Jeopardy! Boss Lays Out the Future of the Game Show

Jeopardy! fans had mixed reactions to the news that Mayim Bialik and Ken Jennings will continue to split hosting duties, but executive producer Michael Davies couldn't be more excited about the game show's future.

In a letter to fans published Wednesday, Davies teased what's to come for the celebrated quiz show, explained the hosting schedule, and announced three "new initiatives" that will launch on Monday, August 1.

Davies opened the letter by confirming the hosting news, explaining that the duo have presided over an increase in viewership over the past year. "We have so much Jeopardy! to make, and so many plans for the future, that we always knew we would need multiple hosts for the franchise and we are just so grateful that Mayim and Ken stepped in," he wrote.

When Jeopardy! returns for its new season in September, Jennings will be behind the podium as host of the syndicated show, the inaugural Second Chance competition, and the Tournament of Champions, featuring repeat winners Amy Schneider, Matt Amodio, and Mattea Roach.

Jennings will host through December, with Bialik scheduled to take over in January 2023. She will also host Celebrity Jeopardy! in primetime on ABC, the National College Championship, and other new tournaments.

In addition to confirming the host split, Davies announced that repeat tournaments will no longer air during the six-week summer hiatus; instead, producers have chosen their favorite episodes of the season to air. Davies said the episodes will feature the "closest games," "super-champions," and some of the contestants who will appear in the Second Chance competition.

The show will also be introducing Jeopardy! Highlights, a daily, three-minute recap of each episode, featuring highlights and key moments from every game. Jeopardy! Highlights will be released on the show's website and social media, as well as with partner affiliates.

Lastly, the franchise is getting into the podcast space with "Inside Jeopardy!, which will be released weekly beginning Monday. Hosted by Davies and other Jeopardy! producers, the podcast will feature behind the scenes stories, gameplay analysis, official announcements, and special interviews. Fans can subscribe to the "Inside Jeopardy!" podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever podcasts are available.

On Monday's debut episode, producers will name the contestants who will return for the Second Chance competition. Davies will also announce his vision for the game show's future, which includes development in pop culture and sports, a Jeopardy! awards show, and a Jeopardy! masters league, which Davies said he hopes will air in primetime or on a streaming platform.

Jeopardy! airs weeknights in syndication, with new episodes airing through Friday, July 29.

People are talking about Jeopardy! in our forums. Join the conversation.

Kirstie Renae is a writer, blogger, and Austin-based actress with a penchant for binge-watching TV with her dogs. Follow her on Twitter @KirstieRenae.