'RIP to a Canadian treasure': Devastated Canadians mourn the loss of 'Jeopardy' host Alex Trebek

It was announced Sunday that Alex Trebek, the iconic host of the Jeopardy!, died at the age of 80 after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Jeopardy! is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends. Thank you, Alex. pic.twitter.com/Yk2a90CHIM

— Jeopardy! (@Jeopardy) November 8, 2020

Trebek was born in Sudbury, Ont., and attended the University of Ottawa. In 2017, the legendary game show host was named an Officer of the Order of Canada for his “iconic achievements in television and for his promotion of learning, notably as a champion for geographical literacy.”

After the news of Trebek’s passing broke, Canadians quickly took to social media to remember the Jeopardy! host and extend their condolences.

We have lost an icon. Almost every night for more than three decades, Alex Trebek entertained and educated millions around the world, instilling in so many of us a love for trivia. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who are mourning this tremendous loss. pic.twitter.com/XoobAfJwBv

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 8, 2020

He never stopped being a Canadian at heart. RIP to a broadcast great, he did it all. pic.twitter.com/nmhjl9kjBa

— Peter Mansbridge (@petermansbridge) November 8, 2020

Alex Trebek was kind enough to film a cameo for our film Free Guy last year despite his battle. He was gracious and funny. In addition to being curious, stalwart, generous, reassuring and of course, Canadian. We love you, Alex. And always will.

— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) November 8, 2020

Rest In Peace to the incredible Alex Trebek.

— George StroumbouloPHÒulos 🐺 (@strombo) November 8, 2020

He was the best.
🙏🏾 Alex Trebek 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/7BErjQnnFw

— Cameron Bailey (@cameron_tiff) November 8, 2020

So so sad to hear Alex Trebek has passed away. He leaves a legacy of intelligence, the joy of learning and how to show strength through adversity. Rest well Alex, rest well. https://t.co/1RsUu6qyAe

— Arlene Dickinson (@ArleneDickinson) November 8, 2020

Alex Trebek didn’t know it but he was also the host of “Screaming wrong answers at the TV” a hit I would star in alongside grandparents every single night growing up. There will never be another. Greatest game show host of all time

— Kayla Grey (@Kayla_Grey) November 8, 2020

Growing up with autism, game shows were one of my first real links to pop culture. Alex Trebek was one of the first figures I took to as a kid, and his soothing demeanour helped me learn a lot, both in and out of the game. Gonna miss him. https://t.co/0zNpqHSB5z

— Matt Bobkin (@MattBobkin) November 8, 2020

Completely gutted about Alex Trebek. Him/Jeopardy got me through some incredibly tough times.

— rochelle latinsky (@rochlatinsky) November 8, 2020

Just found out Alex Trebek died. Thanks for all the sick days, and family evenings throughout my life. Thanks for being a background presence in my living room. May he Rest In Peace.

— Rosemary May Richings (@rosiemay_r) November 8, 2020

“RIP to a Canadian” quickly started trending on Twitter shortly after Trebek’s death was announced.

Pretty hard to contemplate how many millions of people - of all ages - watched Alex Trebek's master-class hosting day in and day out over all these years. RIP to a Canadian-born man who became an American institution

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) November 8, 2020

How beautiful is this?

RIP to a Canadian treasure https://t.co/SdJwJG7RjI

— Kyle Bukauskas (@SNkylebukauskas) November 8, 2020

Celebrity deaths usually don’t faze me much but this one bit different :(

RIP to a Canadian hero and an absolute legend https://t.co/QHpI0IHgGm

— 👁zaak (@dontkauf) November 8, 2020

A number of notable celebrities, aside from Canadians, also shared messages after hearing the upsetting news, including former Jeopardy! contestants.

Alex wasn’t just the best ever at what he did. He was also a lovely and deeply decent man, and I’m grateful for every minute I got to spend with him. pic.twitter.com/CdHCcbqmp2

— Ken Jennings (@KenJennings) November 8, 2020

Alex Trebek, you brought us so much knowledge, both important and fun, through the years. Your final battle with cancer was heroic, and we are heartbroken that it has taken you from us. I’ll take “Great TV Personas of Our Time” for $800. The heavens have all the answers now.

— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) November 8, 2020

Couldn't we have one nice weekend? A kind gentleman whose excellence was so consistent, it was easy to take for granted. Rest well, Mr. Trebek. https://t.co/Zq7RN6kSKk

— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) November 8, 2020

Alex Trebek was like a family member who I watched every night. I remember going to the set to watch him tape a show before I started my TV career. He was a big influence and one of a kind. Rest In Peace, Alex. https://t.co/B9wq95uRg4

— Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) November 8, 2020

The #Jeopardy stage is empty now and the television world will not be the same without Alex Trebek. RIP. pic.twitter.com/TmXtFBWJTu

— Marlee Matlin (@MarleeMatlin) November 8, 2020

I was obsessed with Jeopardy as a nerdy kid growing up in Ohio. I’ve loved and revered Alex Trebek since I can remember. What an iconic career. RIP Alex Trebek.

— John Legend (@johnlegend) November 8, 2020