Mayim Bialikis filling in as the host ofJeopardy!’s syndicated show after the previously announced host,Mike Richards, stepped down amid controversy.
Bialik, who was also recently announced as thehost for theJeopardy!primetime and spinoff series, will take the podium this week in Richards' absence, a spokesperson for Sony Pictures Television confirms to PEOPLE.
TheBig Bang Theoryalum, 45, is currently scheduled to tape three weeks-worth of episodes — 15 total — when filming resumes this week. Additional guest hosts will be announced as production continues on the upcoming 38th season of the beloved quiz show, premiering Sept. 13.
For more on Mayim Bialik taking over as the interimJeopardy!host and other top stories, listen below toour daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day.
Earlier this month, Sonyannouncedthat executive producer Richards, 46, had been selected as the new permanent host, about nine months after the death of longtime hostAlex Trebek.
Mayim Bialik.Jeopardy/Instagram
He also made a comment on the podcast tying Jewish people to big noses, prompting the Anti-Defamation League tocall for an investigationinto his behavior.
Mike Richards.Daytime Emmy Awards 2021 via Getty Images
In his memo to staffers, Richards expressed that it “pains” him that his “past incidents” have “cast such a shadow onJeopardy!”
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Although Richards is no longer the host ofJeopardy!, the show isset to airepisodes that he taped before his departure on Friday, PEOPLE previously confirmed. Five episodes were filmed on Thursday and will air as scheduled. Richards will also remain on asJeopardy!’s executive producer.
Jeopardy!’s 38th season premieres on Sept. 13.
source: people.com
