Burton finally took the stage as guest host of the long-running quiz show, bringing the warmth and familiarity millions remember from their childhood mixed with the wit and charm of America’s next game show host.
Written By Anoa Changa
LeVar Burton’s evolution as a cultural icon is undeniable. But watching him host “Jeopardy!” is pure joy.
After what seems like an eternity, the man who nurtured a generation’s love of reading temporarily took the helm this week of one of the country’s most popular games shows.
The excitement around his guest slot on “Jeopardy!” reached new heights as social media users shared their delight with Burton’s hosting skills. Burton has blessed generations of Americans with the gift of his wit and brilliance.
Some fans reminisced about learning how to read from Burton’s “Reading Rainbow” or exploring space with him as Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge on “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Literally a fixture of the millennial childhood, Burton even voiced Kwame on “Captain Planet.”
For some people growing up in the 80s, Geordi La Forge may have been the first and only Black engineer they ever encountered. Positive representations of Black people were scarce at the time, but in a given week, families could catch Burton on both “Reading Rainbow” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation.”
He made learning fun and engaged millions to look beyond the known realm of possibility. So, it’s no surprise people are clamoring for him to be the quiz show’s new host.
One of America’s favorite game shows, “Jeopardy!” has been without a permanent host since the passing of Alex Trebek last year. When speculation began about who would replace Trebek, Twitter did its thing and immediately elevated Burton’s name to the top of the list.
In a candid interview with the Associated Press, Burton said hosting was a bit “scary” initially but became fun. Burton found his stride with his wife, make-up artist Stephanie Cozart Burton, coaching him in between shoots.
Any signs of a rough start could not be seen during the first two shows, with Burton’s cool demeanor and winning smile lighting up the stage. He seemed at home at the podium, like he was made to be there.
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