JEOPARDY! star Brayden Smith reportedly died from "complications after surgery."
The 24-year-old passed away on February 5; he was the last five-time champion from late host Alex Trebek's era.
His cause of death had remained unknown, but family members told 8 News Now that he "died following complications after surgery."
His mother, Deborah, had previously shared the tragic news on Twitter: “We are heartbroken to share that our dear Brayden Smith recently passed away unexpectedly.
“We are so grateful that Brayden was able to live out his dream on @jeopardy."
The game show’s Twitter account retweeted the message.
They added: "The JEOPARDY! family is heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brayden Smith.
"He was kind, funny and absolutely brilliant. Our deepest condolences go out to Brayden’s family. He will be missed."
In a video posted by the Jeopardy! social account in January, Brayden spoke of competing in the show's Tournament of Champion, calling it "something special."
He praised Alex for "giving America some good cheer" while his health was ailing.
Brayden graduated in 2020 from University of Nevada, Las Vegas with a degree in economics.
Alex branded the star "Billy Buzzsaw" because of how quick he cut through the other competition.
Brayden is survived by his mother Deborah and father Scott, and brothers Bryce, 26, Brock, 18, and Brody, 15.
Alex died at the age of 80 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.
The iconic TV personality had been behind the game show's podium since 1984.
The show's official Twitter confirmed the news: "Jeopardy! is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends. Thank you, Alex."
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