The Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek said he has been “feeling great” as he continues to undergo treatment for stage 4 pancreatic cancer.
Trebek talked about his health in a YouTube video shared last week. He said has been continuing his cancer treatment amid the game show’s hiatus due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The 79-year-old said, “I am doing well. I have been continuing my treatment and it is paying off, though it does fatigue me a great deal. My numbers are good. I am feeling great.”
Trebek went on to even write a book during his time away from the studio, stating that his memoir, “The Answer Is …Reflections on My Life.” will be out on July 21.
He said, “Whenever there’s a break in the Jeopardy! tape schedule, I often take that opportunity to grow some facial hair. Clearly, I’ve been doing that while waiting for us to safely return to the studio, which I hope will be very, very soon.”
In the meantime, he said he has been recording show openings in his home for upcoming special episodes that will air today.
“Once again, I can’t wait to return to the studio and start recording shows for the new season in September,” Trebek said. “Meanwhile, my wish for all of you: stay safe.”
Trebek was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in March 2019.
Last year, Trebek told PEOPLE he underwent the first round of chemo and that some of his tumors had shrunk by 50 percent. But, later in the summer, he said his numbers went up and would undergo another round of chemo. He said the side effects of chemo
could leave him feeling depleted and oftentimes, depressed.
Trebek said in the video, “Sudden massive attacks of great depressions that made me wonder if it was really worth fighting on but I brushed that aside quickly because that would have been a massive betrayal — a betrayal of my wife and soulmate Jean, who has helped me survive.” “A betrayal of other cancer patients who have looked to me as an inspiration, and a cheerleader of sorts of the value of living and hope,” he added.
