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'Jeopardy!' fans label Ray Lalonde as 'new favorite champ' for joining WGA on picket line

Ray Lalonde was the first 'Jeopary!' champ to announce stepping back from appearing on the show until the WGA strike reaches its purported conclusion

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Things for 'Jeopardy!' are not looking great as the game show continues to receive more disapproval from its viewers. The show's recent announcements about its future plans have unfortunately faced a lot of backlash. 

Moreover, several champs have announced that they will be stepping back from appearing on 'Jeopardy!' until the WGA strike reaches its purported conclusion through fair negotiations with producers and studios. Ray Lalonde was the first to announce the same, managing to win over the hearts of many fans of the show with his decision. 

'Tournament of Champions' without the champions

It was confirmed through Lalonde's Reddit post that 'Jeopardy!' has already started working on the next installment, which is the 'Tournament of Champions'. This program includes 'Jeopardy!' champs who have continued their streaks for five or more days on the trivia game show. Since the current season completely relied on what the writers had worked on before going to the picket line, it is realized by contestants and fans that the show will reuse content for their newer episodes.

Other 'Jeopardy!' champs like Hannah Wilson and Ben Chan have joined Lolande to stand in solidarity with the protesting writers. Even Ben Goldstein recently announced, although in his comedic fashion, that he won't be participating in a tournament "where all the best players weren't participating." Fans are especially impressed by Lalonde's and other champs' decision as the WGA strike has supposedly faced adverse reactions from the entertainment industry. 

Ray Lalonde becomes the 'new favorite champ'

Many fans of 'Jeopardy!' took to Twitter to appreciate what Lalonde had done. One wrote, "Ray was the ultimate sweetheart of this season and I hope more champions pledge to do this!" Another stated, "Bless Ray, and now the sweet nerds Hannah Wilson, Ben Chan, Troy Meyer, and Cris Pannullo who have joined him I love the Jeopardy TOC, and will love it even more when the brilliant writers are paid fairly." "I've been extremely impressed with Ray's Jeopardy streak as a fellow Canuck - and this really is just awesome. Happy to see the solidarity! #WGAStrong," expressed one more user. A 'Jeopardy!' fan stated, "I may have a new favorite #Jeopardy champion," while another saddened viewer tweeted, "Honestly not sure I could watch a Jeopardy! TOC knowing it was produced by crossing picket lines." "Thank you, Ray. You are a lifetime champion in my heart and forever for my union. #WGAstrong," penned one showing support to Lolonde and the WGA picketers.