Mike Richards and Mayim Bialik named new hosts of ‘Jeopardy!’

(CNBC) – Mike Richards and Mayim Bialik have been named as the new hosts of “Jeopardy!,” Sony said Wednesday, ending months of speculation about who would replace the late beloved host, Alex Trebek..

Richards, the current “Jeopardy!” executive producer, will host the long-running daily syndicated program. And, in a surprise move, the actor Bialik will host primetime and spinoff series of the franchise.

“We took this decision incredibly seriously,” said Ravi Ahuja, chairman of global television studios and corporate development for Sony Pictures.

“Jeopardy!” has cycled through a number of guest hosts since Trebek passed away last November. The would-be permanent replacements for Trebek, included Ken Jennings, an author with the longest winning streak in ‘Jeopardy!’ history, journalist Katie Couric, professional football star Aaron Rodgers, news anchor Anderson Cooper, CNBC financial journalist David Faber and actor LeVar Burton.

Richards, who signed a multiyear deal with Sony in 2019, is the executive producer of “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune.” He served as executive producer of “The Price is Right” for 11 years and worked as an executive producer of “Let’s Make a Deal.” He has hosted several series including “Beauty and the Geek” and the 2012 revival of “The Pyramid.”