Alex Trebek‘s last great “Jeopardy!” champion died at the young age of only 24.
Brayden Smith, who had a five-game winning streak and had more than $ 115,000 in profits when Trebek’s era came to an end, died unexpectedly in his hometown of Las Vegas last Friday. The cause of death is unclear.
Brayden’s lifelong dream has always been to turn on ‘Jeopardy!’ To appear. … and the young man, who allegedly tried to enter the program at least a dozen times, left a lasting impression on Trebek and fans.
His run was so impressive that he drew comparisons to the big James Holzhauer because he also had the skill to find the Daily Doubles and place big bets when he did.
Trebek was very impressed with Brayden’s productive run-up … to call him ‘Billy Buzzsaw’ because he could take down the competition. Trebek also said: “The most impressive. I do not know what to say.” Brayden, of course, appears in the final performances Trebek previously presented he died of pancreatic cancer.
Brayden, who passed away about a month after his episode aired, was looking forward to taking part in the Champions Tournament. He just got a degree in economics from UNLV last year and hoped to attend law school and become a U.S. attorney.
The family requested that donations be made in Brayden’s name. here … a fund for the benefit of Nevada students who advance their education.
RIP, champion.