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There are few constants in life but I’ve always been able to count on Alex Trebek, who’s graced my television screen more weeknights than I can count as the G.O.A.T. host of the G.O.A.T. game show that is Jeopardy!
As a result, I—in addition to every other citizen of Jeopardy! Nation—was dismayed to discover one of Canada’s best exports had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last spring and even more dismayed when I heard about the toll the disease (and the treatment) was taking on him.
It initially appeared the cancer was in remission, but last month, we learned it had returned with a vengeance shortly after Trebek returned to film some new episodes, and while he appeared to be faring alright as of recently, that all changed last week when he spoke with a Canadian news outlet to provide some insight into his current situation.
It’s safe to say it wasn’t exactly the cheeriest update in the world:
“I’ve lived a full life, a good life, and I’m nearing the end of that life. I know that. I’m not gonna delude myself. If it happens, it happens. Why should I be afraid of that?”
Trebek said that his chemotherapy treatment has made it difficult to talk at times and has gotten in the way of Jeopardy! filmings, which led more than a few people to speculate that he may be stepping away from the show at some point in the near future.
Thankfully, TMZ has assuaged our worst fears, as the outlet spoke to a production source who confirmed Trebek has struggled at times but that it hasn’t had a notable impact on the final product.
It goes without saying that I want Trebek to do whatever he needs to do in order to make life as comfortable as possible but I’d be lying if I said I’m not dreading the day when he finally steps away from the podium.