If “Jeopardy” fans have any say, Mike Richards will soon move from executive producing the iconic game show to hosting it. He took over after Ken Jennings completed his six-week stint – and the fans are into it.
“Can Mike Richards’ name be tossed into the hat for new host? EP and guest host tonight. Nice voice, easy on the eyes, has charm," one fan tweeted. Another said, “I think ‘Jeopardy’ can stop looking Alex Trebek’s replacement because their executive producer/temporary host – Mike Richards – is a FOX!!! I don’t wanna look at anyone else…” Some fans said that he was perfect because he’s not a celebrity.
Apparently Mike – who also produces “Wheel of Fortune” – had no idea that he’d be hosting until three days before. “I had not prepared myself to host in the way that I know other guest hosts are,” he told USA Today. “So there was just a lot to unpack. Plus, I also only owned one suit, so there was a little bit of scrambling there.”
Several others still have to take their turns at the lectern – Katie Couric will take over hosting duties on March 8th, followed by Dr. Oz on March 22nd, and Aaron Rodgers on April 5th. Anderson Cooper, Savannah Guthrie, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Bill Whitaker, and Mayim Bialik have also been announced as future guests hosts. While some of these will be considered for the permanent slot, no decision will be made before the 38thseason starts in September.