LeVar Burton Wants to Host Jeopardy

The search for a new Jeopardy host continues, but a new contender is gaining steam. A petition requesting Star Trek and Reading Rainbow’s LeVar Burton to become the new host has nearly 200,000 signatures. It has gained additional attention after recently being posted by the actor on his Twitter account.

The petition was created shortly after the death of Jeopardy’s long-time host Alec Trebek at the age of 80 due to pancreatic cancer. Trebek’s legacy leaves a large shadow over the hosting job. Jeopardy has been rotating guest hosts as their search for Trebek’s replacement continues. Stars like Dr. Oz, Aaron Rogers, and Ken Jennings have taken their turns but fail to capture the Alec Trebek magic.

LaVar has the demeanor and voice to carry the prestigious role. His work on Reading Rainbow serves as the best example of Jeapordy’s hosting duties. He had a soft and well-paced speaking voice during the show’s run. It felt like your local librarian was opening a new world to you through books. He also spoke to young children with respect, instead of talking down to them. This has endeared him to all Millenials. Lavar Burton is our first choice.

LeVar Burton on the new Reading Rainbow

Let’s look at some other options from Geekdom:

Neil deGrasse Tyson

Tyson is best known as the director of the Hayden Planetarium of New York. He rose to fame following the declassification of Pluto from a planet to a dwarf planet. He also took over for Carl Sagan as the host of Cosmos. Tyson has a bright personality and excitement for knowledge that can revitalize Jeopardy. Neil deGrasse Tyson is a sure hit and high on our list.

Andy Richter

Richter has been Conan’s sidekick for decades and has an acting career spanning film and television. Jeopardy fans will remember Andy’s time on the show during their celebrity event. He did very well and won the game. Since then, he offers advice to celebrities who are attempting the show. A subtle but important note about Andy, he’s popular amongst young geeks. Conan’s show embraced the younger audience, unusual for late-night television. They held large events at San Diego comic-con, played new games as they released, and even have a large collection of Conan Funko Pops. Andy is our long shot choice, but a strong contender.

Aisha Tyler

Tyler has plenty of practice hosting after many appearances at conventions as the mc and new host of “Whose Line is it Anyways?” Fans will also recognize Aisha Tyler as Lana Kane in “Archer.” Tyler would bring in a younger crowd to the aging show. Something the producers are surely looking into. Our longest shot for the job, but the best impact for a new generation of viewers.