Anderson Cooper Eyes ‘Jeopardy!’ Takeover as Fans Allegedly Grow ‘Tired’ of Current Host Ken Jennings

Anderson Cooper guest hosted Jeopardy! back in 2021, but a source says he’s now gunning for a permanent gig on the quiz show — much to the chagrin of current emcee Ken Jennings.

“Ken has reason to watch his back,” the source tells the National Enquirer. “Fans are getting a little tired of him.”

Following the 2020 death of Alex Trebek, Jennings also guest presented the long-running series before being named a permanent cohost alongside Mayim Bialik in 2022.

A year later, he became the sole moderator.

But as Enquirer previously reported, the former show champion, 51, has faced ratings issues — and Jimmy Kimmel also showed interest in replacing him amid the turmoil.

“Ken’s job is the one everybody wants,” says the source. “He needs to keep honing his hosting skills because series executives are always interested in sharpening one of their biggest cash cows.”

Cooper — a two-time Jeopardy! champion himself — “would bring a Trebek-like gravitas that Ken still lacks,” suggests the source. “He has a smooth delivery that would be welcomed by audiences.”

In February, the TV journalist, 58, announced he was leaving 60 Minutes after two decades as a correspondent at the CBS show, Page Six reported.

According to Enquirer’s source, Cooper might not be at his CNN job much longer either.

“Everybody is waiting to see what Anderson does when his contract runs out,” dishes the source. “One thing people forget is that he has a deep passion for game shows in general and he’s a massive fan of Jeopardy! in particular!”