'Jeopardy' Exec Explains Why Mayim Bialik Was Really Let Go

Mayim Bialik

In December, Mayim Bialik announced she would no longer host the syndicated version of Jeopardy!—and now, the game show's executive producer explained why she was really let go.

During a panel at the 2024 Television Critics Association’s winter press tour, Jeopardy! showrunner Michael Davies spoke about Bialik's departure.

“Mayim was left hosting the primetime versions; I brought in Ken to guest-host once Mayim had her schedule on her Fox sitcom,” Davies said of the Call Me Kat star, per People. “Over the past two-and-a-half seasons, what we’ve heard from a lot of television stations and other interested parties is that they wanted more consistency.”

By "consistency," Davies explained that meant a single host.

"Mayim is a superb host,” he noted. “We hope to keep working with her on primetime versions and other spinoffs Those conversations are ongoing—but Ken [Jennings] really won the job."

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On Dec. 15, Bialik took to Instagram to reveal the news of her Jeopardy! departure.

"As the holiday break begins in Hollywood, I have some Jeopardy! news. Sony has informed me that I will no longer be hosting the syndicated version of Jeopardy!" she wrote. "I am incredibly honored to have been nominated for a primetime Emmy for hosting this year and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the Jeopardy! family."

Ken Jennings broke his silence on Bialik's exit for a Dec. 26 The Hollywood Reporter article.

"It took me off guard, because I loved working with my Mayim and I’m going to miss her," he told the publication. "I can’t speak to her decision-making process or her opinions about it."

Next: 'Jeopardy!' Host Mayim Bialik Faces Backlash for Inconsistent Ruling