Jeopardy!

Jeopardy! is practically perfect in every way. There's a reason for this show's extraordinary run and dedicated fan base.





The premise is easy enough to understand even if you've never seen the show before. The rapid fire answers and questions broken only by the occasional Daily Double draws you in. When Alex reads a clue, you want to shout the response before the contestant does, even if you are home alone.





Alex Trebek is an excellent host. Smart and in total control, smoothly reading the many clues, rarely if ever stumbling over an obscure pronunciation or accent, yet not above acting goofy from time to time.





The best thing about Jeopardy! is that it is one of the few places on TV where intelligence is not only expected, but celebrated. Your average Jeopardy! contestant is likely to be a librarian, a graduate student or an engineer. I love rule change years back allowing a champion to remain on the show until they are defeated.





When I moved to Houston, I was sad because Jeopardy! is scheduled at 11:30. The thought of not being able to watch this one show convinced me to get a DVR. It's that good.