It just makes sense
April 10, 2021 11:35 AM Subscribe
It's interesting how many actors create projects for themselves. I just read an interview with Bob Odenkirk, who realized that action movies have international appeal and spent two and a half years turning himself into an action hero while pitching movie ideas. I don't even know what I'm doing next week.
posted by mecran01 at 11:50 AM on April 10, 2021 [12 favorites]
posted by mecran01 at 11:50 AM on April 10, 2021 [12 favorites]
Does it count as eponysterical if your username reads as "Alex not found"? Too soon?
posted by pulposus at 11:54 AM on April 10, 2021 [38 favorites]
posted by pulposus at 11:54 AM on April 10, 2021 [38 favorites]
It's interesting how many actors create projects for themselves. I just read an interview with Bob Odenkirk, who realized that action movies have international appeal and spent two and a half years turning himself into an action hero while pitching movie ideas. I don't even know what I'm doing next week.
I also don’t know what I’m doing next week, but -at least in my corner of the world- I do kind of feel like I’m drowning in that sort of narrative: think multiple projects down the round, think how your current job is building your resume for the next job, etc. etc. So I think that narrative is there - it just maybe doesn’t have such dramatic impacts on our futures. If I get a new job, it’s probably the same wage. If Bob Odenkirk becomes an international film star, that’s a lot of paydays. (Ditto if LeVar Burton becomes the next host of Jeopardy, plus a sudden late career resurgence as something other than an elder statesman of acting. I do think he’s the obvious choice for the job, though.)
posted by Going To Maine at 12:01 PM on April 10, 2021 [1 favorite]
I also don’t know what I’m doing next week, but -at least in my corner of the world- I do kind of feel like I’m drowning in that sort of narrative: think multiple projects down the round, think how your current job is building your resume for the next job, etc. etc. So I think that narrative is there - it just maybe doesn’t have such dramatic impacts on our futures. If I get a new job, it’s probably the same wage. If Bob Odenkirk becomes an international film star, that’s a lot of paydays. (Ditto if LeVar Burton becomes the next host of Jeopardy, plus a sudden late career resurgence as something other than an elder statesman of acting. I do think he’s the obvious choice for the job, though.)
posted by Going To Maine at 12:01 PM on April 10, 2021 [1 favorite]
Neat! I love LeVar Burton. I'd vote for him for anything one can vote for. (Not 'cause I have reason to expect that he's qualified for most of them, but because he's smart, kind, and famous enough to hire very qualified people and listen to them.)
I don't really know much about Jeopardy. I've seen one or two shows. It kind of seems like a step down from the work he's famous for. (All respect to those who love it. I don't get the appeal. But, that's okay. There are many good things I don't understand.) But, I'm absolutely on board. I suspect people like me are not the target audience, but this might convince me to watch the show.
I'm also very curious to see if this works. It seems like a win-win situation for the network. Here's hoping we get more than a TOS season 3 out of the campaign. (Though, even that would be pretty cool.)
posted by eotvos at 12:14 PM on April 10, 2021 [1 favorite]
I don't really know much about Jeopardy. I've seen one or two shows. It kind of seems like a step down from the work he's famous for. (All respect to those who love it. I don't get the appeal. But, that's okay. There are many good things I don't understand.) But, I'm absolutely on board. I suspect people like me are not the target audience, but this might convince me to watch the show.
I'm also very curious to see if this works. It seems like a win-win situation for the network. Here's hoping we get more than a TOS season 3 out of the campaign. (Though, even that would be pretty cool.)
posted by eotvos at 12:14 PM on April 10, 2021 [1 favorite]
As a signer, I hope he gets the nod, if he wants it.
posted by They sucked his brains out! at 12:26 PM on April 10, 2021
posted by They sucked his brains out! at 12:26 PM on April 10, 2021
The one thing about LeVar Burton hosting Jeopardy! - and to be clear, I think he'd be excellent at it - is that Burton has a lot of side interests and Jeopardy! more or less demands that it becomes Your Job, it is The Thing You Do. Maybe Burton could coordinate additional Reading Rainbow work along with hosting Jeopardy!, but that is about it.
If he's on board for that, then hell yes. Otherwise, give it to Ken Jennings, who was superbly comfortable as host.
posted by mightygodking at 12:27 PM on April 10, 2021 [2 favorites]
If he's on board for that, then hell yes. Otherwise, give it to Ken Jennings, who was superbly comfortable as host.
posted by mightygodking at 12:27 PM on April 10, 2021 [2 favorites]
Otherwise, give it to Ken Jennings, who was superbly comfortable as host.
No. No no no no no. I'm sorry but you don't get to be an inoffensive friend to everyone when you double down on defending your extremely racist, homophobic, and anti-semitic co-host and then CONTINUE TO WORK WITH HIM TO THIS DAY.
posted by Your Childhood Pet Rock at 12:35 PM on April 10, 2021 [55 favorites]
No. No no no no no. I'm sorry but you don't get to be an inoffensive friend to everyone when you double down on defending your extremely racist, homophobic, and anti-semitic co-host and then CONTINUE TO WORK WITH HIM TO THIS DAY.
posted by Your Childhood Pet Rock at 12:35 PM on April 10, 2021 [55 favorites]
The fact that the producers have not only seemingly never given this groundswell of support for Burton a second thought, but have put people like Dr. Oz behind the podium, makes me question my decades-long fandom of Jeopardy!
posted by ob1quixote at 12:53 PM on April 10, 2021 [42 favorites]
posted by ob1quixote at 12:53 PM on April 10, 2021 [42 favorites]
The fact that the producers have not only seemingly never given this groundswell of support for Burton a second though, but have put people like Dr. Oz behind the podium, makes me question my decades-long fandom of Jeopardy!
I haven't been able to sit down and watch Jeopardy! since Alex Trebek died, but I'd watch Levar Burton.
posted by mikelieman at 12:56 PM on April 10, 2021 [13 favorites]
I haven't been able to sit down and watch Jeopardy! since Alex Trebek died, but I'd watch Levar Burton.
posted by mikelieman at 12:56 PM on April 10, 2021 [13 favorites]
The dr oz thing was painful to watch.
Actually, all the ones I've seen (possibly not the full retinue) have been more impressed with themselves for being host than is tolerable. Alex was good at not doing that.
posted by mightshould at 1:28 PM on April 10, 2021 [6 favorites]
Actually, all the ones I've seen (possibly not the full retinue) have been more impressed with themselves for being host than is tolerable. Alex was good at not doing that.
posted by mightshould at 1:28 PM on April 10, 2021 [6 favorites]
I’d certainly watch Burton in a heartbeat, but I’m also enjoying the guest hosts a whole lot. I’m really looking forward to Mayim Bialik’s turn in a few weeks.
It will be a tricky thing replacing Trebek. Hiring a celebrity might have the effect of making Jeopardy “their show” rather than them being Jeopardy’s host. Ultimately, we have no insight into what’s going on in the background. They may well be auditioning potential hosts as we speak. Hell, Burton might actually be considered. I kind of doubt the producers are going to make any public statements, one way or another, until a deal is done and contracts signed.
posted by Thorzdad at 1:32 PM on April 10, 2021
It will be a tricky thing replacing Trebek. Hiring a celebrity might have the effect of making Jeopardy “their show” rather than them being Jeopardy’s host. Ultimately, we have no insight into what’s going on in the background. They may well be auditioning potential hosts as we speak. Hell, Burton might actually be considered. I kind of doubt the producers are going to make any public statements, one way or another, until a deal is done and contracts signed.
posted by Thorzdad at 1:32 PM on April 10, 2021
Guest hosts so far have been Ken Jennings, Mike Richards (the show runner), Katie Couric, Dr. Oz, and currently Aaron Rodgers. There are like 3-4 more on the schedule to do 2-week stints.
Rodgers has pointed out that they film Jeopardy like 40-something days a year, and he only does NFL stuff like 180-something days a year, so he could do both. I’m sure they can work with Burton’s schedule, too (and/or vice versa).
posted by Huffy Puffy at 1:34 PM on April 10, 2021 [2 favorites]
Rodgers has pointed out that they film Jeopardy like 40-something days a year, and he only does NFL stuff like 180-something days a year, so he could do both. I’m sure they can work with Burton’s schedule, too (and/or vice versa).
posted by Huffy Puffy at 1:34 PM on April 10, 2021 [2 favorites]
I'm cool with Lavar as host so long as Lavar Burton Reads continues forever. It is one of the brightest spots in a dark dark world. Fantastic for introducing me to awesome authors, Burton's analysis and reflections on life, emphasizing the healing nature of deep breaths, and also great for falling asleep to, when that's what I need.
posted by kaibutsu at 1:48 PM on April 10, 2021 [9 favorites]
posted by kaibutsu at 1:48 PM on April 10, 2021 [9 favorites]
I feel like a certain amount of gravitas is necessary to be successful in the role so I had been thinking the eventual host should some experience with news broadcasting. On the other hand, Katie Couric was only fine, but not quite right. My initial thought has been someone like Don Lemon who has the right charisma, but Burton would fit the bill too. I'd love to see another round of guest hosts with him in the mix.
posted by stopgap at 2:16 PM on April 10, 2021
posted by stopgap at 2:16 PM on April 10, 2021
List of guest hosts scheduled so far.
Upcoming:
Anderson Cooper
Bill Whitaker
Mayim Bialik
Savannah Guthrie
Sanjay Gupta
posted by Huffy Puffy at 2:26 PM on April 10, 2021
Upcoming:
Anderson Cooper
Bill Whitaker
Mayim Bialik
Savannah Guthrie
Sanjay Gupta
posted by Huffy Puffy at 2:26 PM on April 10, 2021
I think it would be weird not to give Levar Burton a shot, given that they let Dr. Oz do it - who is both a charlatan and terrible as host. I hope they stick with guest hosts for at least a couple seasons honestly. The hosts seem to have a good time with it, the charity donations are nice, and no one in the audience (by which I of course mean only myself) is ready to permanently replace Trebek. I do wonder if the ratings have varied much by guest host. The Jeopardy!
twitter account was getting terrible comments about Couric, which perplexed me.
Of the hosts so far, I actually thought the producer was the best. I think picking a non-famous person with a broadcasting background is the way to go, but if they insist on a celebrity, Burton would be a good choice.
I hope they give one (or all) of the Clue Crew a chance.
posted by the primroses were over at 3:12 PM on April 10, 2021 [5 favorites]
twitter account was getting terrible comments about Couric, which perplexed me.
Of the hosts so far, I actually thought the producer was the best. I think picking a non-famous person with a broadcasting background is the way to go, but if they insist on a celebrity, Burton would be a good choice.
I hope they give one (or all) of the Clue Crew a chance.
posted by the primroses were over at 3:12 PM on April 10, 2021 [5 favorites]
I agree - the producer has been my favourite so far.
posted by Flashman at 3:45 PM on April 10, 2021 [1 favorite]
posted by Flashman at 3:45 PM on April 10, 2021 [1 favorite]
At the moment , Mike Richards is far and away the leader of the pack— he just has the energy, poise and friendliness that I want from my Jeopardy host.
I’d put Ken Jennings, Katie Couric and Aaron Rodgers in the next tier...
(So basically anyone except Dr Oz)
Looking forward to more guest hosts- and hope to see Levar Burton soon!
posted by calgirl at 4:21 PM on April 10, 2021 [1 favorite]
I’d put Ken Jennings, Katie Couric and Aaron Rodgers in the next tier...
(So basically anyone except Dr Oz)
Looking forward to more guest hosts- and hope to see Levar Burton soon!
posted by calgirl at 4:21 PM on April 10, 2021 [1 favorite]
I know there are at least a few former Jeopardy champs knocking around Metafilter — it would be interesting to get their take, as I know the Jeopardy community of alumni have been very invested in this transition.
Much as I love Ken Jennings, I just don’t think he has The Pipes for the job. When I first heard him host, my enthusiasm quickly waned. He has the stage presence, intelligence , and repoire with the contestants but not a fluid, relaxing sound.
It really pains me to say that.
Dr. Oz was awful. Full stop. Let’s never mention him again, m’kay?
Katie Couric’s skills just don’t work in the Jeopardy venue. I don’t know why, as I think she’s a top-notch broadcaster.
I’m really, really intrigued by Aaron Rogers. I need to see one of his shows, though, to have an informed opinion. Right now, I’m just basing it on his obvious intellect and humor. Oh, and I grew up a Green Bay Packers fan.
All that being said, though, the moment I first heard the suggestion of Levar Burton, I knew that was the right choice. I’d be shocked if they let him try out and he didn’t earn the full-time job.
posted by Big Al 8000 at 4:42 PM on April 10, 2021
Much as I love Ken Jennings, I just don’t think he has The Pipes for the job. When I first heard him host, my enthusiasm quickly waned. He has the stage presence, intelligence , and repoire with the contestants but not a fluid, relaxing sound.
It really pains me to say that.
Dr. Oz was awful. Full stop. Let’s never mention him again, m’kay?
Katie Couric’s skills just don’t work in the Jeopardy venue. I don’t know why, as I think she’s a top-notch broadcaster.
I’m really, really intrigued by Aaron Rogers. I need to see one of his shows, though, to have an informed opinion. Right now, I’m just basing it on his obvious intellect and humor. Oh, and I grew up a Green Bay Packers fan.
All that being said, though, the moment I first heard the suggestion of Levar Burton, I knew that was the right choice. I’d be shocked if they let him try out and he didn’t earn the full-time job.
posted by Big Al 8000 at 4:42 PM on April 10, 2021
Well, if Burton wants it, who are we to deny him? We owe him.
posted by Capt. Renault at 4:58 PM on April 10, 2021 [2 favorites]
posted by Capt. Renault at 4:58 PM on April 10, 2021 [2 favorites]
Of the revolving cast of guest hosts, I've only seen Ken Jennings and Katie Couric so far, and thought Jennings was fine (though the Roderick stuff will and probably should keep him from getting the job) and that Couric was very good. Let's be real, though - this should be LeVar Burton's show now. It just makes sense.
posted by Navelgazer at 5:05 PM on April 10, 2021
posted by Navelgazer at 5:05 PM on April 10, 2021
I've been following with some interest, as a longtime Jeopardy fan (to date have never made the cut to actually be on the show, unfortunately). I thought Ken Jennings and Katie Couric did alright - I thought Jennings in particular had good rapport with the contestants. Mike Richards was my favorite to date but was not a fan of Dr. Oz tbh. I've been reasonably impressed with Aaron Rogers, although as a lifelong Bears fan Mrs. Photo Guy does not share my enthusiasm.
Upcoming:
Anderson Cooper
Bill Whitaker
Mayim Bialik
Savannah Guthrie
Sanjay Gupta
Interesting lineup. The reporters in particular might be a good match - I agree with the upthread comment that it seems like they might have the right personality/gravitas for the role.
That being said, I'm wholeheartedly on board with Levar Burton, if he is interested in doing it - here's hoping it happens.
posted by photo guy at 5:51 PM on April 10, 2021
Upcoming:
Anderson Cooper
Bill Whitaker
Mayim Bialik
Savannah Guthrie
Sanjay Gupta
Interesting lineup. The reporters in particular might be a good match - I agree with the upthread comment that it seems like they might have the right personality/gravitas for the role.
That being said, I'm wholeheartedly on board with Levar Burton, if he is interested in doing it - here's hoping it happens.
posted by photo guy at 5:51 PM on April 10, 2021
I’m really, really intrigued by Aaron Rogers. I need to see one of his shows, though, to have an informed opinion. Right now, I’m just basing it on his obvious intellect and humor. Oh, and I grew up a Green Bay Packers fan.
I’m enjoying Rodgers, too. Laid back. Almost kind of a regular guy. Great voice. By the end of the week, he was a lot more comfortable in the job than he was Monday. He seemed to blend into the show.
He’s probably my favorite so far. He doesn’t bring the hype that Dr. Oz and the show’s producer did, and I think that’s a good thing. And, yeah, he has a nice mellow voice, which really works for this show.
I agree that Jennings doesn’t have the pipes or presence for the job. He’s a consulting producer for the show, and I hope that doesn’t give him an inside track to the job.
posted by Thorzdad at 6:30 PM on April 10, 2021
I’m enjoying Rodgers, too. Laid back. Almost kind of a regular guy. Great voice. By the end of the week, he was a lot more comfortable in the job than he was Monday. He seemed to blend into the show.
He’s probably my favorite so far. He doesn’t bring the hype that Dr. Oz and the show’s producer did, and I think that’s a good thing. And, yeah, he has a nice mellow voice, which really works for this show.
I agree that Jennings doesn’t have the pipes or presence for the job. He’s a consulting producer for the show, and I hope that doesn’t give him an inside track to the job.
posted by Thorzdad at 6:30 PM on April 10, 2021
People are resisting the idea of Jeopardi La Forge? How?
posted by Insert Clever Name Here at 6:38 PM on April 10, 2021 [13 favorites]
posted by Insert Clever Name Here at 6:38 PM on April 10, 2021 [13 favorites]
I have fond memories of Anderson Cooper from "The Mole" and I hope he does well in this role. He seems to have the right blend of compassion and snarkiness that Trebek had.
I also agree that they should hire a non-celebrity broadcasting person for the role - the show doesn't need a celebrity host to keep you interested, it's about the game.
posted by mogget at 6:49 PM on April 10, 2021
I also agree that they should hire a non-celebrity broadcasting person for the role - the show doesn't need a celebrity host to keep you interested, it's about the game.
posted by mogget at 6:49 PM on April 10, 2021
I'm still surprised that Celebrity Jeopardy champion Cheech Marin hasn't taken a turn at the podium. I hope someone asks him.
Also, two thumbs up for LeVar Burton.
posted by RakDaddy at 8:29 PM on April 10, 2021
Also, two thumbs up for LeVar Burton.
posted by RakDaddy at 8:29 PM on April 10, 2021
I'm still surprised that Celebrity Jeopardy champion Cheech Marin hasn't taken a turn at the podium. I hope someone asks him.
Cheech is in his mid-70s and may not be looking for a job. His turn as a contestant was very memorable, though.
Which brings me to the one downside that I’ve heard mentioned about Levar Burton — he’s 64 and in always age-conscious show biz there’s concern about him connecting with the right audience demographic.
posted by Big Al 8000 at 9:03 PM on April 10, 2021 [2 favorites]
Cheech is in his mid-70s and may not be looking for a job. His turn as a contestant was very memorable, though.
Which brings me to the one downside that I’ve heard mentioned about Levar Burton — he’s 64 and in always age-conscious show biz there’s concern about him connecting with the right audience demographic.
posted by Big Al 8000 at 9:03 PM on April 10, 2021 [2 favorites]
Levar Burton is 64? What is happening...
posted by Windopaene at 9:48 PM on April 10, 2021 [10 favorites]
posted by Windopaene at 9:48 PM on April 10, 2021 [10 favorites]
As a viewer I feel like the most important thing about the host is getting the timing right, moving the game forward at the right speed. Ken Jennings and Mike Richards both got it spot on, no doubt from having spent so much time immersed in the show. Ken Jennings had a bit more character and friendliness, Mike Richards was more transparent and had a better voice. Katie Couric never seemed to settle into it properly (which since the two weeks on air translate to two days in-studio is not surprising, but I just got the sense she had never even watched the show much.) Dr. Oz was terrible, though I don't know if I was just prejudiced against his hosting because he's a terrible person. Aaron Rodgers is doing better than I expected but doesn't have it exactly right, it's probably a matter of milliseconds, but he just spends too much time per question saying stuff like "That...is correct" or to an answer of "Who is Stevenson?" responding "Yes, Robert Louis Stevenson". Like you can do that twice an episode or so, but mostly you need to just keep it moving forward. I have enough positive regard for LeVar Burton left over from "Reading Rainbow" and ST:TNG that I'd like to see him get a shot. As for the age of the host being a thing, I'm 49 and I think I'm on the younger end of the viewing demographic, at least based on the products that are advertising sponsors (diabetes drugs, cancer drugs, anti-aging vitamin supplements, cell phone plans for seniors.)
posted by Daily Alice at 5:34 AM on April 11, 2021 [6 favorites]
posted by Daily Alice at 5:34 AM on April 11, 2021 [6 favorites]
The whole business of having celebs host Jeopardy is for ratings and buying time. It will work best if there's some solid distance between Trebek and his successor. Trebek was incredibly low-key, his personality seemed calm and low-key in real life, and he limited how much of himself was on display. In addition to him being a genuinely nice guy, this strategy was incredibly successful. Dr. Oz is just horrible, and would try to use the position to make money; he would be awful, and I can't imagine he'd be actually considered. Hate for him is good for ratings, though.
Before Trebek, there was Art Fleming, who had a more game-show liveliness. The show was cancelled in 1975, revived by shrewd businessman and talk show host Merv Griffin.
I'd like the next host to be as chill as Trebek. The timing is a matter of practice; any professional will get pretty good at it. I'll be kind of surprised if it's Burton, because the entertainment industry values youth above almost anything. Burton would be good, he has a lot of fans, and like others, I have affection for him from Star Trek and Reading Rainbow, so I hope I'm wrong.
posted by theora55 at 6:40 AM on April 11, 2021
Before Trebek, there was Art Fleming, who had a more game-show liveliness. The show was cancelled in 1975, revived by shrewd businessman and talk show host Merv Griffin.
I'd like the next host to be as chill as Trebek. The timing is a matter of practice; any professional will get pretty good at it. I'll be kind of surprised if it's Burton, because the entertainment industry values youth above almost anything. Burton would be good, he has a lot of fans, and like others, I have affection for him from Star Trek and Reading Rainbow, so I hope I'm wrong.
posted by theora55 at 6:40 AM on April 11, 2021
Otherwise, give it to Ken Jennings, who was superbly comfortable as host.
Other than that podcast co-host issue, a huge problem with Ken Jennings as host is that he's a big figure in the US quiz bowl subculture, which means there are lot of quiz bowl people who are a major recruiting pool for Jeopardy! who could not be on the show, because they already know Ken personally and it would be a conflict of interest.
posted by jonp72 at 10:28 AM on April 11, 2021 [1 favorite]
Other than that podcast co-host issue, a huge problem with Ken Jennings as host is that he's a big figure in the US quiz bowl subculture, which means there are lot of quiz bowl people who are a major recruiting pool for Jeopardy! who could not be on the show, because they already know Ken personally and it would be a conflict of interest.
posted by jonp72 at 10:28 AM on April 11, 2021 [1 favorite]
It also looks like Jeopardy! is bending over backwards not to have the obvious Cool Black Guy candidate be the host. Aside from having the benefit of bringing a wider audience to Jeopardy! (and hopefully a more diverse contestant pool), white nerds have much more respect for Mr. Reading Rainbow and Mr. Star Trek over a jock like Aaron Rodgers or a quack like Dr. Oz.
posted by jonp72 at 10:31 AM on April 11, 2021
posted by jonp72 at 10:31 AM on April 11, 2021
I am from a large family of Jeopardy fans and recently started watching again almost every night (just got access to cable via a shared YouTube TV account). I love the guest host thing.
So far my favorite guest host was Mike Richards, but I am very excited about seeing how Mayim Bialik does (as a big Blossom fan from day 1).
I couldn't stand Dr. Oz so didn't watch much of his stint. Katie Couric was ok, but for some reason the questions during her time seemed extra hard so it wasn't as much fun to watch. Aaron Rodgers was clearly enjoying himself in the role, but it was a novelty and I could not imagine him doing it full time.
They definitely need to get Levar Burton on the list ASAP - he would be amazing. I do hope they keep on doing the guest thing for awhile. We all need time to move on from Trebek and the charity donations and novelty are nice.
posted by elvissa at 11:12 AM on April 11, 2021
So far my favorite guest host was Mike Richards, but I am very excited about seeing how Mayim Bialik does (as a big Blossom fan from day 1).
I couldn't stand Dr. Oz so didn't watch much of his stint. Katie Couric was ok, but for some reason the questions during her time seemed extra hard so it wasn't as much fun to watch. Aaron Rodgers was clearly enjoying himself in the role, but it was a novelty and I could not imagine him doing it full time.
They definitely need to get Levar Burton on the list ASAP - he would be amazing. I do hope they keep on doing the guest thing for awhile. We all need time to move on from Trebek and the charity donations and novelty are nice.
posted by elvissa at 11:12 AM on April 11, 2021
I'm not watching Jeopardy again unless they choose Levar Burton. He'd be so good.
posted by wowenthusiast at 12:31 PM on April 11, 2021 [1 favorite]
posted by wowenthusiast at 12:31 PM on April 11, 2021 [1 favorite]
There could be a whole host of reasons he’s not currently on the list that are back room business dealings we don’t know about. LeVar could have high fees, he might not be recognizable to viewers out of a narrow demographic and their current guest host situation could be bringing in incredible ratings. Aaron Rogers in particular probably pulls in a fresh demographic. What makes LeVar likable may simply be nostalgia. I mean I like him but know enough friends in show business to know really obvious things aren’t obvious. Sometimes they are but often there’s all kinds of legal stuff and simply things that seem like good fits are not.
posted by geoff. at 4:35 PM on April 11, 2021 [1 favorite]
posted by geoff. at 4:35 PM on April 11, 2021 [1 favorite]
For those who think his history started with Star Trek, there are those of us who will first and always remember him as Kunta Kinte in the stunning first iteration of Roots.
posted by etaoin at 4:39 PM on April 11, 2021 [5 favorites]
posted by etaoin at 4:39 PM on April 11, 2021 [5 favorites]
Not to mention, having a black host would change Jeopardy in small and big ways, just as Steve Harvey has done with Family Feud.
posted by etaoin at 4:41 PM on April 11, 2021 [1 favorite]
posted by etaoin at 4:41 PM on April 11, 2021 [1 favorite]
Skimmed comments and an obvious reference point, so sorry if already mentioned but in the '90s when the presenter of UK political panel show Have I Got News For You Angus Deayton fell afoul of circumstance and had to be replaced they made the role of presenter a rotating one each week, same as the second panellist on each team. Works pretty well (UK comdey panel shows skewing heavily male notwithstanding).
posted by I'm always feeling, Blue at 8:07 PM on April 11, 2021
posted by I'm always feeling, Blue at 8:07 PM on April 11, 2021
Uh, isn’t this called burying the lede-
Among other things, he points out how important the pursuit of education has been to his life: “The values that my family has established over time has been, if there is a leveler of the playing field in America, it’s education—aside from, you know, just being born white.”
posted by From Bklyn at 10:02 PM on April 11, 2021 [2 favorites]
Among other things, he points out how important the pursuit of education has been to his life: “The values that my family has established over time has been, if there is a leveler of the playing field in America, it’s education—aside from, you know, just being born white.”
posted by From Bklyn at 10:02 PM on April 11, 2021 [2 favorites]
I agree with the primroses were over that I’d love to see the members of the Clue Crew have a chance to show off. I’ve heard they host the practice rounds, so they should already have some facility with the premise. Also, why isn’t Brad Rutter in the mix?
I’m actually really surprised with how much I’m liking Aaron Rodgers in the role. I also liked Mike Richards. I think Katie Couric did an okay job, but she didn’t recede into the background the way Alex did. Ken both didn’t have the “pipes” as someone upthread put it, and also didn’t really seem to have a good rapport with the contestants. I thought he had an edge to his voice when they got clues wrong that I didn’t like. We don’t even need to mention the hack they had in there for two weeks hosting, although apparently he was Alex’s friend.
I wouldn’t mind seeing Burton take a crack at the role, though I don’t know how much longer he wants to work and I think I want a host with some longevity in the position. But I loved growing up with him on Reading Rainbow and Star Trek, and I’m sure he would be great to listen to. I’m just not sure he’s the best choice for a permanent host.
posted by Night_owl at 10:15 PM on April 11, 2021
I’m actually really surprised with how much I’m liking Aaron Rodgers in the role. I also liked Mike Richards. I think Katie Couric did an okay job, but she didn’t recede into the background the way Alex did. Ken both didn’t have the “pipes” as someone upthread put it, and also didn’t really seem to have a good rapport with the contestants. I thought he had an edge to his voice when they got clues wrong that I didn’t like. We don’t even need to mention the hack they had in there for two weeks hosting, although apparently he was Alex’s friend.
I wouldn’t mind seeing Burton take a crack at the role, though I don’t know how much longer he wants to work and I think I want a host with some longevity in the position. But I loved growing up with him on Reading Rainbow and Star Trek, and I’m sure he would be great to listen to. I’m just not sure he’s the best choice for a permanent host.
posted by Night_owl at 10:15 PM on April 11, 2021
Ringer article on the guest hosts so far.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 5:52 AM on April 12, 2021 [2 favorites]
posted by Huffy Puffy at 5:52 AM on April 12, 2021 [2 favorites]
I've been enjoying the Aaron Rogers run, for him it is a true audition because he actually wants the permanent gig. If he can start doing whole shows with the comfort and ease of his end-of-show wrapups, he'll be a good fit. He's still struggling through gameplay, but he's getting better daily. I think LeVar Burton would be very much the same.
My favorite to date, though, has been Mike Richards. As EP for the show, he understands what the role of the host is - not the star of the show, but the facilitator to the contestants, who Trebek said repeatedly were the true stars of Jeopardy!. He is well-spoken, paces the show very well, and is respectably bland enough to perform the hosting duties without making the show about himself.
Unfortunately, as EP for both Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune, I doubt he has the time or inclination to take the job full-time.
posted by davelog at 6:14 AM on April 12, 2021
My favorite to date, though, has been Mike Richards. As EP for the show, he understands what the role of the host is - not the star of the show, but the facilitator to the contestants, who Trebek said repeatedly were the true stars of Jeopardy!. He is well-spoken, paces the show very well, and is respectably bland enough to perform the hosting duties without making the show about himself.
Unfortunately, as EP for both Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune, I doubt he has the time or inclination to take the job full-time.
posted by davelog at 6:14 AM on April 12, 2021
Levar Burton is 64? What is happening...
This one is fine with me. Levar Burton was in Roots. I'm a guy in my (early) fifties, and Roots was a mega-event so long ago that I wasn't able to watch it, because my parents set a bedtime for me back then and didn't make exceptions for TV shows.
Makes sense to me that people who were famous before I even lost my baby teeth should be old.
posted by mark k at 12:00 PM on April 12, 2021 [2 favorites]
This one is fine with me. Levar Burton was in Roots. I'm a guy in my (early) fifties, and Roots was a mega-event so long ago that I wasn't able to watch it, because my parents set a bedtime for me back then and didn't make exceptions for TV shows.
Makes sense to me that people who were famous before I even lost my baby teeth should be old.
posted by mark k at 12:00 PM on April 12, 2021 [2 favorites]
Other than that podcast co-host issue
And other his own dabbling in ablist edgelord tweeting? (For which he's apologized, but with more than a whiff of "because I had to".)
posted by We had a deal, Kyle at 1:24 PM on April 12, 2021 [1 favorite]
And other his own dabbling in ablist edgelord tweeting? (For which he's apologized, but with more than a whiff of "because I had to".)
posted by We had a deal, Kyle at 1:24 PM on April 12, 2021 [1 favorite]
Levar Burton was the logical successor for a Fred Rogers reboot by the CTW - positive, interested in kids without being creepy, genuine, and with his own style that made things. I see him as a pretty consistent force for good a this point... to my knowledge #MeToo hasn't shaken out any skeletons from his closet - and there has been time and publicity for him to have them on display for everyone to see.
So...
Intelligence? Check.
Insatiable appetite for learning? Check.
Humor? Check.
Civility? Check.
Gravitas? Check.
Relatability to Children, animals, and mankind? Check.
How has this not already happened?
posted by Nanukthedog at 9:27 AM on April 13, 2021 [1 favorite]
So...
Intelligence? Check.
Insatiable appetite for learning? Check.
Humor? Check.
Civility? Check.
Gravitas? Check.
Relatability to Children, animals, and mankind? Check.
How has this not already happened?
posted by Nanukthedog at 9:27 AM on April 13, 2021 [1 favorite]
(Via FB), Burton's candidacy has been endorsed by the New York Public Library.
posted by Capt. Renault at 10:22 AM on April 13, 2021 [3 favorites]
posted by Capt. Renault at 10:22 AM on April 13, 2021 [3 favorites]
Welp….
“Joe Buck will take a turn as ‘Jeopardy!’ guest host,” Andrew Marchand, New York Post, 17 April 2021
posted by ob1quixote at 4:29 PM on April 17, 2021
“Joe Buck will take a turn as ‘Jeopardy!’ guest host,” Andrew Marchand, New York Post, 17 April 2021
posted by ob1quixote at 4:29 PM on April 17, 2021
If somebody in their contestant interview doesn't say "That's exactly right, Joe" it will be an opportunity wasted.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 6:44 AM on April 18, 2021
posted by Huffy Puffy at 6:44 AM on April 18, 2021
Mark your calendars! LeVar Burton will be hosting the week of July 26th -July 30th. (Link is to Jeopardy! website guest host list) The newest additions are all each getting just one week.
posted by the primroses were over at 12:38 PM on April 21, 2021 [3 favorites]
posted by the primroses were over at 12:38 PM on April 21, 2021 [3 favorites]
You won't believe who's in the last group of hosts for this season!
LeVar Burton, George Stephanopoulos, Robin Roberts, David Faber and Joe Buck.
Jeopardy Guest Host Schedule
(lol, jjnx!)
posted by mogget at 12:38 PM on April 21, 2021 [3 favorites]
LeVar Burton, George Stephanopoulos, Robin Roberts, David Faber and Joe Buck.
Jeopardy Guest Host Schedule
(lol, jjnx!)
posted by mogget at 12:38 PM on April 21, 2021 [3 favorites]
Well, I know at least two other mefites who are on Jeopardy’s mailing list!
Anderson Cooper’s first two days have been pre-empted here by trial coverage, but it does seem appropriate that if you’re going to break in to somebody’s hosting week, it be the news anchor.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 1:06 PM on April 21, 2021 [2 favorites]
Anderson Cooper’s first two days have been pre-empted here by trial coverage, but it does seem appropriate that if you’re going to break in to somebody’s hosting week, it be the news anchor.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 1:06 PM on April 21, 2021 [2 favorites]
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posted by Huffy Puffy at 11:38 AM on April 10, 2021 [12 favorites]