This trivial little reminiscence is just for fun, but what kind of reaction did you have when the late, great Alex Trebek shaved off his iconic mustache back in 2001? Did it propel you into an existential crisis? Or did you prefer him without it? Or did you hardly notice or care one way or the other?
I for one was sorry. The mustache was quite distinctive; with it he looked like an alpha male (think Magnum P.I.); without it, it really seemed like something was missing and like he had a prominent dimple under his nose. The Jeopardy experience just wasn’t the same without it.
Then in 2014, he re-grew the mustache, and polled viewers as to whether or not he should keep it. The result was roughly 50-50 for/against - and Alex’ wife voted against. He shaved it off again. (He did the same thing in 2018 with a full beard. This time, a majority of fans voted in favor, but then his wife voted against the beard, so off it went). After this, I figured, sure. He should please his wife (an attractive brunette significantly younger than him, for the record) over some geeky fans.
Here, by the way, is a funny clip from the Howard Stern show where Alex talks about this very subject.
I just want to say that I am honored, and humbled, to be allowed to wear a beard and mustache, like St. Trebek, and I only hope that I can live up to his ideals and standards. Thank you.
I felt bad for Alex. He looked so urbane and distinguished with the mustache, while without it, just a pleasant looking older gentleman. Good looking guy, Alex Trebek shoulda kept the 'stash.
I’m not sure whether he objectively looked better with or without, but at some point his mustachioed look became so damn iconic that shaving it off was like demolishing a historic landmark.
Back in '09 when I was on the show (one time and I lost), in the short bit after where the contestants are standing up front during the credits, I asked him if he ever felt “phantom mustache” pains. He gave me a slightly dirty look and walked back to his dressing room as the taping wrapped up.