‘Jeopardy!’ Host Alex Trebek Announces He Has Pancreatic Cancer
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Sean Dennison
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- Alex Trebek of “Jeopardy!” fame announced that he has stage 4 pancreatic cancer on March 6.
- The iconic quiz show host plans to continue working in spite of his prognosis.
- Trebek’s net worth is around $50 million.
Longtime “Jeopardy!” host Alex Trebek announced he has stage 4 pancreatic cancer on March 6. Trebek has hosted the game show since 1984 — you can probably hear the “Jeopardy!” theme song in your head right now — and despite having cancer, he has no plans to stop now.
“Now normally, the prognosis for this is not very encouraging, but I’m going to fight this, and I’m going to keep working,” Trebek said in the video where he shared his story.
The announcement prompted an outpouring of support across social media.
https://twitter.com/adamcbest/status/1103447390470705154
Keep reading to see what the beloved game show host is worth.
- Birthdate: July 22, 1940
- Net worth: $50 million
- Source of income: “Jeopardy!” salary
- Career highlight: Host of iconic game show since 1984
Alex Trebek Net Worth: $50 Million
Alex Trebek is worth $50 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. As the host of one of the most popular game shows for more than 30 years, Trebek also commands a big salary, which is reported to be at least $10 million as of 2015, according to CNN. His earnings far exceed the winnings of most “Jeopardy!” contestants. Most people walk away from the show a few thousand dollars richer, or with nothing at all. Given that “Jeopardy!” questions can cover anything from modern pop culture to niche classics knowledge, it takes a true quiz whiz to make bank on this show.
But “Jeopardy!” certainly rewards the more dedicated game show contestants. In a 2014 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Trebek mentioned that winners in the big tournaments have won up to $2 million. Trivia wunderkind Ken Jennings, arguably the show’s most famous contestant, made $3.27 million from his winnings on the show.
Read: Alex Trebek and 29 Other Richest Stars Over 70
What Is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer begins in the pancreas but can spread to other nearby organs. Only about 1.6 percent of people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at some point in their lives, according to the National Cancer Institute. However, it accounts for 7.3 percent of all cancer-related deaths. Signs of pancreatic cancer include jaundice, dark urine, weight loss for unknown reasons and pain in the upper or middle abdomen and back.
Find Out: 13 Ways to Survive Rising Healthcare Costs
Trebek’s age and the disease’s severity make his situation more dire. But in his announcement video, Trebek said, “I’m going to fight this, and I’m going to keep working.” He added: “Truth told, I have to, because under the terms of my contract, I have to host ‘Jeopardy!’ for three more years!”
Read on to find out 15 inexpensive ways to invest in your health.
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