LeVar Burton honors Alex Trebek during 'Jeopardy!' guest hosting debut
LeVar Burton, who captured hearts as the host of "Reading Rainbow," kicked off his week-long tenure as the newest "Jeopardy!" guest host Monday night.
When taking the podium for the first time, Burton saluted the late Alex Trebek and expressed how honored he was to carry on his legacy.
"As a longtime viewer of the show, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to guest host 'Jeopardy!'" he began. "And I’m proud to be here to honor Alex’s legacy."
"I’m gonna do my best to ensure that these talented 'Jeopardy!' contestants enjoy their moment here as well," he added.
LeVar's first night was well received, with fans responding to his upbeat attitude.
Prior to his debut, Burton credited his fans for making his time on the show possible. Following Trebek's death, a change.org petition was launched to have him take over the "Jeopardy!" reins.
In April, showrunners added Burton to their impressive roster of guest hosts, which included Mayim Bialik, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and "Good Morning America" co-anchors Robin Roberts and George Stephanopoulos -- among others.
Following the announcement, the "Star Trek: The Next Generation" alum tweeted, "THANK YOU… to all y'all for your passionate support! I am overjoyed, excited, and eager to be guest-hosting Jeopardy!, and will do my utmost best to live up to your faith you in me."
Burton will hold down hosting duties until July 30. Next up will be CNBC broadcaster David Farber, who will take charge through Aug. 6.
The final guest host is Fox Sportscaster Joe Buck, who will take over until Aug. 13.
A permanent replacement for Trebek, who died Nov. 8 from pancreatic cancer, has not yet been announced.
"Jeopardy!" airs at 7 p.m. ET on ABC.
