'Jeopardy!' host Alex Trebek gives health update, previews special Vault episodes

CULVER CITY, California -- "Jeopardy!" host Alex Trebek has recorded a special message about his health and previewed a special four-week retrospective series that begins July 20.

For the first time, the show known as "America's Favorite Quiz Show" will dig deep into its archives to highlight memorable contestants, exciting moments and unique tournaments from the show's 36-year history, including the series premiere, which aired Sept. 10, 1984.
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"What is incredible about 'Jeopardy!' is that it has historical importance while remaining culturally relevant today," said Mike Richards, the show's executive producer. "I know our fans will love the nostalgia while still enjoying the gameplay. A lot has changed over the years -- the set, the pace of the game, the mustache! -- but the ability to play along is timeless."

The "Jeopardy!" producers combed through nearly 8,000 episodes and have chosen 20 of the most compelling shows in the series' history, many of which have not been seen since their first airing. The complete schedule is as follows. It can also be found on Jeopardy.com.

July 20-24: The Best of "Jeopardy!'s" First Decade
This week features five of the best and most exciting shows from the 1980s, including the series premiere, the first "super-champion," the first record-setting contestant, and more.


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July 27-31: The Best of Celebrity "Jeopardy!"
Throughout the years, "Jeopardy!" has invited celebrities to play for their favorite charities, and more than $9 million has been won for great causes. This week features five of the most entertaining celebrity games ever.

August 3-7 & August 10-14: Million Dollar Masters (2002) Encore Presentation
For its first-ever million-dollar competition, 15 of the best contestants from the first 18 seasons of the show competed in a two-week contest taped at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.