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Studio 46 - Non-TPiR Discussion => Out In Left Field => Topic started by: bigblue999 on November 23, 2020, 05:15:27 PM

Title: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: bigblue999 on November 23, 2020, 05:15:27 PM
Ken Jennings will be the first guest host.

https://www.facebook.com/Jeopardy/photos/a.187939387923652/3804736226243932/?type=3

8/15/21 Mod Edit: I’ve updated the thread title from “Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts” to “Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post,” as this thread remains active nearly a year later with 11/30 coming back around in a few months. Just wanting to get ahead of any possible confusion. - Mr. Weatherman
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on November 23, 2020, 05:31:42 PM
Also of note is that Alex's final episodes have been delayed two weeks, to account for likely preemptions on Christmas Day. They will now air two weeks of "best of" episodes during the holidays instead.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Spmahn on November 23, 2020, 07:50:54 PM
Also of note is that Alex's final episodes have been delayed two weeks, to account for likely preemptions on Christmas Day. They will now air two weeks of "best of" episodes during the holidays instead.

Which is probably for the best since Jeopardy airs on ABC affiliates in something like 65% of the country, which means it would be pre-empted for NBA on Christmas which would have been the last show
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: gamesurf on November 23, 2020, 09:23:39 PM
I like Ken Jennings as a player, as a Clue Crew replacement, and as a Jeopardy! brand ambassador, and it was smart to bring him on as a production assistant

I'm very uneasy with Ken as a potential host--he's going to be very polarizing

Alex is going to be near-impossible to replace, and I hope that this is a way to ease into the host search by starting with a familiar face that most people closely associate with Alex, but I'd be much more comfortable with a Mina Kimes or Pat Kiernan-ish character
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: thepriceis_J on November 23, 2020, 09:39:07 PM
I mean, if Ken is already reading clues, it makes logical sense to expand that from 5 clues in a show to 61. The hiring at the beginning of the season smacked of contingency and here it is. Something that folks might not know is that Ken is involved with quiz bowl and has read games at some previous national finals. I trust his abilities here and hope his demeanor comes across well on camera.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jimmy get a shot at having his hosting televised. He traditionally hosts the rehearsal games.

Given Mike's aspirations and experience, I also wouldn't be surprised to see him take a turn behind the lectern.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on November 23, 2020, 10:43:28 PM
Nice to see the show getting back to studio and getting started on its next era. As much as we'll miss Alex, it's exciting to see how Ken will do hosting and who the other interim hosts will be and who ultimately gets the job.

It would've been fitting for Alex's final episode to air on Christmas day but with the possible preemptions the week of Christmas and New Years it makes sense to hold off on his last week until after the holidays.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on November 23, 2020, 11:45:59 PM
I agree that it would've been fitting to have had Alex's final episode air on Christmas.  However, I do like how it'll be delayed until 2021 (not pushed back into February sweeps but right after the holidays).  As mentioned, the annual NBA quintuple header for Christmas Day would impact several people.  Plus, Christmas Eve occupied with their (and other families') last minute stuff, Church, dinner, etc.


I wasn't sure if they would've held off starting production until Season 38, but that's way too much of Season 37 to void.  Chances are that a permanent replacement will not be made official until next fall.  I don't have a problem with Ken as host.  I think it makes the most sense to have Jeopardy start with Jennings.  Given the struggles with getting a permanent host for TPIR and Family Feud that worked, I think Jeopardy will be okay going forward with their final decision.  If not, they could get someone else, but at the end of the day, they'll get someone that, while not as great as Trebek, will be the man or woman slated to become the face of Jeopardy for years to come
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on November 24, 2020, 01:24:27 AM
Given Mike's aspirations and experience, I also wouldn't be surprised to see him take a turn behind the lectern.
I agree about Mike Richards. If Vegas was taking odds on the next permanent host, he would have to be near the top of the odds list. On Twitter, Neil deGrasse Tyson's name keeps getting thrown around but he said in September that he is not considering it. Levar Burton is another name that keeps getting mentions on Twitter as a possible replacement.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Casey on November 24, 2020, 11:23:35 AM
I'm very uneasy with Ken as a potential host--he's going to be very polarizing
I would sure love to know what is so “very polarizing” about Ken Jennings?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on November 24, 2020, 12:47:12 PM
I would sure love to know what is so “very polarizing” about Ken Jennings?

Ken was the first champ to take full advantage of the sky's the limit rule. You have to admit, though, he knows his stuff. I for one am intrigued to see how well he'd do hosting.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on November 24, 2020, 12:49:55 PM
Because social media makes things bigger than they appear to be. There is no one who would be universally the first choice. Some Twitter complainers will make their voices seem bigger than they are.

Guaranteed the same thing would have happened in 1984 had social media been around. The guy from High Rollers filling the shows of the great Art Fleming? Blasphemy! And yet it worked out fine.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: blozier2006 on November 24, 2020, 12:54:29 PM
... the same thing would have happened in 1984...
The same thing did happen in 1984, from critics in newspapers.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CHWqOb2FiZV/?igshid=1cb9afcu751ww

?s=19
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: TinoStar11 on November 24, 2020, 01:10:24 PM
Speak of Ken Jennings , he got nominated today for a Grammy for best spoken word album for his work doing the Alex Trebek – The Answer Is… audiobook
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on November 24, 2020, 01:18:10 PM
While I don't know nor do I care what makes Jennings very polarizing, it comes as no surprise that people would have this thought about him.  I have seen people express their dislike based on his political views.  Some have outright admitted it; others, as is their custom, have not (stating it isn't about that or has nothing to do with it).

My apologies for bringing it up if it was a problem, but that is the definitive reason why people are turned off (outside of the fact that Ken isn't Alex).  I'll be too occupied watching him in action as the host or a host of Jeopardy!

That's Social Media for you.  Or the media in general.  IMO, all Twitter complainers will make their voices bigger.  Charles Barkley said it best: "Twitter is for losers & stupid people that need a platform to express their vision.  If you wake up in the morning and the first thing you do is to worry about what I'm doing then you're an idiot." 

Sir Charles was probably a little more harsh than the quote.  The fact is Trebek's episodes are still airing, Ken Jennings hasn't even taped his first episode, and people are already bitter.  It's complaining for the sake of complaining, period
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: gamesurf on November 24, 2020, 01:56:11 PM
On camera, he's fine. He reads clues well.

But he can come across as an a bit of a douchecanoe. (And I'm not only talking about his tweets--I've had the opportunity to meet the guy in person and own two of his books, which I really enjoyed. He's a great conversationalist, and frequently hilarious, but he also comes across as guy who thinks his intelligence justifies him being a dick.)

This is coming from somebody who generally likes Ken and hopes there's a long-term place for him in the show--just not replacing one of the most empathetic and gracious figures on television.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on November 24, 2020, 02:51:03 PM
The same thing did happen in 1984, from critics in newspapers.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CHWqOb2FiZV/?igshid=1cb9afcu751ww

?s=19

Oh sure, some critics did their thing. I was referring to the pervasiveness of social media which tends to make things look much bigger than they remotely are.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on November 25, 2020, 08:11:29 PM
I agree about Mike Richards. If Vegas was taking odds on the next permanent host, he would have to be near the top of the odds list.

I disagree, if for no other reason than the fact that oddmakers wouldn't know who he is. I would imagine Sony would want some sort of known entity to be the permanent host. Despite having a couple of shows under his belt as a host, Mike would not qualify.

I do think Mike would do a very good job and would be a great option if they needed a fill-in on short notice during this transition period. But not permanent. Would he really want to give up his job as EP on J! and Wheel to be host of one show? I doubt it. He seems like a guy who likes to run things, not be a cog in the machinery.

Finding the permanent replacement is tricky because you need not only someone fans will recognize, but also someone who can do the technically complicated job of hosting that show. It's not like other game shows where a teleprompter and heavy editing can bail out someone who lacks the technical chops. That's the thing that makes Ken an obvious choice: He is a known entity on the show, and also undoubtedly capable of being a trivia competition host.

That said, I was not exactly bowled over by the job he has done as a clue reader this season... he has come across as a little robotic.  I think he'll have to up his game a little bit as a fill-in if he wants the permanent job.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Borusa on November 26, 2020, 09:51:34 PM
I wonder if there will be a new set and a new announcer.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on November 26, 2020, 10:02:02 PM
I wonder if there will be a new set and a new announcer.

Likely no. They already upgraded the set for this year with the stuff from GOAT Tourney and Johnny is doing stuff remote as is.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on November 26, 2020, 10:38:25 PM
I wonder if there will be a new set and a new announcer.

No. Unlike a planned transition, there is no reason to add more shock to the system.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on November 26, 2020, 10:43:37 PM
No. Unlike a planned transition, there is no reason to add more shock to the system.

Plus, it'd be a LOT to ask them to change the set and look just after their host of the last 36+ seasons died. No way that happens. I DID wonder if Johnny mighta been replaced though, either by his choice or the staff's as linked to Alex specifically as he was/is, but that was just my thinking. It's gonna feel mighty odd though when he announces the new host or series of hosts when Alex's final shows are done at the beginning of January. (still can't believe he outlived Trebek at 96 too, and STILL sounds amazing with nary a dip in voice or performance quality for that age).
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: sayingsorry on November 26, 2020, 10:52:08 PM
I do think Mike would do a very good job and would be a great option if they needed a fill-in on short notice during this transition period. But not permanent. Would he really want to give up his job as EP on J! and Wheel to be host of one show? I doubt it. He seems like a guy who likes to run things, not be a cog in the machinery.


Why would he have to give up his roles as EP? They both don't film at the same time, Mike can ensure all the crew knows what to do during show time and when they hit record he walks out and hosts the show. I can't see any reason why he would not be able to
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on November 26, 2020, 11:00:52 PM
Why would he have to give up his roles as EP? They both don't film at the same time, Mike can ensure all the crew knows what to do during show time and when they hit record he walks out and hosts the show. I can't see any reason why he would not be able to


I wouldn't bet on Mike Richards to host, outside of a week or two.  That being said, I agree that his EP role shouldn't exclude him from hosting.  Alex was a producer decades ago, and while it's a totally different show, Bob Barker was the solo EP of TPIR for his final 20 seasons as host.

As mentioned, and while I think he would be pretty good, it's likely a moot point, but he wouldn't lose his EP role of both Wheel and Jeopardy due to hosting Jeopardy alone
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Borusa on November 26, 2020, 11:44:57 PM
That's good that Johnny's been able to do shows by remote, just like the what the original Jeopardy announcer Don Pardo did during his final years of SNL (announcing his shows from I think Arizona).
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on November 27, 2020, 04:20:34 PM
That's good that Johnny's been able to do shows by remote, just like the what the original Jeopardy announcer Don Pardo did during his final years of SNL (announcing his shows from I think Arizona).

Was he doing this even before this season with his age? Or it more a COVID thing?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on November 27, 2020, 04:48:02 PM
I thought it was done well before COVID but could have misunderstood or misread that somewhere along the way.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on November 27, 2020, 04:51:32 PM
I thought it was done well before COVID but could have misunderstood or misread that somewhere along the way.

Before COVID, Johnny was recording from home for the morning tapings. Jimmy and Sarah (and Kelly before stepping down) were doing the VO's in-studio for the morning's tapings, then Johnny would dub them over before the episodes were aired.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Reloaden on November 29, 2020, 03:24:11 AM
I am glad they are testing out hosts to take over rather then picking someone out of a hat or a big name.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on November 29, 2020, 04:28:16 AM
I am glad they are testing out hosts to take over rather then picking someone out of a hat or a big name.

I wonder how many test hosts they'll use and how many shows each will do? A week a time? 2 weeks? Longer? This will be interesting.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on November 29, 2020, 08:50:48 AM
Interim doesn’t necessarily mean auditioning nor contender for the permanent job. It’s worth noting their choice of words.

That said, the idea that had they not pursued this path, that a host would be effectively “drawn out of a hat” is not remotely grounded in reality. The producers know the weight of the decision they will need to make. They know the financial impact. Agree or disagree with the final choice, it will be made with substantial consideration and evaluation.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on November 30, 2020, 12:36:06 AM
I disagree, if for no other reason than the fact that oddmakers wouldn't know who he is. I would imagine Sony would want some sort of known entity to be the permanent host. Despite having a couple of shows under his belt as a host, Mike would not qualify.

I do think Mike would do a very good job and would be a great option if they needed a fill-in on short notice during this transition period. But not permanent. Would he really want to give up his job as EP on J! and Wheel to be host of one show? I doubt it. He seems like a guy who likes to run things, not be a cog in the machinery.

Finding the permanent replacement is tricky because you need not only someone fans will recognize, but also someone who can do the technically complicated job of hosting that show. It's not like other game shows where a teleprompter and heavy editing can bail out someone who lacks the technical chops. That's the thing that makes Ken an obvious choice: He is a known entity on the show, and also undoubtedly capable of being a trivia competition host.

That said, I was not exactly bowled over by the job he has done as a clue reader this season... he has come across as a little robotic.  I think he'll have to up his game a little bit as a fill-in if he wants the permanent job.
Okay, if Richards is not at the top of the odds list with Ken Jennings, then who is?

Alex would retake any clues that he misspoke while reading. Haven’t you noticed he hasn’t misspoke on air reading a clue in YEARS? There was even some shows a few years ago where he re-recorded every single clue in post-production as he was hosting with a raspy voice. Everything that wasn’t a clue had him with his raspy voice but the clues were dubbed over when his voice was healed.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on November 30, 2020, 02:46:09 AM
There are actually betting odds on the next host!

http://oddsshark.com/entertainment/who-will-become-next-jeopardy-host-betting-odds
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on November 30, 2020, 08:09:46 AM
There are actually betting odds on the next host!

What the actual... That is without a doubt one of the most horrific things I have ever seen.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Casey on November 30, 2020, 08:31:40 AM
What the actual... That is without a doubt one of the most horrific things I have ever seen.
Seriously?  Hyperbole much?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SanAnMan on November 30, 2020, 09:29:29 AM
I mentioned before in the post when Alex passed that my first choice for a replacement would be Ken Jennings. I've watched him on GSN's Master Minds for some time now, and he comes across as very cordial and seems he would be a good host. He definitely knows the game. I think the biggest obstacle for him, or for that matter anyone else who eventually takes the podium, will be that their name is anything other than Alex Trebek. Hard to replace a legend, especially one who has been associated with the show for so many years. Remember it took a long time before people really started to warm up to Drew Carey hosting The Price is Right (and some still haven't).
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on November 30, 2020, 11:07:56 AM
There are bookies who will take action on anything. The site looks to be an individual contribution, based on the syntax (I, me, etc.). Distasteful though it may be, it’s not worth time or effort, nor taking seriously in the big picture.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on January 06, 2021, 02:27:41 PM
The Los Angeles Times is reporting that longtime news reporter Katie Couric will be the second guest host according to several people familiar with the plan.
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2021-01-06/katie-couric-will-guest-host-jeopardy-after-the-final-alex-trebek-episodes-air
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on January 12, 2021, 02:40:50 PM
Sorry for the self reply, but sharing news of confirmation of a third guest host who is a quarterback for the Green Bay Packers & 2015 Celebrity Jeopardy! contestant Aaron Rodgers (https://www.packers.com/news/packers-qb-aaron-rodgers-to-be-a-guest-host-on-jeopardy), who confirmed the news on today's The Pat McAfee Show.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on January 13, 2021, 01:58:59 AM
If that holds, I think that would make him the second elite NFL player to host an Elite gameshow within the past decade if not all time.  Albeit temporary, he would be the first accomplished NFL player (but not first outright NFL player) to host an accomplished year-round gameshow
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SamJ93 on January 13, 2021, 10:19:30 AM
Jimmy Cefalo and Rolf Benirschke might beg to differ with your definitions of "elite" and "accomplished."  ;)
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on January 13, 2021, 12:24:20 PM
He certainly has some experience in front of a camera. And the skill set of someone like an NFL QB might translate to the fast paced game management the show requires.

But...I’m still a little apprehensive about the guest host period becoming a circus.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on January 13, 2021, 04:27:01 PM
Sitcom star Mayim Bialk and 60 Minutes's Bill Whitaker have been confirmed from a TVLine (https://tvline.com/2021/01/13/jeopardy-mayim-bialik-guest-host-full-list/) article as guest hosts. And as per a Jeopardy representative, as part of each guest host’s appearance, a donation will be made to a charity of their choice with the amount donated will equal to the cumulative winnings of the contestants that compete during the weeks they serve as a guest host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on January 13, 2021, 05:36:56 PM
After hearing the new parade of guest hosts, I’m beginning to respect the decision to hire Katie Couric a bit more. I only knew the choices were going to be more bizarre than Aaron Rogers, although Rogers did play as a celebrity contestant so I’ll give him that. I had to familiarize myself on who Mayim Bialk and Bill Whitaker were because I’m too young to remember Blossom and I’m not even a casual viewer of 60 Minutes.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GR_Man_9009 on January 13, 2021, 05:51:18 PM
I most know Mayim Bialk for her role as Amy Farrah Fowler on CBS's hit sitcom The Big Bang Theory.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on January 13, 2021, 06:06:58 PM
In addition, Mike Richards will host after Ken finishes his slate of games.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on January 13, 2021, 07:39:09 PM
In addition, Mike Richards will host after Ken finishes his slate of games.

I honestly hope that's not true. If it is, Mike will have proven himself to be a disgusting opportunist, and I'll lose any respect I've ever had for him.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on January 13, 2021, 07:46:29 PM
I honestly hope that's not true. If it is, Mike will have proven himself to be a disgusting opportunist, and I'll lose any respect I've ever had for him.

It is true indeed PatrickRox80, as the official website has confirmed Mike will be hosting for two weeks once Ken Jennings’ episodes conclude to keep the show on the air while preparing for the guest hosts.
https://www.jeopardy.com/jbuzz/news-events/roster-guest-hosts-announced
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on January 13, 2021, 07:54:13 PM
It is true indeed PatrickRox80, as the official website has confirmed Mike will be hosting for two weeks once Ken Jennings’ episodes conclude to keep the show on the air while preparing for the guest hosts.
https://www.jeopardy.com/jbuzz/news-events/roster-guest-hosts-announced

Kind of understandable. I'd have preferred a few more weeks with Ken or maybe Brad Rutter if he was available.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on January 13, 2021, 08:45:50 PM
I honestly hope that's not true. If it is, Mike will have proven himself to be a disgusting opportunist, and I'll lose any respect I've ever had for him.

Yes, how dare he take a guest hosting stint when they’re in need of temporary hosts.
The nerve.
[/sarcasm]
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on January 13, 2021, 10:10:59 PM
I honestly hope that's not true. If it is, Mike will have proven himself to be a disgusting opportunist, and I'll lose any respect I've ever had for him.
Why? Ken must've only been available for the 30 shows, and Mike was the easiest fill-in until the next guest host could come in.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: COINBOYNYC on January 14, 2021, 12:24:59 AM
I most know Mayim Bialk for her role as Amy Farrah Fowler on CBS's hit sitcom The Big Bang Theory.

Mayim Bialik holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience in real life, so it should be interesting to see how she does as guest host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowKid on January 14, 2021, 03:18:51 PM
I honestly hope that's not true. If it is, Mike will have proven himself to be a disgusting opportunist, and I'll lose any respect I've ever had for him.
I have just never been a fan of Richards as a host, and I dislike some of the changes he brought to Price. He doesn't seem personable to me. I will not be watching his stint. 
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: name456 on January 14, 2021, 04:40:03 PM
I have believed for years Richards would rather be in front of a camera than behind it.

My wife and daughter loved Blossom back then (daughter preferred the fast talking friend, Six I think was her name), none of us ever got into Big Bang Theory. I don’t think the person who does end up with the job has to be a brain, as Fleming and Trebek weren’t necessarily (bright guys, but not brains, I hope that makes sense). If a person can read and speak clearly, and inject a bit of personality, they would be a potential host. It’s a game where a Steve Harvey type or a generic college professor personality would be a terrible choice.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on January 14, 2021, 06:48:41 PM
I don't have a problem with Mike Richards hosting.  I'm even going to place him amongst the greatest gameshow hosts of all time, or even the people hosting gameshows today.  However, based off of the small sample size we've seen, I think he was pretty good as a host.  Not great, but exceeded expectations.

As mentioned, it was rather imperative that he would be included; that was speculated even when Alex was still alive.  In my opinion, it would have been stupid for him to pass up on the opportunity.  Given the times we are in and the availability of prospects due to that as well as one's own schedule, it makes total sense. 

Now, if Mike Richards ends up being the permanent host, that may be a different story, but I think I might pass on making an opinion on his hosting style on Jeopardy until after his shows air
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on January 15, 2021, 11:25:40 AM
I have trouble understanding why so many on this board seem to dislike Mike Richards.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on January 15, 2021, 11:51:23 AM
Same here. Good lord, the man could order pancakes at a diner and people would be offended he’s not a waffle lover.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: vnisanian2001 on January 15, 2021, 12:10:30 PM
They (including Roger Dobkowitz) are really mad at him over TPIR. That's probably why seemingly everyone hates him.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on January 15, 2021, 12:38:20 PM
They (including Roger Dobkowitz) are really mad at him over TPIR. That's probably why seemingly everyone hates him.
What are they so mad about? Mike fixed many aspects of the show.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: wheelfan1991 on January 15, 2021, 12:48:27 PM
Because Roger would have left the show just like it was. Bob and he were sticklers about the show being almost live-to-tape, they didn't like change, at least drastic change. By the time Bob left, the show was stale. The prizes were bland, with the exception of the occasional Caddy, Lincoln, or Vette. The show was stuck in a bygone era, and that's just how Roger (and Bob) liked it. It was easy.  If Mike had been a carbon copy of Roger, the show would've been canceled by now. I agree that Mike's first bit in his role at Price was rocky, and he made a lot of drastic changes much too quickly. However, once he got acclimated, he did a very good job of turning things around and making it a show fit for today's style and demographic while keeping the core of the show what it always has been.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on January 15, 2021, 03:27:50 PM
I have trouble understanding why so many on this board seem to dislike Mike Richards.

I think you'll find that the number of folks who dislike Mr. Richards around here are greatly in the minority.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on January 15, 2021, 03:41:45 PM
Roger is stuck in his old school 1970s ways and his base there for the most part believe every bit of the drool that comes out of his mouth.

Mike Richards did a lot for Price and for Drew. Roger was definitely limiting Drew's abilities a bit. Now the thing is running at a well-oiled machine, even if it involves editing.

Rather see more of what Mike Richards did to Price than what Roger did because then we'd end up with a daytime equivalent of Wheel that's struggling.


But yes, people are vocally against Mike for the same reasons they take everything Roger says as god.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: name456 on January 15, 2021, 03:55:47 PM
Roger is stuck in his old school 1970s ways and his base there for the most part believe every bit of the drool that comes out of his mouth.

Mike Richards did a lot for Price and for Drew. Roger was definitely limiting Drew's abilities a bit. Now the thing is running at a well-oiled machine, even if it involves editing.

Rather see more of what Mike Richards did to Price than what Roger did because then we'd end up with a daytime equivalent of Wheel that's struggling.


But yes, people are vocally against Mike for the same reasons they take everything Roger says as god.

I would disagree with that. Live to tape gave it a much more natural feel. Now they can chop it to bits, sometimes with very noticeable and choppy edits, and it just feels fake, like a sitcom or talk show.

I don’t think Mike helped Drew’s hosting much either.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GRWHAMMY the 2nd on January 15, 2021, 04:30:38 PM
i used to like Roger, but then i realized that times change, and so should the show
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on January 15, 2021, 05:05:40 PM
Folks, we've veered off topic... this is a discussion about Jeopardy! and it's upcoming guest hosts, not a discussion about who was the better producer of another show entirely. Get back on topic please!
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on January 16, 2021, 01:46:37 PM
Thank you for stepping in therealchu2010, as like others, I do not want this to be another Mike bashing thread. And to get back on topic, it's now Katie Couric whose getting attention about comments that she made on last night's Real Time With Bill Maher. No need to explain more about it due to the comments Kaite made is about two politicians.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on January 16, 2021, 09:47:38 PM
Some people will complain about anything someone says, or ever said. Social media magnifies it out of proportion and makes people think it’s a bigger deal than it is. Tune out the noise.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Flerbert419 on January 17, 2021, 08:50:03 AM
I have trouble understanding why so many on this board seem to dislike Mike Richards.

Here's my two issues with the way Mike has handled the current situation (and it relates to J! so it's on topic):

1. I do not agree that he should have been the "voice of the show" when Alex passed away. I understand he is the current executive producer, but by all indications he knew Alex for a very short time. We know Mike only worked with him for a period of months. For the media appearances and tribute, give me somebody who Alex worked with for 30+ years and who actually knew the man. Mike also has a tendency to be robotic in front of the camera which did not work well for me in this emotional situation. Harry Friedman would have been a better choice!

2. Inserting himself into the guest host spot looks like he is taking advantage of Alex's death to further his own career ambitions. If he was not EP and he got slotted in that would be one thing, but who's going to tell the boss he can't host? Maybe they are in a jam for guests hosts and he's stepping up to save the day, but it looks like just another line on his IMDb page to help him land his next gig.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on January 17, 2021, 10:49:40 AM
1. I do not agree that he should have been the "voice of the show" when Alex passed away. I understand he is the current executive producer, but by all indications he knew Alex for a very short time. We know Mike only worked with him for a period of months. For the media appearances and tribute, give me somebody who Alex worked with for 30+ years and who actually knew the man. Mike also has a tendency to be robotic in front of the camera which did not work well for me in this emotional situation. Harry Friedman would have been a better choice!

2. Inserting himself into the guest host spot looks like he is taking advantage of Alex's death to further his own career ambitions. If he was not EP and he got slotted in that would be one thing, but who's going to tell the boss he can't host? Maybe they are in a jam for guests hosts and he's stepping up to save the day, but it looks like just another line on his IMDb page to help him land his next gig.

#1 I can understand. The show's been running for 36 years, so many of its longer-tenured staff members are either already retired, too old or uncomfortable to speak about it on camera or also deceased. It doesn't help that Alex passed away in the midst of a pandemic with many restrictions still in place. Mike Richards is the face of the show and as EP would be the most likely person on the current staff to say something announcing Alex's passing. It helps that Mike's had television experience on the camera and off.

This brings me to #2. It doesn't surprise me that Mike would take advantage of Alex's death to boost his hosting resume. Prior to last year, he had zero association with Jeopardy! and only got to know Alex for a few months. As emotional as his speech was, I can't look at him the same way without thinking he's full of it. This also confirms that Mike still has a misguided moral compass. He's had it since he allowed Jenny McCarthy to play on Price because she's "a great advocate for what she believes in".

But as we've seen with Katie Couric, guest hosts can have worse publicity than Mike. Ken Jennings was known to have similar baggage but not to the same extent.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on January 17, 2021, 12:00:23 PM
An incredibly minute number of people know who the executive producer is, nor when they took over. Fewer still care that he delivered the remarks. It matters that the remarks were delivered, and were delivered tactfully and sincerely. It makes perfect sense to have the person with that title make them, whether in the role for three months, three years or three decades.

Second, the presumption that anyone is trying to boost their resume in the absence of any actual evidence to that effect is unfounded. It is possible for one to respect the game, to respect the legacy and to do what is necessary to ensure the game goes on with the particular skill set they possess. We don't know the logistical challenges of lining up schedules for guest hosts while maintaining production schedule in the midst of covid.

If there's a moral compass that may not be pointing true north, it could be in the presumption of selfish intent where there is no evidence any exists, based on preconceptions and personal animus.   
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: thepriceis_J on January 17, 2021, 03:23:26 PM
1. I do not agree that he should have been the "voice of the show" when Alex passed away. I understand he is the current executive producer, but by all indications he knew Alex for a very short time. We know Mike only worked with him for a period of months. For the media appearances and tribute, give me somebody who Alex worked with for 30+ years and who actually knew the man. Mike also has a tendency to be robotic in front of the camera which did not work well for me in this emotional situation. Harry Friedman would have been a better choice!
It's a tough situation. But they had literally one/two days to put together that video message and get it in the show and the fact of the matter is that Harry no longer works for the show. In the immediate aftermath, someone that represents the show needs to be out in front and, even though he's new, that person is Mike Richards. He's the boss, he's earned that role and that privilege. If, down the line, they have Harry film some remarks and put it together with remarks from others that worked with Alex longer like Johnny and the Clue Crew (past and present), then that's fine. But Mike runs the show, he's not the face of it, but he is representative of it. That's like saying Bill Clinton should've delivered remarks on 9/11 instead of George Bush because Bush had only been on the job for nine months.

2. Inserting himself into the guest host spot looks like he is taking advantage of Alex's death to further his own career ambitions. If he was not EP and he got slotted in that would be one thing, but who's going to tell the boss he can't host? Maybe they are in a jam for guests hosts and he's stepping up to save the day, but it looks like just another line on his IMDb page to help him land his next gig.
See, the only reason we're talking about him this way is because we're more familiar with him. Numerous people have reportedly had their agents reach out to Jeopardy about the position. It's surprised the agents because they thought Ken was heir apparent. And because the show has to keep filming without taking much of a break, any time after Alex's death is probably a little disingenuous, but it has to happen unless production should've just been shuttered for the rest of the season (which some probably want). And yeah, I get that he's the "boss", but he has a boss too and he's not in charge of the host search. Someone else from Sony is. I forget the name, but they've been mentioned in articles.

This brings me to #2. It doesn't surprise me that Mike would take advantage of Alex's death to boost his hosting resume. Prior to last year, he had zero association with Jeopardy! and only got to know Alex for a few months. As emotional as his speech was, I can't look at him the same way without thinking he's full of it. This also confirms that Mike still has a misguided moral compass. He's had it since he allowed Jenny McCarthy to play on Price because she's "a great advocate for what she believes in".
The fact of the matter is that the timing was just terrible. Of course he had no association with Jeopardy, he didn't work for Sony. He was hired to literally run the show, so that takes his association from zero to 100% automatically, whether we may like it or not. That's how it works. Again, you can say this about first time politicians or any elected President. They had zero association with the office, but once they're installed, they now represent that office and have to make the decisions. No matter how long they've been in the post.

And setting aside the McCarthy decision, this is no indicator of his moral compass. He's someone who has more experience in hosting than *any* of the guest hosts. Like, so far, none of them to my knowledge have hosted a game show. Ken's done quizbowl, and Katie and Bill Whitaker have newsreading, but that's it. It makes total sense for Sony to turn to someone in house that they're already paying who they know has been on camera hosting a game show before to do a few weeks since things aren't as set in stone with Ken as we would've first thought.

*Somebody* has to represent and host this show and it seems like everyone's like "not Mike" because he's too new, but that's just the way it is. He was hired specifically to guide this show (and Wheel), he has to that job in this tough situation.

Also, I'm pretty sure everyone that stands behind that podium knows of the gravitas of the position and wants to make sure they honor Alex. We all loved Alex. But I'm also pretty sure they realize how impressive it will be to have hosting this program on their resume. And this is show biz, every decision everyone makes is pretty much done to pump up their credentials.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on January 17, 2021, 03:34:27 PM
The fact of the matter is that the timing was just terrible. Of course he had no association with Jeopardy, he didn't work for Sony. He was hired to literally run the show, so that takes his association from zero to 100% automatically, whether we may like it or not. That's how it works. Again, you can say this about first time politicians or any elected President. They had zero association with the office, but once they're installed, they now represent that office and have to make the decisions. No matter how long they've been in the post.
Mike Richards joined Sony in 2019 a year before taking over as EP of Jeopardy and Wheel, so he didn't come in when they resumed taping this summer completely new to Sony. Not sure if Sony had the intention of him eventually taking over for Harry Friedman after his retirement, but it's possible that and him taking over for either Alex or Pat Sajak was a reason to bring him in as well. It's also possible they needed someone between Ken and Katie Couric or whoever the next guest host was to host as a stopgap and Mike hosting was a simplest solution.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on January 17, 2021, 04:10:05 PM
Mike Richards joined Sony in 2019 a year before taking over as EP of Jeopardy and Wheel, so he didn't come in when they resumed taping this summer completely new to Sony. Not sure if Sony had the intention of him eventually taking over for Harry Friedman after his retirement, but it's possible that and him taking over for either Alex or Pat Sajak was a reason to bring him in as well. It's also possible they needed someone between Ken and Katie Couric or whoever the next guest host was to host as a stopgap and Mike hosting was a simplest solution.

This is my thinking, be it his idea or someone else's, it'd only make sense. Also as an aside, I don't think you can really compare this job transition to the Presidency. It's a vastly different thing and expectations there would be way different than here in an instance like this. I'd even suspect in a normal year, there may have even been an appearance from Harry Friedman, but who knows for sure. Coulda gone the same way even then, hard to say. I could see it at least being possible though.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: thepriceis_J on January 17, 2021, 06:39:18 PM
Mike Richards joined Sony in 2019 a year before taking over as EP of Jeopardy and Wheel, so he didn't come in when they resumed taping this summer completely new to Sony. Not sure if Sony had the intention of him eventually taking over for Harry Friedman after his retirement, but it's possible that and him taking over for either Alex or Pat Sajak was a reason to bring him in as well.
I suspect this was solely due to transitioning from Fremantle to Sony and whatever conditions were in his contract for either company. His hiring at Sony was specifically to take over for the outgoing Harry Friedman on Jeopardy and Wheel and announced as such not long after he started. Now, we can speculate as to why they hired him, the best bet being that they saw how he got Price back on its feet after Bob's retirement/Drew's early seasons and wanted him to do the same for J!/Wheel when the time came for Pat and Alex to retire. Because regardless of Alex's health, both were/are reaching the point where that time would come sooner rather than later.

Also as an aside, I don't think you can really compare this job transition to the Presidency. It's a vastly different thing and expectations there would be way different than here in an instance like this.
My point was to draw parallels to representation and familiarity and not specifically the importance of the jobs. In perspective, of course the positions and instances are vastly different, but there's no denying that, under normal circumstances, people would be more familiar with the outgoing person in a position than the incoming person. But the outgoing person doesn't come back and step into the spotlight just because the incoming person is so new (unless your name is Jay Leno).
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on January 17, 2021, 08:55:49 PM
What about Chuck Wolley as guest host?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Trevor Tuominen on January 17, 2021, 09:41:51 PM
Yeah...no chance that ever happens. I’m assuming that’s a joke.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on January 17, 2021, 10:24:54 PM
What about Chuck Wolley as guest host?

That can’t be serious, right?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: COINBOYNYC on January 18, 2021, 12:38:18 AM
What about Chuck Wolley as guest host?

Chuck Wolley?  Never heard of him.   ???

Based on the responses immediately preceding this one, I'd presume you mean Chuck Woolery.

In which case: Are you serious?

(https://i.redd.it/96qm0zir8vh31.jpg)

 :headbang:


Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JhayPrice on January 18, 2021, 12:54:48 AM
Man that would be quite a suprise, the former emcee of your show's sister show?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: name456 on January 18, 2021, 04:21:07 AM
No way Woolery guest hosts. His style would not work for a fast paced A&Q game.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: blozier2006 on January 18, 2021, 04:23:11 AM
No way Woolery guest hosts. His style would not work for a fast paced A&Q game.
And with how radioactive his reputation is right now... and the fact that he's only a year younger than Alex himself was... I'm pretty sure we've seen the last of him
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: sayingsorry on January 18, 2021, 10:13:21 AM
I would bet a lot of money that Mike Richards was brought on by Sony to take over hosting either J or Wheel one day. He has proven to be a winner as EP and a pretty fine host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on February 02, 2021, 07:10:34 PM
New guest hosts confirmed: Dr. Oz, Anderson Cooper, Savannah Guthrie, and Dr. Sanjay Gupta. 

https://www.facebook.com/101839449866980/posts/3994671990583687/?d=n
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on February 02, 2021, 07:33:04 PM
Dr. Oz.

This one is indefensible.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on February 02, 2021, 07:41:45 PM
Savannah Guthrie? They took finding hosts with worse publicity than Katie Couric as a challenge.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on February 02, 2021, 07:47:28 PM
Dr. Mehmet Oz is an awful choice. I'm sorry, but I stand by this.  J! should not be putting quacks on TV on a show where being smart and educated is of vital importance. Dr. Oz has thrown his name on pseudosciences and questionable products that have no business being publicized or used by someone who claims to practice good medicine.

Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: vnisanian2001 on February 02, 2021, 08:16:31 PM
New guest hosts confirmed: Dr. Oz, Anderson Cooper, Savannah Guthrie, and Dr. Sanjay Gupta. 

https://www.facebook.com/101839449866980/posts/3994671990583687/?d=n

In my opinion, these guys have no business trying to fill Alex's shoes.

What's wrong with just getting Ken Jennings, and that being the end of it? I think he's doing great.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on February 02, 2021, 08:24:08 PM
Even the Jeopardy! Fan is weighing about having actor LeVar Burton as a guest host in the wake of the controversy of Dr. Nick Rivera...er...Oz hosting.

Quote from: https://thejeopardyfan.com/2021/01/jeopardy-confirms-five-guest-hosts-to-follow-jennings.html
Editorially, I think that Jeopardy! needs to announce LeVar Burton soon; there will be a fan revolt if LeVar Burton is not allowed to host, especially considering that most fans feel that Dr. Oz is a charlatan, especially if the fan reaction on Twitter to this announcement is read.

And also, BuzzerBlog on Twitter is saying that Anderson Cooper was in consideration to be Alex's successor when the Sony emails leaked back in 2014, is this claim by them true or not?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on February 02, 2021, 08:35:07 PM
Dr. Oz probably was tapped to guest host due to his show being syndicated by Sony, basically being an internal hire.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on February 02, 2021, 08:56:33 PM
No excuse. In the family or not, he is an atrocious choice.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: ooboh on February 02, 2021, 10:19:30 PM
No excuse. In the family or not, he is an atrocious choice.

I don’t agree with you on much, but I am undoubtedly with you here. I am not watching whatever episode he’s guest hosting.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on February 02, 2021, 10:22:26 PM
Anderson Cooper is a good enough choice, but the others... not so much. Especially Dr. Oz.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Trevor Tuominen on February 02, 2021, 10:32:32 PM
I agree with everyone that Dr. Oz is one of, if not the worst, hosting choices they could provide. I hope Mike Richards was extremely reluctant to choose him. Ratings will go down because of him. Especially since they more than likely haven’t even had LeVar Burton on the list yet. A name fans truly want. He’s universally beloved, has class and dignity, which is necessary to stand behind Alex’s old lectern, and (if the producers want) checks a diversity box. Oz has none of them.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: gamesurf on February 02, 2021, 11:26:17 PM
Guest Host #2 will be none other than Mike Richards himself. Mayim Bialik and 60 Minutes correspondent Bill Whitaker are two other names listed on Jeopardy's website.

Quote from: https://www.jeopardy.com/jbuzz/news-events/additional-guest-hosts-join-jeopardy
Jeopardy!’s Greatest of All Time and consulting producer Ken Jennings is currently acting as host. His run will be followed by Executive Producer Mike Richards stepping behind the podium. Katie Couric, Aaron Rodgers, Bill Whitaker and Mayim Bialik will also serve as guest hosts for charity throughout the season.

Dr. Oz is a bad pick.

But my dream pick is still Mina Kimes.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on February 03, 2021, 07:11:26 AM
I hope Mike Richards was extremely reluctant to choose him.

It's entirely possible Mr. Richards had little, if anything, to do with the selection. Hell, I'm curious to know just how much input he actually has in the host search process...
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Trevor Tuominen on February 03, 2021, 07:33:25 AM
It’s led by Barry Nugent, the former head of talent development at GSN:

https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2021-01-06/alex-trebek-jeopardy-host-replacement-ken-jennings-katie-couric?_amp=true

I at least hope Mike was forced to go along with it, because Oz (I don’t think he deserves the “Dr.” title) is a known fraud and a cheat.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on February 03, 2021, 08:53:32 AM
There’s no way I believe all of the candidates, this Oz issue aside for a moment, are candidates. Some are just what the title implies, guest hosts. No more, no less. And I get the rock and a hard place bind they’re in. There is no pleasing everyone. But there is displeasing large swaths of the viewership, and that’s where this Oz issue seems to be landing.

I agree with the proposition that someone with a news background could possess the right skill set for Jeopardy (not a commentary on any one individual, but the broad category). Alex’s background before game shows certainly was broad and included some news work. It made him a great fit. Finding exactly that again isn’t going to happen, so the search needs to be realistic for this era. It’s a different overall skill set than they’ll need to replace Sajak. Or that they needed to replace Barker. Or to do revivals.



Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on February 03, 2021, 09:45:47 PM
Yeah, I'll pass on Dr. Oz as well.  I wouldn't be doing myself any favors wasting time watching a show with him hosting when there are hundreds (of thousands) of things to do in life during that period.

As mentioned, several of the people hosting are just doing it as guests.  No way several of them are legitimate candidates.  That was one reason why I originally wasn't livid about Dr. Oz.  I guess he's "done well" over the years, but the fact is that no one's forcing me to watch the show when he's on.  Same with everybody else, but definitely Dr. Oz.  It is helpful that they warn us about who's coming up.

I never considered Mike Richards as being the one to make the calls on who would guest host.  I'm willing to bet that he didn't even ask to guest host himself, but he has some experience, and possibly enough.

I agree they're not going to get the "perfect" person for the role.  Ken Jennings would be the "definitive" choice, but not the perfect choice.  I'd love to see LeVar Burton as well, but even he wouldn't be the perfect hire.  I don't know if he passed on the chance, especially if he wasn't looked at as a valuable replacement.

The news background is pretty important.  Especially if you combine that with someone that's been a part of news and entertainment or news and sports.  James Brown would actually be a nice choice.  Wouldn't bet on it, but at the end of the day, there were better options than Dr. Oz regardless of whether Dr. Oz had zero chance at succeeding Alex Trebek
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Ccook on February 04, 2021, 08:22:39 AM
Ken Jennings' final show will be February 19. Richard's takes over the following Monday.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: rick420buzz on February 05, 2021, 12:03:42 AM
I'd give Ryan Seacrest a week before giving "Dr." Oz a nanosecond.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on February 05, 2021, 12:13:53 AM
Ken Jennings' final show will be February 19. Richard's takes over the following Monday.

1) If they ask him to temp host again (Until the find a replacement)  do you think he will?

2) How come he is not hosting more shows? Is it because of his other show the Chase?  Did at one Time Steve Harvey had about three shows he was doing at one time.

3) I know at the end he will say Thank You Alex but I wonder if he will say something that today (Feb 19) is my last day and his feelings  on hosting Jeop
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on February 05, 2021, 03:29:15 PM
I'm guessing Ken is their choice, it's just like with any other job available they (whether its more the show's producers or Sony calling the shots) are looking at some other options as well rather than just giving it to him.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on February 10, 2021, 09:39:14 PM
An update about a certain tv 'doctor' guest-hosting: In an interview with WCBS-FM, he has revealed he's has taped two weeks of shows that will air in March.
https://www.radio.com/wcbsfm/latest/dr-oz-on-hosting-jeopardy-more-black-doctors-webinar
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on February 10, 2021, 10:01:31 PM
They went through with it. I didn't think it was possible for one show to destroy its own legacy so quickly.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: TPIRfan#9821 on February 10, 2021, 10:42:08 PM
Steve Harvey hosting WWTBAM for a week didn't really change anything in the long run. Dr. Oz hosting Jeopardy! for two weeks probably will have the same effect of nothing happening except for decreased viewership for those two weeks.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on February 10, 2021, 11:02:52 PM
They went through with it. I didn't think it was possible for one show to destroy its own legacy so quickly.

It's two weeks. It'll probably just wind up being an anomaly that people will eventually forget about.

Let's also not forget that these guest hosts are having donations made to charity by the show... so its entirely possible that most of these are just doing it for charity and have no serious interest in the job. You also need an "awful" candidate who makes the "right" one look that much better!

Price had Jenny McCarthy and her controversial views on the show. It survived. Hell, they survived three years of basically making every attempt to destroy the integrity of the show, and it ended up fine. This will be the same.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: blozier2006 on February 10, 2021, 11:43:26 PM
They went through with it. I didn't think it was possible for one show to destroy its own legacy so quickly.
Considering this is Sony we're talking about, I figured it was just a matter of time.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Trevor Tuominen on February 11, 2021, 12:22:18 AM
I’m going to say this: Oz (and I don’t see him deserving the “Dr.” title) is the anti-Trebek. While Trebek had class, dignity, and humility, Oz exudes none of these things. In fact, he makes me appreciate Ken even more, which I think is the one good thing to come out of this.

That said, I doubt this one decision would destroy the show’s legacy. Remember, Price went through worse.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on February 12, 2021, 12:55:40 PM
Jeopardy has announced on their webpage that Katie Couric's hosting dates will be from March 8 to March 19. Nothing yet on the air dates of when the other guest hosts will host besides a certain TV doctor's guest hosting as the site lists them as TBD.
https://www.jeopardy.com/jbuzz/news-events/jeopardy-guest-host-schedule
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Ccook on February 23, 2021, 08:27:39 AM
Dr. Oz takes over March 22, while Aaron Rodgers takes the helm April 5. Everyone else is TBA.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: htmlcc92 on February 24, 2021, 02:24:40 PM
Looking online it seems Mike Richards at the helm was a popular choice. Some I’ve seen have been telling them to make him Alex’s replacement. I personally haven’t seen his Jeopardy! hosting yet but I liked him on The Pyramid.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Casey on February 25, 2021, 10:14:50 AM
He's definitely decent I'd say.  Perhaps a bit less nervous then Ken Jennings was, likely because of his past experience.  He does inject a little bit of personality into the game but I don't think he detracts from it at all.  I'd like to see some of the other guest hosts, but it would not upset me if he ended up with the hosting job.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowKid on February 26, 2021, 12:46:34 PM
(If it was) Just between the two of them, I would rather see Ken become the permanent host over Mike. I think Ken has really earned it, and he did a great job.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on February 26, 2021, 03:36:37 PM
If that were the scenario, and Ken wanted the gig, I’d say the same. I hope, whether we see them or not, that they are taking a serious look at a range of candidates, and not just middle aged white men.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on February 26, 2021, 06:55:24 PM
(If it was) Just between the two of them, I would rather see Ken become the permanent host over Mike. I think Ken has really earned it, and he did a great job.

I think they both do fine, but Mike seems a little robotic to me. I do like the way he more frequently will explain the context of a particularly obscure clue, but he looks like a guy who is reading from a script in his head rather than just being himself. If he had the same kind of personality on camera that he had on his old podcast, I think he'd be great.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: AussieEvil on February 26, 2021, 10:36:29 PM
Do you think Dan Patrick would take a shot at hosting the mothership after hosting the sports version?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on February 26, 2021, 10:56:55 PM
Do you think Dan Patrick would take a shot at hosting the mothership after hosting the sports version?

I guess it would depend on whether it's more or less demanding than what his duties were when he hosted FNIA (Football Night In America).  TBH despite a rather long-shot, I can't see his show moving out of Connecticut for Jeopardy, nor do I see production moving near or close to the New England area to accommodate him
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on February 26, 2021, 11:00:22 PM
Do you think Dan Patrick would take a shot at hosting the mothership after hosting the sports version?

More to the point I see no reason the show needs to ask him.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on February 26, 2021, 11:24:51 PM
More to the point I see no reason the show needs to ask him.

I don't think he WANTS it at this point either. He's gone on record on his show in the past when Alex was still alive, that he didn't want his job after he retired, he even told Alex that over dinner. I don't imagine that's changed now, although I could be wrong I suppose.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on February 27, 2021, 01:11:48 AM
I’ll be honest. I didn’t like Dan Patrick hosting Sports Jeopardy. He took the game too seriously and showed annoyance when no one rang in on a clue.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowKid on February 27, 2021, 10:01:36 AM
I think they both do fine, but Mike seems a little robotic to me. I do like the way he more frequently will explain the context of a particularly obscure clue, but he looks like a guy who is reading from a script in his head rather than just being himself. If he had the same kind of personality on camera that he had on his old podcast, I think he'd be great.
I like the way you phrased that: “reading from a script in his head rather than just being himself”. I feel about the same way. I have watched shows that Mike has hosted before; he just doesn’t come off as genuine to me.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on March 04, 2021, 07:31:17 PM
Richards has annoyed me more than anything during his stint on Jeopardy.

New drinking game: drink every time Mike says “we were looking for...”
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on March 04, 2021, 07:37:53 PM
Richards has annoyed me more than anything during his stint on Jeopardy.

New drinking game: drink every time Mike says “we were looking for...”

I only watched a bit of one of his episodes, just for curiosity's sake, and I didn't like him. Ken was miles better. He comes off almost trying to do a parody of what a serious host should be for a game like that IMO.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Flerbert419 on March 04, 2021, 07:41:40 PM
Many people disagree - some have called him a "overnight sensation" (https://youtu.be/RfhU-hoEhwk).
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on March 07, 2021, 01:40:28 PM
The Jeopardy YouTube channel has posted an interview with Katie Couric.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on March 24, 2021, 12:11:13 PM
Jeopardy! has been steadily losing viewers with each guest host. During Katie Couric's first week, Wheel overtook it in viewership despite both shows being tied in the ratings.

https://www.thewrap.com/katie-couric-jeopardy-ratings/

I can only imagine what will happen with Dr. Oz hosting now.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on March 24, 2021, 12:52:32 PM
Speaking of the medical quack's hosting stint, media sources such as The Los Angeles Times (https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2021-03-23/jeopardy-contestants-petition-against-guest-host-dr-oz) have picked up a story about viewers joining the over 500+ Jeopardy! contestant alumni in condoning the decision of him as host.

And in lighter stories for the remaining guest hosts. First, the official website has announced 60 Minutes correspondent Bill Whittaker's shows will air between May 3-14. And following Mayim Bialik's stint as guest host, it's rumored that The Today Show host Savannah Guthrie may be taping her shows now as a member on JBoard speculates that her assignment this week on the west coast is possibly related to Jeopardy!.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: RatRace10 on March 24, 2021, 03:09:14 PM
Jeopardy! has been steadily losing viewers with each guest host. During Katie Couric's first week, Wheel overtook it in viewership despite both shows being tied in the ratings.

https://www.thewrap.com/katie-couric-jeopardy-ratings/

I can only imagine what will happen with Dr. Oz hosting now.

Multiple local stations are pre-empting Wheel of Fortune on Friday for a special on the ABC O&O's (including my station, WABC in New York City), but leaving Jeopardy! alone. Why would they choose the keep the show that hundreds if not thousands of people are refusing to watch right now and is now the lower-rated of the two once again (Wheel was the higher rated show up until I want to say 2015??)? Only because Jeopardy! has returning champions and Wheel of Fortune got rid of them 20+ years ago?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on March 24, 2021, 03:46:27 PM
Um, yeah. Continuity matters. And the stations may know best their local numbers in target demos. They’ll make the best business decision based on their circumstances.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on March 24, 2021, 03:48:29 PM
Jeopardy! has been steadily losing viewers with each guest host. During Katie Couric's first week, Wheel overtook it in viewership despite both shows being tied in the ratings.

https://www.thewrap.com/katie-couric-jeopardy-ratings/

I can only imagine what will happen with Dr. Oz hosting now.

It’s not automatically a correlation between the popularity of a host and what happening. Novelty of the guests wears off. There was an aberration of a spike initially. Weather warms up. Clocks change. Schedules and viewing patterns get disrupted. It’s complex.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on March 26, 2021, 09:02:44 AM
And following Mayim Bialik's stint as guest host, it's rumored that The Today Show host Savannah Guthrie may be taping her shows now as a member on JBoard speculates that her assignment this week on the west coast is possibly related to Jeopardy!.
Savannah Guthrie? Ugh. Her voice is like nails on a chalkboard.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: COINBOYNYC on March 27, 2021, 12:34:23 AM
Is there a list of what dates the shows with the interim hosts were taped (or will be taped)?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on March 27, 2021, 12:24:35 PM
Is there a list of what dates the shows with the interim hosts were taped (or will be taped)?
Other than Mike taping his shows when production resumed after the holiday break, the pseudoscience TV 'doctor' taping in early February, and Mayim Bialik the week of St. Patrick's Day. We don't know much about the dates the other guest hosts taped their shows.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on March 28, 2021, 11:46:24 AM
Other than Mike taping his shows when production resumed after the holiday break, the pseudoscience TV 'doctor' taping in early February, and Mayim Bialik the week of St. Patrick's Day. We don't know much about the dates the other guest hosts taped their shows.

That's fine.  While the show and Sony are not obligated to disclose that information, it's fair enough to wonder what's next.  I think it's time (for them to go with someone and stick to him or her).  I personally would be a bit surprised if they're planning on taping several more episode full of guest hosts as we head into the next month.

Ken was great, Mike was pretty good.  The new TV year is half a year away, and while there's summer content, in my opinion it would be nice to commit to Alex's successor before the start of a new season
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on March 28, 2021, 12:03:38 PM
I would guess they'll have someone in place permanently by the start of next season. I still think Ken is the one they want to do it and the guest hosts were just to accommodate his schedule and give some others a look.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Reloaden on March 28, 2021, 07:22:54 PM
It's pretty nice to see them audition hosts instead of picking someone out of the hat. I agree I think Ken will get the job come next season. I hope they replace him on The Chase.


Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on March 29, 2021, 02:42:57 PM
There’s no confirmation which, if any, of these stints qualify as auditions. They can and would do the brunt of that work off air. And it would be a carefully considered process, regardless of the major misstep bringing in Oz as a guest may have been.

I’m not convinced on Ken, simply because it may not be his desire to take on that gig.
He might like his life as it is, but we shall see.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: sayingsorry on March 31, 2021, 10:38:49 AM
Aaron Rodgers being hosting next Monday 4/5-4/16

Also to chime in on the permanent host debate, for me the timing of bringing in Mike Richards is just too on point for them not to want him as host. I am sure they paid a lot of money for him to leave fremantle and to me that has to include more than EP of J and Wheel. Either they will be making a big push like fremantle to get their Sony IP game shows back on tv like fremantle has or they brought him in to be permanent host of J
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on March 31, 2021, 12:26:24 PM
Sometimes timing is just timing. It was not an unreasonable time to move on from the previous EP. Nothing lasts forever. Richards had a track record of revitalizing a somewhat calcified decades-old show when a new host came in. And they’re sitting on a good amount of intellectual property. It was a good fit, regardless of what would or wouldn’t eventually happen with Alex’s health.

Even if he takes the hosting job, that’s not a connection that Sony was looking towards that when hiring him.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on April 02, 2021, 03:53:05 PM
Aaron Rodgers has met my expectations as a guest host thanks to this ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/31183282/what-film-room-aaron-rodgers-studied-no-other-crush-jeopardy-guest-host) article where he says this on how he prepared for his guest hosting stint.

Quote
"I watched hours and hours and hours of episodes," Rodgers said in a phone interview Friday. "Luckily Netflix has a few seasons, and I went back to DVR. But I had to watch from a different perspective -- from Alex's perspective. I couldn't watch it as a fan anymore.

"I took pages and pages and pages of notes. I wrote down every affirmative that he said to any type of clue. I wrote down how he would respond if they didn't get it right. I wrote down beat points of the show. I wrote down all the different ways he would take it to break. I wrote down the stuff that he said coming out of break. Literally, I studied for this like no other. I wanted to absolutely just crush it."

And according to him, there will be a viral-worthy moment on his first show on Monday.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on April 06, 2021, 09:17:40 PM
Dr. Oz continued the ratings drop in his first week, although the boycott seemed to have disappointing results.

https://www.thewrap.com/jeopardy-falls-to-lowest-ratings-since-holidays-in-dr-ozs-first-week-as-guest-host/
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on April 06, 2021, 11:06:42 PM
The NCAA Tournament might have played a part in the ratings drop but I think people still would've passed on the show had those episodes aired in the fall.


I don't know or think Aaron Rodgers will succeed Alex, but he might be among the top two IMO.  He is one of the top names in his position and within the NFL (current period).  He puts in the hard work, pays attention to detail, and when you think he's done, he isn't.  The man continues to evolve, and one would imagine that he's one of the best based off of skill set and off the field dedication.


While several people may or may not have what it takes to host full time, Aaron's preparation for hosting Jeopardy is one that I admire a lot.  You really don't get a lot of people within the gameshow industry paying attention to certain things or acts within the show they are running.  It might seem unimportant, but I think it's pretty important to learn and adapt to every little thing that took place in the past. 

That's just my opinion; I think Rodgers should be himself & I don't think he should or can emulate Trebek that much.  It is just nice to see him put in the work as if he really wants to be the next person to star on the show as a host
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 07, 2021, 09:11:34 AM
Alex is effectively the only point of reference guest hosts, or the new permanent host, have. What’s more, the format is a bit limited. That’s not a criticism, but it’s got a certain flow. Injecting individual personality into what is very much a game-management role is challenging enough. Doing it in the wake of these circumstances is harder still. I’d fully expect people to seem like they’re emulating Alex to an extent because, well, there’s only so many ways to call someone wrong. Only so many ways to work with the short interview segments. Only so many ways to introduce the categories.

So far I’ve enjoyed Aaron. I’m looking forward to the remaining guests. And despite the Oz choice, I trust the executives will carefully evaluate the potential permanent hosts and make a reasoned choice.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on April 07, 2021, 11:23:26 AM
Rodgers said "correct" for nearly every response before the commercial break on Tuesday's episode. It got to the point where it was distracting and annoying. He would keep drawing out the first syllable for some reason: "Coooorect".
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on April 08, 2021, 07:07:14 AM
While I agree that it would be nice if he could add variety to how he "confirms" someone's correct response (i.e. yes, that's right, you got it), it probably makes more sense than not to do whatever works.  In time it would look silly, but for now there's no sense in trying too hard so early for something as simple as a correct response.  Otherwise, Aaron or whomever might stumble in other aspects of hosting, especially in this particular position
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 08, 2021, 10:13:20 AM
Very fair points. The Alex we’re comparing the interim hosts to had decades to become what he was. 1984 Alex was good but demonstrably different. And he had done the game show thing plus so many other types of on-air work. He grew into the Jeopardy format and over time, and heck, it grew into him.

Trying to remember all of the nuances at that pace could be intimidating for anyone out of the gate. Totally get there will be “crutches” they may rely on while they’re there for all of two taping days (aside from Ken’s longer stint).
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on April 14, 2021, 06:37:47 PM
The Tournament of Champions is happening next month with former TOC winner Buzzy Cohen hosting it.

https://www.facebook.com/Jeopardy/posts/4204171899633694
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on April 14, 2021, 07:02:37 PM
According to the official press release (https://www.jeopardy.com/jbuzz/news-events/jeopardy-champ-buzzy-cohen-guest-host-2021-tournament-champions?fbclid=IwAR2cfFzogVZkJlixfqpHBMbowWOzKNrHo7Mn3guDISBZFRgCFBPL0H17D_4[/url), Buzzy will no longer be eligible to compete as a contestant after his guest hosting stint.

Also of note that only contestants who appeared on the show before Alex's death are eligible to participate.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: LiteBulb88 on April 14, 2021, 09:36:38 PM
Since there was no ToC last year, they decided to split this year's contestants into two groups. Alex sadly died about halfway through the taping year, so they used the day of his death as the "split point." Contestants who were on the show before Alex's death are eligible for this year's ToC, and contestants on the show after his death will be eligible for next year's ToC. (FWIW, Zach Newkirk, who was the champion last year when COVID forced Jeopardy! to shut down and didn't come back until after Alex died, is eligible for next year's.)

Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on April 14, 2021, 10:08:47 PM
Is this the first time in a while the College Champion was added to the field? I assume it's due to Brayden's absence cause of his untimely death (forgot about that till I read the press release), but it's nice to see that again.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on April 14, 2021, 10:41:50 PM
I'm surprised they're having Buzzy and not Ken or Mike Richards host the Tournament of Champions since Buzzy hasn't hosted before, but I do think he will do well.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: LiteBulb88 on April 14, 2021, 10:45:47 PM
Is this the first time in a while the College Champion was added to the field? I assume it's due to Brayden's absence cause of his untimely death (forgot about that till I read the press release), but it's nice to see that again.

The college champion was certainly in the 2019 ToC, as he gave a rather memorable FJ response:

Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on April 14, 2021, 10:55:55 PM
All college champions have participated in every TOC.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on April 14, 2021, 11:15:09 PM
All college champions have participated in every TOC.

Someone on J board said that too. I musta been mistakening it with the Teen champion. I know one of those majors stopped inviting its' champion to the field some time back.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on April 15, 2021, 12:26:12 AM
Of all the recent champions on the show, Buzzy’s my favorite. On top of having lots of poise, he’s witty and charismatic. Can’t wait to see how he does as host.

Someone on J board said that too. I musta been mistakening it with the Teen champion. I know one of those majors stopped inviting its' champion to the field some time back.

They stopped that in 2000 I believe. The Teen Tournament winner had to contend with much more difficult writing material in the ToC.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 15, 2021, 11:22:32 AM
Really looking forward to this. There are a number of champs I’d like to have seen, including Brad and MacKenzie. Probably more I’m not thinking of off the top of my head.

Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on April 17, 2021, 11:31:54 AM
Joe Buck confirmed to guest host.

https://nypost.com/2021/04/17/joe-buck-will-take-a-turn-as-jeopardy-guest-host/?utm_source=url_sitebuttons&utm_medium=site%20buttons&utm_campaign=site%20buttons
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 17, 2021, 01:33:15 PM
That one gets a shrug from me. I’m not a big sports viewer so I don’t get the hate.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on April 17, 2021, 03:51:56 PM
Interesting choice. Will Troy Aikman be there to provide analysis on clues?

Fellow Fox Sports analyst Kevin Burkhardt would be a good hosting candidate too.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on April 17, 2021, 04:47:20 PM
Any hate toward Joe Buck is mostly linked to their dislike from his work as a play-by-play announcer.  Personally I used to be apart of the group that could do without him.  However, IMO, he has gotten better and no longer sounds like he's communicating as if he was at a library.

Whether or not one is into sports is irrelevant.  He'll either do well or he won't.  It's not going to be because he's no Pat Summerall or Jim Nantz or whomever.  It's not because he's used to calling big games for football and baseball.  It'll be based on his preparation and how much he can handle such a different role
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on April 17, 2021, 07:14:03 PM
And still no word on LeVar Burton...
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 18, 2021, 03:13:59 PM
It’s a group of vocal internet fans. Sony isn’t under an obligation to humor them if it’s not what they want to do.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Reloaden on April 19, 2021, 03:36:23 PM
I wonder when they will announce a new host. The guest hosts is getting kind of tiring.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 19, 2021, 04:27:26 PM
My money is later spring/summer for a fall launch. Even if they know who they want, there may be contractual issues to work through assuming said person is otherwise occupied job-wise.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on April 19, 2021, 05:02:50 PM
I wonder when they will announce a new host. The guest hosts is getting kind of tiring.
Most likely there won't be a permanent host until the start of next season the earliest.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on April 19, 2021, 05:23:04 PM
Most likely there won't be a permanent host until the start of next season the earliest.

I think I'll be shocked if there isn't a permanent host by the start of the new season.  It isn't necessary to have one in place before then.  However, they could have the eventual host in place for whatever episodes remain for Season 37 but hold off on an announcement until the fall season premiere
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on April 19, 2021, 08:17:37 PM
It’s a group of vocal internet fans. Sony isn’t under an obligation to humor them if it’s not what they want to do.

Also, as good as he could potentially be, LeVar Burton is well into his 60s. They probably want someone younger who will last a while.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 19, 2021, 08:28:09 PM
Very true.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: tpirguyMN on April 19, 2021, 09:23:14 PM
Although one episode is a small sample space, I though Anderson Cooper did a great job hosting today.  The way he read the answers reminds me of Alex the most.  I am sure being a newsperson helps in this sense.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 20, 2021, 11:44:07 AM
Felt the same way. I wouldn't want to see him leave CNN, nor do I think he would, but have felt for quite some time that he would be an ideal "prototype" to host Jeopardy.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on April 20, 2021, 10:23:14 PM
For a second I thought Anderson was headed to his 60s himself, at which point I was like, “He isn’t that much younger than LeVar!”  However, as I feel pretty bad adding 4 years to him, he actually hit the 50s not too long ago.

Mr. Cooper was great, as expected.  Having seen his earlier stuff including Channel One as well as the Mole, this would’ve been easy for him, IMO.  Man, he was pretty super serious on the latter, though.

I doubt he’s leaving CNN either.  What’s a bigger gig, though: Jeopardy or CNN?  FWIW, prior to CNN (and 60 minutes) Mr. Cooper had a decent spot with The Mole but the exec sort of botched that program, but nearly 2 decades later, I think Anderson is doing quite well.

If there ever were a pleasant surprise for whoever succeeds Alex, it would be Anderson.  He is actually, IMO, one of the top 3 legit candidates they have, including who’s been announced.  That would be based on his past and present work.

I think Mr. Burton not even getting a shot is a bigger deal than I (and maybe others) are making it out to be.  It would look like they’re just putting him on for “filler” and have no intention of hiring him.  I think he would’ve done better than at least a couple of whom we’ve seen, but as mentioned, age is a pretty big factor.  Now, I know that he’s around Drew and Steve in terms of age (even though they both don’t work for Sony), but in my opinion, it would be even worse if they hire LeVar for a short-lived stint before someone else to host over the following several decades.

Mr. Burton not getting a shot is saddening due to my respect coupled with the media’s wishes to have him on, but it’s likely overblown due to that.  TPTB not giving him a shot isn’t a big deal otherwise
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PricingPatrick on April 21, 2021, 07:11:48 AM
Here’s my prediction, unless Mayim Bialik scores incredible ratings or reviews, Aaron Rodgers will get the Jeopardy! gig. He’s proven the most committed to the job and the reviews were strong.

However, Mike Richards will replace Pat Sajak as host of Wheel. Fewer taping days would be beneficial to Mike’s other roles and he seems to gel more into Wheel then he did on Jeopardy! (Which he was amazing it anyways). Remember Pat is in his 70s and now has been doing Wheel since 1981 (counting the NBC version). I think Sony would be wise to put the now well-known commodity that is Mike Richards into the Wheel role as soon as Pat retires. Guest hosts on Jeopardy! were born of necessity and won’t be as appreciated on Wheel
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on April 21, 2021, 08:58:08 AM
Unless Aaron retires from the NFL, he's not getting the permanent gig at least not right now. His reviews were good yes, but I think that was partially because he was following Dr. Oz who had mostly negative reviews.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Reloaden on April 21, 2021, 09:44:29 AM
Honestly Anderson fits the Jeopardy host role very perfectly. His style is very similar to Alex. I feel like he would be accepted well.

I thought Aaron was boring.


I would love to see Mike Richards host Wheel. Pat/Vanna needs to retire the show has been bland for some years. I would love to see some updates and a host with energy take over.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 21, 2021, 01:35:48 PM
I see no practical way they can put Aaron as host. It’s not feasible to squeeze in effectively an entire season in his off season, let alone account for his offseason physical/training regimen.

Heck, I’d be behind moving Jeopardy to New York to get Anderson, but that’s a pure pipe dream.

I still have a feeling Savannah will be excellent, but time will tell.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Alfonzo on April 21, 2021, 01:49:21 PM
I see no practical way they can put Aaron as host. It’s not feasible to squeeze in effectively an entire season in his off season, let alone account for his offseason physical/training regimen.

Heck, I’d be behind moving Jeopardy to New York to get Anderson, but that’s a pure pipe dream.

I still have a feeling Savannah will be excellent, but time will tell.

I'm very optimistic about Mayim Bialik.

Someone once thought I was crazy when I said six years ago "Anderson Cooper would make a great Jeopardy host". Guess I wasn't so crazy after all! 😃
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowKid on April 21, 2021, 02:32:50 PM
I still think that Ken has earned the job, and he did quite well. I also liked Aaron (did well and was quite prepared), and I'm liking Anderson. I would be content, at least, with any of these as permanent host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on April 21, 2021, 03:15:01 PM
Further scheduling and additional guest hosts for the remainder of the season have been announced: https://www.jeopardy.com/jbuzz/news-events/jeopardy-guest-host-schedule?fbclid=IwAR327o9_7wKGAxPjBLDnQZcN9OKvf6HApA6tiWKNlgT86h2vERci13h91pg (https://www.jeopardy.com/jbuzz/news-events/jeopardy-guest-host-schedule?fbclid=IwAR327o9_7wKGAxPjBLDnQZcN9OKvf6HApA6tiWKNlgT86h2vERci13h91pg)
ABC Good Morning America's George Stephanopoulos and Robin Roberts, CNBC "Squawk on the Street" co-host David Faber... and LeVar Burton round out the rest of the names hosting for one week each between July and August. Joe Buck will host the final week of the season, August 9 through 13.

So one surprise is that the season will be extending into mid-August. George Stephanopoulos is no surprise since he's been speculated as a possibility for a while, Robin Roberts is a nice surprise addition. I'm pretty surprised honestly they did actually add LeVar in.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on April 21, 2021, 03:16:15 PM
Also, as good as he could potentially be, LeVar Burton is well into his 60s. They probably want someone younger who will last a while.

Open mouth, insert foot.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 21, 2021, 03:39:35 PM
Well, it’s just a guest gig.

I mean, now the social media crowd will just complain all that much more if he’s not the permanent host because...people are never content.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on April 21, 2021, 04:56:38 PM
I think the point that he's not a young man still applies.

Buzzy Cohen is 36
Aaron Rodgers is 37

Mayim Bialik is 45
Mike Richards is 45
Ken Jennings is 46
Savannah Guthrie is 49

Joe Buck is 51
Dr. Sanjay Gupta is 51
Anderson Cooper is 53
David Faber is 57

Robin Roberts is 60
Dr. Mehmet Oz is 60
George Stephanopoulos is 60
Katie Couric is 64
LeVar Burton is 64
Bill Whitaker is 69

Average age of the guest hosts is 52.93 (just about 53). Alex was 44 when he was hired. They are going to probably choose someone on the lower end of the age bracket.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BillyGr on April 22, 2021, 03:44:41 PM
So one surprise is that the season will be extending into mid-August. George Stephanopoulos is no surprise since he's been speculated as a possibility for a while, Robin Roberts is a nice surprise addition. I'm pretty surprised honestly they did actually add LeVar in.

Perhaps that has to do with what they did (or didn't) do - normally the only "repeats" are of the tournaments (excluding, of course, last year).  So, this way they only have around 4 weeks to fill from the last listed shows 8/13 to the new season starting in September?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on April 22, 2021, 05:42:10 PM
Actually, it's because there were two weeks of repeats during the weeks of Christmas and New Years before they aired Alex's final week. It's still the usual amount of episodes for a season. I do wonder what they'll do with the repeats after the season ends until the next season begins, since there will only be one tournament to rerun.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pannoni1 on April 22, 2021, 06:45:03 PM
We could still have a Teen or College Tournament in June/July even, given that the 2019 Teen Tournament was held in late June, and there was no Teen Tourney in Season 36 (although there were two in Season 35). This would provide the other two weeks of reruns. Speaking of which, this would be a good opportunity to use a younger guest host for that gig.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on April 25, 2021, 12:22:58 PM
Actually, it's because there were two weeks of repeats during the weeks of Christmas and New Years before they aired Alex's final week. It's still the usual amount of episodes for a season. I do wonder what they'll do with the repeats after the season ends until the next season begins, since there will only be one tournament to rerun.

Is it? I feel like there's even more episodes than that this year, sort of to make up for what they didn't do last cause of COVID, but that could be wrong.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on April 25, 2021, 03:55:32 PM
^They started the season on the normal week and the extra two weeks in August this year are making up for the two weeks of reruns before Alex's final week. It just feels like more because it's going longer into the summer than usual.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on April 25, 2021, 04:40:35 PM
^They started the season on the normal week and the extra two weeks in August this year are making up for the two weeks of reruns before Alex's final week. It just feels like more because it's going longer into the summer than usual.

Has Jeopardy typically ended seasons the last week in July (Pre-Season 36)? I thought it was the next to last. But that could be my own memory.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on April 25, 2021, 08:11:00 PM
It doesn't help that we haven't had any tournaments to break up the momentum of the normal everyday games... plus the lack of any real superchamps causes everything to just... mesh together.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on April 25, 2021, 10:48:13 PM
Has Jeopardy typically ended seasons the last week in July (Pre-Season 36)? I thought it was the next to last. But that could be my own memory.
The season's ended in the last week of July for as long as I can remember.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on April 26, 2021, 12:33:48 AM
It doesn't help that we haven't had any tournaments to break up the momentum of the normal everyday games... plus the lack of any real superchamps causes everything to just... mesh together.

Well at least we know we are getting one soon, so there's that. I wonder if they fill any reruns after August with Alex's final episodes or some variation similar, I would not be surprised if they did so as one final tribute to him before the official changing of the guard as it were in the fall.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BillyGr on April 26, 2021, 02:33:55 PM
Well at least we know we are getting one soon, so there's that. I wonder if they fill any reruns after August with Alex's final episodes or some variation similar, I would not be surprised if they did so as one final tribute to him before the official changing of the guard as it were in the fall.

Or even some variation of what they did last year with "best of" type episodes?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on April 26, 2021, 05:31:42 PM
Or even some variation of what they did last year with "best of" type episodes?

Thought of that too, but could see some wanting to see the final ones again too, or for first time if they missed them.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on April 29, 2021, 04:56:51 PM
To avoid discussing what happened on the show in the past few days, that may veer towards off topic discussion. There have been reports on the sports sites this afternoon that Aaron Rodgers is disgruntled with the Green Bay Packers. With also reportedly telling some that he does not want to return and has some speculating that he could be in line for the hosting position.

As for on topic related discussions, LeVar Burton is taping his shows this week from this photo (https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E0HpvPGUYAMpldv?format=jpg&name=large) taken by his daughter.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 29, 2021, 05:15:19 PM
I think the odds of Rodgers being the host are nil. Even if he’s somehow using this as part of a negotiation to get a trade or a boatload of cash, clickbait nonsense on social media is taking two plus two and coming up with France as the answer.

If I’m off base, great. I’ll proverbially eat my hat. But I don’t believe Sony doesn’t have a host signed, or at least in serious negotiation, under confidentiality terms. With three or so months before the new season tapes, to actually be flailing around without a plan in place is absurd. Like, dereliction of duty absurd.

I know plans can change, but to believe Sony would turn a highly valuable franchise over to someone with no full time media experience for this particular role seems absurd. I could actually see them taking a carefully calculated risk on Wheel given the format. But Jeopardy has a different skill set needed. Aaron could well get there. He showed great promise. He has some experience, which was evident. But that’s a far cry from ready for the big leagues quite yet.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on April 29, 2021, 05:56:03 PM
Yeah I agree.  As mentioned elsewhere, whether Aaron actually gets the job or not, I think they should wait until after everyone goes, since someone can totally outperform Aaron.  Of course, from the remaining people guest hosting, some of them have no shot.  Outside of Jennings, I don't think they're going with someone before everyone else has auditioned.

Aaron was pretty good, and it was refreshing & exciting having him on.  He is a current big name and I don't think it'll be an awful call, but not a top notch since he doesn't have the skills right now.

For what it's worth, a lot of the praise is coming from the sports media as well as the NFL media.  While some are familiar with the gameshow world, most aren't.  From the ones that are, they aren't as knowledgeable (and probably would come up with opinions that aren't the best opinions).  Rodgers was okay but so were a lot of other people, including Richards
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on April 29, 2021, 07:52:59 PM
The thing is, I don't see nearly any-IF any--of these as auditions. This concept has taken on a life of its own, but realistically many of these people have gigs and aren't available.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on May 05, 2021, 07:13:37 PM
I'm sorry but Bill Whitaker's first few episodes have no flow to them. It sure sounds like they went back and heavily edited or retaped nearly everything he said.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: kishy214 on May 06, 2021, 07:23:30 PM
I'm sorry but Bill Whitaker's first few episodes have no flow to them. It sure sounds like they went back and heavily edited or retaped nearly everything he said.

The champion from Whitaker's first show said on Reddit that it took nearly two hours to tape that first show. Pickups all over the place.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on May 12, 2021, 01:38:40 PM
Broadcasting and Cable/Multichannel News (https://www.nexttv.com/features/jeopardy-ep-mike-richards-guest-hosts-were-part-of-fans-grieving-process) published a Q&A with Mike Richards on the guest host search. And here are some highlights from it.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: blozier2006 on May 12, 2021, 02:14:10 PM
They are looking at... focus groups
Translation: they don't have a frigging clue what they're doing.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on May 12, 2021, 03:12:00 PM
Focus groups are an established and valuable tool, among many, that can serve them well. There is no indication a passing reference to making use of them is somehow not knowing what they’re doing. They should be looking at many things. It ain’t 1984 any longer.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on May 12, 2021, 05:59:34 PM
  • They are looking at everyone and consider the data and analytics, testing and focus groups, and ultimately who we think the correct person is in the long term. Mike’s role is not to choose the person, and he is to make everyone as great as they can be as the host.
  • The show is not looking for a three-year host but looking for a 10-year or a 20-year host. Richards says that stability is one of the show’s strengths; they have to consider who’s got a 20-year horizon who can focus on the show. And make it great over that time.]

This is the concern I have. Countdown in the United Kingdom has suffered from massive host changes since death of longtime hosting stalwart Sir Richard Whiteley in 2005. In the 16 years since Whiteley's death, the show has gone through 4 permanent hosts (Des Lynam, Des O'Connor, Jeff Stelling and Nick Hewer) and 1 standby host (Colin Murray) due to the COVID19 crisis and Nick Hewer's advanced age (77). I was never a fan of Nick Hewer for the 9 years he served (the longest of any of the 4 replacements). Now 76-year old Anne Robinson of The Weakest Link fame is taking over. They've not been able to find a strong compliment to Suzie Dent and Rachel Riley, the current lithographer and board runner that comes anywhere close to the repertoire and camaraderie of Whiteley, Dent and Carol Vorderman. There's some of it in 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, the version hosted by Jimmy Carr, but that's only for specials. My major problem with Hewer is he always seemed to just be there for the sake of getting a check. Always seem detached and dull, whereas Whiteley was interactive and a very raw Alex Trebek level humour. I don't imagine Anne Robinson is going to last long hosting it either, another kick in the foot.

Jeopardy brass, Sony brass, etc, has got to find the person who can serve-long term, but keep the chemistry of the concept going in a way that is similar, but does not have to be 100% Alex Trebek.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on May 12, 2021, 07:28:03 PM
They are looking at everyone and consider the data and analytics, testing and focus groups, and ultimately who we think the correct person is in the long term. Mike’s role is not to choose the person, and he is to make everyone as great as they can be as the host.

I have no inside knowledge about what's going on at J!, but the fact that Mike is repeatedly saying in interviews that he has little to no involvement in the selection of the host, combined with the way he very deliberately avoided answering a question about whether he is a contender for the permanent hosting job, suggests he still wants to be considered for the permanent hosting job.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on May 12, 2021, 09:17:33 PM
Those two things do not follow to mean anything about what he does or doesn’t want.

Two plus two does not equal seven.

Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: RatRace10 on May 12, 2021, 09:34:14 PM
Aaron Rodgers was on tonight's episode of The Conners. Jackie was on the show as a contestant and tried to sweet talk him after she finished Double Jeopardy! with a negative score.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowsRule95 on May 12, 2021, 09:55:55 PM
Aaron Rodgers was on tonight's episode of The Conners. Jackie was on the show as a contestant and tried to sweet talk him after she finished Double Jeopardy! with a negative score.

Wow that was a pointless post.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on May 12, 2021, 10:04:49 PM
Wow that was a pointless post.

It's relevant. The fact that Aaron Rodgers was popular enough as J! host that it's being done in sitcoms is a good sign.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on May 12, 2021, 10:11:26 PM
Those two things do not follow to mean anything about what he does or doesn’t want.

Maybe I'm off-base, but I have enough experience to know the signs of a "non-denial denial." Answering a simple, forward-looking question with a convoluted and largely irrelevant past tense answer is exactly what I would do right now if I were in Mike's position and wanted to keep my hat in the ring. Coming right out and saying I was still in the running would turn into a news story in itself, and would undoubtedly displease my bosses at a time I was trying to win their favor.

The fact that Aaron Rodgers was popular enough as J! host that it's being done in sitcoms is a good sign.

My understanding is that he happened to be the guest host who was working when The Conners recorded that episode. There was nothing more to it than that.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on May 12, 2021, 10:16:06 PM
Still doesn't mean the poster has to be rude about the statement which is what I had a problem with.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on May 12, 2021, 11:01:41 PM
My understanding is that he happened to be the guest host who was working when The Conners recorded that episode. There was nothing more to it than that.

That was about what I figured when I saw the ad for the episode earlier. I was actually surprised they did it, given the state of flux the show is/was in then. But yeah I'd not read into it any more than that. I could be wrong, but.....I don't think so.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on May 12, 2021, 11:12:02 PM
I know he has the Chase but just give it to Ken
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on May 13, 2021, 01:53:54 AM
Mike may have been thrown to the wolves with the intended successor search, so what they're giving him to work with does little to reassure me that they have this under control. I'll leave it at it being pretty ominous what his intentions are. I'm taking a wait and see approach for the next 2 1/2 months.

Translation: they don't have a frigging clue what they're doing.

I don't think they ever did. I've had zero faith in them choosing a successor since the parade of guest hosts other than Ken started. The only one that kind of stands out is Aaron Rodgers who at least showed personality. I haven't seen much of the others, but when I do catch them, their styles get repetitive too quickly. Bill Whitaker in particular is about as plastic as you can get.

Focus groups are an established and valuable tool, among many, that can serve them well.

Everything I need to know about focus groups I learned from Impractical Jokers. They risk getting easily swayed because of their minuscule sample size. The representation of what the conductors are looking for is a crapshoot.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on May 13, 2021, 05:37:13 AM
Impractical Jokers? That…can’t be a serious analysis of how actual focus groups work. At least I hope no one thinks they understand how actual processes work because of that.

And ominous? What is this? Some kind of Jame Bond villain? He hosted two weeks because Jennings couldn’t make eight because of another obligation. The horror. The nerve.

And what exactly is the better solution overall? You lose your host early in the season amidst a raging global pandemic. Is there a playbook for that? Option 1 is shut down the show for months. Not viable. Option 2 is a single interim host, but it’s extremely unlikely any one person has that much time available. See Ken Jennings.

So they did what they could under challenging circumstances. The staff rose to the occasion while still grieving. Guests generally did the best they could doing something they’ve never done before. All while trying to find an available host who can take the show into the future.

No process will be without missteps. People are human. But sheesh. These aren’t some shady characters with no experience in their field.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on May 13, 2021, 10:27:48 PM
Undeserved hate for Mike Richards still runs around here. Don't ask me why.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: sayingsorry on May 14, 2021, 01:32:26 AM
Undeserved hate for Mike Richards still runs around here. Don't ask me why.

I completely agree and I don't get it.

Sorry if this too blunt but it's not a surprise to anyone at Sony that Alex would unfortunately pass away.

You clearly have to look at Sony taking Mike away from Fremantle as a clear sign he has to be in contention for the hosting job, the Sony brass know what they are doing.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on May 14, 2021, 05:30:02 AM
Or you can see it is Sony wanted someone with such a production skill set to join their organization and would have done so regardless of the state of Alex’s health.

His initial hiring is in no way, shape or form a sign about the hosting situation. Two things can coexist without one causing the other.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SamJ93 on May 14, 2021, 06:47:33 AM
Yeah, the whole "Mikey sucks!" thing is really getting old. I don't agree with every decision he's ever made either, but the fact is he's now successfully produced all three of America's longest-running game shows at some point, and all under some rather difficult circumstances too. He clearly loves the genre and does his best to respect tradition while acknowledging the demands of the modern TV landscape.

He's also absolutely right that a new host will inevitably take some time to grow into the role just like Drew did, and will inevitably face a barrage of criticism too. A lot of TV critics trashed the revival back when it premiered simply because Alex Trebek wasn't Art Fleming. I can only imagine the hate he would have gotten if Internet forums existed back then...
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on May 14, 2021, 08:15:19 AM
I’ve thought and said the same thing about what it would have been like had we had such forums in 1984. “The dice guy? Hosting Jeopardy? What are they thinking?” (And perhaps a jab at being Canadian too, for good xenophobic measure, who knows.)

And we’ll never really know had Trebek not been the choice how well someone else would have done. It’s just one of those things.

The need to trash, or ascribe conspiracy theories to, Sony and Mike Richards astounds me. Going only by track record, Richards stepped into a situation at Price that would charitably be described as challenging on many levels. Quickly, in TV time, he got the show into more solid footing and on a trajectory for sustained success. And built a new LMAD following a similar template—and that worked exceptionally well.

Sony hiring him is perfectly valid based on that work. Ok, they got someone who was able to help in a pinch to go in front of the camera. Yay for them. In the absence of any other actual evidence, there’s no basis to assume more than that and to suggest some sneaky, nefarious moves afoot.

Every human, and every company since they’re run by, you know, humans, makes decisions they might do differently. Or that they wouldn’t do differently, but that they are criticized for. All part of the game of life.

I already feel bad for the new host, whoever it is. No one person can be enough like Alex, and yet different enough from Alex, and represent all audiences. It’s not humanly possible. Every single thing they do will be under a microscope. Every single thing they ever said thrown back at them. It’s a daunting challenge.


Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BillyGr on May 15, 2021, 08:43:01 PM
Or you can see it is Sony wanted someone with such a production skill set to join their organization and would have done so regardless of the state of Alex’s health.

His initial hiring is in no way, shape or form a sign about the hosting situation. Two things can coexist without one causing the other.

Or even that they were expecting (even if not quite so quickly) to have a situation where a long term host needed to be replaced with a new host (be it Alex or Pat) and wanted someone on their team who had experience dealing with a show where a long term host had to be replaced with someone new?  Not too many people who fit that category.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on May 15, 2021, 10:15:07 PM
Overall I respect Mike Richards.  The dislike for him back in the day is just part of someone's right to hate someone, IMO.  However, he had totally evolved, as mentioned.  While I probably wouldn't rethink my thoughts on him early on, I respect that the opportunity for him to get better was granted to him.

FWIW, Mike actually came into a situation that was a dumpster fire.  It's not something he created.  Things were rough back then, but it didn't take too long to turn things around to where things are tremendous.  Unlike his predecessor, Richards is more business and made decisions based on what's best for business before making decisions based on what Mike Richards liked.  Loved that he eventually respected the fans and longtime supporters of the show.  In the end, he did great at TPIR and left it better than it was around the time of his arrival there.

If he ends up the host, so be it.  It might work it; if it does, great.  If not, TPTB will adjust and move onto what's next.  Hopefully it won't be similar to Family Feud where there was a host every few to several years.  Though even FF found someone successful, and the rest is history.

At the end of the day, Mike is a tad bit underrated.  For me, the optimism is there that he'll make it work.  We might not see it by 2024, but by 2028, I think we will
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Ccook on May 16, 2021, 06:42:52 PM
I'd like to see whoever the host is approaches the show like Tom Kennedy did when he took over Password Plus after Allen Ludden took ill and eventually passed away. On PP's finale, Tom said he wasn't replacing Allen because he couldn't be replaced; he was merely filling in while Allen was taking care of other business.

Audiences can speak volumes: in 1969 when Bob Clayton took over Concentration (selected by original host Hugh Downs), the show didn't miss a beat because Clayton was well liked. In March, NBC decided to replace Clayton with Ed McMahon, and ratings tumbled. In September, NBC realized they goofed and brought Clayton back to the host position.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: blozier2006 on May 16, 2021, 07:27:02 PM
I'd like to see whoever the host is approaches the show like Tom Kennedy did when he took over Password Plus after Allen Ludden took ill and eventually passed away. On PP's finale, Tom said he wasn't replacing Allen because he couldn't be replaced; he was merely filling in while Allen was taking care of other business.
That wouldn't be possible here, since in Allen's case, he kept his terminal diagnosis a secret from the general public. In direct contrast with Alex, who openly admitted he was Stage IV from the get-go.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Nate Powalie on May 18, 2021, 10:23:19 AM
I watched last night's first episode of the Tournament of Champions, and all I can say is... wow. Buzzy clearly has not lost his energy nor his personality from his past appearances in 2016/2017. No wonder he was dubbed "Mr. Personality" by Alex.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on May 18, 2021, 10:36:42 AM
Smooth and polished right out of the gate. Sure, I know there is rehearsal time, but still. A great start.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: sayingsorry on May 21, 2021, 05:38:29 PM
Energy vs yelling is a big difference. Buzzy always feels like he is yelling every time he talks. There is time for when that excitement is needed but a $200 clue is not it
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on May 21, 2021, 05:46:38 PM
I haven’t felt like he’s doing anything of the sort.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JarodJGames on May 21, 2021, 07:42:54 PM
Kinda liked on today's Episode Buzzy paid a small tribute to Brayden Smith
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: danderson400 on May 21, 2021, 07:59:51 PM
I'd like to see whoever the host is approaches the show like Tom Kennedy did when he took over Password Plus after Allen Ludden took ill and eventually passed away. On PP's finale, Tom said he wasn't replacing Allen because he couldn't be replaced; he was merely filling in while Allen was taking care of other business.

Audiences can speak volumes: in 1969 when Bob Clayton took over Concentration (selected by original host Hugh Downs), the show didn't miss a beat because Clayton was well liked. In March, NBC decided to replace Clayton with Ed McMahon, and ratings tumbled. In September, NBC realized they goofed and brought Clayton back to the host position.

Yeah, NBC goofed by replacing Clayton with Ed McMahon. Ed was great as Johnny's sidekick, but Concentration was beneath him.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowKid on June 10, 2021, 06:48:12 PM
Any thoughts here on Mayim Bialik’s run and performance as guest host? In short, I like her. I think she’s doing a great job. She’s really enjoying her turn, shows humor at times, and interacts with the contestants well I’d say. As far as becoming the permanent host, she does have much past TV experience, she’s a woman (frankly I think that helps her case), she’s quite intelligent and holds a Ph.D, and she’s of an age where she could possibly host for a long time.

I would not be surprised at all if she’s selected, and if I were making the decision, she’d be right up there with Ken Jennings and Aaron Rodgers, so far. :-)
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on June 10, 2021, 10:43:29 PM
I think Mayim has done well overall, she started out being very robotic in her presentation but less so as her stint has gone on. She certainly has a chance I would say.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on June 13, 2021, 01:41:42 PM
Despite some noticeable flaws, I think Mayim did a great job as the guest host these past two weeks.

And as for Savannah Gutherie, she has revealed in an interview (https://people.com/tv/savannah-guthrie-says-new-host-of-jeopardy-will-have-big-shoes-to-fill/) with People Magazine’s Naledi Ushe that she is not interested in permanently hosting the show joining Katie Couric and Bill Whittaker as guest hosts not interested in becoming the permanent host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on July 12, 2021, 10:32:48 AM
I hate to self reply on an inactive thread, but today's Good Morning America did a segment on George Stephanopoulos’ hosting stint for the week. Nothing worthy to note, just some shots from behind the scenes and staging. Along with him studying the big sheet of clues with contestants saying how great he was as host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on July 29, 2021, 11:05:44 AM
Levar isn’t as good as I thought him to be.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on July 29, 2021, 02:02:04 PM
Levar isn’t as good as I thought him to be.

LeVar did say in one of the interviews he did that he was having some trouble getting the hang of hosting. And between the tapings of the first and second games, he talked with his wife, who advised him to start being himself compared to his performance on his first show.

And I may have been among the many who rooted for him to get a guest hosting spot, but if he had more time than a single day for them to acclimate him, he would have been great. But his week as guest host has been a disappointment, and the only highlight of his run is a multiday super champion in the making.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Reloaden on July 30, 2021, 09:00:30 PM
Lavar, for someone who wanted this hosting gig i thought he would of been better. He did improved  on Thursday's show. I think with some work and more practice he could probably do a great job hosting Jeopardy or some other game show. I think people are getting burnt out from all the guest hosts. They need to name one.

If Ken gets the Jeopardy hosting job, Matt would make a good Chaser on The Chase if they decide to bring in another Jeopardy person.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on July 30, 2021, 09:57:20 PM
I would say Levar was good, but not great. It was a short sample size, but I just don't think his presentation style fits the show well enough.

I have to think they're going to announce the permanent host soon, with the season ending in two weeks and tapings for the new season beginning. If Ken does become the host I don't think they necessarily need to add another chaser since they would still have three with Brad, James, and the Beast.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on July 31, 2021, 02:40:16 PM
LeVar was mediocre and not quite worth the hype. Maybe with a little more preparation, he could be a far more worthy guest host.

Is there any word yet on when production of S38 will start? Here's hoping they don't surprise people with who's hosting like they did this past season.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on July 31, 2021, 04:04:58 PM
Is there any word yet on when production of S38 will start? Here's hoping they don't surprise people with who's hosting like they did this past season.

PatrickRox80, according to some members (such as this (https://jboard.tv/viewtopic.php?p=358883#p358883) member) of the JBoard message board who auditioned on Zoom, per the contestant producer at the member's audition said that Season 38 begins production in the middle to later part of this upcoming month.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BillyGr on July 31, 2021, 08:31:34 PM
I have to think they're going to announce the permanent host soon, with the season ending in two weeks and tapings for the new season beginning. If Ken does become the host I don't think they necessarily need to add another chaser since they would still have three with Brad, James, and the Beast.

Some might even wonder if they were thinking that Ken would be (or would be needed more in the production end as he was first announced last year) and that being the reason why they brought in the fourth (new, but really old) chaser this season, so it would be ready to go without Ken?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 01, 2021, 09:40:48 PM
Whenever they announce the new host, it's safe to say that the other "likely" candidate (Aaron Rodgers) will not be the guy.


Levar was fine.  I think he met the expectations.  Nothing he did was cause for a standing ovation, and he didn't suck at all.  Just a TV legend making the best out of a spot that was in no way, shape, or form permanent, but rather deserving (if you ask his fans).

Maybe I'm missing something, but does Ken have to bolt from his Chase duties if he gets the job?  Times may be different (well, they are), but Alex hosted several other shows simultaneous to fulfilling his Jeopardy! duties.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: htmlcc92 on August 01, 2021, 09:47:32 PM
Maybe I'm missing something, but does Ken have to bolt from his Chase duties if he gets the job?  Times may be different (well, they are), but Alex hosted several other shows simultaneous to fulfilling his Jeopardy! duties.

I don't think he'd necessarily have to leave The Chase for that reason. Doesn't Steve Harvey have 2-3 shows right now? I guess it's been a while since I've watched anything with him in it so I'm not sure.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Chief-O on August 01, 2021, 10:57:04 PM
Maybe I'm missing something, but does Ken have to bolt from his Chase duties if he gets the job?  Times may be different (well, they are), but Alex hosted several other shows simultaneous to fulfilling his Jeopardy! duties.

I would have to think this would be dependent on his contracts with J! or "The Chase". He is already on J! payroll as a supervising(?) producer, but landing the host gig might add a non-compete/exclusivity clause to things (or it might not....I couldn't say).

Quote
Whenever they announce the new host, it's safe to say that the other "likely" candidate (Aaron Rodgers) will not be the guy.

I honestly wouldn't know how "likely" of a candidate Aaron was, but he wasn't that great. (And to disclose, I live deep in the heart of Packer country.)
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 02, 2021, 05:38:17 AM
The host will be signing a new contract so any exclusivity is dependent on what they sign.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: AussieEvil on August 03, 2021, 02:13:26 AM
Alex was able to do TTTT and Classic Concentration while still the host of Jeopardy.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 03, 2021, 05:32:36 AM
Sure. And as shows that weren’t traditional quiz programs which almost certainly didn’t compete with Jeopardy, it’s easy to see why that worked out. Different times, different people in charge. While it would be foolish for a host to sign too restrictive a non compete, and it would be foolish for Sony to try to even attempt to force too restrictive a limit, what happened decades ago is still not a template for what may happen in the future. There is a wide open space beneficial to both a host and Sony that would allow other projects.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Reloaden on August 03, 2021, 07:48:52 AM
I really enjoyed David Faber first episode he's good. I never heard of him.


Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on August 04, 2021, 06:07:51 PM
Mike Richards is in serious consideration to be the permanent host.

https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/mike-richards-jeopardy-host-alex-trebek-1235034673/
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: goldroadfanatic on August 04, 2021, 06:10:39 PM
If he's chosen, fine. Best of luck to him. However, I feel Sony could have picked someone better, in my opinion.

Throughout his whole guest hosting period, Mike gave off the feeling to me like he was invoking Alex's legacy to anoint himself as the rightful successor, and that turned me off. Also, he was not as genuine as say, Ken or Buzzy.

We'll see what happens over the next two weeks.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on August 04, 2021, 07:10:19 PM
Not to toot my own horn, but I did notice back in May that Mike was being oddly careful in how he was answering questions about his involvement in the host selection process.

I have no inside knowledge about what's going on at J!, but the fact that Mike is repeatedly saying in interviews that he has little to no involvement in the selection of the host, combined with the way he very deliberately avoided answering a question about whether he is a contender for the permanent hosting job, suggests he still wants to be considered for the permanent hosting job.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowKid on August 04, 2021, 07:31:25 PM
I haven't watched the show regularly for years, but I will not watch Jeopardy! at all if Mike Richards becomes the permanent host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: sayingsorry on August 04, 2021, 09:35:01 PM
I would bet a lot of money that Mike Richards was brought on by Sony to take over hosting either J or Wheel one day. He has proven to be a winner as EP and a pretty fine host.

Where do I collect my winnings?  :lol:
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 04, 2021, 09:45:09 PM
Where do I collect my winnings?  :lol:

Possibly the LA Commerce Casino
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 04, 2021, 10:39:49 PM
I haven't watched the show regularly for years, but I will not watch Jeopardy! at all if Mike Richards becomes the permanent host.

So little change then?

Whatever axe one has to grind is a personal issue perhaps.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on August 04, 2021, 10:46:48 PM
I'm not too excited about Mike becoming the host but it's not the worst decision. Assuming he does become host, I wonder if he will still continue also EPing Wheel of Fortune.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: sayingsorry on August 04, 2021, 10:54:50 PM
I'm not too excited about Mike becoming the host but it's not the worst decision. Assuming he does become host, I wonder if he will still continue also EPing Wheel of Fortune.

I wouldn't see why not, he ran 2 shows and hosted Pyramid at the same time, although that was a lot less episodes
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on August 05, 2021, 01:08:38 AM
Honestly, I thought Mike was pretty decent... and he's a legitimately good host. Was he my first choice? No. Could there have been worse? Absolutely. Mike at least has respect for the institution, and knows what it takes to host the show. That and the general public actually liked him when his shows aired.

Let's face it... most of the guest hosts were never serious candidates to begin with.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Prizes on August 05, 2021, 11:02:51 AM
As expected. It also gives a fascinating example to the typically (if understandable) dinosaur practice of modern/new hired game show host with game show experience as credentials. As CU noted, by the Nielsen numbers, the right choice. Easily the best ratings and eyes by the GP.

Where do I collect my winnings?  :lol:

The online casino Bovada had a betslip on this; Richards was anywhere from +800 to +1000. That means if you bet $100 you’d have won $800 or $1,000 respectively, plus return of your initial bet.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 05, 2021, 11:48:59 AM
I’ll be honest, if it wasn’t going to be Ken Jennings, I’m glad it’s Mike Richards.  I can’t speak for anyone else, and there will be varying opinions elsewhere about Alex Trebek’s successor.  However, there’s no way I’m “boycotting” Jeopardy!  Sony and TPTB do not care whether I pass on watching the show.  It’ll be fine, and Jeopardy will live on without me and when I’m gone.  The thrill of watching might decrease a tad since it’s not Alex, but that would’ve been the case with Ken.


Since I mentioned the Packers QB in an earlier post, I feel that I have to follow up on my thoughts with the Green Bay legend.  I've heard a lot from sports media saying Aaron Rodgers would be the outright best choice.  That doesn't count for me.  I thought he was good, but a lot of those folks aren't that bright & knowledgeable when it comes to the gameshow world. 

Honestly, I would have been a bit unhappy if the choices had come down to Aaron & Mike, but then they went with Rodgers over Mike.

Say what you will about Ken Jennings.  There are a number of people (not here AFAIK) that hate the guy.  If you know me, you'd know that I couldn't care less about how he may or may not have rubbed people the wrong way.  One side is all-in for Mr. Jennings, and the other side will die before watching the show with him there.  Man, that middle section is super perfect for me.  Though I can see it both ways.


Finally, I don’t know whether Jennings turned down the offer or was not chosen by Sony (or both).  TBH, at first I was like, “Oh Man!  They’re going with Mike over Ken!”  Not a shocker because an obvious choice almost never gets the position.  I was a little sad since Ken’s humor seems more natural than Mike’s.  That just my opinion.  As of now, I’m with CU and Prizes.  And whomever else.  I think this is a great pick.  Not who I wanted to see, but I feel that Richards will do very good.  As mentioned, he has the experience.  Plus, I believe he feel short in another legendary gameshow as a successor to another GS legend, so this would be somewhat redeeming
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 05, 2021, 12:46:51 PM
It’s possible Jennings doesn’t want the gig and all it entails, also.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BillyGr on August 05, 2021, 01:12:17 PM
Where do I collect my winnings?  :lol:

Probably nowhere yet, since the posting only says serious consideration, not definitely? ;)
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: C8 on August 05, 2021, 02:03:57 PM
I still feel like there's a lingering, irrational anti-Mike sentiment here since he had the misfortune to be the one to take over for the Dob after his tenure at TPiR ended.

I don't think Mike would have been my first pick, but he was in the upper echelons. He was memorable and was able to step in and GO without much preparation or time. He earned this fair and square if it turns out to be him.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 05, 2021, 02:06:41 PM
Oh there is an irrational sentiment.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Reloaden on August 05, 2021, 04:13:44 PM
A small part of me was hoping they was auditioning hosts to take over. I feel like Mike was already picked as a host and they were using the guest hosts to keep the show in the news and as a stunt to announce Mike as a host. Ken said early on he wasn't interested in the job. The guest hosts was interesting i could see some of them hosting a game show in the future a lot better then the out of work actors/comedians  hosting game shows today.



I saw people were upset about Lavar not getting the gig, but his week he was terrible.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: kishy214 on August 05, 2021, 06:14:52 PM
A small part of me was hoping they was auditioning hosts to take over. I feel like Mike was already picked as a host and they were using the guest hosts to keep the show in the news and as a stunt to announce Mike as a host. Ken said early on he wasn't interested in the job. The guest hosts was interesting i could see some of them hosting a game show in the future a lot better then the out of work actors/comedians  hosting game shows today.



I saw people were upset about Lavar not getting the gig, but his week he was terrible.

Ken has said on his podcasts that he was absolutely interested in the job and would consider it a great honor. He has also hinted that he thinks Mike gamed the system here in a Dick Cheney sort of way -- head of the selection committee picks himself. Audio in link below -- it's coy, but apparent.

https://www.omnibusproject.com/381?t=1644

Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: blozier2006 on August 05, 2021, 06:41:24 PM
I feel like Mike was already picked as a host and they were using the guest hosts to keep the show in the news and as a stunt to announce Mike as a host.
This is the correct answer, I'd almost bet money on it.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on August 06, 2021, 01:54:18 PM
It’s possible Jennings doesn’t want the gig and all it entails, also.

I don't think Ken signed a contract as a "consulting producer" (one of the industry's most meaningless titles) and to present special categories if he had no interest in hosting the show. If so, he would have said so at the time, which he noticeably didn't.

It seems probable that Ken (and Mike, for that matter) did not expect the position to become open at the time that it did, which led Ken to accept work on other game shows at what turned out to be an inconvenient moment. His deals with The Chase and Master Minds were signed at a time when Alex said his health was improving and it still looked as though he might be able to recover.

He has also hinted that he thinks Mike gamed the system here in a Dick Cheney sort of way -- head of the selection committee picks himself.

I think you may be reading a little too much into that comment in the podcast. Ken has always had a wry sense of humor and jokingly says things he doesn't really mean (which have sometimes gotten him into trouble). By Jennings standards, that was a marshmallow.

I feel like Mike was already picked as a host and they were using the guest hosts to keep the show in the news and as a stunt to announce Mike as a host.

Most of the guest hosts were clearly stunts, with several saying openly they had no interest in the full-time job, and Mike saying Sony didn't really want someone who was going to work on J! as a side hustle.

But I don't think Mike taking over was a fait accompli. While it wasn't too hard to read between the lines of some of his interviews to realize he wanted the job, he doesn't have the kind of power in the business to just snap his fingers and make that happen. Getting a job like this from the inside takes hard work and politicking, and Mike has a track record of being good at both.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: kishy214 on August 06, 2021, 05:45:34 PM
I think you may be reading a little too much into that comment in the podcast. Ken has always had a wry sense of humor and jokingly says things he doesn't really mean (which have sometimes gotten him into trouble). By Jennings standards, that was a marshmallow.

Totally possible -- my reading of the tea leaves is basically based on how Jeopardy! Reddit is obsessed with that comment (which was also likely taped months ago, Omnibus records pretty far in advance) and now the recent Ringer article (https://www.theringer.com/tv/2021/8/5/22611962/jeopardy-new-host-mike-richards-sony) from Claire McNear (love her book Answers in the Form of Questions btw) which sheds light on Mike's guest hosting stint and how it may not have been as much of an "emergency" as Richards proclaimed it to be. I'd imagine Jennings knew about that, and based on his relationship with McNear -- he wrote the foreword in her book -- I could see him being a source for some of the more insider-y details in that article.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on August 06, 2021, 11:53:44 PM
Oh there is an irrational sentiment.

Now that it's come around that the sacred cow lied about the circumstances surrounding how he got to be a guest host, the sentiment isn't exactly irrational. We all had our reasons for not watching Dr. Oz. I'll have my reasons for refusing to watch Mike if his negotiations are successful.

He has also hinted that he thinks Mike gamed the system here in a Dick Cheney sort of way -- head of the selection committee picks himself. Audio in link below -- it's coy, but apparent.

Say what you will about Ken, but that is a pretty accurate depiction of how the hosting process has been going. If he came across as feeling like he got snubbed, I don't blame him.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: garffreak on August 07, 2021, 01:32:40 AM
I still feel like there's a lingering, irrational anti-Mike sentiment

I think some models that have worked under Mike (pun possibly intended) might say those sentiments are quite rational.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 08, 2021, 11:34:40 AM
1424171964361428992[/tweet]]Drew Carey, who got the nod over Mike Richards to succeed Bob Barker, defends the former TPIR EP. (http://[tweet)

1424172043038191620[/tweet]]Here's the second part in case the Twitter reply to his own tweet isn't included in the first link. (http://[tweet)


Carey is pretty spot on, IMO.  What happened to Brandi and Lanisha is what it is.  Both cases were not cool, and if Richards isn't that good of a guy, it would be stuff that would be surprising to Drew.  The model interactions returned to a level that pretty much exceeds the 80s.  It had been absent for pretty much a couple decades, but under Mike, the show became more than Drew & Drew only.  The models and George received more respect than they would have earlier in the series.

I still stand with being fine with Richards as the guy, but I totally feel for Ken.  For one, I understand that one can no longer compete on the show again if they hosted it in any capacity.  I don't know if Jennings was "retiring" as a contestant on Jeopardy!  However, if he feels like he had no shot I don't know if he should've agreed to host in the first place
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowKid on August 08, 2021, 02:53:23 PM
So little change then?

Whatever axe one has to grind is a personal issue perhaps.
I don't know Richards personally, but to me, he has for years not come off as sincere or genuine in his hosting style. 
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 08, 2021, 03:11:51 PM
Ken has reasonably taken this about as far as anyone can. He won the GOAT. I’m not sure how many more times they could reasonably trot him out there anyway.

It’s entirely possible the senior leadership at Sony feel Mike is the better fit. Of course that’s subjective no matter who is chosen, but it isn’t in and of itself proof of anything more nefarious. In the absence of actual evidence, as compared adding one plus one and getting five, that’s what we have to work with.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BillyGr on August 08, 2021, 05:07:47 PM
I don't know if Jennings was "retiring" as a contestant on Jeopardy!  However, if he feels like he had no shot I don't know if he should've agreed to host in the first place

Wouldn't he not be eligible anyway, being he was already working for them before he guest hosted?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 08, 2021, 07:31:54 PM
Wouldn't he not be eligible anyway, being he was already working for them before he guest hosted?

Yeah he wouldn't be.  Though I didn't think of that since I figured that he was working for them prior to the GOAT special.  I don't know exactly when Ken started but I figured that they would've waived that rule for special circumstances.

As mentioned, I think Jennings has done more than all he can do as it relates to the show as a player.  A match against Matt Amodio is sorta unnecessary, there will be future super champions in the years and decades to come.  There's no need for Ken (or even Brad) to face off against them just for the sake of finding out who's the best Jeopardy player ever.

Ken has nothing to prove.  He is the goat, but to be fair to Rutter, Jennings can be defeated (convincingly).  Like you said, he'd be ineligible, and I imagine so even if he were to quit the show
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: COINBOYNYC on August 09, 2021, 12:27:54 AM
I think Jennings has done more than all he can do as it relates to the show as a player . . . . . Ken has nothing to prove.

I wonder if Ken would want to compete again, in any context, given that the host will be someone other than Alex.  Is it reasonable to speculate that, even though it's still his beloved Jeopardy and the gameplay would be exactly the same, it wouldn't be the same for him without Alex behind the lectern?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: TPIRfan#9821 on August 09, 2021, 01:33:17 AM
^He's already said he's done competing on Jeopardy! after the GOAT. This was even before he was brought onto the staff.

It might be the lows of Richards in the article, but David Faber was my favorite host so far. I was shocked by how natural he was. My vote's now for him.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on August 09, 2021, 12:18:45 PM
Now that it's come around that the sacred cow lied about the circumstances surrounding how he got to be a guest host...

Mike said Ken wasn't available for a taping week because he was obliged to be at The Chase, and Mike stepped in because there was not an easy way to bring another guest host to Los Angeles during the height of the pandemic on short notice. You have proof that wasn't the case?

Wouldn't he not be eligible anyway, being he was already working for them before he guest hosted?

As #9281 noted, Ken made very clear after winning the GOAT that he did not intend to appear ever again as a contestant. Maybe he was already considering taking a job with the show, but it was primarily because, now that he's in his late 40s, he could sense his quick recall trivia skills waning. Take it from me, your ability to quickly and consistently grab facts out of the recesses of your brain recedes as you get older, and he didn't see a need to continue competing knowing that he was only going to get worse at playing the game over time.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jude_este on August 09, 2021, 12:57:24 PM
Two Jeopardy! items related to the host search to report this early afternoon.

From The Ringer's Claire McNear on Twitter, Mike has sent the following 1424765285215744010[/tweet]]statement (http://[tweet) to the staff today about the allegations during his tenure at Price that resurfaced towards the end of last week.

And also, here's an article from The Seattle Times (https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/tv/news-that-mike-richards-might-be-new-jeopardy-host-met-with-resounding-meh-in-seattle/) interviewing past champions on their thoughts on Mike Richards and the host search.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 09, 2021, 12:57:28 PM
Which all makes his GOAT win more impressive.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: MSTieScott on August 09, 2021, 05:57:46 PM
Mike said Ken wasn't available for a taping week because he was obliged to be at The Chase, and Mike stepped in because there was not an easy way to bring another guest host to Los Angeles during the height of the pandemic on short notice. You have proof that wasn't the case?

First, the quote in question, which apparently came from Mike's first episode (source one (https://boston.cbslocal.com/2021/02/23/jeopardy-guest-host-mike-richards-ken-jennings-interim/)) (source two (https://www.cinemablend.com/television/2563367/jeopardy-guest-host-mike-richards-explains-why-he-took-the-gig-despite-not-being-famous)):

Quote
But with the Covid outbreak here in LA, folks were understandably a little reticent to shoot. Ken Jennings did a great job, but he’s unavailable due to obligations with his show The Chase so as the producer my job is to quite literally live the mantra: the show must go on.

I don't know when that episode taped, but it aired on February 22.

The Chase began taping on May 1.

To play devil's advocate, "obligations" could refer to some other contractual aspect. But Jennings' unavailability definitely wasn't because of a taping conflict.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: TPIRfan#9821 on August 09, 2021, 10:24:14 PM
Hi r/Jeopardy brigadiers, since someone decided to post an image of the above anonymously there! I promise we don't bite.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PriceFan07 on August 09, 2021, 10:59:03 PM

I don't know when that episode taped, but it aired on February 22.

The Chase began taping on May 1.


My guess is that the conflict may have been with taping season 1 of The Chase as it premiered in January and may very well have been taping around the time Jeopardy was taping?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Thatgameshowguy on August 09, 2021, 11:05:48 PM
My guess is that the conflict may have been with taping season 1 of The Chase as it premiered in January and may very well have been taping around the time Jeopardy was taping?


The Chase season 1 taped the beginning of November, before Jeopardy returned to taping.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: MSTieScott on August 10, 2021, 01:51:11 AM
Because I misremembered when season one of The Chase aired, I didn't think to check for that. So in the interest of completeness:

According to 1327016514143154176[/tweet]]this tweet (http://[tweet) from Ken Jennings, season one of The Chase was in full swing by November 12. According to 1330346505539104768[/tweet]]this tweet (http://[tweet) from James Holzhauer, the first season finished taping by November 21. As stated in 1330996342865293313[/tweet]]this tweet (http://[tweet), Jeopardy! did not resume taping until November 30.

As a couple of people in the Reddit thread that linked to this thread speculated, it's possible that the "obligations" may have involved publicity for that first season of The Chase, which debuted on January 7. I didn't immediately find any Chaser publicity appearances from that time frame, but I also did not search thoroughly (none of the Chasers nor the show's official account retweeted any special promotional appearances during that week, that's all I know).
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: kishy214 on August 10, 2021, 10:30:22 AM
Hi r/Jeopardy brigadiers, since someone decided to post an image of the above anonymously there! I promise we don't bite.

More of the J! folks here should check out this subreddit. Great insights, and a wonderfully active community.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Nate Powalie on August 10, 2021, 11:09:14 AM
Overall, I think Joe Buck's first show as guest host was a solid showing. His announcer voice really showed here, providing eloquent readings of the clue. He also seemed to have some decent chemistry with the contestants.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on August 10, 2021, 11:12:41 AM
Same reflection as he is on FOX.
Title: Mike Richards and Mayim Bialik To Split Hosting Duties on Jeopardy
Post by: bigblue999 on August 11, 2021, 11:56:23 AM
https://www.thedailybeast.com/jeopardy-set-to-announce-mayim-bialik-and-mike-richards-splitting-host-duties
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: TPIRfan#9821 on August 11, 2021, 12:30:12 PM
The online casino Bovada had a betslip on this; Richards was anywhere from +800 to +1000. That means if you bet $100 you’d have won $800 or $1,000 respectively, plus return of your initial bet.

Um... so how do the bets go in this case, lol?

That... is an option. From a pure gameplay perspective, I'm not the biggest fan of the ToC going to have a different host than the normal games; that seems like it's going to give a pacing advantage to the winner of the College/Teachers tournaments.

Mayim Bialik hosting the whole shebang was a much better option though.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on August 11, 2021, 12:34:12 PM
Mayim Bialik hosting the whole shebang was a much better option though.

Given that she'd be splitting hosting duties with a weasel, that should have been the only option.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on August 11, 2021, 12:50:15 PM
It’s official now:

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/814514328270405726/875058368593682482/image0.png)
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 11, 2021, 12:57:12 PM
Given that she'd be splitting hosting duties with a weasel, that should have been the only option.


Maybe she will in time (in a couple years or so)
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PimpinJC on August 11, 2021, 12:59:51 PM
I guess Jeopardy has officially jumped the shark now.  I don’t see the point having 2 hosts.

And seriously, spin-offs!?  Jeopardy has never had to result in spin-offs to keep the show “fresh.”  I see Mike is gonna gimmick the show to death like he did Price.  :roll:

I guess this whole “host search” was another gimmick too…
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: sayingsorry on August 11, 2021, 01:05:55 PM
I would bet a lot of money that Mike Richards was brought on by Sony to take over hosting either J or Wheel one day. He has proven to be a winner as EP and a pretty fine host.

I should have bet my house on this hunch, hindsight is 20/20
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: gamesurf on August 11, 2021, 01:11:23 PM
I guess Jeopardy has officially jumped the shark now.  I don’t see the point having 2 hosts.

And seriously, spin-offs!?  Jeopardy has never had to result in spin-offs to keep the show “fresh.”  I see Mike is gonna gimmick the show to death like he did Price.  :roll:

I guess this whole “host search” was another gimmick too…

The real thing that catches my eye here is they must have had serious interest in expanding the show’s footprint before all of this started.

You don’t create primetime and spinoff series as a spur-of-the-moment decision to open up a position for another guest host. This seems like something that’s been in the works for a while.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: RatRace10 on August 11, 2021, 01:27:05 PM
How is Mike going to continue producing Wheel of Fortune (and Celebrity Wheel of Fortune)? Won't he be too busy with Jeopardy? Harry Friedman already treated Jeopardy better than Wheel of Fortune before he left, which is why Jeopardy became more popular than Wheel of Fortune starting about 5-10 years ago. Is Mike going to do the same thing and Wheel of Fortune will be cancelled after Pat and Vanna retire? I hope not! I don't want a world with only Jeopardy and no Wheel!
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: blozier2006 on August 11, 2021, 01:38:45 PM
I don't want a world with only Jeopardy and no Wheel!
Boy, you'd have hated to be alive before 1975, then :-P /s
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Casey on August 11, 2021, 01:54:06 PM
I guess Jeopardy has officially jumped the shark now.  I don’t see the point having 2 hosts.

And seriously, spin-offs!?  Jeopardy has never had to result in spin-offs to keep the show “fresh.”  I see Mike is gonna gimmick the show to death like he did Price.  :roll:

I guess this whole “host search” was another gimmick too…

What about Rock N' Roll Jeopardy? - a pretty successful spin off with a separate host.

I see no reason to froth at the mouth about this.  If Mayim is hosting the ABC prime time version, the special tournaments, and whatever else, is that really so egregious?  Or is this more "Mike Bad!  Won't Watch!" ?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowKid on August 11, 2021, 02:00:50 PM
Mayim Bialik hosting the whole shebang was a much better option though.
I agree with you. I won't be watching the daily syndicated program after this season ends.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 11, 2021, 02:34:51 PM
How is Mike going to continue producing Wheel of Fortune (and Celebrity Wheel of Fortune)? Won't he be too busy with Jeopardy? Harry Friedman already treated Jeopardy better than Wheel of Fortune before he left, which is why Jeopardy became more popular than Wheel of Fortune starting about 5-10 years ago. Is Mike going to do the same thing and Wheel of Fortune will be cancelled after Pat and Vanna retire? I hope not! I don't want a world with only Jeopardy and no Wheel!

People have multiple gigs. It’s fine. No one is somehow slighting Wheel. That’s pure fiction.

Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: blozier2006 on August 11, 2021, 03:40:44 PM
No one is somehow slighting Wheel.
Try convincing the guys on Buy a Vowel Boards of that. Not gonna name names, but one guy there has an absolute "the sky is falling!" reaction at this point.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on August 11, 2021, 04:22:45 PM
The real thing that catches my eye here is they must have had serious interest in expanding the show’s footprint before all of this started.

They have had many primetime specials before, going back many years. Not to mention at least three previous spinoff shows, each with a different host. With game shows becoming relatively popular in prime time again, it makes sense that Sony would be already planning this sort of expansion.

How is Mike going to continue producing Wheel of Fortune (and Celebrity Wheel of Fortune)?

The simple answer is, someone else will pick up some of his current duties. Wouldn't surprise me if the shows get a "co-executive producer" or something similar next season.

Given that she'd be splitting hosting duties with a weasel, that should have been the only option.

I wouldn't really call this "splitting hosting duties." Mike will host 230 episodes a year. Mayim will probably host, what, maybe 20-30 a year, tops? And evidently under somewhat different formats. That's like saying Alex was "splitting host duties" with Jeff Probst.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: mechamind on August 11, 2021, 04:34:01 PM
The simple answer is, someone else will pick up some of his current duties. Wouldn't surprise me if the shows get a "co-executive producer" or something similar next season.
It wouldn't be the first time that Wheel had a co-executive producer. Season 17 was Merv and Harry. I'm not sure who J! has had.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: therealcu2010 on August 11, 2021, 04:56:11 PM
Try convincing the guys on Buy a Vowel Boards of that. Not gonna name names, but one guy there has an absolute "the sky is falling!" reaction at this point.

I assure you that is not a majority opinion over there, and we actively deal with the conspiracy theorists.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: FDRfan on August 11, 2021, 06:13:31 PM
At least it's not Dr. Oz hosting.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: sayingsorry on August 11, 2021, 06:45:23 PM
Given that she'd be splitting hosting duties with a weasel, that should have been the only option.

A weasel? Sony knew exactly what they were doing. I 10000% guarantee you Mike Richards left Fremantle knowing he would be the next Jeopardy host.

Did he know it would happen so soon? No one did. But Sony was preparing for Alex to pass and stealing him from Fremantle was the first step. Sony used the "guest hosting" route to introduce him to the world as many have not seen him before. Was it a smart idea? No. Did they expect Lavar Burton to act like a baby when he was not included in the list so now it makes Mike look bad? No.

But I can assure you that Mike was picked for this job the moment he was poached by Sony.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: brosa0 on August 11, 2021, 07:46:55 PM
Got to say it's been rather amusing to see so many of the hysterical reactions on Twitter etc.

Of course people will have their own preferences for host, but Mike will do a fine job, as will Mayim.  The sun will rise again, people will continue to watch and enjoy Jeopardy, and life will go on.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pannoni1 on August 11, 2021, 08:20:53 PM
Congratulations Mr. Richards! You earned it, and although you will have to stand up to a legend like Alex once did with Art Fleming, you're still part of the greatest quizzer of all time, and you'll still have the same witty contestants, tricky clues, wacky categories, tournaments, and hopefully soon, the return of the audience. And we've still got Johnny Gilbert introducing the show and the players. Provided that Matt Amodio wins these next couple nights, you'll inherit the gig with a top five superchamp to help add the excitement for the upcoming season.

And I'm sure Mayim will make a great companion in primetime just like where she's been for the last three decades, just like what Dennis James and Tom Kennedy did for Bob Barker and The Price Is Right, and even what Vicki Lawrence did with Bert Convy on the late '80s show Win, Lose or Draw, or even Gary Owens with Chuck Barris for The Gong Show.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on August 11, 2021, 08:37:19 PM
Is it the best choice? no. One might argue the reverse is better than this. That being said, Mike Richards isn't a terrible game show host or executive producer. We're talking on a site who has its future to thank with Mike Richards.

There's no reason for the sky to be falling as I've seen on JBoard especially. No one was going to be universally happy with any of the choices. LeVar Burton would've shut a lot of the general public up, but LeVar bombed and it was clear from the start he was never a contender for the job, Sony just gave him the 5 shows. Mike will do fine, so will Mayim.

Not worth throwing the remote in the corner and acting like it's doom.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on August 11, 2021, 10:28:15 PM
And I'm sure Mayim will make a great companion in primetime just like where she's been for the last three decades, just like what Dennis James and Tom Kennedy did for Bob Barker and The Price Is Right, and even what Vicki Lawrence did with Bert Convy on the late '80s show Win, Lose or Draw, or even Gary Owens with Chuck Barris for The Gong Show.

Would it be at all fair to put Doug Davidson alongside Bob here as well? The show itself didn't exactly do well, but...Doug was a decent host I thought.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: jhc2010 on August 12, 2021, 01:25:44 AM
I just hope Mike doesn't say the phrase "We were looking for..." nearly every time a clue is a triple stumper. He said this WAY too much during his guest-hosting gig and it was painful to listen to. Hopefully he can come up with a variety of ways to say things like Trebek and many of the other guest hosts did.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pannoni1 on August 12, 2021, 07:13:03 AM
"Correct response...., The response was...., We're going for..., simply state What/who is/are....," to name a few. Alex's autobio even referenced the various ways he would say both this, correct, and incorrect responses. We don't want another Patrick Wayne or Pat Finn. Hopefully by his third year in he will have settled into a groove like Alex did after a rather awkard first season and a more settled, but still rather uncontrolled second season hosting. Its too bad that early Art Fleming footage is gone since I'm sure he would of had an interesting early hosting style before he settled down.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 12, 2021, 10:24:25 AM
Indeed. Anyone needs time to make the show theirs. Their template is essentially Alex.
They’re almost inevitably going to be caught in a bind of accused of imitating too closely on one hand and not being Alex enough on the other. Social media only amplifies the nitpicking and needless criticism.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BonusShell on August 12, 2021, 06:13:26 PM
A weasel? Sony knew exactly what they were doing. I 10000% guarantee you Mike Richards left Fremantle knowing he would be the next Jeopardy host.

Did he know it would happen so soon? No one did. But Sony was preparing for Alex to pass and stealing him from Fremantle was the first step. Sony used the "guest hosting" route to introduce him to the world as many have not seen him before. Was it a smart idea? No. Did they expect Lavar Burton to act like a baby when he was not included in the list so now it makes Mike look bad? No.

But I can assure you that Mike was picked for this job the moment he was poached by Sony.

Though I am very much opposed to Richards being named host, I think that you hit upon the biggest objection that I had: namely, that even though Richards may very well have been singled out from the get-go, this whole bull**** charade was allowed to go on for a long time. Such phoniness and lack of honesty are no doubt parts of show business, but that doesn't make me hate what happened any less.

I certainly find some of the explanations given by Sony and Richards' zealots supporters to be suspect, if not outright laughable. If this decision was solely about which host attracted the most viewers, then Ken Jennings should have been picked. Yes, Richards' shows scored the second highest ratings, but any one with a modicum of knowledge regarding TV viewing habits realizes that ratings would continuously dwindle as the a new host was introduced every week or every other week (which was, indeed, the general pattern as to what happened).

In its press release, Sony praised Richards for being at ease behind the podium. Those who believe this to be the case are entitled to their opinions, but much of the feedback I've read on social media echoed my own sentiments, which was that David Faber did an extraordinary job and most resembled Alex Trebek. (And for those who say that Faber wasn't available, that just isn't the case, since he recently stated that he would take the job if offered.) And don't even get me started as to just how incredibly insulting and disrespectful it was to have all these leaks come out the week Faber was hosting and how equally insulting it was to have this official announcement come out the week Joe Buck is at the helm.

Regarding the breadcrumbs that are being given to Mayim Bialik, I echo comments made by others that suspect this was a move made by Sony to quell some of the backlash over allegations of past misconduct Richards has faced regarding his treatment of women. The spin that she's somehow a true co-host may also be an attempt to quell the "woke" left (who are upset over LeVar Burton not getting the gig) and those who suspect that Richards was gaming the system all along in a Dick Cheney sort of way.

As to Richards himself, I actually do think that he is a competent game show host, which is in sharp contrast to Drew Carey. But my personal opinion is that he comes across as overly slick and phony, and also comes across as lacking the intellectual gravitas necessary for hosting Jeopardy! (And I also agree with others who suspect he did what he could to game to hosting selection process.) One analogy I can think of regarding the change in hosts from Alex Trebek to Mike Richards would be to see Pat Summerall (the late, legendary sportscaster) get replaced by Bill Clinton. Obviously, Summerall and Clinton were in very different professions, but--for the sake of the point I'm trying to make--try to picture them both as game show hosts. Pat Summerall was somebody universally beloved, never let his ego get in the way of his job, and was perceived as having total credibility. Though Bill Clinton was and is adored by many, a great many others viewed him as totally self-serving and untrustworthy. (And should somebody criticize me for injecting politics into the discussion, I do apologize. However, you might want to know that I despise Donald Trump even more than Bill Clinton.)
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SuperMatch93 on August 12, 2021, 07:22:53 PM
As to Richards himself, I actually do think that he is a competent game show host, which is in sharp contrast to Drew Carey. But my personal opinion is that he comes across as overly slick and phony, and also comes across as lacking the intellectual gravitas necessary for hosting Jeopardy!

I've said this elsewhere, but in my view Alex had a "Mr. Game Show" personality early on before he mellowed out into the more professorial tone. There's no reason to think Mike couldn't do the same after some time.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 12, 2021, 08:04:26 PM
David Faber saying he’d take the job ignores perhaps that his employer has something to say about that under contract. But more broadly, people chose to read things into the guest hosting rotation that were never there.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowFan1987 on August 13, 2021, 03:49:47 AM
As someone who admittedly doesn't watch Jeopardy on any sort of regular basis, I'm willing to see how Mike does as the new permanent host. Would he have been my choice? No, but it does make sense. He has prior game show hosting experience, he's been a successful executive producer of game shows, and he clearly has a passion for them. It's pretty clear to me that he's wanted to host his own show for quite some time considering he auditioned for Price back in 2007 and had a short stint with "The Pyramid" in 2012. Now he's got one and I wish him well with it. To the naysayers, I realize Mike left a bad taste in people's mouths, mine included, when he first became EP of Price because he started making changes and there was fear that the show would fail because of it. It didn't. Maybe things were a bit rocky at first but they smoothed out. Season 50 is starting in just a few weeks and, pandemic conditions aside, it's still the same show and it's still strong and that's due in no small part to Mike. The correct response: What is "Good luck, Mike."?
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 13, 2021, 12:17:48 PM
I generally don’t trust TMZ, like…at all…but let’s suppose they’re right about this.

 https://amp.tmz.com/2021/08/13/mayim-bialik-top-choice-jeopardy-host-sony-execs-other-commitments/?__twitter_impression=true (https://amp.tmz.com/2021/08/13/mayim-bialik-top-choice-jeopardy-host-sony-execs-other-commitments/?__twitter_impression=true)

This adds a new wrinkle.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Casey on August 13, 2021, 01:15:12 PM
My thought through this ever since the announcement is that maybe Mike will be the syndicated host until Mayim is either able or willing to commit to hosting it, and by that time, audiences will already be familiar with her style from hosting the prime time specials and whatever else she does.

Handing the hosting baton to her from Mike would be pretty easy since she'll already be experienced by that point.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: JayC on August 13, 2021, 03:54:51 PM
I generally don’t trust TMZ, like…at all…but let’s suppose they’re right about this.

 https://amp.tmz.com/2021/08/13/mayim-bialik-top-choice-jeopardy-host-sony-execs-other-commitments/?__twitter_impression=true (https://amp.tmz.com/2021/08/13/mayim-bialik-top-choice-jeopardy-host-sony-execs-other-commitments/?__twitter_impression=true)

This adds a new wrinkle.
I guess it's possible, though it just seems like something that is too convenient of a story given the reaction to Mike ultimately getting the job.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 13, 2021, 04:10:17 PM
There is enough wiggle room in the sourcing and description to drive a big rig through. That’s one reason to be very dubious. But if, big if, it’s true…well….

Ok, let’s play it out. They wanted her, she can’t add the full time commitment. Who could you hire and potentially replace in a few years? None of the “big names” are leaving a cushy gig (if they even can) for a short term slot, especially if they see some else is going to be doing ancillary shows. It would read like a stopgap. Even doing that to a Ken or Buzzy with the potential to change course in the not too distant future…not a good route. Push the EP aside in a couple of years? Not as in fired but back to being EP to focus on the two shows or some such thing.

It’s pure speculation and by no means would I take this kind of thing from TMZ as gospel. But it’s interesting to contemplate if even a smidge of the story is right.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on August 13, 2021, 04:35:16 PM
It’s pure speculation and by no means would I take this kind of thing from TMZ as gospel. But it’s interesting to contemplate if even a smidge of the story is right.

The fact that they are publicizing this as "two new hosts" (even though it's not really) suggests that they want to leave open the option of making Mayim full-time at some point, whether she was really their first choice or not.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on August 13, 2021, 05:48:29 PM
A lot to assume at this point. Mayim seemed to have been caught off guard by the news, given that she had prior commitments that were preventing her from hosting.

Jack Barry started hosting The Joker's Wild 14 years after the quiz show scandals. CBS left that open for the viewers to decide, and they continued letting him host when he wasn't getting complaints. It's a different story with Sony letting Mike host even with all the baggage associated with him. We'll have to see how the ratings will treat him. It's too bad that story is getting more headlines than a superchamp making a huge run. So much for it being about the contestants.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Punchboard91 on August 13, 2021, 06:41:46 PM
This is the first host change in 38 years. We’ve had various runs over the years, of course the host of Jeopardy! is going to get news. It’s not like Matt’s run is being ignored, there’s plenty of coverage on it.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: bigblue999 on August 13, 2021, 07:26:36 PM
I’ve added a poll for favorite guest host(s).

Note: You can select more than one host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: tpirguyMN on August 13, 2021, 11:00:20 PM
As much as I dislike Joe Buck on sports commentary, I believe he did a reasonable job here.  He seemed genuinely excited to be there and treated the contestants well.

However my picks were between Faber and Bialik.  They had a knack of emphasizing the clues in the correct locations and seemed to make the show be solely about the contestants.

With that said, I have no problem with Richards hosting, so I wish him and Bialik nothing but luck moving forward.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BonusShell on August 14, 2021, 02:00:12 PM
David Faber saying he’d take the job ignores perhaps that his employer has something to say about that under contract. But more broadly, people chose to read things into the guest hosting rotation that were never there.

Well, there are reasons why a decent number of people are choosing to read things into the guest hosting rotation that may or may not have been there. Simply put, there are numerous unanswered questions surrounding this process:

*Back in May, Richards himself made the comment that "We aren't looking for a three-year host, we're looking for a ten-year or a 20-year host...Stability is one of the show's strengths, so we need to consider who's got a 20-year horizon and who can focus on the show and make it great over that time."

https://www.vulture.com/2021/08/mike-richards-in-talks-to-become-new-host-of-jeopardy.html

So, if the powers that be were looking for somebody who could host the show for decades, why then give auditions to people like Dr. Oz (61 years old), LeVar Burton (64 years old), and Bill Whitaker (69 years old)?

*In regards to why a person's preferred choice didn't get the job, a common response I've read on social media (including message boards) is that Guest Host X might have had contractual obligations that prevented him or her from being the full-time Jeopardy! host. Perhaps that is true for a small subset of the guest hosts, but who really believes that this was the case for the lion's share of the 16 people who auditioned? (Unless, of course, a lot of what was going on weren't genuine auditions to begin with.)

*I've already mentioned some of the flaws apparent with the "Mike Richards' shows scored the second-highest Nielsen ratings, so let's hire him" argument (which, of course, automatically assumes that Ken Jennings was either unable to unwilling to take the permanent hosting position). But this argument becomes even more spurious when one sees that Mayim Bialik's shows most definitely did not have the third-highest Nielsen ratings:

https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/entertainment/tv/2021/08/11/jeopardy-hosts-ratings-ken-jennings-aaron-rodgers-were-fan-faves/5512542001/

*It's not hard to see how suspicions pertaining to Mike Richards gaming the system could lead people to read things into the guest hosting rotation that may or may not have been there.

*To echo something else I previously wrote about, would a truly open audition process end by having a flood of rumors come out the week David Faber hosts, followed by the official announcement being made the week Joe Buck is at the helm?

*Finally, all this new gossip over Mayim Bialik only adds fuel to the fire. Did she get her new gig as a way to quell those who were upset over the Richards' sexual harassment allegations and/or upset that a white man was chosen as permanent host? Was Bialik the person Sony really wanted but couldn't get on a permanent basis (because she was unavailable)? Or is the recent press release put out by Sony to be believed as the gospel truth?

P.S. I thought that I might as well take this opportunity to state that my choices in the above poll were David Faber and Ken Jennings. Faber was my first choice, though Jennings ranks a solid second.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 15, 2021, 10:40:16 AM
Of course they weren’t all auditions. It was never once said they were.

Let’s look at some of the people—Cooper, Guthrie, Whitaker, Buck, Oz, Roberts, Faber, Stephanapolous and even Byalik with regard to full time hosting all have existing jobs. I may be forgetting some, but the lion’s share aren’t otherwise committed? That’s just not accurate. And any reasonable person knew Rodgers wasn’t retiring from the NFL yet, and that the production schedule was not going to work.

Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 15, 2021, 11:41:08 AM
Even the morons out there knew that Rodgers wasn't retiring from the NFL this season LOL!


While we may never know "the truth" about the entire process, I feel that Sony picked the best people based on a lot of things.  From one's age to one's availability, as mentioned, it probably wasn't a difficult decision.  IMO, I don't think Sony cares about offending anyone when it comes to race and gender.  I'm not saying that they're prejudice at all; I'm saying that they're goal here is the choose the best candidate (for the long haul), regardless of race and/or gender.  Based on the criteria, I really think that Jennings, Richards, and Bialik were the most qualified out of everyone else.

As mentioned, I can't crush TPTB for their call, nor can I give them a standing ovation.  As time passed over the week since the decision was made, I think Sony got it right.  Well, Ken as the successor may have been "more correct" than not, IMO.  However, I would've compared that to a most popular high school junior slated to become the class president in his or her senior year only to get upset by someone less popular (with a VP or Sec/Treas consolation prize instead).  IMO, too obvious of a selection for Ken Jennings as Alex's successor.

Outside of the stuff that occurred at the beginning of the previous decade, Mike doesn't really have a big history.  It helps that a lot of people have never heard of the guy.  Plus since the nonsense that happened, he's pretty much moved into a positive direction, both from hosting and producing.  With Mayim, having her as the exclusive host for (primetime) specials is fair enough.  It's sorta like Baldwin, Strahan, and Banks hosting primetime gameshows that are seasonal but not year-round.  All of them are busy doing a ton of other stuff.  Sure Mike Richards could've hosted the specials, but as mentioned, he's relatively unknown, sorta boring, and really business like.  In time, he could host those; after several years of hosting Jeopardy, he'll feel more at ease.  At the end of the day, several people watch for the game itself & every-so-often, a super champ
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BonusShell on August 15, 2021, 02:53:58 PM
Of course they weren’t all auditions. It was never once said they were.

Let’s look at some of the people—Cooper, Guthrie, Whitaker, Buck, Oz, Roberts, Faber, Stephanapolous and even Byalik with regard to full time hosting all have existing jobs. I may be forgetting some, but the lion’s share aren’t otherwise committed? That’s just not accurate. And any reasonable person knew Rodgers wasn’t retiring from the NFL yet, and that the production schedule was not going to work.

Yes, it was never officially stated that these were all auditions. But it's not hard to see how John or Jane Q. Public could conclude otherwise, especially with all of them being referred to as "guest hosts."

You've listed a total of ten names (if you include Bialik) in your above post, which is over half of the total number of guest hosts. Given the nature of their day jobs, and if one assumes that each of these individuals simply could not take the hosting position if offered, then why bother having sixteen different guests hosts? Was nobody else remotely competent (and able to take over full-time hosting duties) available when Jeopardy! made its guest hosting roster? Was getting a gig as guest host seen as a status symbol which each of those selected could use as a bragging point at cocktail parties? Or was this whole thing simply a ruse on the part of Sony (and perhaps Richards as well) to cause those who are less knowledgeable about the entertainment industry into believing that each of the sixteen guest hosts were legitimate contenders?

I agree with you that all of these guest hosting gigs were not genuine auditions, though it's certainly possible (in my opinion) that at least a few of those individuals you mentioned could have found a way to fulfill permanent hosting duties. Most likely, though, I suspect that Sony was looking at about five people all along. The fact that this whole process gave the appearance of being a charade remains on of my biggest objections.

Even the morons out there knew that Rodgers wasn't retiring from the NFL this season LOL!


While we may never know "the truth" about the entire process, I feel that Sony picked the best people based on a lot of things.  From one's age to one's availability, as mentioned, it probably wasn't a difficult decision.  IMO, I don't think Sony cares about offending anyone when it comes to race and gender.  I'm not saying that they're prejudice at all; I'm saying that they're goal here is the choose the best candidate (for the long haul), regardless of race and/or gender.  Based on the criteria, I really think that Jennings, Richards, and Bialik were the most qualified out of everyone else.

As mentioned, I can't crush TPTB for their call, nor can I give them a standing ovation.  As time passed over the week since the decision was made, I think Sony got it right.  Well, Ken as the successor may have been "more correct" than not, IMO.  However, I would've compared that to a most popular high school junior slated to become the class president in his or her senior year only to get upset by someone less popular (with a VP or Sec/Treas consolation prize instead).  IMO, too obvious of a selection for Ken Jennings as Alex's successor.

Outside of the stuff that occurred at the beginning of the previous decade, Mike doesn't really have a big history.  It helps that a lot of people have never heard of the guy.  Plus since the nonsense that happened, he's pretty much moved into a positive direction, both from hosting and producing.  With Mayim, having her as the exclusive host for (primetime) specials is fair enough.  It's sorta like Baldwin, Strahan, and Banks hosting primetime gameshows that are seasonal but not year-round.  All of them are busy doing a ton of other stuff.  Sure Mike Richards could've hosted the specials, but as mentioned, he's relatively unknown, sorta boring, and really business like.  In time, he could host those; after several years of hosting Jeopardy, he'll feel more at ease.  At the end of the day, several people watch for the game itself & every-so-often, a super champ

I apologize for repeating what I just wrote, but I suspect that Sony most likely was considering five or so candidates all along. Mike Richards was probably the front-runner, but I my best guess is that Ken Jennings, Buzzy Cohen, Mayim Bialik, and LeVar Burton were the other "actual" candidates.

As I wrote before, Richards is a competent game show host. I don't believe he'll ever be a critical darling (in terms of winning daytime emmys for best game show host) the way Alex Trebek or Bob Barker were. But ratings for Jeopardy! will likely go up next year. The die-hard Richards supporters may use that as evidence that Sony made the right decision, yet Richards' detractors will be able to point out a ratings increase would be a near certainty following a year of tremendous instability. (IMO, the only way Jeopardy's ratings would not increase next year would be if its next host was either a lightning rod, a la Dr. Oz or Rosie O'Donnell, or somebody totally incompetent.) I would also venture a guess that ratings for Jeopardy's next season will also be lower than they were for Trebek's final season. But to be fair to Richards, such a comparison is unfair, given how beloved Trebek was and how much the public wanted to see him in the hosting role for as long as possible.

Richards is unlikely to be a critical darling, but if success is defined as presiding over a profitable show that generates solid ratings, he should meet the criteria. Honestly, Sony has way too much invested in Richards to see him fail, given that he's also EP of both Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune. It's true that, on paper, Richards would still be able to perform his EP duties if Jeopardy's rankings tank and he needs to be replaced as host. But in reality, Richards failing as host would make for a very awkward situation at Jeopardy!, to the point one would wonder if he had the necessary confidence of both his superiors and his subordinates to be a successful EP of that show. And were he forced to also step down as Jeopardy! EP, it would be an open question as to whether Sony would want him to remain as EP of Wheel.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: imhomerjay on August 15, 2021, 05:57:00 PM
At what point to members of the public own their decision to read more into things than were there? And what should Sony have done about what to call them? Guest hosts seems absolutely fitting.

And I don’t think Burton was a candidate. This is harsh, but if they’re looking at someone who might have a very long run should the show be so fortunate, then they need to look a bit younger.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: BonusShell on August 15, 2021, 06:30:20 PM
At what point to members of the public own their decision to read more into things than were there? And what should Sony have done about what to call them? Guest hosts seems absolutely fitting.

And I don’t think Burton was a candidate. This is harsh, but if they’re looking at someone who might have a very long run should the show be so fortunate, then they need to look a bit younger.

I've already indicated that there are some people who are choosing to read into things that may or may not have been there. With all due respect, you seem to be doing much the same in your tireless defenses of the Richards selection, with retorts ranging from assuming that person X or person Y was not contractually able to be permanent host to indicating that Jeopardy! was looking for somebody whose age would permit them to host the show for a very long time.

At this point, we should just agree to disagree about how the hosting selection process was conducted as well as its outcome.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on August 15, 2021, 08:20:32 PM
I’ve updated the thread title from “Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts” to “Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post,” as this thread remains active nearly a year later with 11/30 coming back around in a few months. Just wanting to get ahead of any possible confusion.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: PatrickRox80 on August 15, 2021, 08:23:04 PM
At what point to members of the public own their decision to read more into things than were there? And what should Sony have done about what to call them? Guest hosts seems absolutely fitting.

The general public has lives outside of Jeopardy! so assuming they’re going to know every detail about the hosting process is expecting a lot. Stop resorting to putting words into casual viewers’ mouths. If some of them want Mike, so be it. But don’t assume they’re all going to be fine with how Sony handled things.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: Axl on August 17, 2021, 07:34:26 PM
*In regards to why a person's preferred choice didn't get the job, a common response I've read on social media (including message boards) is that Guest Host X might have had contractual obligations that prevented him or her from being the full-time Jeopardy! host. Perhaps that is true for a small subset of the guest hosts, but who really believes that this was the case for the lion's share of the 16 people who auditioned? (Unless, of course, a lot of what was going on weren't genuine auditions to begin with.)

I totally believe that. Many of the guest hosts were in the TV news business, and most of them host daily programs. That's not a situation where you can just schedule everything around Jeopardy! and block-tape your own work at another time. WWtBaM and the Today show gave Meredith Vieira every possible accommodation, yet the game show still had to have a few fill-ins nearly every season.

And that's when the Today show and WWtBaM were produced only about a dozen blocks from each other. You really think Anderson Cooper or Robin Roberts are going to fly from NY to LA and back to do 230 episodes of J! every year? Between taping and travel, that would eat up four days of their week, two or three weeks a month for about eight months of the year. There's just no way.

There are some game shows whose production has been built around the host's schedule... Pyramid with Dick Clark, and most notably Family Feud with Steve Harvey. Wheel of Fortune might be able to do it one day. But that's not practical for Jeopardy! They have to create 740 clues for every taping week, each of which must be meticulously fact-checked. They can't just cram a few shows' worth of material at the last second because of scheduling issues with an actor or journalist who is the daily host.

And unlike most other game shows, J! has returning champions who are cast from around the country. It would be very difficult to consistently bring returning champions back on short notice. What would the host say? "Matt isn't able to join us today to defend his championship because I just got cast in a movie that shoots next month, and we had to reschedule three weeks of tapings, and that didn't give Matt enough lead time to travel back... so here we are."
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: pricefan18 on August 17, 2021, 07:49:54 PM
There are some game shows whose production has been built around the host's schedule... Pyramid with Dick Clark, and most notably Family Feud with Steve Harvey. Wheel of Fortune might be able to do it one day. But that's not practical for Jeopardy! They have to create 740 clues for every taping week, each of which must be meticulously fact-checked. They can't just cram a few shows' worth of material at the last second because of scheduling issues with an actor or journalist who is the daily host.

Match Game in the 70's did it too I think you could say, given Gene Rayburn would fly out from New York what twice a month to record 10 to 12 shows depending on the time period between daytime and nighttime shows over a weekend? And they had no summer break at least in the 7x era, so they were doing some 250/260 new shows a year. But that too woulda been much easier to pull off than Jeopardy would be for sure, even with the addition of needing 12 celebrities all told for use on both days of taping.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BonusShell on August 18, 2021, 12:03:35 AM
I totally believe that. Many of the guest hosts were in the TV news business, and most of them host daily programs. That's not a situation where you can just schedule everything around Jeopardy! and block-tape your own work at another time. WWtBaM and the Today show gave Meredith Vieira every possible accommodation, yet the game show still had to have a few fill-ins nearly every season.

And that's when the Today show and WWtBaM were produced only about a dozen blocks from each other. You really think Anderson Cooper or Robin Roberts are going to fly from NY to LA and back to do 230 episodes of J! every year? Between taping and travel, that would eat up four days of their week, two or three weeks a month for about eight months of the year. There's just no way.

There are some game shows whose production has been built around the host's schedule... Pyramid with Dick Clark, and most notably Family Feud with Steve Harvey. Wheel of Fortune might be able to do it one day. But that's not practical for Jeopardy! They have to create 740 clues for every taping week, each of which must be meticulously fact-checked. They can't just cram a few shows' worth of material at the last second because of scheduling issues with an actor or journalist who is the daily host.

And unlike most other game shows, J! has returning champions who are cast from around the country. It would be very difficult to consistently bring returning champions back on short notice. What would the host say? "Matt isn't able to join us today to defend his championship because I just got cast in a movie that shoots next month, and we had to reschedule three weeks of tapings, and that didn't give Matt enough lead time to travel back... so here we are."

I'm not sure how much Alex himself was involved in writing the clues, but Jeopardy! obviously has always had a full-time staff devoted to clue writing. I do recall reading that Alex had the final say in determining whether a response was correct or not, but I'm guessing that authority was given to him only because he had been at Jeopardy! for many years. Since Mike is also the EP, it's a safe bet that he'll now have the final say when such disputes arise, not only on the shows he hosts, but also on the episodes hosted by Mayim.

I've tried to be fair in my analysis of the hosting selection process, and the fact that Mike was essentially the only candidate with the authority to settle contestants' objections was certainly a factor favorable to him. More broadly speaking, the selection of Richards means that Sony gets to save costs by having the same individual serve as EP and host.

I will have to respectfully disagree with your analysis about a potential heavy burden arising as it relates to clue writing. Even if Jeopardy! selected a host who lived in the NY area, I would figure that the show's full-time, behind-the-scenes staff would still have plenty of time to write and fact-check clues far in advance of tapings. If the host had to be an integral part of this process, then he or she could do this portion of the job remotely.

Match Game in the 70's did it too I think you could say, given Gene Rayburn would fly out from New York what twice a month to record 10 to 12 shows depending on the time period between daytime and nighttime shows over a weekend? And they had no summer break at least in the 7x era, so they were doing some 250/260 new shows a year. But that too woulda been much easier to pull off than Jeopardy would be for sure, even with the addition of needing 12 celebrities all told for use on both days of taping.

If I'm not mistaken, I believe that Gene Rayburn lived in Cape Cod, Massachusetts instead of New York during the 1970s. However, I did not know that that many shows of Match Game were produced each year back then, so I appreciate that bit of information.

While candidates residing in the Los Angeles area no doubt had an advantage in the hosting selection process, it would not have been an insurmountable obstacle for an East Coast-based individual to fly to LA every three or four weeks or so and then spend three or four days taping five episodes a day. And I'm honestly not sure if the logistics of bringing back returning champions (in such a scenario) would be materially more difficult than the issues Match Game faced in recruiting and retaining celebrities.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on August 18, 2021, 12:19:35 AM
Alex went over all the puzzles, making diacritic marks, notes to discuss at the meeting before taping etc. He had quite a say in how clues were written, even if he wasn't the writer.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 18, 2021, 08:11:52 AM
And I think that was important for Trebek to have some input as it relates to the clues on the show.   Whatever makes him feel comfortable; kind of like Drew Carey and TPIR.  You have to operate in a way that best fits the host and face of a show.  Not to compare Alex to Drew Carey given one had been with the show for a long time while the other hasn't yet (but has lasted on one program longer than most people in gameshow history).

In terms of recruiting & retaining celebrities for Match Game, fortunately the number was closer to 8 or 9 and not all the way to 12 for the most part at least, but still a tall task.

I agree with BonusShell that it would not have been a big deal to have someone travel from one coast to the other every 3-4 weeks.  FWIW, Michael Strahan travels from coast to coast weekly, and while everyone's different, I don't think it would've been a big deal.  Possibly a factor within the final decisions, but I still feel that Sony selected the best people (or who they feel was the best candidate or candidates) for the job.

I'm not going to bet on Mike Richards prep matching Trebek, at least for the start.  I feel that he'll have his own routine on how to prepare.  It's something that'll take a fairly long time before he can be Mike Richards the "star" of Jeopardy.  Fortunately for Richards, as the EP, he'll have a say by default, in addition to being the host

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 18, 2021, 11:00:10 AM
Setting aside any individual’s personal preferences (like family considerations) for taking a bicoastal job, and that Strahan’s NFL commitment is fewer weeks than Jeopardy, to have the likes of an Anderson Cooper or Robin Roberts do that is impractical. News breaks on weekends and travel is required to get to breaking stories. The networks have invested heavily in their personalities and those obligations (and contracts) are the first priority. CNN for instance did not invest in building the AC360 brand to have him unavailable if a news story breaks on a weekend. Never mind the disruption to the taping schedules.

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BillyGr on August 18, 2021, 07:30:11 PM
One might also think that, had a host been selected that wasn't able to devote as much time to the show as Alex did, someone like Ken (already being involved behind the scenes) might have been able to do those pre-show tasks (like reviewing the games), with the host just coming in for the actual tapings.  Truthfully, that could still happen, depending on how involved Mike stays in production for both shows.

If they tape 5 shows in a day, a full week would allow for over a month's worth.  So a month of straight tapings would cover something like 110 shows (depends on how many weekdays in the month - close to 1/2 a season).

It definitely would be different, but not impossible to prep and have ready to go enough shows to tape the season in a couple long blocks - that would have been for someone like a sports player, where they could tape Sept-Feb early in the summer and then March-July in February, to fit around a season.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 18, 2021, 10:54:25 PM
Not sure it would be wise or practical to upend everything else that goes into the production for that kind of schedule. Perhaps not even possible for this season if the staff lacked the time to adjust.

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Axl on August 19, 2021, 10:41:45 AM
I will have to respectfully disagree with your analysis about a potential heavy burden arising as it relates to clue writing. Even if Jeopardy! selected a host who lived in the NY area, I would figure that the show's full-time, behind-the-scenes staff would still have plenty of time to write and fact-check clues far in advance of tapings. If the host had to be an integral part of this process, then he or she could do this portion of the job remotely.

I'm not saying that the host needs to have any role at all in writing the clues. I'm talking about the production schedule, about which many articles have been written over the years. Clue writers work five days a week on a more or less year-round schedule because there is so much material to produce. But on taping days, they have to put that work aside because the writers and researchers are needed to assist in the judging and adjudication of disputes. That's one of the reasons they only tape two days a week... they can't afford to tie up the writers for days on end without risking running behind.

Obviously, they have a marginal amount of wiggle room to reschedule tapings, as they did during Alex's illness and some of the guest hosts. But they would really have to rethink their whole production process in order to accommodate a schedule as loose as Steve Harvey's, who has been known to tape upwards of 25 episodes in a week so he would also have time to do his talk show, his radio show, and all his other commitments.

I do recall reading that Alex had the final say in determining whether a response was correct or not, but I'm guessing that authority was given to him only because he had been at Jeopardy! for many years. Since Mike is also the EP, it's a safe bet that he'll now have the final say when such disputes arise, not only on the shows he hosts, but also on the episodes hosted by Mayim.

Alex had input, but Harry Friedman had the final say during his tenure, subject to the advice of the legal and compliance departments. I once personally witnessed him overrule Alex after a lengthy discussion.

I assume Mike has had final say since he took over, but I'm curious as to whether that may change with him as host. For legal reasons, it's generally a "best practice" to separate the host as much as practical from behind-the-scenes decisions that affect the outcome for contestants.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: C8 on August 20, 2021, 10:26:14 AM
Well that didn't last long. Mike has quit after a whole litany of offensive remarks came to light:

https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/20/media/jeopardy-mike-richards-steps-down/index.html

Mike has shot some episodes but guest hosts are to now resume.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: mrbrown2195 on August 20, 2021, 10:44:36 AM
Mike has shot some episodes but guest hosts are to now resume.

The real question is: do those episodes see the light of day?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Torgo on August 20, 2021, 10:50:11 AM
Good riddance, scumbag.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: blozier2006 on August 20, 2021, 10:51:37 AM
The real question is: do those episodes see the light of day?
I'd assume yes, since ditching them would be a disservice to the contestants (regardless of the POS behind the podium).
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: TPIRighteous on August 20, 2021, 10:55:56 AM
Who could have predicted that a problematic EP choosing his problematic self to be the host would get the show embroiled in controversy? This is a huge stain on the history of a legendary game show.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: GameShowKid on August 20, 2021, 11:20:25 AM
I don't know Richards personally, but to me, he has for years not come off as sincere or genuine in his hosting style.
After today’s news, and at least on occasion, it looks like I’ll be watching the syndicated Jeopardy! again.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 20, 2021, 11:35:27 AM
The real question is: do those episodes see the light of day?

Not literally, but figuratively they must. Whatever else is happening, you cannot be that unfair to the players, most certainly not when the returning champ is who it is.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 20, 2021, 11:42:28 AM
Not shocking news, but I am surprised that they're going back to guest hosts
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: bigblue999 on August 20, 2021, 11:45:12 AM
?s=20

Coincidence? I think not!

Too bad I can’t edit my poll for users to change their votes.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Axl on August 20, 2021, 11:46:04 AM
The real question is: do those episodes see the light of day?

Do we know with absolute certainty that they were taped? I believe yesterday was the first scheduled taping day with Mike, but he and Sony already knew what was coming by that point.

Not literally, but figuratively they must. Whatever else is happening, you cannot be that unfair to the players, most certainly not when the returning champ is who it is.

I don't see anything in their rules that says they are bound to air any particular episode. But for the sake of goodwill and legal thoroughness, it wouldn't surprise me if they cut a deal with any contestants who were on the five shows that were theoretically taped with Mike as the permanent host. Maybe they get to keep whatever they won on the unaired shows, plus play again on a newly taped show and keep those winnings as well? Maybe a hypothetical champion on a Mike show who doesn't win on the retaped show gets an additional bonus of some sort? It would be messy, but there's no way they can debut their new season with a host they've already acknowledged is irredeemably tarnished.

Not shocking news, but I am surprised that they're going back to guest hosts

Even if they have a replacement in mind already, there will have to be contract negotiations. They have no choice but to resume taping very soon. The new season starts airing only 3 weeks from Monday.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: JayC on August 20, 2021, 11:49:57 AM
Not a surprise and the right move for sure, but very surprising he's staying on as Executive Producer.

The real question is: do those episodes see the light of day?
I would say yes, I'm assuming they'll edit out any references Mike makes to becoming the permanent host or possibly have him dub over to reflect that it's just this week he's hosting. Or there will be a statement/disclaimer before each episode to address the situation.

So we're back to the guest host parade now, or at least until they're able to bring Mayim back in or Ken?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: urbanpreppie0004 on August 20, 2021, 11:52:14 AM
The real question is: do those episodes see the light of day?

I think they will have to.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: kishy214 on August 20, 2021, 12:19:21 PM
Claire freaking McNear.

Echoing sentiments from the r/Jeopardy sub, if you're pleased with Mike's removal as host, buy her book. She's almost fully responsible for this.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Archviler on August 20, 2021, 12:47:27 PM
Can't say that Mike Richard's resignation really upsets me.

Claire freaking McNear.

Echoing sentiments from the r/Jeopardy sub, if you're pleased with Mike's removal as host, buy her book. She's almost fully responsible for this.

Got some details for someone who is out of the loop?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Briguy on August 20, 2021, 01:08:14 PM
For my money, Mayim Bialik was probably among my top choices for the permanent hosting job, for both the regular daily show and whatever specials they had announced.

I'd have been satisfied with Ken Jennings as the host. Because of work, I have not seen any of the other hosts' stints enough that I can comment.

Brian
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: kishy214 on August 20, 2021, 01:36:25 PM
Got some details for someone who is out of the loop?

McNear writes about Jeopardy! for The Ringer, a sports and pop culture website created by Bill Simmons. She writes about Jeopardy! in both contexts — as a competition (sport) and as an entertainment product. She has written the comprehensive articles detailing all of Richards’ transgressions, including uncovering the podcast snippets which I believe ultimately led to this decision.

Here’s a link to her book:

https://www.amazon.com/Answers-Form-Questions-Definitive-Insiders/dp/1538702320

And here’s a link to her page on The Ringer:

https://www.theringer.com/authors/claire-mcnear
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: PimpinJC on August 20, 2021, 02:15:01 PM
Why don’t they just give Mayim both gigs?  I mean, she’s already a host.  Don’t see why they need to go back to searching.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: bigblue999 on August 20, 2021, 02:17:12 PM
Why don’t they just give Mayim both gigs?  I mean, she’s already a host.  Don’t see why they need to go back to searching.

She has another show titled Call Me Kate that’s she’s currently contracted to do.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: vnisanian2001 on August 20, 2021, 02:28:24 PM
I feel that I perhaps should leave my personal political beliefs out of this discussion because they will only spark an argument which we see too much of on social media these days.

P.S. To anyone who says Mayim should replace Mike, she is not without controversy, either.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 20, 2021, 02:30:15 PM
Do we know with absolute certainty that they were taped? I believe yesterday was the first scheduled taping day with Mike, but he and Sony already knew what was coming by that point.

I don't see anything in their rules that says they are bound to air any particular episode. But for the sake of goodwill and legal thoroughness, it wouldn't surprise me if they cut a deal with any contestants who were on the five shows that were theoretically taped with Mike as the permanent host. Maybe they get to keep whatever they won on the unaired shows, plus play again on a newly taped show and keep those winnings as well? Maybe a hypothetical champion on a Mike show who doesn't win on the retaped show gets an additional bonus of some sort? It would be messy, but there's no way they can debut their new season with a host they've already acknowledged is irredeemably tarnished.

Even if they have a replacement in mind already, there will have to be contract negotiations. They have no choice but to resume taping very soon. The new season starts airing only 3 weeks from Monday.

Indeed, they could do a lot of things by rules, but they’re in an especially tricky season with Matt’s run. Either way, a change in outcome if they discard those episodes? That’s one more unforced error they can ill afford. Air the shows, suck it up and more on. That’s the least bad choice amid a thicket of bad options.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: therealcu2010 on August 20, 2021, 02:42:55 PM
Mayim also isn't without baggage either...probably also not an ideal choice to replace Alex.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: kishy214 on August 20, 2021, 03:23:49 PM
Why don’t they just give Mayim both gigs?  I mean, she’s already a host.  Don’t see why they need to go back to searching.

TMZ reported Bialik was offered the whole gig -- she declined because they asked her to commit to the show full-time, instead of continuing to act on Call Me Kat. The executives have been clear that, despite the limited taping schedule of the show (I believe they run 46 weeks of first-run programs per year, so 46 taping days), they are looking for a host who will take J! as their primary job.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: kishy214 on August 20, 2021, 03:30:15 PM
Also, for all those wondering about the week of episodes Richards already taped, as well as his continuing employment as Exec. Producer, this reporting

Quote from: The Hollywood Reporter
In addition, Sony released the following statement which confirmed that Richards will continue on as the show’s executive producer, if not as Alex Trebek’s successor: “We support Mike’s decision to step down as host. We were surprised this week to learn of Mike’s 2013/2014 podcast and the offensive language he used in the past. We have spoken with him about our concerns and our expectations moving forward. Mike has been with us for the last two years and has led the Jeopardy! team through the most challenging time the show has ever experienced. It is our hope that as EP he will continue to do so with professionalism and respect.”

Sony also confirmed the episodes Richards shot on Thursday will still air during the upcoming season as scheduled, followed by a rotation of guest hosts until a new permanent host is selected.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Reloaden on August 20, 2021, 03:30:56 PM
David Faber is still my top choice.

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: pricefan18 on August 20, 2021, 04:46:00 PM
She has another show titled Call Me Kate that’s she’s currently contracted to do.

It's Call Me Kat actually.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: GameShowFan1987 on August 20, 2021, 05:14:50 PM
As someone who admittedly doesn't watch Jeopardy on any sort of regular basis, I'm willing to see how Mike does as the new permanent host. Would he have been my choice? No, but it does make sense. He has prior game show hosting experience, he's been a successful executive producer of game shows, and he clearly has a passion for them. It's pretty clear to me that he's wanted to host his own show for quite some time considering he auditioned for Price back in 2007 and had a short stint with "The Pyramid" in 2012. Now he's got one and I wish him well with it. To the naysayers, I realize Mike left a bad taste in people's mouths, mine included, when he first became EP of Price because he started making changes and there was fear that the show would fail because of it. It didn't. Maybe things were a bit rocky at first but they smoothed out. Season 50 is starting in just a few weeks and, pandemic conditions aside, it's still the same show and it's still strong and that's due in no small part to Mike. The correct response: What is "Good luck, Mike."?

My toes don't taste that great.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: PatrickRox80 on August 20, 2021, 05:38:11 PM
Obviously a lot to digest here. If anybody told me last year that this would be the direction Jeopardy! would take after Alex, I’d have laughed. Today, this just feels like a cruel joke that the show itself would stoop so low. And to top that off, we get another non-apology from Mike himself. It seems he never grew up.

Until Sony made the decision to let his episodes air, I thought about the bullet Mark Burnett avoided with the Our Little Genius fiasco. While the episodes still haven’t aired, the contestants got their winnings. However, Mike has already tarnished the name so no sense in not letting his shows air. Here’s hoping Sony does some extreme vetting with who they have guest hosting this season.

What is up though with shafting Ken and Buzzy at the studio? Mike is hardly a man of integrity, so to say he didn’t feel comfortable with them on the set just shows what a coward he is.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Axl on August 20, 2021, 05:50:44 PM
Indeed, they could do a lot of things by rules, but they’re in an especially tricky season with Matt’s run. Either way, a change in outcome if they discard those episodes? That’s one more unforced error they can ill afford. Air the shows, suck it up and more on. That’s the least bad choice amid a thicket of bad options.

Fair point. I hadn't considered that a redo of those five episodes would also mean redoing the middle of the third-best run in the show's history. Not a good option either. What an embarrassing start to the season.

What is up though with shafting Ken and Buzzy at the studio? Mike is hardly a man of integrity, so to say he didn’t feel comfortable with them on the set just shows what a coward he is.

You know what they say about absolute power. TV history is littered with hosts who were also executive producers behaving badly.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: bigblue999 on August 20, 2021, 08:49:46 PM
Dobkowitz’s take:

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/814505083391574027/878438885888241674/image0.png)
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: bigblue999 on August 20, 2021, 09:09:47 PM
Sorry for the double post but here’s Rich Fields’ take as well.

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/802267287142662185/878446448860102686/image0.png)
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: jhc2010 on August 20, 2021, 09:13:10 PM
I was able to catch some episodes of every guest host.

Hosts I enjoyed:
Ken Jennings
Katie Couric
Aaron Rodgers
Anderson Cooper
Buzzy Cohen
Mayim Bialik
Savannah Guthrie
Robin Roberts
Joe Buck

Hosts I thought didn’t do well at all:
Bill Whitaker (I really enjoy him on 60 minutes)
Levar Burton

Ken, Buzzy, and Anderson were my top 3.


Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: pricefan18 on August 20, 2021, 09:19:52 PM
Sorry for the double post but here’s Rich Fields’ take as well.

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/802267287142662185/878446448860102686/image0.png)

Hmm......interesting accusation regarding Drew here.......
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: JayC on August 20, 2021, 11:25:28 PM
Granted it's TMZ reporting, but the word is that the week of episodes with Mike hosting will air and there will likely be a disclaimer before each episode to explain why he is no longer hosting. https://www.tmz.com/2021/08/20/jeopardy-will-air-mike-richards-episodes-despite-departure/ (https://www.tmz.com/2021/08/20/jeopardy-will-air-mike-richards-episodes-despite-departure/)
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Guint on August 21, 2021, 09:45:22 AM
Mayim also isn't without baggage either...probably also not an ideal choice to replace Alex.

I wish people would actually go look up what she said and base their judgements on that rather than rely on rumors and hearsay.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: therealcu2010 on August 21, 2021, 12:32:25 PM
Oh, I fully know what she said and I'm not making a personal judgement. I'm just saying she has baggage among the general public, which is what matters.
Title: Re: Jeopardy To Resume Taping On 11/30 With Interim Guest Hosts
Post by: SamJ93 on August 21, 2021, 01:28:08 PM
Yeah, the whole "Mikey sucks!" thing is really getting old. I don't agree with every decision he's ever made either, but the fact is he's now successfully produced all three of America's longest-running game shows at some point, and all under some rather difficult circumstances too. He clearly loves the genre and does his best to respect tradition while acknowledging the demands of the modern TV landscape.

Welp--guess we'll just file this under "opinions that aged like milk."

At this point I don't really care who they pick as host, I just hope J! can restore its reputation and move on from this absolute low point in its history.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: DylanBe on August 21, 2021, 03:06:10 PM
I don't know about you, but I don't think Mike needed to get in trouble for what he said in that podcast considering that was 7 years ago. He certainly shouldn't have been forced to resign over something that happened 7 years ago either.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: gamesurf on August 21, 2021, 03:37:40 PM
The podcast comments are small potatoes to me. It’s driving the outrage machine on social media from people who have already anointed LeVar Burton. (If one of Bill Simmons’ employees is going through podcasts looking for offensive comments, the story is not the offensive comments.)

What I think is damning is that Mike was the sole person in charge of picking which episodes to show to focus groups all while playing that he “was just filling in” and “wasn’t a serious pick”. All the hot water surrounding that aspect is 100% justified and getting in trouble for that is completely warranted.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SamJ93 on August 21, 2021, 06:30:39 PM
I don't understand why people are still stumping for Levar after his underwhelming performance. He fell into a very common trap with actors who try their hand at hosting game shows--he approached it as an actor playing a host, instead of simply being a host. That, plus the fact that he only did one week's worth of shows vs. everyone else's two, should make it clear that he was a fanservice hire and nothing else.

I would love to see David Faber offered the gig, but it looks like they'd be in the same position as Goodson-Todman was with Bill Cullen and TPiR in 1972--they would have to write him a paycheck big enough to get him to leave his current gig and home life in NYC.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Torgo on August 21, 2021, 07:03:18 PM
I don't understand why people are still stumping for Levar after his underwhelming performance. He fell into a very common trap with actors who try their hand at hosting game shows--he approached it as an actor playing a host, instead of simply being a host. That, plus the fact that he only did one week's worth of shows vs. everyone else's two, should make it clear that he was a fanservice hire and nothing else.
Because Twitter screamed for him to host due to nostalgia.

You've been here long enough to know that logical conclusions and game shows don't go hand in hand.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: ooboh on August 22, 2021, 02:21:01 AM
Because Twitter screamed for him to host due to nostalgia.

You've been here long enough to know that logical conclusions and game shows don't go hand in hand.

Jeopardy’s Twitter fanbase is incredibly obnoxious.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 22, 2021, 10:12:36 AM
This may be true, but worth noting this forum also has people near salivating over details of why someone lost their job years ago.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: ooboh on August 22, 2021, 04:44:33 PM
This may be true, but worth noting this forum also has people near salivating over details of why someone lost their job years ago.

Also true.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: jude_este on August 23, 2021, 01:20:41 PM
For the second run of the guest hosts following Mike Richards's departure as host, CNN (https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/23/media/mayim-bialik-jeopardy/index.html) reports that the host of the primetime specials Mayim Bialik will be taping three weeks of shows though Sony Pictures has declined to comment on the matter.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Ccook on August 23, 2021, 03:11:46 PM
Another source says from insiders at Sony that  it's now Ken Jennings' gig to lose. (https://news.yahoo.com/jeopardy-host-gig-reportedly-now-122320845.html)
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 23, 2021, 03:41:35 PM
“Insiders.”

Bahahahaha.

It may be that he’s the long term solution. But these anonymous “insider” reports should be taken with a Costco-sized shaker of salt.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: kishy214 on August 23, 2021, 07:33:15 PM
I know a former J! contestant who still talks with the folks who produced them in Culver City. (They are often contacted to appear on pilots, or test for other shows as well.) They say Ken is expected to guest host, though they're uncertain when those episodes will be taped. I believe Bialik is taping her three episodes this week, which would include the contestants scheduled to tape this past Friday, when Mike cancelled taping after quitting.

Jennings will appear as speaker at an event in North Carolina this weekend. The bio blurb about him lists him as "interim host" though that seems to have been written during his initial run, just after Alex's death. I'll do my best to go and see if he talks about guest hosting again, or takes questions.

https://www.chamber.asheboro.com/events/details/jeopardy-champion-ken-jennings-to-visit-asheboro-14209
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Axl on August 23, 2021, 11:44:53 PM
It may be that he’s the long term solution. But these anonymous “insider” reports should be taken with a Costco-sized shaker of salt.

I've been very intrigued by the fact that Ken has given a couple of brief interviews to high-profile publications since this has all come out, including the one where he said he was "disappointed with how this process played out." That's interesting because, as an employee, Jennings would typically be prohibited from giving an interview about the show (certainly one with a slightly negative tone) unless the production gave him permission. Even contestants are technically not allowed to give interviews about their Jeopardy! experience -- ever -- unless it's approved by the show.

So what I wonder is this: Is Sony allowing/encouraging Ken to be the representative of the show who gingerly does some damage control in the media since he didn't have anything to do with the selection, or is Ken carefully freelancing his opinions in a way that distances himself from the debacle while keeping himself top-of-mind whenever the discussion of a new host is underway?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: C8 on August 24, 2021, 10:24:20 AM
TMZ (I know...) is reporting its Mayim or bust and are willing to make mountains move to allow it to work.

https://www.tmz.com/2021/08/24/jeopardy-mayim-bialik-accommodating-schedule-want-her-full-time/
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 24, 2021, 10:47:13 AM
Seems like the sources who claim it's Ken's job to lock up and those saying it's hers need to get their stories straight.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 24, 2021, 11:58:44 AM
Agreed.  Plus, if whomever is planning on doing everything in their power to have Mayim succeed Alex outright, then good for them.  However, if that's the case, I'm curious as to how it was "impossible" to accommodate Rodgers.  During the regular season, forget about it, but in the off-season, there would've been the possibility.  Furthermore, Aaron is close to being done with his NFL career.  In addition, he's nearly a decade younger than Bialik.  Not that the particular age gap matters that much between the two.

That being said, Mayim would be the better choice over Aaron.  More popular?  Probably not, but if the former can get it to work, then I think she'll commit forever moreso than the latter.

Finally, between those reports from TMZ and whomever, all I'll say is whatever.  I'll believe whoever ends up being Trebek's successor when I see it
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 24, 2021, 12:31:30 PM
I know the article uses phrases like “whatever it takes,” and that’s par for the course in these types of unsourced articles. But I take that with a big shaker of salt. Working on two shows in the same city (I’m assuming her comedy is based in LA?) is a bit different than an NFL player.

Obviously the ship has sailed for this season. But even if he’s got only another year or two after this left in his playing years, the changes his schedule would take seem more significant to a show like Jeopardy than working around a sitcom shooting schedule, especially one with only 13 episodes ordered.

Subjectively, I think she was much better than he, but know that opinion is worth precisely nothing.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BonusShell on August 24, 2021, 02:21:34 PM
Though I really didn't care for either of these guest hosts, I suspect that either Mayim Bialik or LeVar Burton will be the next permanent host of Jeopardy! One's race or gender should not be a factor, but Sony has long been facing heavy pressure to hire a woman or person of color for this role, pressure of which has only intensified in light of Mike Richards' deplorable comments. (Before I continue, I want to make clear that I abhor white identity politics every much as the politics of the "woke.") It is also possible that Laura Coates, whom Alex Trebek actually mentioned as a preferred potential successor, may be given the hosting job. At the very least, she should have an opportunity to guest host. Another person Alex specifically mentioned--Alex Faust (a white male)--also deserves to serve as guest host.

It's possible that Burton was never truly considered to be one of the small handful of true finalists due to his age. But at 64, he could still host Jeopardy! for 15+ years (given that both Trebek and Bob Barker stopped hosting their game shows in their early-80s). Many people have also mentioned that he was awful as host. To be honest, I didn't see his episodes, though I don't think he is the best fit for the show. But to be fair to Burton, who knows how much Richards was able to edit or otherwise sabotage Burton's episodes to make him look bad. And while Burton's shows performed terribly in the Nielsen ratings, those episodes had the misfortune of airing during the Olympics.

I would love for David Faber to be named permanent host, but him being a white male who lives on the East Coast are all factors going against his selection. I've already elaborated upon my opinion that it is feasible for Jeopardy! to hire someone whose permanent residence is 3,000 miles from Los Angeles. I also think that Faber hosting is feasible from CNBC's point of view as well. (Obviously, there may be something in his contract with CNBC that forbids that, but none of us knows the details of his contract.) Faber would undoubtedly have to be (on average) away from his job as co-host of Squawk on the Street one week each month. But CNBC has a very deep bench of people who could fill that void, and Faber's presence on set isn't as critical for that show as it its for other news programs. In the cases of Savannah Guthrie, Anderson Cooper, George Stephanopoulos, Robin Roberts, Joe Buck, and Aaron Rodgers, their presence is simply too critical for them to be away from their show(s) or otherwise primary employment. The fact that all these people were guest hosts, of course, only strengthens my belief that this process was largely a sham, especially given what we now know about Richards' machinations.

As I've indicated previously, Ken Jennings is a close second in my choice for Jeopardy! host. I do not think he will get it, partly because he is a white male. But I think that Jennings is also hurt by the fact that he is a remnant of the Trebek era. No Sony executive would ever say this publicly, but the company most likely wants to take Jeopardy! in a "new direction" to appeal to a new generation of viewers. (For that matter, Faber also has this strike against him, since his hosting style is so much like that of Trebek.) Now, I personally am strongly opposed to taking "new directions" for television properties that have been successful for decades. But this is exactly what the powers that be did with TPIR after Bob Barker retired. If memory serves me correctly, Roger Dobkowitz thought that Mark Walberg was a perfect replacement for Barker because he had so many of Barker's great qualities. But those in charge saw in Drew Carey a celebrity who could help them take the show in a new direction, so they hired him. I can see a very similar type of thinking going on among Sony executives when it comes to hiring Bialik (and the fact that she's a woman is a bonus), so that's why I suspect she will be named permanent host.

Of course, I don't expect to watch Jeopardy! on a regular basis if Bialik is named host (though I will certainly give her a chance). For that matter, I no longer watch TPIR due to my distaste for Carey's hosting and my loathing for the changes Richards made.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 24, 2021, 03:03:28 PM
One problem with let’s say a Faber and an existing gig isn’t that CNBC doesn’t have talent to fill in, it’s that they would naturally not want one of their lead talents gone at least once per month (more or less) for a week at a pop much of the year on top of his normal time off. They’ve invested (no pun intended) in him and have every reasonable expectation of him being a lead in that role with no valid reason for negotiating a new contract. Additional disruption isn’t good in that role. Basically the same for Cooper, Roberts and others.

The other problem is that disrupts the production routines established over years if you try to condense production into shorter bursts, let’s say four tape days in a week vs. two.

As for Alex, I have nothing but the deepest respect for him. That said, the fact that he happened to mention a couple of people he thought would be interesting/capable is not a Willy Wonka golden ticket to a guest gig. I think perhaps a little too much is being made of that one interview (including by those who do ignore he tossed out two names in the conversation, not just one).

This has become an unfortunate s—tshow for Sony without a really good option.

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: jude_este on August 24, 2021, 05:27:13 PM
Vulture’s Josef Adalian wrote this  article (https://www.vulture.com/article/sony-jeopardy-host-search-mike-richards-fail.html), a highlight was an interview with Harry Friedman via email. Harry said that the speculation in the community was that Mike Richards collaborated with current Sony TV chairman Mike Hopkins to push him out. And Harry ensured that his retirement plans began in April 2018 when health issues left him with an effect on how he viewed his work-life balance following his recovery.

Harry also says that Hopkins and the current head of Sony Pictures Entertainment, Tony Vinciquerra offered unwavering support and encouragement while convincing him to stay and has no hard feelings toward his former employer and was not consulted or expected to be on the host search process.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Axl on August 25, 2021, 12:00:49 AM
The other problem is that disrupts the production routines established over years if you try to condense production into shorter bursts, let’s say four tape days in a week vs. two.

I agree that, in the past, this was a very unlikely scenario. Now, though, with the fact that things are so discombobulated and everyone associated with the show seems to want to right the ship as quickly as possible, I could see the staff possibly agreeing to some changes to their traditional production process if doing so helped recruit a solid host. That still doesn't make it reasonable for someone who lives on the opposite coast and could be called away at a moment's notice. But for someone like Bialik, whose other job is about as predictable a gig as you can get for a prime time series and who is not likely to take another job in a movie or some other production that could occupy her for weeks at a time, it does make the possibility more plausible.

The biggest challenge to shooting four days of shows in a week is that the taping schedule is traditionally organized so that, as much as possible, J! and Wheel tape on the same weeks. Historically it's been J! on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by Wheel on Thursday and Friday. That's how they are able to share so many tech crew members and producers for both shows.

That could be changed so that, for instance, J! tapes four days one week while Wheel is dark, and then they flip-flop the following week. The complication is that would also change Pat and Vanna's schedule, and what if they don't feel like taping four days a week?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Flerbert419 on August 25, 2021, 12:19:47 AM
The complication is that would also change Pat and Vanna's schedule, and what if they don't feel like taping four days a week?

Then they can just hightail it out of here and Sony can find replacements, which they are getting quite proficient at doing.

I hear a certain executive producer now has some more time on his hands.

(I'm waiting to form my opinion about the current situation until the dust settles, but I am agreeing with many of BonusShell's posts in this thread.)
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 25, 2021, 05:04:12 AM
They have contracts that oblige both sides to certain terms.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BillyGr on August 25, 2021, 05:05:13 PM
I agree that, in the past, this was a very unlikely scenario. Now, though, with the fact that things are so discombobulated and everyone associated with the show seems to want to right the ship as quickly as possible, I could see the staff possibly agreeing to some changes to their traditional production process if doing so helped recruit a solid host. That still doesn't make it reasonable for someone who lives on the opposite coast and could be called away at a moment's notice. But for someone like Bialik, whose other job is about as predictable a gig as you can get for a prime time series and who is not likely to take another job in a movie or some other production that could occupy her for weeks at a time, it does make the possibility more plausible.

The biggest challenge to shooting four days of shows in a week is that the taping schedule is traditionally organized so that, as much as possible, J! and Wheel tape on the same weeks. Historically it's been J! on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by Wheel on Thursday and Friday. That's how they are able to share so many tech crew members and producers for both shows.

That could be changed so that, for instance, J! tapes four days one week while Wheel is dark, and then they flip-flop the following week. The complication is that would also change Pat and Vanna's schedule, and what if they don't feel like taping four days a week?

They don't have tapings every week, though, do they?  If they are taping two days (10 shows, 12 for Wheel since they do the 6th shows that make up weeks), the only need to tape 2 weeks/month.

So, you could leave the current schedule alone, then plus extra Jeopardy tapings into the other weeks (4 days of just Jeopardy) and have those done sooner (or at least make up the extra shows, since they have a shorter rerun season than Wheel does).
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: RatRace10 on August 25, 2021, 07:19:54 PM
The biggest challenge to shooting four days of shows in a week is that the taping schedule is traditionally organized so that, as much as possible, J! and Wheel tape on the same weeks. Historically it's been J! on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by Wheel on Thursday and Friday. That's how they are able to share so many tech crew members and producers for both shows.

That could be changed so that, for instance, J! tapes four days one week while Wheel is dark, and then they flip-flop the following week. The complication is that would also change Pat and Vanna's schedule, and what if they don't feel like taping four days a week?

No, Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune tape on alternating weeks. That's why they both tape two weeks apart usually. J! does Tue-Wed one week and then WOF does Thu-Fri the next week.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Ccook on August 26, 2021, 10:00:43 AM
I don't normally put much stock in  gossip, especially when a site like Lainey Gossip (https://www.laineygossip.com/is-the-replacement-of-mike-richards-on-jeopardy-by-ken-jennings-enough-to-restore-trust-and-un-tarnish-the-legacy-of-the-show/69236/amp) wears it like a medal of honor, but it may be on the nose here. Jeopardy! has been a haven for smart, good, clean entertainment, a go-to against the norm. But with all the controversy surrounding the search for a new host and the skeletons in the closets of Richards and Bialik, it's pretty much been turned into a "sh*tshow." Can or will the ship be righted? Will there still be people grousing about whoever the new host will be because it isn't who they wanted? Or is it just plain time to pull the plug on Jeopardy! and put it out of its misery?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Casey on August 26, 2021, 10:35:21 AM
I think talk about Jeopardy!'s impending demise is quite a bit premature.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 26, 2021, 11:12:12 AM
Dramatically premature. When there is a drop off in revenue such that it’s not viable to continue, then it’s time to cancel. Whatever “show” it is at the moment, and despite some who hold vocal grudges for ludicrously long times, this is a bit of a blip in the grand scheme of things. Social media’s echo chamber is just that. Reality is our collective short attention span will move on to something new. For millions of non Twitter-ites, this has been perhaps a passing reference on the news shows, maybe an article scrolled by on Facebook.

The seas are a bit choppy, needlessly so, at the moment. That doesn’t mean the show is done for.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: C8 on August 26, 2021, 12:13:59 PM
Controversial take:

I think a fair thing to do is listen to the community and give LeVar (or other popular guest hosts legitimately interested in the job and who had support) another round if they'd like it. Let the execs and audience see if Mike tried to muddy the waters for them or if their choppy performances were really just their approach.

In a specific example: I always thought LeVar trying to do a PR tour to lower expectations of his hosting was because he knew he'd struggled and wanted to get ahead of it. I don't think Mike necessarily set him up for failure. But why not test that with another week of shows.

You then get the goodwill of the audience as the show tries to make it right for a non-controversial fan favorite (or series of favorites) and, if they continue to struggle, sending the implicit message that maybe the show isn't right for them (or, conversely, if they succeed, that perhaps there was a spark that was missed the first time).
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: gamesurf on August 26, 2021, 10:43:19 PM
According to some people on call at Sony, Mike Richards is expected to keep the EP job, but will be working under a much shorter leash:

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/25/business/media/jeopardy-mike-richards-executive-producer.html?searchResultPosition=1

Relevant section for those who can't get behind the paywall:

Quote
During a call with “Jeopardy!” staff on Monday, Sony’s top TV executive, Ravi Ahuja, made clear that the studio supported Mr. Richards, according to several people briefed on the call who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal conversations.

Mr. Ahuja praised Mr. Richards for his willingness to step down from the hosting job, saying it was the right move for “Jeopardy!,” and signaled that he expected the crew to move forward from last week’s uproar with Mr. Richards in charge, the people said.

He lamented the media coverage of Mr. Richards and instructed the staff not to speak to reporters. Mr. Ahuja also invoked his own upbringing as an Indian American who grew up in the 1970s in Mississippi, where, he said, he faced racially offensive remarks, to emphasize that he was sensitive to concerns about Mr. Richards’s crude comments, the people said.

Mr. Richards has agreed to undergo sensitivity training, the people said.

On the call, Mr. Richards apologized again for his behavior and asked for an opportunity to prove “who he really is,” according to his spokesman, Ed Tagliaferri.

Mr. Tagliaferri also swatted away the notion that Mr. Richards might be negotiating an exit from Sony, saying, “Mike is committed to continuing as the executive producer of ‘Jeopardy!’ and ‘Wheel of Fortune.’”

Sony has tapped a veteran business and legal affairs executive at the studio, Suzanne Prete, to oversee Mr. Richards at the show and “take more of an active presence on the creative direction and strategy.” Sony said that the new role for Ms. Prete, who will also oversee the business side of the show, was planned before last week’s uproar. She will report to Mr. Ahuja.

Now, the quote about Mike being committed to the show comes from his publicist, so take it with a grain of salt.

Also of note from the article: Three people familiar with the audition process said that Meredith Viera was lobbying hard for a guest host slot but the studio was not interested in anyone currently hosting a game show and 25 Words or Less put the kabosh on that [which is ludicrous to me, as though anyone thinks Meredith would put 25WOL in front of the Jeopardy gig if offered]

And Gwendolyn is willing to defend Mike:

Quote
Gwendolyn Osborne, a model who worked on "The Price Is Right" for more than 12 years and considers herself a friend of Mr. Richards, said she was shocked to learn about his podcast comments, saying they did not align with his behavior as a boss. Contrary to the behavior alleged in the pregnancy-discrimination lawsuit, she recalled that Mr. Richards supported her when she return to work from maternity leave, and then years later when she became pregnant again.

"I have reached out to him to tell him to continue to believe in his greatnesses, and that I do believe that everybody is worthy of redemption," she said in an interview.

Drew, Evelyn, and Rachel had previously made statements of support for Mike after the TPIR allegations resurfaced but AFAICT have been on radio silence after the Ringer article was dropped.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on August 27, 2021, 06:09:37 PM
Came across this article on Buzzer blog.

http://buzzerblog.com/2021/08/20/brooke-burns-should-host-jeopardy-if-she-wants-to/

If this has already been mentioned before please forgive me.   Do you think she will make a good host?

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 27, 2021, 07:54:33 PM
Brooke has little to no chance at being the successor.  I think she would do well in the role, but based on the structure toward choosing the next host, IMO, it's not happening
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Axl on August 28, 2021, 12:41:43 PM
Three people familiar with the audition process said that Meredith Viera was lobbying hard for a guest host slot but the studio was not interested in anyone currently hosting a game show and 25 Words or Less put the kabosh on that [which is ludicrous to me, as though anyone thinks Meredith would put 25WOL in front of the Jeopardy gig if offered]

Meredith has a contract with the producers of 25 Words or Less. She doesn't get to unilaterally decide she would rather focus her attention on efforts to get hired by a competing program.

Brooke has little to no chance at being the successor.  I think she would do well in the role, but based on the structure toward choosing the next host, IMO, it's not happening

I think she probably would be a good host. But I also thought LeVar Burton would be a good host, and we saw what happened there. It's hard to predict.

I see no reason they could not accommodate a tryout, especially since she's already working for Sony. Ironically, I think her biggest challenge would be with casual fans who are unaware of her game show background and assume she is being tested strictly because of her looks.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: kishy214 on August 29, 2021, 11:24:25 AM
I mentioned previously Ken would appear in Asheboro, NC for a speech/Q&A on Saturday, August 28. I went, and I believe I saw at least one other inactive member of our G-R community there.

The prepared remarks were about what you’d expect — think back to his TED Talk about “obsolete know-it-alls” and how having lots of knowledge can really just help you to be a better citizen.

The Q&A was all over the place. Lots of great questions about the show, current champion Matt, Ken’s childhood, etc. The question on everyone’s mind got asked by a particularly enthusiastic fan on the stage left side of the audience; “When will Jeopardy do the right thing and name you the permanent host?!” Ken responded that the show was once again using guest hosts, and that he considers himself a pretty likely name to be tossed around at Sony. He said he expects they will ask him to guest host again, but did not say anything about the permanent hosting job. “I’m just waiting by the phone. If they call, I’m in,” Ken said. When asked who he liked during their guest hosting run, he named Robin Roberts, Bialik, and David Faber.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: PriceFan07 on August 29, 2021, 12:14:30 PM
My question to everyone saying Ken should just be named the next permanent host is: why are his previous insensitive/offensive comments ok, but others' aren't? If this host search has taught the Sony executives anything it's that when Pat and Vanna decide to call it a day, they need to start the search before the end of their final season (which I'm predicting to be season 40) and dig deep into their social media past so as to not have another embarrassing fiasco on their hands. Personally, I don't think things said years and years ago define a person today, but if you're going to apply standards to one person, the same standards have to be applied across the board when dealing with the same situation.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 29, 2021, 12:36:07 PM
Finding a person with the talent, name recognition and ability (be that contractually, lifestyle wise or both) who also has said nothing that offends anyone on social media? You’re better off finding a unicorn.

We don’t live in a world where that’s likely. There are going to be gray areas and whataboutism. First, we have no idea that Sony will offer him (or enter into serious discussions) about the job. So the whataboutism here is premature. But the reality is there will be decisions about which level of angst is tolerable to a given team at a given time. There are probably some obvious red lines that are immediately disqualifying. And some that will incense one group but not another. Such is modern life.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: JayC on August 29, 2021, 04:11:31 PM
My question to everyone saying Ken should just be named the next permanent host is: why are his previous insensitive/offensive comments ok, but others' aren't? If this host search has taught the Sony executives anything it's that when Pat and Vanna decide to call it a day, they need to start the search before the end of their final season (which I'm predicting to be season 40) and dig deep into their social media past so as to not have another embarrassing fiasco on their hands. Personally, I don't think things said years and years ago define a person today, but if you're going to apply standards to one person, the same standards have to be applied across the board when dealing with the same situation.
Ken owned up to the comments he made on Twitter and apologized, and otherwise has no other character flaws. The comments Mike made on the podcast were not brought up until after he got the job, and that along with the sexual harassment allegations resurfacing cost him. I agree though that Sony needs to learn their lesson here and handle the succession from Pat and Vanna on Wheel very differently to avoid the same mess.

And as imhomerjay said, no matter what something always seems to get found on a celebrity that will offend somebody.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 29, 2021, 07:57:27 PM
While not discounting the value of the money it…uh…spins off, Wheel is somewhat different. Important to be sure. But let’s be honest, it’s not going to generate the same consternation. It should be easier to replace them and harder to screw up. The show just doesn’t have the intellectual heft behind it. The pool of suitable replacements should be far wider.

I mean…barring Rolf 2.0, this should be an easier lift for them if they learned a single, solitary thing.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: blozier2006 on August 29, 2021, 09:34:40 PM
... if they learned a single, solitary thing.
And considering this is Sony we're talking about, I'd be very, very surprised if they did.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 30, 2021, 10:30:30 AM
But we’re talking about very specific executives. Companies aren’t sentient. And executives have managed to have very successful programming for some time now. It may be these people at this time will make a mistake again. But the situation is more nuanced and has more shades of gray.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Ccook on August 30, 2021, 12:42:21 PM
RuPaul is now reportedly interested in hosting Jeopardy.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 30, 2021, 02:52:34 PM
Um, ok. Interested doesn't mean they're going to consider it (seriously, that is)
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Torgo on August 30, 2021, 04:05:44 PM
Hell, I'm interested in hosting Jeopardy!. Tell the presses!
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BonusShell on August 30, 2021, 05:43:51 PM
I'm not the first one to make this observation, but it appears that some individual(s) at Sony really does not want Ken Jennings to be Jeopardy! emcee. (Which is unfortunate, IMO.) Based on what I've read elsewhere, it appears there are a host of reasons for this (beyond Jennings being a white male):

*Ken's chances were probably badly hurt by his offensive tweets (for which he has since apologized).

*As I previously wrote, Jennings may be too much of a reminder of the Trebek Era. While no Sony executive would publicly make such a statement out of respect for Alex and his fans, the company may want to take Jeopardy! in a "new direction" in a quest to find new viewers (which would be most unfortunate, IMO).

*Though I do not share this sentiment, having the most famous and successful Jeopardy! contestant become Alex's successor may be a bit awkward for some viewers and contestants. I recall someone on Jeopardy's Reddit board liken seeing Ken Jennings host Jeopardy! to watching an episode of Win Ben Stein's Money.

*Time and again, I have read that Jennings rated poorly among focus groups.

Regarding the last point I made, I am not a fan of focus groups because it is easy to see how they can be manipulated. My guess is that they yield mixed results at best. Additionally, executives are paid large amounts of money to make tough decisions, and hiding behind focus groups gives them a handy way to cover their a--es.

I'm curious if you folks agree with my opinion that some person(s) at Sony is (are) very opposed to having Ken Jennings host Jeopardy! And I'm also curious as to your opinions of focus groups in general.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: PatrickRox80 on August 30, 2021, 06:25:03 PM
Regarding the last point I made, I am not a fan of focus groups because it is easy to see how they can be manipulated. My guess is that they yield mixed results at best. Additionally, executives are paid large amounts of money to make tough decisions, and hiding behind focus groups gives them a handy way to cover their a--es.

I'm curious if you folks agree with my opinion that some person(s) at Sony is (are) very opposed to having Ken Jennings host Jeopardy! And I'm also curious as to your opinions of focus groups in general.

I still stand by what I said about focus groups earlier. It’s become their way of hiding behind their ineptitude. That this procedure found nothing wrong with Mike but drew the line at Ken’s tweets reeks of favoritism. The difference is Ken owned up to his mistakes while Mike gave fake apologies and is being rewarded with sensitivity training.

At this point, the procedure in finding someone to host Jeopardy!, temporary or permanent, is no different than finding a ringmaster for a three-ring circus. The fans are treated to an absolute clusterf***, but nobody’s laughing.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BonusShell on August 30, 2021, 08:36:26 PM
I still stand by what I said about focus groups earlier. It’s become their way of hiding behind their ineptitude. That this procedure found nothing wrong with Mike but drew the line at Ken’s tweets reeks of favoritism. The difference is Ken owned up to his mistakes while Mike gave fake apologies and is being rewarded with sensitivity training.

At this point, the procedure in finding someone to host Jeopardy!, temporary or permanent, is no different than finding a ringmaster for a three-ring circus. The fans are treated to an absolute clusterf***, but nobody’s laughing.

This is a great post.

Also, I'm not the first to say this, but "sensitivity training" sounds like a complete joke, as people who are forced to undergo it usually double down on being jerks. Once a person reaches a certain age, it's very hard to instill in him or her the importance of treating others with respect and sway him or her from any bigoted viewpoints that are held. For similar reasons, "ethics training" that so many professionals are required to undergo often fails, as one's moral compass is pretty well established by young adulthood (if not sooner).

Mike Richards being kept on as EP seems like a face-saving move on the part of Sony executives, though I have read rumors that he won't have that job for too much longer. IMO, Richards should have already been fired as EP of both Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: urbanpreppie0004 on August 30, 2021, 09:49:14 PM
Jiminy Christmas.

One- Focus groups are used by a NUMBER of industries to make decisions. Not as some way to "hide behind their ineptitude."

Two- Many, many, many industries are also using sensitivity training- sexual harassment, racial, and gender identity. People's moral compasses aren't "set" by young adulthood. People can and have changed to be more sensitive to the changes of society.

And I say this as someone who doesn't like Mike Richards these days.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: pricefan18 on August 30, 2021, 10:01:02 PM
Two- Many, many, many industries are also using sensitivity training- sexual harassment, racial, and gender identity. People's moral compasses aren't "set" by young adulthood. People can and have changed to be more sensitive to the changes of society.

My bigger issue with it personally isn't about that (although I do agree it doesn't typically do a lot on its' own, one has to WANT to be better, racism woulda died in the 60's otherwise if that wasn't the case w/the passage of civil rights laws, but that obviously did not happen), it's more a purveying shift in our culture to where you have to have one sole opinion over any others, and you're damned if you don't, and I don't just mean on these topics I mean as a whole. I don't think that does society much good on a collective level. It's generally how civilizations end up collapsing frankly, once they are so fractured and at each others' throats over any and everything. We're at a pretty rough point I feel like right now, and I think it's unfortunately only likely to become worse before/if it gets better.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: PatrickRox80 on August 30, 2021, 10:40:15 PM
One- Focus groups are used by a NUMBER of industries to make decisions. Not as some way to "hide behind their ineptitude."

When focus groups show as much cracks as the ones Sony used to vet their guest hosts, that shows zero integrity in decision making. All it does it make a mockery out of companies who use those studies to determine the best course of action. Since Mike Richards only knows what's best for Mike Richards, the focus groups were going to skew themselves in his favor no matter what. And now Sony is paying the price because they botched things so badly.

Two- Many, many, many industries are also using sensitivity training- sexual harassment, racial, and gender identity. People's moral compasses aren't "set" by young adulthood. People can and have changed to be more sensitive to the changes of society.

If we're talking about someone making those comments in high school or even college, then that's forgivable because that's the time when minds are still developing. But Mike was in his late thirties chose to make those comments on his podcasts. What's worse is he was coming off legal troubles a few years before, so he didn't learn a thing about how to show respect. He doesn't get a pass there.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: urbanpreppie0004 on August 30, 2021, 10:49:09 PM
I'll just say this. People can change, as adults. I have seen it.

Mike Richards though...
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 31, 2021, 09:56:56 AM
Like any research, a focus group can be done well or…a dumpster fire, or somewhere in between. If we take at face value that certain episodes were selected by Richards to show the groups, without the input of the longer tenured producers and even after he was a candidate, that raises questions, sure. But by and large, most of the guests were not wildly inconsistent either way. Picking “the worst” of some hosts, even if we assume that to be true, isn’t all that different than their better entries. Some might have had butterflies that settled, but of those who might have been actual contenders? They were mostly steady.

There are other details we don’t know. What was the makeup of the groups? How were sessions presented? Who operated them? We don’t know enough to say if or to what degree those factors were skewed. In and of itself that doesn’t condemn the focus group input to being a “cover.”

There’s not really an elegant answer here for the executives tasked with the decision. They’re back to having to make the best of a bad situation, this one of their own making of course. Meanwhile, the staff will soldier on trying to produce the best show they can with the hand they’ve been dealt.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BonusShell on August 31, 2021, 03:14:25 PM
I may have been a bit extreme in my assessments regarding focus groups, sensitivity training, and ethics training, but I still remain pretty skeptical about all three of those things.

Regarding the subject of Mike Richards hosting Jeopardy!, below is an old "news" segment (that was uploaded to YouTube on March 1) that's both laughable and cringeworthy. The subject of the video was how Richards became an "overnight sensation" while guest hosting Jeopardy! (I also saw a second ABC News video on this same topic, but I am currently unable to find it.)


If one ever wonders why so many people currently get their news from crackpot outlets, it's because the mainstream media has such little credibility.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: jude_este on September 07, 2021, 04:28:18 PM
Some information related to the upcoming season from the social networks of an affiliate that airs Jeopardy! and from a contestant competing on the show.

First, the Season 38 premiere week video (https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=584111655959015) has dropped from the Fox affiliate in Syracuse, New York, that focuses on Matt Amodio's return while excluding shots of Mike Richards as host.

And according to a 1435315233082552323[/tweet]?s=20]contestant (http://[tweet) competing on the final show hosted by Mike, contestants competing that week were only sent their headshot photo and weren't given the picture with him in it.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Bluescreen_ODeff on September 07, 2021, 08:58:27 PM
Just looking at the paused video and comparing it with last year's set, there have been some changes.  It looks more "prime time"-ish.  I see the following changes:

1. The host lectern is different.
2. The contestant lecterns have a different side background.
3. The contestant background is different, with added purple spotlights.
4. Where there was just a curtain on the top of the set, now there are stars like in the GOAT series.

I think it's nice.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: RatRace10 on September 11, 2021, 11:11:52 AM
According to the Jeopardy subreddit, this weekend's rerun airing of Jeopardy is going to be the last Alex Trebek episode to air on television for a while. For the first few weeks at least, all reruns will be Mayim episode. People are speculating that she has been already picked as permanent host and they are focusing the reruns on her to "establish" her. The weekday reruns which are normally a year old will only be a week old once her episodes from this season start airing.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: JayC on September 11, 2021, 12:03:33 PM
It could just be because Mayim will be hosting for three weeks after the first week. I'm surprised they didn't go with Alex's season 37 episodes and run those as long as they could on the daytime and weekend reruns.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on September 11, 2021, 05:26:51 PM
There comes a point where rerunning Alex becomes too much of a distraction with the show needing to move into whatever the next era is.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BillyGr on September 13, 2021, 03:03:19 PM
According to the Jeopardy subreddit, this weekend's rerun airing of Jeopardy is going to be the last Alex Trebek episode to air on television for a while. For the first few weeks at least, all reruns will be Mayim episode. People are speculating that she has been already picked as permanent host and they are focusing the reruns on her to "establish" her. The weekday reruns which are normally a year old will only be a week old once her episodes from this season start airing.

Would they start off by rerunning her older episodes when she guest hosted the first time?  That would bump it out a couple weeks (and would cover a few weeks of Saturdays as well if they used them there).

There comes a point where rerunning Alex becomes too much of a distraction with the show needing to move into whatever the next era is.
Though, if done for the Saturdays, it could be promoted as one last tribute - with the number of Saturdays in the year, they could almost pull one show from each year, then end with the last few shows to fill out the remaining weeks...
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Ccook on September 13, 2021, 03:17:01 PM
The studio at Sony where Jeopardy records has officially been renamed the Alex Trebek Stage.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: AussieEvil on September 13, 2021, 09:20:26 PM
The studio at Sony where Jeopardy records has officially been renamed the Alex Trebek Stage.
"From the Alex Trebek Stage at Sony Pictures Studios..."
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: htmlcc92 on September 14, 2021, 12:48:15 AM
Just curious, do any other programs tape on the Jeopardy! or Wheel of Fortune stages, or are they exclusively home to those two programs?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Ccook on September 14, 2021, 02:42:45 AM
I believe that stage, formerly studio 10, is exclusively Jeopardy's. Sony's website states that studios 7, 10 and 11 are "occupied by long-term clients and are unavailable for the foreseeable future."
 
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: pannoni1 on September 15, 2021, 08:18:48 AM
I'd wager the whole thing that 11 will become the Pat Sajak Stage as well, just like how 33 at TVC is for Bob Barker. Still, J! is very fortunate that it has Matt Amodio still around, since during these superchamps, the focus turns away from the host and more towards the players, and after all, its the contestants who are the stars.

The set also got a freshening, along with the theme. The category during Final Jeopardy! now also appears above the clue during the 30 seconds. But I'm definitely content with more guest hosts or even an acting host for now.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on September 16, 2021, 12:38:28 PM
Ken and Mayim it will be for the time being.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on September 16, 2021, 12:59:09 PM
Here's the link, courtesy of TMZ (https://www.tmz.com/2021/09/16/jeopardy-mayim-bialik-ken-jennings-hosts-rest-of-season/)

As mentioned elsewhere, just name Trebek's successor on a permanent basis already!

That aside, I like this move.  They originally announced Mayim with Mike earlier, and they can't go back on that.  Ken was always going to be the definitive choice.  Maybe not a favorite to several, but I think of Ken before anyone else as it relates to Jeopardy (save for Alex of course, even Johnny).

Still, great decision.  I don't need to see another year of guest hosts
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: JayC on September 16, 2021, 02:55:03 PM
Using just Mayim and Ken for the rest of the year is a very good move. Perhaps later in the year one of their schedules will clear up more so one could host on a permanent basis. My gut feeling is Ken becomes the permanent daily syndicated show host with Mayim continuing to do the primetime specials/spinoffs unless Mayim's show on FOX gets cancelled which would allow her to become the full permanent host.

As mentioned elsewhere, just name Trebek's successor on a permanent basis already!
Mayim would be the permanent host if her schedule allowed it, or Ken if his was clearer.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Axl on September 16, 2021, 11:18:04 PM
Just curious, do any other programs tape on the Jeopardy! or Wheel of Fortune stages, or are they exclusively home to those two programs?

They are exclusive to those shows. In addition to practical considerations, keeping those sets up full-time means there's always at least one recognizable set for the Sony tour guides to show.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on September 17, 2021, 08:42:44 AM

Mayim would be the permanent host if her schedule allowed it, or Ken if his was clearer.



I just hope when Ken does guest host later on he will be allowed to say "Thank You Alex" at the end of FJ..   

I also like this move.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: jude_este on September 17, 2021, 09:37:18 AM
In an interview (https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/levar-burton-reveals-he-doesnt-want-to-be-the-new-jeopardy-full-time-host-052947610.html) on last night's The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, LeVar Burton has revealed that he does not want the hosting job at all. And I loved the analogy Trevor gave that "the shipwreck that leads you to the magical island."

As for Ken and Mayim sharing duties as guest hosts for the rest of the year, I think it's a great idea they are doing. And for now, avoids the cavalcade of the (insert name here) should be a guest host on Jeopardy!.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on September 17, 2021, 12:50:58 PM
To be fair, the guest host thing was a pretty good idea.  While not all the hosts were fantastic, it was a unique experience.  It was diverse (while risky).  Doing it for another year would not have been ideal.  Would've become stale.  If you have 16 hosts, you don't have one.  Or two.

I don't see Mayim quitting her acting career if her FOX show bombs.  She's been rather successful, and she isn't old.  If it doesn't work out, she'll move onto what's next.

If anything, I can see Ken hosting both versions, but in time, if it's Ken for SYN & Mayim for the specials, that would be great.  Plus, Ken could host a primetime special which would be a one-time thing
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on September 17, 2021, 08:37:21 PM
I noticed on todays J they did not listed Ken's name during the closing credits..  Unless I over looked it

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Reloaden on September 18, 2021, 06:55:36 PM
I feel like they are using Ken to guest host when Mayim schedule is busy and if her show tanks then they will announce her as the new host. I can't believe this is going on for over a year.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on September 18, 2021, 08:10:16 PM
Do you think Ken will get the job as the host Full time and Mayim doing the specials?

I know Ken has The Chase and one other game show I believe on GSN... Mayim has own show on FOX.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Reloaden on September 22, 2021, 09:04:25 PM
Do you think Ken will get the job as the host Full time and Mayim doing the specials?

I know Ken has The Chase and one other game show I believe on GSN... Mayim has own show on FOX.


Mayim said she wants to host the show fulltime. I think she's going to be the full time host while Ken fills in and host primetime shows  when her schedule is busy.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on September 22, 2021, 10:40:00 PM

Mayim said she wants to host the show fulltime. I think she's going to be the full time host while Ken fills in and host primetime shows  when her schedule is busy.

Last I heard, Sony wanted Mayim full time but she was busy with her show on FOX.  So I guess she is willing to not do her show or FOX or do both?   

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Reloaden on September 22, 2021, 10:47:17 PM
Last I heard, Sony wanted Mayim full time but she was busy with her show on FOX.  So I guess she is willing to not do her show or FOX or do both?

Apparently her show isn't doing well in the ratings. If the show gets cancelled she will be free.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: FPGWillyT on September 23, 2021, 04:53:24 AM
The name I would choose is not on the list
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: GR_Man_9009 on September 23, 2021, 05:43:09 AM
The name I would choose is not on the list
What name is that?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: FPGWillyT on September 23, 2021, 12:43:04 PM
Never mind.  Misread the title of survey.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on September 23, 2021, 07:21:37 PM
Apparently her show isn't doing well in the ratings. If the show gets cancelled she will be free.

Thanks... I have not seen her show on FOX
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on September 23, 2021, 08:47:35 PM
Apparently her show isn't doing well in the ratings. If the show gets cancelled she will be free.
It was renewed, so there’s that. They haven’t aired season 2, so it’s a tad early to speculate.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on September 23, 2021, 10:17:25 PM
I know it is still early but if Mayim becomes the FT host and Matt is still going strong, I wonder if Sony or Mayim  will let Ken host the day Matt passes Ken's winning streak or earning streak?  Or on the next show, they invite Ken on stage ?

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on September 24, 2021, 02:07:17 PM
No.

The host that day is the host. You don’t disrupt the flow more than needed owing to current circumstances. They’ve had enough disruption.

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: jude_este on December 02, 2021, 01:15:13 PM
It may qualify as bumping a 2-month inactive thread; I think it is worthy to note the news for the show in the past day besides what we already likely know of the inaugural College Professor Tournament, which begins Monday and ends December 17 with Mayim Bialik hosting.

First, The Washington Post did this story (https://www.washingtonpost.com/arts-entertainment/2021/12/02/jeopardy-amy-schneider-winning-streak/) about current ultra champion Amy Schneider and her history-making run as the first transgender contestant to qualify for the Tournament of Champions and her experiences so far on the show following the past year’s events.

Second, the Jeopardy! National College Championship hosted by Mayim premieres Tuesday, February 8, at 8 pm and will air each Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday until its conclusion on Tuesday, February 22; the 9-day tournament will have 36 students from 36 colleges and universities.

https://tvline.com/2021/12/02/american-idol-jeopardy-college-championship-premiere-date-abc/ (https://tvline.com/2021/12/02/american-idol-jeopardy-college-championship-premiere-date-abc/)
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: GameShowsRule95 on December 02, 2021, 06:37:39 PM
First transgender TOC contestant? Interesting. Especially considering the game show fandom has quite a few big names in it that are trans women, like Jessica "Prizes" Brand, Cyndi Seidelman of Game Show Garbage fame, and one of this board most important members Chelsea "Bluelobster" Thrasher.

On a little side note, not too excited to hear ABC is giving American Idol another unnecessary season. It should've ended when it did originally on FOX in 2016.

*Yeah, no.  I don't know if we need this post at all, but one thing I *do* know is that we're not going to post deadnames on this forum.  They're called "dead" for a reason.  -Army*
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on December 02, 2021, 07:52:44 PM
The economics work, so why wouldn’t they continue it?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: jude_este on December 08, 2021, 01:26:18 PM
An update about the hosting job, Mayim Bialik and Ken Jennings will continue sharing hosting duties through the end of the season. Additionally, Michael Davies will remain as executive producer.
https://deadline.com/2021/12/jeopardy-mayim-bialik-ken-jennings-continue-hosts-season-38-1234887182/
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Reloaden on December 13, 2021, 11:16:40 AM
They may as well let them both take over as hosts have them split the season in half and let Mayim Bialik host any specials. The ratings are still going good and people are used to seeing them both host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: rj2345 on December 14, 2021, 04:41:15 PM
They may as well let them both take over as hosts have them split the season in half and let Mayim Bialik host any specials. The ratings are still going good and people are used to seeing them both host.

I think they've silently have given the host position to Mayim, and will continue the split until Mayim's Fox show ends.

Listen closely to how Johnny intros the show, when Mayim host's he says "And now, Here's the Host of Jeopardy". While when Ken hosts, it's "And now, hosting Jeopardy".
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on December 14, 2021, 07:54:09 PM
I think they've silently have given the host position to Mayim, and will continue the split until Mayim's Fox show ends.

Listen closely to how Johnny intros the show, when Mayim host's he says "And now, Here's the Host of Jeopardy". While when Ken hosts, it's "And now, hosting Jeopardy".

I have noticed that..    Some one posted on a Jeopardy forum that they should let Ken host the weekly series and let Mayim host the specials...
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BillyGr on December 15, 2021, 12:16:02 PM
I think they've silently have given the host position to Mayim, and will continue the split until Mayim's Fox show ends.

Listen closely to how Johnny intros the show, when Mayim host's he says "And now, Here's the Host of Jeopardy". While when Ken hosts, it's "And now, hosting Jeopardy".

When did that start?  I remember hearing the one for Ken when he was on recently, but not certain how Mayim was introduced when she hosted prior to that.

Reason being, you could see it being done differently for her for the Tournament as she was supposed to do special things anyway even in the earlier configuration.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on December 15, 2021, 03:51:17 PM
Since the start of the season, Mayim has been “the host” and Ken has been “hosting.” I don’t know if they stuck the professors’ tournament into the taping schedule out of order and the EP made a change concurrent with Ken’s weeks that isn’t designed to signify more. That’s about the only slim chance the EP isn’t sending a deliberate message.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: pannoni1 on April 19, 2022, 09:01:25 AM
Sorry for the bump, but there's certainly a lot going on this season, as the rotation between Ken and Mayim continues. The most recent feature introduced to the show since the last post is a preview of the contestant matchups for the following episode.

We'll see if this fall if we get a Mattea/Amy/Matt ToC final, since I don't think there has ever been a tournament with FOUR double-digit champs in the running. A lot of the four-time champs from March . We're up to 12 automatic qualifiers now (Ten 5-day+ champs, and the Professors and College tournament winner). The current four-day champ on the bubble is Margaret Shelton with $79,700. Two other four-day champs (both part of the string of four champs who got defeated in March) have been knocked out. If we have more than three new 5-day champs by the end of the season, those qualifiers will have to wait until 2024 most likely for the next ToC.


It would help if we had a special thread for each season for this show for those who don't have an account over at J!board.tv.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: amazzola910 on April 19, 2022, 11:04:07 AM
Sorry for the bump, but there's certainly a lot going on this season, as the rotation between Ken and Mayim continues. The most recent feature introduced to the show since the last post is a preview of the contestant matchups for the following episode.

We'll see if this fall if we get a Mattea/Amy/Matt ToC final, since I don't think there has ever been a tournament with FOUR double-digit champs in the running. A lot of the four-time champs from March . We're up to 12 automatic qualifiers now (Ten 5-day+ champs, and the Professors and College tournament winner). The current four-day champ on the bubble is Margaret Shelton with $79,700. Two other four-day champs (both part of the string of four champs who got defeated in March) have been knocked out. If we have more than three new 5-day champs by the end of the season, those qualifiers will have to wait until 2024 most likely for the next ToC.


It would help if we had a special thread for each season for this show for those who don't have an account over at J!board.tv.

Keep in mind we also have the second chance tournament preluding the TOC in November, which will feed its winner into the field.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: jude_este on May 17, 2022, 01:38:53 PM
Some news from the upfronts, ABC has greenlighted Celebrity Jeopardy! airing Sunday nights at 8 pm this fall preceding Celebrity Wheel of Fortune.

https://deadline.com/2022/05/celebrity-jeopardy-abc-this-fall-1235025900/
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: JayC on May 17, 2022, 10:51:56 PM
I figured at some point ABC was going to do Celebrity Jeopardy. Now what remains is who will be hosting it.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on May 18, 2022, 12:26:01 PM
I'd be perfectly fine with either hosting, but I'd bet on Mayim before Ken.  No huge reason; they went with the former for their special network primetime specials originally, so I don't see why they'd go off of that.  Not sure if they'd rotate within a single season though
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BillyGr on May 20, 2022, 07:44:16 PM
I'd be perfectly fine with either hosting, but I'd bet on Mayim before Ken.  No huge reason; they went with the former for their special network primetime specials originally, so I don't see why they'd go off of that.  Not sure if they'd rotate within a single season though

Only makes sense, since she was supposed to be hosting special events anyway in the original setup.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: priceguy on May 21, 2022, 02:46:19 AM
I'm thinking it's Ken actually. Mayim's sitcom has been renewed, so that will be a continued obstacle when it comes to her Jeopardy schedule. Ken, on the other hand, is not on The Chase anymore. His schedule appears to be fairly open. Nothing is stopping him from doing Jeopardy full time.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: BillyGr on May 23, 2022, 04:49:29 PM
I'm thinking it's Ken actually. Mayim's sitcom has been renewed, so that will be a continued obstacle when it comes to her Jeopardy schedule. Ken, on the other hand, is not on The Chase anymore. His schedule appears to be fairly open. Nothing is stopping him from doing Jeopardy full time.

Except that a Celebrity version would certainly come under the heading of special events.

And, if they do like Wheel did there were maybe a dozen shows filmed.  That would only take a few days to do, so could easily enough be worked in between the other show filmings.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on May 23, 2022, 06:17:51 PM
They’ll need to get moving reasonably soon to have it ready for fall, but they should be able to have Mayim knock that one out even with the sitcom also renewed. It clouds the picture for the daily version, but that’s life, and the challenge shows face. Good talent is often locked into contractual obligations elsewhere.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Casey on May 25, 2022, 08:19:05 AM
I'm thinking it's Ken actually. Mayim's sitcom has been renewed, so that will be a continued obstacle when it comes to her Jeopardy schedule. Ken, on the other hand, is not on The Chase anymore. His schedule appears to be fairly open. Nothing is stopping him from doing Jeopardy full time.
Pay attention to how each of them is introduced by Johnny Gilbert...  That should tell you they want as the full time host.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on May 26, 2022, 04:47:41 AM
It should tell you that one is a host of the franchise and one is not at this time. No one is using the intros as some secret coded message about their desires.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: PatrickMadison on June 15, 2022, 08:00:18 AM
Finding a person with the talent, name recognition and ability (be that contractually, lifestyle wise or both) who also has said nothing that offends anyone on social media? You’re better off finding a unicorn.

We don’t live in a world where that’s likely. There are going to be gray areas and whataboutism. First, we have no idea that Sony will offer him (or enter into serious discussions) about the job. So the whataboutism here is premature. But the reality is there will be decisions about which level of angst is tolerable to a given team at a given time. There are probably some obvious red lines that are immediately disqualifying. And some that will incense one group but not another. Such is modern life.

twitter [DOT] com/MortuaryReport/status/1346134633688276994

Unpacking Ken's tweets:

Anti-gay comments. Racist comments about South Asians. Racist comments about East Asians. Racist comment about Hispanics (Spanish-speakers). Homophobic comments. Islamophobic comments. Racist comments about Romani, including a slur. Used the same "ret" slur Mike Richards used. Racist comment mocking Native Americans. Used an indigenous slur. Used terms like "jewy." Multiple ableist comments (not just the hot person in a wheelchair one). Mocking disabled people that expressed animus with his ableist comment(s). Comments that aren't racist towards black people but trivialize racism against black people.

I would say this goes beyond some ~always going to be some whataboutism~ And I don't think most J viewers are aware of this. And I don't think that most celebrities have this much baggage.

Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Casey on June 15, 2022, 07:40:35 PM
You joined today to respond to a 10 month old post about Ken Jennings?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: PatrickMadison on June 22, 2022, 10:42:05 PM
You joined today to respond to a 10 month old post about Ken Jennings?

In a word.......Yes.

Though I wouldn't have quoted it if any Jeopardy journalists would have... ya know... done their job and actually posted the reality concerning Ken.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: GRWHAMMY the 2nd on June 23, 2022, 12:02:10 PM
or maybe we need to stop cancelling folk for past mistakes

mistakes that people would usually learn from if given the chance
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EhManana on June 24, 2022, 02:36:15 PM
People should be held accountable for what they have done in the past. I'm not the biggest fan of either Bialik or Jennings, I would have preferred someone like LeVar Burton.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: PatrickMadison on June 24, 2022, 09:56:38 PM
or maybe we need to stop cancelling folk for past mistakes

mistakes that people would usually learn from if given the chance

Too late for that. J! chose its cancel path at the beginning of the season.

And while some people would learn, Jennings isn't one of them. He was called out years ago for some of his tweets and kept doubling and doubling down, even saying he should get an apology from a disabled man for correcting his vocabulary. And remember, only a few days after he gave a fake apology just to get the Jeopardy job, he showed much more disdain for the sleuthers who found his podcast buddy's bigoted tweets than he did for the bigoted comments.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: GRWHAMMY the 2nd on June 24, 2022, 10:09:26 PM
also, i'm sure you have something someone like you would point out


and these are your first three posts in this whole forum... way to endear yourself...
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: urbanpreppie0004 on June 24, 2022, 10:22:45 PM
Ok, WHERE is the fanbase pulling this "Jeopardy is about the be cancelled" nonsense from? The Show's ratings are GOOD, even NOW! How are people not getting this?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: urbanpreppie0004 on June 24, 2022, 10:25:20 PM
Too late for that. J! chose its cancel path at the beginning of the season.

And while some people would learn, Jennings isn't one of them. He was called out years ago for some of his tweets and kept doubling and doubling down, even saying he should get an apology from a disabled man for correcting his vocabulary. And remember, only a few days after he gave a fake apology just to get the Jeopardy job, he showed much more disdain for the sleuthers who found his podcast buddy's bigoted tweets than he did for the bigoted comments.

...did he personally hurt you?

EDIT: They just won ANOTHER Emmy, so...yeah.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Casey on June 25, 2022, 09:13:49 AM
People should be held accountable for what they have done in the past. I'm not the biggest fan of either Bialik or Jennings, I would have preferred someone like LeVar Burton.
Who among us hasn't said or done something that upon reflection, we probably would have done something different?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: JayC on June 25, 2022, 12:53:58 PM
Just to try to steer this thread back into actual hosting news, according to XFinity's program guide Ken will be hosting the final two weeks of the season with Mayim still hosting through then (the weeks of July 18 and 25).

Also, Buzzy Cohen posted a cryptic clue on Twitter that he could be the one hosting Celebrity Jeopardy rather than Mayim or Ken. https://www.tvinsider.com/1049232/jeopardy-buzzy-return-host-tweet/ (https://www.tvinsider.com/1049232/jeopardy-buzzy-return-host-tweet/)
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Mark on July 26, 2022, 09:36:27 AM
I realize this is bumping, but I feel this is relevant: https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/jeopardy-mayim-bialik-ken-jennings-hosts-1235325067/
It looks like status quo for a while yet.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on July 26, 2022, 01:44:26 PM
That's fine for me.  To be honest, I wouldn't be surprised if they stuck with both permanently.  I hardly think the show would crumble if they split duties going forward.  I do not think there's a law that mandates just one person hosting a gameshow series.  For me, it's show first, host or hosts second.

If and when they go with one, I might bet on that being the result of Jennings or Bialik moving on to greener pastures than TPTB making a final official call in the one person that will succeed Trebek
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: GRWHAMMY the 2nd on July 27, 2022, 03:33:28 PM
https://www.jeopardy.com/jbuzz/news-events/note-jeopardy-ep-michael-davies-new-hosts-and-new-initiatives official word for s39 hosting (among other bits of news)
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: Reloaden on July 27, 2022, 09:47:15 PM
Looks like they named Mayim Bialik and Ken Jennings as permanent hosts. Ken will host from Sept-Jan and Mayim from Jan to the end of the season.


I said this from the start they should both just host the show. They appeal to different viewers and it keeps the show fresh.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: EaglesWings4500 on July 28, 2022, 10:11:58 PM
While Mayim Bialik  is hosting the second half of the season, will Ken still be doing his other job on the show (Consulting Producer)?

I did not see it anywhere in the article.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: pannoni1 on July 29, 2022, 12:15:51 PM
Ken probably would return to the Chase if it gets renewed to fill the gap. Meanwhile, tonight wraps up the first full post-Trebek season of Jeopardy! Outside of the period around February/March and for the past several weeks, much of the season was dominated by long-running champs, with nine qualifiers for the next Tournament of Champions coming in November, plus another for the Professors Tournament.

That said, I'm starting to wonder if the Teen Tournament has been retired, last being held in 2019.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on July 29, 2022, 03:06:14 PM
Hard to make any judgement about tournaments given how the pandemic scrambled things. Sure, they reworked college into that primetime special, but maybe it was just too much to undertake yet more tournaments in a season filled with flux.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: amazzola910 on August 09, 2022, 08:07:32 PM
This thread has not been updated in a few weeks, and I'm not sure if this will continue to be utilized into Season 39 onward, but there's a plethora of updates regarding the show!

First off, Second Chance will take place from October 17-28 in two week-long spurts. Each of the two weeks will consist of three qualifying games, with the winners advancing to a two-day final, with the winners of each week advancing to the TOC. The link to the players and bracket can be found below.

https://www.jeopardy.com/contestant-zone/2022/second-chance


Inside Jeopardy! launched on Monday, August 1, will release weekly episodes on Monday around roughly 10:00 pm on the east coast. Michael Davies and Sarah Witcomb Foss host the show.


Over the past two weeks they've talked about a LOT:

- Ken and Mayim will do their first ever joint interview on the podcast towards the beginning of S39.
- A J! book club, which was hinted at in February, is still in the works.
- The teen tournament may be revived/rebranded as a high school week.
- Ed Coulson, who competed during the final week of S38, was the professors tournament alternate.
- Davies attributes the uptick in superchamps to the changing and evolving nature of general knowledge, while Sarah attributes it to the "game show gods".
- There will be a new TOC structure, which will be unveiled on next week's episode, in which Buzzy Cohen will appear.
- Davies discussed about Jeopardy! Masters League, which he would like to do live, whether in Primetime or on streaming, he's also open to the idea of Ken, James, and Buzzy playing again, in spite of bending the host/contestant rules.
- Johnny's home studio is referred to as "Studio J".
- One of the initial changes Davies made was how Mayim would look over to where Johnny was in spite of him not being there, and redirecting her to the front camera, citing its lack of authenticity.
- The staff thought Amy would lose her tenth game to Pam Schoenberg, as she had 4 more correct responses heading into final than Amy.
- Sarah and Davies talked to Sadie Goldberger about the whole Harriet Tubman controversy and replayed her writing out her response several times to be sure they were making the right call.
- The show makes judging decisions with "sound logic and equity".
- The stylus pen times out with the FJ! music.
- Contestants have 5 minutes to make their FJ! wager, with a 30 second warning given.
- Ken is known to watch old footage of Alex to pick up tips and pointers.
- The inaugural Jeopardy! Honors will be held at Stage 10 on September 19, the day before the TOC tapes. Tony Griffin and Jean Trebek will be in attendance.
- Alex Trebek, Merv and Julanne Griffin, Harry Friedman, and Johnny Gilbert will be part of the inaugural Jeopardy! Hall of Fame class.
- Michael has great respect for Harry Friedman as a producer and called him to make him aware of his induction.
- Sarah called Johnny personally
- Future HOF classes will include superchamps.
- A dedication to Art Fleming is not out of the question.
- Award categories at the J! Honors will include best sportsmanship, best dressed, and best penmanship.
- The podcast will eventually be offered in video form on Youtube.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: ooboh on August 09, 2022, 09:43:04 PM
- The show makes judging decisions with "sound logic and equity".

I chuckled
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: amazzola910 on August 15, 2022, 08:53:41 PM
The 2022 TOC format and field has been announced! Begins October 31, immediately following the second chance tournament.

1. Jaskaran Singh (JNCC 2022)
2. Sam Buttrey (Professor's Tournament)
3. Amy Schneider
4. Matt Amodio
5. Mattea Roach
6. Ryan Long
7. Jonathan Fisher
8. Brian Chang
9. Courtney Shah
10. Eric Ahasic
11. Zach Newkirk
12. Megan Wachspress
13. Andrew He
14. Tyler Rhode
15. Jackie Kelly
16. John Focht
17. Margaret Shelton
18. Maureen O'Neil
19. Christine Whelchel
20. Second Chance Tournament Winner #1
21. Second Chance Tournament Winner #2


PRE-SEEDING

Jeopardy will be seeding these 3 players directly into the semi-finals:

    •    Amy Schneider
    •    Matt Amodio
    •    Mattea Roach

Davies’ rationale for this is that these 3 players are so far ahead of the rest of the field that they felt it would be unbalanced to put them in a first seed bracket (quarter-finals).

TOURNAMENT FORMAT

    •    6 Quarter-Final games
    •    Winner of each QF advances to the Semi-Finals
    •    3 seeded players added to SF bracket
    •    9 SFs will play 3 different games
    •    3 SF winners will play the final match.

THE FINAL MATCH

The 3 finalists will play a **first to three games** matchup, a la the 2019 “GOAT” tournament with Ken, James, and Brad.  This would take as few as 3 days, and as many as 7 days.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: GameShowKid on August 15, 2022, 09:43:54 PM
Interesting, but I am not a fan of changing the TOC format after ALL of these years. And seeding gives an advantage I don't think is fair.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: urbanpreppie0004 on August 15, 2022, 09:57:05 PM
Sometimes a change is needed...and I think giving Amy, Matt and Mattea automatic make sense as we are in a new era, simply put, of super champs.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: GameShowKid on August 15, 2022, 10:04:52 PM
Sometimes a change is needed...and I think giving Amy, Matt and Mattea automatic make sense as we are in a new era, simply put, of super champs.
But if they are "super champs", why do they need a bye into the semi-finals?
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: urbanpreppie0004 on August 15, 2022, 10:08:19 PM
Because we already KNOW how they play. We all do. They are, simply put, forces not to be messed with and could easily knock out any competition. Its very, very likely we would see the three of them in the finals, but at least now the other champs will get a fighting chance.

Someone made a good point that the new format also kinda/sorta ignores Nov sweeps and builds anticipation in an increasingly competitive world.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: GameShowKid on August 15, 2022, 10:12:52 PM
Because we already KNOW how they play. We all do. They are, simply put, forces not to be messed with and could easily knock out any competition. Its very, very likely we would see the three of them in the finals, but at least now the other champs will get a fighting chance.
Easily knock out any competition? They all have lost to someone else.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: urbanpreppie0004 on August 15, 2022, 10:16:28 PM
Yeah, after 38, 40, and 23 games.  One game, after months (maybe even a year, I think) of prep and anticipation will make them even more ready to play- and win.

Amy, Matt, Mattea, are different than most champions. Throwing them in any preliminary game is asking for a runaway game when, tbh, people were getting a little fatigued with the super champs as it is. This is a good move and not "change for the sake of change".
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: SeaBreeze341 on August 15, 2022, 11:08:09 PM
You know what?  I actually like this format.  While I grew up with the wild card version of a tournament, the first round byes for those three are fair enough.  I guess it decreases the chance for a pre-finals upset, but I respect a tournament where you actually have to win every game to advance
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: PatrickRox80 on August 16, 2022, 01:57:20 PM
As accustomed as I am to the traditional ToC format, it is time for a change. The main issue I had with the past few tournaments was the qualifying period. It used to be over a year, and towards the end of Trebek's tenure it got to be double that. The longer it got, the lower chance a four-time winner had at getting invited. It's glad to see they're increasing the playing field to accommodate the qualifying period this time.

Giving Matt, Amy and Mattea first round byes and removing wild cards makes the quarterfinal matches more competitive. The latter will give players more of an incentive to win. It'll be exciting to see in action.

Has it been announced yet what the prizes will be for this upcoming tournament and the Second Chance games? I'm thinking a $50,000 minimum for each Second Chance winner, considering that they'll use the two-day final format. It wouldn't surprise me if they upped the ToC grand prize to $500,000, although $250,000 is still a nice chunk of change.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: imhomerjay on August 17, 2022, 10:54:29 AM
These all have the potential to be great tweaks. Becoming stale because “we’ve always done it that way” is a terrible rationale.

And if in execution something falls flat, they revisit and revise as needed.
Title: Re: Jeopardy! Post-Alex Discussion Post
Post by: jude_este on August 23, 2022, 04:56:54 PM
Sarah & Buzzy Cohen answered some questions about the scheduling of the upcoming Tournament of Champions from this week’s podcast.
And as for the upcoming Celebrity Jeopardy! spinoff on ABC, according to this (https://ew.com/tv/celebrity-jeopardy-contestants-simu-liu-michael-cera/) article from Entertainment Weekly, Aisha Tyler, Constance Wu, and B.J. Novak are among the nine initial celebrities competing. And as for the show’s format, an article (https://i.ibb.co/JHXMWVk/IMG-8009.jpg) from TV Guide mentions it is a tournament.