Who Will Replace Alex Trebek On 'Jeopardy!'? Ken Jennings Has Competition

“Jeopardy!” continues its search for a permanent host. The long-running quiz show has been in the spotlight since the recent death of Alex Trebek, the revered host for 36 years.

Trebek, who died on Nov. 9 at age 80, had been part of a team that sought to replace him when he decided to retire. Until the new host is chosen, there’ll be a line of interim guest hosts, like Ken Jennings, a former contestant.

Here’s a list of familiar faces that could be following in Trebek’s footsteps in the new future:

LeVar Burton

The actor has been a front runner since interim hosts were announced and with many fans pulling for him on social media. He is known for hosting “Reading Rainbow” and for his role on “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” There’s a petition with over 100,000 signatures to get Burton to be the permanent host.

Alex Faust

The Los Angeles-based sportscaster was name-dropped by Trebek a few times over the years, E! noted. Faust, who is 31 and is the play-by-play voice for the Los Angeles Kings, reportedly showed interest in the position when Trebek mentioned him to producers.

Anderson Cooper

Cooper wears many hats. He’s been a television journalist and a talk show host for many years. In 2014, an email was revealed that he was a top contender to take Trebek’s spot.

Laura Coates

The CNN legal analyst was named as a potential candidate in July 2018. She hosts a radio talk show, is an attorney and law professor at George Washington University.

George Stephanopoulos

The “Good Morning America” anchor had stated in May that he would love to take over Trebek’s role. It's unclear if Stephanopoulos would be able to juggle both the quiz show and his duties with "GMA."

Betty White

In 2018, Trebek mentioned White’s name first, though it is highly unlikely she will be picked. The famed actor is 98 years old. Trebek reportedly wanted the producers to consider a female host and one who is young, personable, bright and funny.

Ken Jennings

Jennings was named the first guest interim host. He is the longest-running winner, spending 74 weeks as the reigning champion. Jennings has been the subject of controversy over his tweets. In September 2014, he posted: "Nothing sadder than a hot person in a wheelchair." In November 2015, he posted a joke about a lifelong "Star Wars" fan who died of cancer.