Alex Trebek: Heartwarming clip of Jeopardy! contestant tearfully thanking host resurfaces amid tributes

Quiz show host died aged 80 on Sunday (8 November) following a pancreatic cancer diagnosis

An emotional Jeopardy! clip has resurfaced amid tributes to Alex Trebek, the beloved US quiz show host who died on Sunday (8 November).

During an episode of Jeopardy! which aired just three days prior to Trebek’s death, one contestant had the chance to personally thank the presenter for his contribution to TV using a touching personal story.

In the video, after project engineer Burt Thakur wins the episode, Trebek asks him the standard question: “Any family members back home cheering you on?”

Thakur visibly tears up as he answers: “You know, here’s a true story. I learned English because of you. My grandfather who raised me – I’m gonna get tears right now – I used to sit on his lap and watch you every day.”

Wiping his eyes, he added: “So it’s a pretty special moment for me. Thank you very much.”

The official Twitter account for Jeopardy! shared a brief clip of the moment from Thursday’s episode (5 November) the following day.

The video – which has now received nearly 95,000 likes – was accompanied by a caption, reading: “Alex’s impact is immeasurable. Thank you for sharing, Burt!”

The Canadian-born presenter died aged 80 following a pancreatic cancer diagnosis. He died surrounded by friends and family at his California home, a spokesperson said.

Tributes have since flooded in for Trebek, including from Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, Armie Hammer, Academy award-winning actor Viola Davis, and singer Charlie Puth.