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Alex Trebek’s ‘permanent replacement’ on Jeopardy has viewers asking one question: “Who is he?”

Alex Trebek’s ‘permanent replacement’ on Jeopardy has viewers asking one question: “Who is he?”

Who is Mike Richards? According to Variety, he’s the new host of “Jeopardy,” currently in “advanced negotiations” with Sony Pictures Television regarding the role. The only problem? Nobody knows who he is, and “Jeopardy!” fans are far from pleased.

Assuming Variety’s report is accurate, Mike Richards feels off-brand for the iconic show. “Jeopardy!” is especially known for featuring high-profile guest-hosts, including LeVar Burton (a fan favourite), Katie Couric, Anderson Cooper, Aaron Rodgers, Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos, Ken Jennings, Savannah Guthrie, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Mayim Bialik, Dr. Oz, and many more. Fans are wondering: Why not go with one of them?

Sony’s decision remains unclear, though it’s worth noting that Richards so happens to serve as executive producer on “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune,” which may have had something to do with the seemingly strange selection. That said, the elusive Mike Richards does actually have experience in the field, as he’s hosted reality shows “High School Reunion,” which ran for six seasons, and “Beauty and the Geek,” which ran for five. So it’s not like he’s coming out of nowhere.

Still, based off of Twitter’s response, “Jeopardy!” fans have no clue who Mike Richards is — or, more importantly, why he was chosen over the numerous other options.

Viewers have specifically expressed disappointment in LeVar Burton having not made the cut, when he felt like an obvious choice.

While many fans are disappointed, we can’t help but note how fitting it is that “Jeopardy!” has everyone responding with a question. Alex Trebek would probably be proud.

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