Ken Jennings has finally broken his silence. He’s spoken out about Mayim Bialik’s departure from “Jeopardy!” for the first time.
“I was taken aback,” he confessed. Jennings had enjoyed working with Bialik and admitted he’ll miss her. He shared these sentiments with the Hollywood Reporter in a story published on Tuesday.
Jennings couldn’t comment on Bialik’s decision-making process or her thoughts about the firing. But he did share his feelings about stepping into the full-time host role. Bialik had co-hosted the syndicated game show with him since the previous year before her recent ousting.
“I’m just a fan of ‘Jeopardy!’ and always thrilled to host when they call on me,” he expressed. He felt incredibly fortunate to have even been considered for this role, despite not being a broadcaster.
Jennings, now 49, first made his mark on “Jeopardy!” as a contestant. He debuted in 2004 and won 74 consecutive games, setting the record for the show’s longest winning streak.
“It’s a bit odd to bring back an ex-contestant to host,” he admitted. He’s been learning on the job, but he loved growing up with “Jeopardy!” where Alex Trebek was the host for almost 38 years.
Jennings hopes to follow in Trebek’s footsteps and host the series for “37 more years.” Meanwhile, Bialik, 48, announced on Instagram on Dec. 15 that she would not be returning as Jennings’ co-host.
“As the holiday break begins in Hollywood, I have some ‘Jeopardy!’ news. Sony has informed me that I will no longer be hosting the syndicated version of ‘Jeopardy!'” she wrote.
Bialik expressed gratitude for the opportunity and felt honored to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy. She thanked everyone who supported her through this journey, including the fans, contestants, writers, staff, and crew of America’s Favorite Quiz Show.
The hosting gig for “Jeopardy!” was uncertain after Trebek died from pancreatic cancer in November 2020. Several guest hosts, including Robin Roberts and Katie Couric, temporarily took over before the series announced its executive producer Mike Richards would host.
However, Richards resigned just a few weeks later due to past controversial comments resurfacing. That’s when Jennings and Bialik were announced as co-hosts.