"Jeopardy" host Alex Trebek is hoping for a victory as he wages a battle against cancer.
The longtime game show host on Wednesday announced he's been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in a video posted to the show's official YouTube account.
"Now, normally, the prognosis for this is not very encouraging, but I'm going to fight this. And I'm going to keep working and with the love and support of my family and friends -- and with the help of your prayers also -- I plan to beat the low survival rate statistics for this disease," he said.
Sony Pictures Television, which produces the show, did not immediately return CNN's request for comment.
Pancreatic cancer, on average and across all stages, has a 5-year survival rate of 9%, according to the American Cancer Society.
Trebek has hosted "Jeopardy" since 1984, when the show began airing daily in syndication.
He's known for his quick wit and sense of humor, which was on display in his announcement, despite the somber message at its center.
"Truth told, I have to [keep hosting] because under the terms of my contract, I have to host 'Jeopardy' for three more years," he joked. "So help me. Keep the faith, and we'll win. We'll get it done."
Last October, Trebek signed a contract to remain Jeopardy! host through 2022.
