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Alex Trebek Makes Autistic Fan's Dream Come True With A Heartfelt Phone Call

Updated September 2, 2021

Jeopardy host Alex Trebek has not let his recent pancreatic cancer diagnosis stop his from doing his job as the host of the hit game show, but he's also not let it stop him from doing his unofficial job of inspiring fans all over the world.

Michael Kneeter, a 32 year old Jeopardy superfan with autism, just had his day made by the star.

When Michael learned of Alex's pancreatic cancer diagnosis and ensuing fight, he became depressed and withdrawn.

His mother, Debbie Stevens, dove into action. She hoped to connect her son and Alex because, in her words, "I thought it would make him happy."

Michael's mom learned that Alex Trebek's son Matthew owned a restaurant in the area.

Debbie reached out to Matthew and told him, "all the pertinent details: after getting a life expectancy of just 10 years when diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis she has survived for more than three decades. She raised her children by herself after her husband died of cancer 15 years ago. Her son Michael Kneeter is autistic, suffers from epileptic seizures and loves Jeopardy."

Matthew passed the message along, and on October 18th, Alex reached out with a phone call.

The first call was missed, but Trebek left a voicemail. "This is a message for Michael," the voicemail began. "My name is Alex Trebek. It is Friday, about 6 o’clock your time. My son, Matthew, who has a restaurant in North Harlem told me that you and your mom had been in contact and you’re fans of the show, and I just wanted to thank you for that, and I appreciate it."

His message continued.

"I hope you’re well. Maybe someday if you manage to get to Los Angeles, you can come to a taping of the program. That would be great. Hopefully, I’ll still be around hosting it.”