The continued support for LeVar Burton to become the next Jeopardy! host is evident in a recent poll.

The former Reading Rainbow star garnered more than quintuple the support of Mike Richards, a seasoned executive producer who was named the permanent host last week.

According to a poll released by Morning Consult, Burton received 14% of the votes, while Richards received only 3%. Actress Mayim Balik of The Big Bang Theory, who will co-host, came in second place, with 13% of the vote. During the week of Burton’s hosting tryout, the show’s rating dipped, but it was also the same week the Tokyo Olympics commenced.

Prior to the official announcement of Richards becoming the next host alongside Balik, the former Reading Rainbow frontman took to Twitter to express his views on the matter.

“I have said many times over these past weeks that no matter the outcome, I’ve won,” the 64-year-old wrote. “The outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and fans alike has been incredible! If love is the ultimate blessing and I believe that it is, I am truly blessed beyond measure.”

I have said many times over these past weeks that no matter the outcome, I’ve won. The outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and fans alike has been incredible! If love is the ultimate blessing and I believe that it is, I am truly blessed beyond measure. ????????

— LeVar Burton (@levarburton) August 5, 2021

Before trying out to become the next Jeopardy! host, Richards had been an executive producer for both The Price Is Right and Let’s Make A Deal on CBS for 10 years. He also became entangled in a legal controversy earlier this month when claims of discrimination and sexual harassment during his time at The Price Is Right came to fruition, the New York Post reported.

Jeopardy! fans who have been advocating for Burton to secure the lead role were none too thrilled at the outcome.

Mayim-Balik

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