Trebek’s moving message was especially poignant for its timing. The game show host, who had hosted Jeopardy! since its revival in 1984, reportedly recorded the show back in October, according to Deadline, amid a long battle with pancreatic cancer — he’d first been diagnosed with the disease in March 2019. Fans of the show have since watched the final episodes recorded with Trebek, as they have aired after his death in November, knowing they will be the last times they see Jeopardy! with him as its host. Previously, Trebek had delivered messages in which he reminded fans to give thanks “for all the blessings that you enjoy in your lives,” according to Cinema Blend.

Monday’s show began the final week of Jeopardy! with Trebek at the helm, and fans such as the journalist Courtney Theriault have shared their emotions at knowing these are the last days of having the gregarious presence on their screens.

“Even at the very end, Alex Trebek remained a man of grace and kindness, reminding us all how important it is to genuine, actively care for one another,” Theriault tweeted. “This week’s episodes are going to be difficult to watch — tissues ready to go — but thrilled we have one more week with you, Alex.”