Alex Trebekthe last big “Jeopardy!” champion died at just 24 years of age.
Brayden Smith, who scored a streak of 5 straight wins and more than $ 115,000 in earnings when the Trebek era came to an end, died unexpectedly last Friday in his hometown, Las Vegas. The cause of death is not clear.
Brayden’s lifelong dream has always been to appear in “Jeopardy!” … and the young man, who reportedly tried to enter the show at least a dozen times, left a lasting impression on Trebek and the fans.
His run was so impressive that he made comparisons with the big James Holzhauer because he also had a knack for finding the Daily Doubles and making big bets when he did.
Trebek was very impressed by Brayden’s prolific race … calling him “Billy Buzzsaw” for his ability to dismantle the competition. Trebek also said, “Very impressive. I don’t know what to say.” Brayden, of course, appeared on the final shows Trebek has already presented he died pancreatic cancer.
Brayden, who died about a month after the episode aired, was looking forward to competing in the program’s Tournament of Champions. He had just graduated from UNLV last year in economics and hoped to study law and become a public prosecutor.
The family asked for donations to be made in the name of Brayden on here … a fund that benefits Nevada students by promoting their education.
RIP, champion.