Since its debut in 1984, American quiz show JEOPARDY! has become a TV classic. 

Fans who tune into the programme know its iconic features such as host Alex Trebek, the final question music, and of course, announcer John Gilbert’s thundering: “THIS… IS… JEOPARDY!” at the beginning of each episode. 

Gilbert’s well-known voice has narrated the show since it first aired over 30 years ago.

Longest career as a game show announcer for a single show

The popular television show celebrated the official “voice of JEOPARDY!” by honouring John with a Guinness World Records title for the Longest career as a game show announcer for a single show on the Season 33 finale, which aired 28 July 2017. 

Gilbert has served as an announcer for the show for 32 years, 321 days...and counting.

“It’s remarkable that, after all these years, Johnny makes the show sound fresh,” said JEOPARDY! executive producer Harry Friedman. “Even after more than six decades in show business, his natural enthusiasm still creates an exciting atmosphere for contestants and viewers alike, and it’s a pleasure to work with him.”

Both John and host Alex Trebek share the impressive distinction of being the show’s two longest-serving employees, having been on the program since the very first segment. 

Gilbert began his professional career as a nightclub singer and was originally trained by an opera teacher.

He went on to tour with the United States Army, where he received his first television assignment as an emcee.

Longest career as a game show announcer for a single show 2

Before he found his calling on JEOPARDY!, Gilbert was the announcer for episodes of several other game shows, including The $25,000 Pyramid, The Joker's Wild, Tic-Tac-Dough, Anything for Money, Every Second Counts and The Price is Right

He also served as Dinah Shore's announcer on her popular daily talk show throughout the 1970s and 80s.

“I am incredibly honoured that my work on JEOPARDY! has been recognised with a Guinness World Records title,” Gilbert said. “For more than 30 years, I’ve looked forward to coming to work every day. JEOPARDY!’s producers, crew, and contestants make every episode new and exciting and I love being a part of it.”

The show itself actually holds a record for having the Most Emmy Awards won by a TV game show with 34 - almost one for every year the show has aired on television! 

Watch the video below to see Johnny Gilbert receive his official certificate from Guinness World Records adjudicator Alex Angert: