Brian Frey, a recent participant on the popular quiz show “Jeopardy!,” found himself in hot water with die-hard fans due to his unconventional on-air behavior, adding to the growing list of contestants who have disrupted the usually subdued atmosphere of the show.
During his introduction, Frey, from Syosset, New York, garnered attention when he characterized himself as a “journeyman” and shared that his father had suggested he label himself a “(expletive) of all trades.” Host Ken Jennings agreed that “journeyman” was the more appropriate choice.
Frey’s lively conduct persisted throughout the show, including a moment where he joined his hands in a prayer-like gesture while asking for a “True Daily Double,” leading to calls from viewers for his removal from the show. His peculiar mannerisms even led some to question if he was an artificially-created entity. Despite the upheaval, Frey finished second, securing $7,599.
Many viewers took their grievances to social media, labeling his on-screen behavior as “cringeworthy” and “inappropriate.” Some voiced their unease with his enthusiasm, questioning its compatibility with the show’s typically restrained ambiance.
Quoting a viewer’s reaction, “How to make yourself unlikable to millions of people in less than 10 seconds. Not cute. Not endearing. Not appropriate. Super cringe.” Another added, “Can this guy stop with the theatrics and dramatics and just play the damn game?” These comments underline the divisive impact of Frey’s behavior on the show’s viewers.
Frey’s conduct has landed him among other contestants who have faced viewer backlash. Drew Basile, a former contestant, amassed $129,601 over a seven-day winning streak but was criticized for speaking out of turn and overly enthusiastic cheering, forcing producers to redo certain segments. Basile, undeterred by the criticism, labeled himself a “polarizing figure.”
Yogesh Raut, a Tournament of Champions winner, encountered severe criticism for his abnormal buzzer-pressing method which involved substantial physical movement. Despite viewer complaints, Raut defended his technique, pointing to the “hypocrisy of fans who demonize a human being because they claim to have sympathy for an inanimate object.”
Since its inception in 1964, “Jeopardy!” has stuck to a consistent format that generally encourages more restrained contestant behavior. However, in 2023, the show encountered several instances of what fans perceived as “disrespectful” or “pathetic” behavior, including participants making unwise bets and failing to provide answers to seemingly straightforward clues related to famous personalities.
Throughout Frey’s controversial appearance, the reigning champion, Greg Jolin, managed to retain his winning streak, taking his three-day winnings to $75,002.