'Jeopardy!' host Alex Trebek dies; Ryan Reynolds, John Legend and other celebrities pay tribute

'Jeopardy!' host Alex Trebek died Sunday after battling pancreatic cancer for nearly two years. He was 80.

Trebek died at home early Sunday with family and friends surrounding him, 'Jeopardy!' studio Sony said in a statement.
Trebek presided over the beloved quiz show for more than 30 years. He was a master of the format, engaging in friendly banter with contestants and appearing genuinely pleased when they answered correctly.

Notable reactions to the death of 'Jeopardy!' host Alex Trebek:

"So saddened to hear Alex Trebek has died. It was an honor to share the dinner hour with him. He fought his cancer battle valiantly,"  ABC World News Tonight anchor David Muir on Twitter.

 

"Alex Trebek was kind enough to film a cameo for our film Free Guy last year despite his battle. He was gracious and funny. In addition to being curious, stalwart, generous, reassuring and of course, Canadian. We love you, Alex. And always will," Actor Ryan Reynolds on Twitter.

"We mourn the loss of #alextrebek ? a friend, a colleague, an icon. He graced us with warmth, wit & pure elegance, which is why we welcomed him into our homes night after night, year after year. We are deeply saddened for his wife Jean, his family & millions of Jeopardy fans," Walt Disney Co. Executive chairman Robert Iger on Twitter.

"My heart breaks for the Trebek family upon hearing this heartbreaking news. Alex Trebek was a legend. There was no one like him. Kind, elegant, talented, good. Heaven just became brighter and we here on earth mourn him," Maria Shriver on Twitter.
 

"I was obsessed with Jeopardy as a nerdy kid growing up in Ohio. I've loved and revered Alex Trebek since I can remember. What an iconic career. RIP Alex Trebek," Musician John Legend on Twitter.

"We have lost an icon. Almost every night for more than three decades, Alex Trebek entertained and educated millions around the world, instilling in so many of us a love for trivia. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who are mourning this tremendous loss," Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Twitter.


 

Couldn't we have one nice weekend? A kind gentleman whose excellence was so consistent, it was easy to take for granted. Rest well, Mr. Trebek," Jimmy Kimmel on Twitter.

"RIP Alex Trebek. A true, true gentleman and courageous hero. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest," actor Viola Davis on Twitter.

"I'm so saddened that Alex Trebek has passed. Growing up, he made me feel like my nerdiness was valuable and I loved learning from watching jeopardy. It was our family's nightly pleasure," TV personality and author Padma Lakshmi on Twitter.

"Alex Trebek hosted Jeopardy for 36 years. What an incredible career and remarkable life. I'm sending love to his family and fan," Comedian Ellen DeGeneres on Twitter.

"I'm honored to have known Alex Trebek, have a few meals with him, have him share some of his wisdom. On the @TCM cruise, he got me to swim w/ the dolphins. No one else could've done that. He was the best at what he did, TCM host Ben Mankiewicz on Twitter.

Alex Trebek, you brought us so much knowledge, both important and fun, through the years. Your final battle with cancer was heroic, and we are heartbroken that it has taken you from us. I'll take 'Great TV Personas of Our Time' for $800. The heavens have all the answers now, Actor George Takei on Twitter.