Mike Richardshas reportedly agreed to undergo sensitivity training following his exit as the new host ofJeopardy!
Richards, the executive producer who was briefly namedAlex Trebek’s successor, will be undergoing sensitivity training as he continues to guide the game show behind the scenes, according to areportpublished in theNew York Timeson Wednesday.
According to the paper, Sony executive Ravi Ahuja spoke withJeopardy!staffers over the phone on Monday, asking them to move forward now that Richards has stepped down as host.
Richards was also on the call withJeopardy!employees on Monday, his spokesperson Ed Tagliaferri toldThe Times, and used that call to apologize for his past behavior, asking his colleagues to give him a chance to show them “who he really is.”
“Mike is committed to continuing as the executive producer ofJeopardy!andWheel of Fortune,” Richards' spokesperson told theTimes,insisting Richards was not negotiating an exit from Sony.
Mike Richards.Carol Kaelson/Jeopardy Productions
Richards wasnamed the new hostofJeopardy!earlier this month.
On Friday, Richardsstepped downfrom his hosting gig.
Richards previously faced allegations of workplace discrimination during his time atThe Price Is Right, where he worked before arriving atJeopardy!He has denied those claims.
He was named in a wrongful constructive termination and retaliationlawsuittoo while working atThe Price Is Right, but was later dismissed as a defendant.
Mike Richards.Frederick M. Brown/Getty
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In the wake of Richards' exit,Mayim Bialik— who was named as host forJeopardy!spinoff series and primetime specials — will befilling in temporarily. Additional guest hosts will be announced as production continues.
Episodes that were taped in Richards' nine-day tenure as host will still air, Sony has said.
Jeopardy!’s 38th season premieres on Sept. 13.
source: people.com
