LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: When it comes to the world of game shows, one name that stands out as a true legend is Pat Sajak. The longtime iconic ‘Wheel of Fortune’ host, Sajak, has captivated audiences for decades with his seamless ability to entertain and engage contestants and viewers alike. Recently, the beloved figure announced he will be stepping down from his hosting duties in June 2024. Though the saddening news was shocking for his fans, his replacement has not been confirmed yet. However, it didn’t stop other TV personalities to take their chance at this newly opened opportunity and run down their names for Sajak’s role.
On Monday, June 26, ‘Jeopardy!’ nine-day winning streak champ, Buzzy Cohen, revealed he’s ‘trying’ to get ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Sajak’s role ahead of his retirement. Cohen expressed his interest during a podcast Inside ‘Jeopardy!’ and admitted that it may be a long shot but wanted to put his name on the board. Cohen is popularly known as a charismatic quizmaster who gained fame as a contestant on ‘Jeopardy!’ in 2016.
Who is Buzzy Cohen?
Born in 1985, Buzzy Cohen's journey to game show fame began when he appeared as a contestant on the iconic trivia show ‘Jeopardy!’ in 2016. While his initial run might have ended, Cohen left an indelible impression on viewers with his distinctive personality and strategic gameplay. His quick thinking and strategic approach to the game earned him the nickname "Buzzy" and endeared him to fans across the nation. But it was Cohen's triumphant return in 2017 for the ‘Jeopardy!’ Tournament of Champions that truly solidified his status as a game show phenomenon. Not only did he showcase his impressive knowledge and lightning-fast reflexes, but he also charmed audiences with his confident demeanor and infectious smile. Cohen went on to win the tournament, claiming the coveted title and a legion of devoted followers.
Following his success on ‘Jeopardy!’, Cohen's magnetic personality caught the attention of producers, leading to a new chapter in his career as a game show host. In 2021, he took on the role of the guest host for the long-running show, infusing it with his own brand of charisma and humor. His ability to connect with contestants and bring out their best performances has earned him praise and admiration from both fans and industry insiders alike.
‘I'm trying to introduce myself as future Wheel of Fortune host Buzzy Cohen’
During a recent podcast inside ‘Jeopardy!’, the nine-day champ Buzzy Cohen was joined by longtime producer Sarah Whitcomb Foss. The insiders discussed the big news about ‘Wheel of Fortune’ host Pat Sajak retiring at the end of next season. Cohen admitted, “I'm trying to introduce myself as future Wheel of Fortune host Buzzy Cohen.” He continued to explain, “Am I getting ahead of myself, yes I am. It's never going to happen. But, big news on the Sony lot.” Foss teased him, “A little too soon” and the two dished, “Everyone is putting in their two cents.”
Buzzy Cohen also reflected on the recent host search controversy at ‘Jeopardy!’, stating, "I'm having a flashback. Everyone has an opinion. Yes, we’ve gone through this before at Jeopardy!” Acknowledging the previous transitions at ‘Jeopardy!’, he assured, "Whatever happens, we're going to watch this closely.”
The decision holds significance as "Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy air back to back, but they also have an intertwined history,” added Cohen. Producer Foss mentioned Sajak's desire for a smooth transition, saying, “Pat, I've heard, he wants this to be a smooth transition. He wants to pass the torch. I think Wheel is in good hands.” Foss emphasized, “We share a crew, we share a control room. Our stages are right next door to each other. We cannot tape on the same day they are. We have been through this before.” Despite admitting to being stumped by Wheel puzzles, Cohen expressed interest in being considered as a host.
