For over 16 years, Alex Trebek has stood at the helm of one of the most intellectually challenging game shows ever produced. Jeopardy has brought Alex fame, fortune, and critical recognition. According to his bio on the official Jeopardy! site, he's earned two Emmy awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the respect of 32 million viewers.

It wasn't always about Jeopardy for Alex. Born in Ontario, Canada, he attended the University of Ottawa, where he earned a philosophy degree. His career took him into broadcast news, when he joined the Canadian Broadcasting Company. On the air, Alex covered national news and special events.

Alex has hosted a number of game shows. His first, Wizard of Odds, was produced by his friend and fellow Canadian Alan Thicke. Alan brought Alex over to host the show, introducing him to audiences in the U.S. Alex went on to host Double Dare, High Rollers, and Classic Concentration before becoming the host of Jeopardy! in 1984. Alex turns 60 this year, and certainly seems to have it all. When he's not on the air with Jeopardy!, Alex manages his own Creston Farms in Paso Robles, California. There, he and his staff train, breed, and care for thoroughbred horses.

According to his Jeopardy! bio, Alex is active with several charities. For example, he hosts the annual National Geography Bee, and serves on the boards of the National Geographic Society Education Foundation and the National Advisory Council for the Literary Volunteers of America.

He is also active with World Vision, which takes him to many Third World countries. Alex lives in Studio City, California, with his wife, Jean, and their two children, Emily and Matthew.