Early Life and Career
Art Fleming, born as Arthur Fleming Fazzin, was an American actor and television host. He was best known for hosting the first version of the television game show Jeopardy!, which aired on NBC from 1964 until 1975 and again from 1978 to 1979. Fleming was a World War II veteran who served in the U.S. Navy for three and a half years as the pilot of a patrol bomber in the Atlantic. After leaving the navy, Fleming became an announcer at a radio station in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Here, he changed his name to “Art Fleming”. His radio career later took him to Akron, Ohio, and back home to New York (according to Wikipedia).
Hosting Jeopardy!
Fleming was first spotted by Merv Griffin on a commercial for Trans World Airlines. Griffin thought Fleming was “authoritative, yet warm and interesting”, and Fleming was invited to audition to be the host of Griffin’s new game show Jeopardy!. Fleming won the job, and hosted the show during its original run of March 30, 1964, to January 3, 1975, and again from October 2, 1978, to March 2, 1979. As “the world’s greatest quiz show’s” first host, Fleming earned two Emmy Award nominations. While he was host of Jeopardy!, Fleming never missed a taping (according to Wikipedia).
Art Fleming’s Cause of Death
Art Fleming passed away on April 25, 1995, at the age of 70. The cause of death was pancreatic cancer. The news of his death was a shock to many, as he was diagnosed with the disease just two weeks before his death. Pancreatic cancer is a particularly aggressive form of cancer, often with a poor prognosis. It is a sad coincidence that Alex Trebek, the host who succeeded Fleming on Jeopardy!, also suffered from the same disease (according to Distractify and Infoplease).
Legacy
Art Fleming’s legacy continues to live on through the iconic game show Jeopardy!. His charisma, warmth, and authoritative presence set the tone for the show, making it a beloved institution on American television. His contribution to television history will always be remembered and cherished by fans of Jeopardy! and game shows in general.
In conclusion, Art Fleming’s cause of death was pancreatic cancer. However, his life and career were about so much more than his untimely passing. He was a beloved television host, a dedicated professional, and a significant figure in American television history.
