Alex Trebek revealed that he’d been diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer on Wednesday, and within hours well wishes poured in from the “Jeopardy!” host’s friends, fans and acquaintances on social media.
“The Sajak family is deeply saddened to hear of Alex Trebek’s struggle with cancer,” wrote Trebek’s fellow game-show host Pat Sajak. “Our hearts go out to him and his family. But there is no one I know who is stronger and more determined, and I would never bet against him. We, and the entire country, are pulling for you, Alex.”
“I’ve said this before but Alex Trebek is in a way the last Cronkite: authoritative, reassuring TV voice you hear every night, almost to the point of ritual,” said “Jeopardy!” champion Ken Jennings. “One thing I know for a fact: Alex is very aware of how much he means to millions of people, and how we will be pulling for him…I hope that’s a comfort.”
Trebek announced his diagnosis in a video shared on the show’s social media accounts, saying that he was counting on the support of “Jeopardy!” fans in his fight against the cancer.
“Normally, the prognosis for this is not very encouraging, but I’m going to fight this, and I’m going to keep working … I plan to beat the low survival rate statistics for this disease,” he said, joking that he had no choice but to recover because his contract on the show runs for another three years.
According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate of Stage 4 pancreatic cancer is around three percent.
Mike Hopkins, chairman of Sony Pictures Television, which produces Trebek’s show, issued his own statement of support for Trebek on Wednesday.
“If anyone can beat this it’s Alex,” Hopkins said in a statement. “He has our full support as he tackles this challenge head-on.”
https://twitter.com/patsajak/status/1103418697270681600
One thing I know for a fact: Alex is very aware of how much he means to millions of people, and how we will be pulling for him…I hope that’s a comfort.
— Ken Jennings (@KenJennings) March 6, 2019
Bless this excellent human https://t.co/uSWgAXCabx
— Andy Richter (@AndyRichter) March 6, 2019
Heartbroken to hear the news about Alex Trebek. Sending him and his wife Jean love and strength. 2 selfless beautiful people.
— Ed Asner (@TheOnlyEdAsner) March 7, 2019
Just saw a video from @Jeopardy Host Alex Trebek….announcing he has Pancreatic Cancer. @Jeopardy was my Momma’s favorite show ever. Saddened right now. Just wanted to extend my thoughts and prayers to Trebek, wishing him all the best.#DontEverGiveUp!
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) March 6, 2019
Answer: Who can beat a lousy diagnosis? Question: Who is Alex Trebek?
We, your family, are sending love and standing with you, Alex. God keep you strong. WIN ❤️ pic.twitter.com/8toWHJkDOV— Nancy Sinatra (@NancySinatra) March 7, 2019
I always sit next to Alex Trebek for Wednesday night poker and I’ve never seen him lose. #BeatCancer https://t.co/KgbJZQb3ZD
— Tom Arnold (@TomArnold) March 7, 2019
Prayers for Alex Trebek. FIGHT ON!! https://t.co/IFGITpfZFa
— O’Shea Jack(Nichol)son (@OsheaJacksonJr) March 7, 2019
I'm saddened to hear about Alex Trebek's stage 4 pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Stay strong, friend. ❤️ https://t.co/oi3RvVZVCQ
— Dr. Mehmet Oz (@DrOz) March 6, 2019