Question: Who is Matt Lauer?
Rumors are flying that the Today show’s Matt Lauer could become the next host of the TV quiz show Jeopardy when its veteran host Alex Trebek retires in 2016.
Today show host Matt Lauer on the beach in Buenos Aries during one of his Where in the World is Matt Lauer segments
Lauer on his way out at Today?
The New York Post reported Friday that the beleaguered host of the Today show tops the list to replace Trebrek. Lauer is reported to be on his way out at the morning show, which fell to No. 2 behind Good Morning America after 16 years on top.
The Post reported that Lauer is not expected to re-sign with Today when his $25-million-a-year deal ends in 2015. Trebek has hosted Jeopardy for three decades. Sources told the Post that Sony Pictures Television, which owns the hugely profitable show, has quietly been feeling out TV personalities in recent months to see who might be available and willing to take on the role in 2016.
Host Alex Trebek on the set of Jeopardy.
Trebek — who has had two heart attacks — said last year that he was thinking about retiring this season. But Sony convinced him to sign one final, three-year contract to give them time to find a successor. He’ll be 76 when his contract ends.
Anderson Cooper also under consideration?
Also said to be under consideration is Anderson Cooper, whose CNN contract ends next year. But sources say Lauer tops the list. Lauer’s cohost, Meredith Vieira, hosted Who Wants to Be a Millionaire all five years she was on Today.
Final decisions are at least 1 ½ year away, and much can happen before then.
Article by Executive Editor Mark Heckathorn
