The unusual behavior of Brian Frey, a recent “Jeopardy!” contestant, has elicited sharp criticism from the quiz show’s dedicated fanbase, aligning him with a growing number of contentious participants who have disrupted the show’s generally calm ambiance.
Frey, hailing from Syosset, New York, attracted immediate attention when he labeled himself as a “journeyman” during his introduction. He informed host Ken Jennings that his father had suggested he identify himself as a “(expletive) of all trades.” Jennings concurred that “Journeyman” was a more appropriate choice.
Throughout the episode, Frey’s lively behavior persisted, including a moment where he folded his hands as if in prayer when asking for a “True Daily Double.” This prompted a number of viewers to demand his removal from the show. Some even speculated if he was an artificially created contestant due to his peculiar gestures. Despite the backlash, Frey secured the second place, earning $7,599.
Many viewers voiced their disapproval of his dramatic actions on social media, describing them as “cringeworthy” and “inappropriate.” Some questioned his exuberance, doubting his fit for the show’s typically calm environment.
A viewer noted, “How to make yourself unlikable to millions of people in less than 10 seconds. Not cute. Not endearing. Not appropriate. Super cringe.” Another viewer added, “Can this guy stop with the theatrics and dramatics and just play the damn game?” These responses underscore the divisive impact of Frey’s behavior on the show’s viewership.
Frey is now part of a group of contestants whose actions have provoked negative reactions from viewers. Drew Basile is another such contestant who won $129,601 over seven days of success but was criticized for talking between clues and overzealous celebration. His disruptive actions led the producers to reshoot certain parts of the show. Basile admitted to being a “polarizing figure,” brushing off viewer criticism as “incoherent.”
Yogesh Raut, the Tournament of Champions winner, also faced severe criticism for his nontraditional buzzer-pressing technique that involved excessive physical movement. Despite viewer complaints, Raut stood by his method, highlighting what he termed as 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 sustained a uniform format that generally encourages subdued behavior from contestants. However, 2023 saw several instances of behavior deemed “disrespectful” or “pathetic” by fans, including contestants making questionable bets and failing to respond to seemingly obvious clues about famous figures.
Amidst the controversy during Frey’s appearance, Greg Jolin, the current champion, continued his winning streak, raising his three-day total to $75,002.
