celebrated through Alex Trebek, Remembered: A 20/20 Special, which will last for one hour. The special is going to be hosted by Chris Connelly, who will reflect on his legacy and life. Since the tragic news broke, celebrities across the country shared their thoughts and prayers for the legendary game show host.
Trebek, who hosted Jeopardy! for over 35 years, has been awarded Emmy six times. He was surrounded by his close friends and family members when he passed away as per Jeopardy! Official Twitter account.
Since then, celebrities couldn't hold back to share their experiences and love for the host. Actress Viola Davis addressed the legendary host as a "true gentleman" and hero who was absolutely courageous along with a picture of Trebek.
Ryan Reynolds also took Twitter and recalled when the host did a cameo for his movie, Free Guy. The 44-year-old actor revealed that Trebek came to shoot even while struggling with cancer. He further praised and called him funny, gracious, generous, stalwart, curious, and also Canadian.
Trebek was in the fourth stage of pancreatic cancer when he passed away at his residence. The one-hour ABC special will reflect on his profile in which he ran the quiz show for the longest period of time. In an interview with Good Morning America, Trebek spoke with T.J. Holmes and Michael Strahan about life after being diagnosed with cancer.
He shed light on how he wants everyone to remember him and thanked his fans for being supportive following the news of his cancer. The special will show bits from Trebek and Robin Roberts' interview when they first discussed the diagnosis.
During the interview, they both tried to spread awareness regarding the illness and its symptoms. The special will also feature footage of his television career and behind the scenes of the game show.
Burt Thakur, a champion on the show, got emotional and shared how much impact Trebek had on his life. He also thanked the host for teaching him English and praised him for being a professional gentleman. Thakur was in tears when he went on to share more details about Trebek.