‘Jeopardy’ Fans are Split Over Alex Trebek’s Beard

This morning, you may have gotten a push notification about a major news story with global implications. I’m not talking about Mueller’s investigation into President Trump or Hurricane Florence; I’m talking about Jeopardy host Alex Trebek’s beard, y’all. Oh, you don’t think Trebek’s beard is breaking news? Think again. On Monday night, the veteran host stunned viewers when he debuted a new bearded look, and Jeopardy fans haven’t stopped talking about his facial hair since. There’s even a poll on the show’s social media pages asking fans to weigh in on the life-or-death issue.

Trebek first revealed the beard on Saturday in a promo video for Jeopardy’s 35th anniversary season. “I’m back for another season of Jeopardy. That, I hope, shouldn’t surprise you,” said Trebek. “The beard, by now you’ve all heard about it, so you’re not surprised by that either.” What is, wrong? Clearly, the Season 35 promo didn’t adequately prepare viewers, because after the show’s Monday night premiere, fans took to social media to share their thoughts about the #Trebeard. “I about had a minor coronary when Alex walked out,” one fan shared on Twitter. “Do whatever makes you happy, Alex,” a particularly well-adjusted viewer wrote.

While some viewers prefer a clean-shaven Trebek, the vast majority seemed excited about the beard, and Jeopardy’s Twitter page filled with comments praising the look. “All hail the beard,” wrote one user. “Beard! Very Old Man and the Sea,” said another. As of Tuesday morning, 68% of Twitter users and 70% of Instagram users have voted pro-beard.

Trebek himself addressed the discussion on Monday night, explaining, “No need to inquire how I spent my summer vacation. Things got a little out of hand.” He continued, “Hopefully it won’t be a distraction for our players.” As of now, it looks like the beard is just distracting viewers, but if Trebek brings back the mustache, too, all that could change.

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