The NY Jets quarterback lost his job to Mike Richards.
When we talk about “Jeopardy!” the first name that comes to mind is Alex Trebek. The beloved host was at the head of the renowned quiz show for 16 years, so it is difficult to see anyone else in his place, however, there was someone just as famous who was about to take his place: Aaron Rodgers.
The quarterback of the New York Jets is a man of many talents. Among them, he was both a contestant and guest host on “Jeopardy!” and in both roles, he did great jobs. As a participant, he was champion of the “Celebrity” edition in 2015 and left good memories as a guest presenter after Trebek’s unexpected death in 2021.
Regarding the latter, Mike Richards, who had a very brief stint as the show’s regular host, revealed that one of his biggest competitors for the permanent position was Rodgers.
Rodgers almost won the job
Following Trebek’s death, Sony Pictures tapped several celebrities as guest hosts, including LeVar Burton, Anderson Cooper, George Stephanopoulos, Bill Whitaker, Savannah Guthrie, Robin Roberts, and Rodgers, among others.
In this regard, Richards recalled that the quarterback left a pleasant impression among the producers and staff thanks to his good character and, above all, his excellent preparation.
In an interview with People magazine, Richards said that the Jets’ signal-caller prepared intensely for the guest host role and seriously considered taking the permanent job. As for how he would alternate between hosting and working in the NFL, the player said the production of the TV show would handle it.
No luck for Aaron
In the end, the job went to Richards. However, he lasted only a week in the position before having to resign amid controversy over certain statements he had made in the past.
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After that, the position was held alternately by former contest champion Mike Jennings and actress Mayim Bialik between 2021 and 2023. As of the most recent season, Jennings is the sole host.
It’s hard to know when Rodgers will decide to end his NFL career, but he can rest assured that if all else fails, he may be able to knock once again on the doors of “Jeopardy!” looking for a new opportunity.
