Alex Trebek Reveals Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis, Vows to Keep Hosting 'Jeopardy'

Television By TooFab Staff |
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The longtime "Jeopardy" host jokes he has to beat the disease to fulfill the terms of his contract.

Alex Trebek revealed on Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

The 78-year-old "Jeopardy" host announced the news himself, via an optimistic and upbeat YouTube video, filmed on the set of the long-running trivia show.

"Hi everyone, I have some news to share with all of you and it's in keeping with my longtime policy of being open and transparent with our 'Jeopardy!' fan base," he began the video. "I also wanted to prevent you from reading or hearing some overblown or inaccurate reports regarding my health. So therefore, I wanted to be the one to pass along this information."

"Now, just like 50,000 other people in the United States each year, this week I was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer," he continued. Now normally, the prognosis for this is not very encouraging, but I'm going to fight this, and I'm going to keep working. And with the love and support of my family and friends and with the help of your prayers also, I plan to beat the low survival rate statistics for this disease."

"Truth told, I have to," he joked, "Because under the terms of my contract, I have to host 'Jeopardy!' for three more years! So help me. Keep the faith and we'll win. We'll get it done. Thank you."

According to TMZ, Trebek plans to begin chemo immediately and intends to finish filming the current season of the show.

From "Jeopardy" icons to famous game show hosts to celebrity fans, people are sending Trebek their love and support. Many highlighted Trebek's admirable positivity, strength and resiliency and expressed that if anyone can beat cancer, Trebek can.

Check out the reactions below.

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