The Ned Fulmer Scandal: What Really Happened To The Try Guys

**The world of online entertainment is often a dynamic and unpredictable landscape, but few events have sent shockwaves quite like the sudden departure of Ned Fulmer from the beloved YouTube group, The Try Guys. For years, Ned Fulmer had been a cornerstone of the quartet, known for his "wife guy" persona and unwavering dedication to his wife, Ariel Fulmer. His sudden absence, marked by a terse official statement, left millions of fans grappling with confusion and a barrage of unanswered questions about what truly transpired behind the scenes.** **The Try Guys, originally rising to prominence under the BuzzFeed umbrella before forging their own independent path, had built a brand around authenticity, friendship, and shared experiences. Ned Fulmer's integral role in this narrative, particularly his public persona, made the eventual revelations all the more jarring. This article delves deep into the events that led to Ned Fulmer's exit, the immediate aftermath, and the lasting impact on The Try Guys and their dedicated fanbase, providing a comprehensive look at one of the most significant controversies in recent YouTube history.**

Ned Fulmer: A Brief Biography and Rise to Stardom

Ned Fulmer, born on June 11, 1987, quickly became a recognizable face on the internet, largely due to his work with BuzzFeed and later, The Try Guys. Before his public career, Fulmer graduated from Yale University, showcasing a background in chemistry. His entry into the digital content creation space began at BuzzFeed, where he worked as a video producer. It was here that the initial seeds of The Try Guys were sown, alongside Eugene Lee Yang, Keith Habersberger, and Zach Kornfeld. Ned's persona within the group was distinct and highly marketable: he was the "wife guy." This identity revolved heavily around his marriage to Ariel Fulmer, often featuring her prominently in videos and frequently expressing his love and devotion. This public display of affection and commitment resonated deeply with fans, building a strong sense of reliability and warmth around his character. He was seen as the grounded, family-oriented member, a stark contrast to some of the more outlandish or experimental antics of his co-stars. His role as a producer, writer, and host contributed significantly to the group's creative direction and overall success, making him a central pillar of their brand. Here is a brief overview of Ned Fulmer's personal data:

Category	Details
Full Name	Ned Fulmer
Date of Birth	June 11, 1987
Place of Birth	United States
Spouse	Ariel Fulmer
Children	Two sons
Alma Mater	Yale University
Known For	Formerly a member of The Try Guys, Producer, Writer, Host

The Try Guys' Journey: From BuzzFeed to Independent Success

The genesis of The Try Guys can be traced back to BuzzFeed in 2014, where Ned Fulmer and his colleagues, Eugene, Keith, and Zach, began creating videos experimenting with various activities, from trying on women's underwear to experiencing labor pains. Their candid reactions, genuine camaraderie, and willingness to step outside their comfort zones quickly garnered a massive following. Their unique blend of comedy, vulnerability, and relatable content struck a chord with millions, transforming them from BuzzFeed employees into internet sensations. In 2018, in a bold move that underscored their ambition and entrepreneurial spirit, The Try Guys announced their departure from BuzzFeed to form their own independent production company, 2nd Try LLC. This transition marked a significant milestone, allowing them greater creative control, ownership of their content, and direct engagement with their fanbase. Under their own banner, they continued to produce a wide array of content, including travel series, cooking challenges, and deep dives into various cultural phenomena. Their independent success solidified their status as major players in the digital media landscape, demonstrating their business acumen and the strength of their collective brand. Ned Fulmer was an instrumental part of this expansion, not just as a personality but also as a key figure in the company's operations.

The Scandal Unfolds: What Happened to Ned Fulmer?

The carefully constructed image of Ned Fulmer, the devoted husband and integral member of The Try Guys, began to unravel dramatically in late September 2022. What started as whispers and unverified claims on social media quickly escalated into a full-blown public crisis that shook the entire Try Guys fanbase.

The Initial Rumors and Fan Speculation

The first signs of trouble emerged on September 27, 2022, when screenshots and alleged eyewitness accounts began circulating online, suggesting that Ned Fulmer had been seen engaging in inappropriate behavior with a colleague. The initial allegations pointed towards Alexandria Herring, a producer who worked for The Try Guys' company, 2nd Try LLC, and was also a frequent on-screen presence in their videos, often as part of the "Food Babies" segment. Photos allegedly showing Ned and Alexandria kissing at a club quickly went viral, fueling intense speculation and concern among fans. The gravity of these rumors was amplified by Ned's well-established "wife guy" persona. His public identity was so intrinsically linked to his marriage to Ariel Fulmer that the idea of infidelity seemed to contradict everything fans thought they knew about him. The fanbase shuddered as news arose of Fulmer cheating on his wife, Ariel Fulmer. This stark contrast between his public image and the emerging allegations created a massive sense of betrayal and disappointment among their loyal followers, leading to an immediate and overwhelming demand for answers from the group.

The Official Confirmation and Ned's Admission

The silence from The Try Guys' official channels in the immediate aftermath of the rumors only intensified the public's anxiety. However, the wait for an official statement was short-lived. On September 27, 2022, the same day the allegations gained significant traction, The Try Guys confirmed that Fulmer was no longer part of the comedy group in a statement posted to their social media pages. Their official YouTube and Twitter accounts announced that Ned Fulmer would no longer be working for the company. The statement was succinct and direct: "Ned is no longer working with The Try Guys." This confirmation, while brief, validated the swirling rumors and signaled a definitive end to Ned's tenure with the group. Shortly after The Try Guys' announcement, Ned Fulmer himself issued a statement on his personal social media. In his tweet, he admitted to "a consensual workplace relationship" with a colleague, acknowledging his infidelity. He expressed deep regret for the pain he had caused his wife, Ariel, and his children, as well as his colleagues and fans. This admission confirmed the allegations and painted a clear picture of the events that led to his swift dismissal. The public confirmation from both parties left no room for doubt: Ned Fulmer was out, and the reason was a breach of trust and professional conduct. He had been cheating on his wife, Ariel Fulmer, with employee Alexandria Herring.

The Try Guys Respond: Navigating a Public Crisis

The immediate aftermath of Ned Fulmer's departure presented an unprecedented challenge for the remaining members of The Try Guys: Eugene Lee Yang, Keith Habersberger, and Zach Kornfeld. They were faced with the monumental task of addressing a scandal that directly impacted their brand, their friendships, and their business, all while under intense public scrutiny. Their response was critical in shaping how the fanbase, and the broader internet, would perceive the situation and the future of the group. On October 3, 2022, The Try Guys released a highly anticipated video titled "what happened." In this video, the three remaining members appeared somber and spoke directly to their audience, providing a more detailed account of the events from their perspective. They explained that they had been made aware of the situation internally weeks before the public rumors surfaced, and that they had initiated an internal review. This review confirmed the allegations, leading to Ned's immediate removal from all ongoing projects and eventually, his termination. The video emphasized the severity of the situation, particularly the breach of trust and the violation of their company's workplace conduct policies. They conveyed their shock, disappointment, and the personal toll the situation had taken on them, not just as business partners but as friends. Their collective decision to remove Ned was presented as a unanimous one, made to protect their company, their employees, and their values. This transparent and earnest approach was largely well-received by their fanbase, who appreciated their honesty and commitment to accountability.

The Immediate Impact on The Try Guys

The sudden exit of Ned Fulmer sent ripples through every aspect of The Try Guys' operation. As an original member, Ned's absence created an immediate void, both creatively and personally. The group had to quickly adapt their content strategy, removing Ned from previously filmed videos and rethinking future projects that might have included him. This involved significant editing work and strategic planning to ensure a seamless transition for their audience. Beyond the logistical challenges, there was a profound emotional impact on Eugene, Keith, and Zach. Their 10-year friendship and business partnership had been fractured by the scandal. The "what happened" video clearly showed their raw emotions, reflecting the pain of losing a friend and colleague under such difficult circumstances. They had to navigate their own feelings of betrayal and disappointment while simultaneously managing a very public crisis. The fanbase, deeply invested in the group's dynamic, also felt the impact keenly. Many expressed sadness, anger, and confusion. The incident sparked widespread discussions about loyalty, trust, and the blurred lines between public persona and private life for internet celebrities. The Try Guys had to work diligently to reassure their audience that despite the significant change, their core values and commitment to their content remained intact. This period was undoubtedly one of the most challenging in the group's history, forcing them to confront a crisis that threatened the very foundation of their brand.

Ariel Fulmer and the Personal Toll

While the public narrative largely focused on Ned Fulmer's actions and The Try Guys' response, it's crucial to acknowledge the profound personal toll the scandal took on Ariel Fulmer, Ned's wife. Ariel had been an integral part of Ned's public persona, often appearing in videos and co-hosting their own podcast, "You Can Sit With Us," alongside Zach's wife, Maggie, and Keith's wife, Becky. Her involvement made the infidelity all the more devastating, as it directly undermined the "wife guy" image that was so central to Ned's brand. Ariel's public statement, released shortly after Ned's admission, was brief but poignant. She requested privacy for herself and her children as they navigated this incredibly difficult time. Her strength and dignity in the face of such public humiliation garnered immense support from fans and the wider internet community. The scandal highlighted the often-overlooked human element behind celebrity controversies, reminding audiences that real people, with real families, are deeply affected by such events. Her journey through this personal crisis became a quiet but significant subplot to the larger public narrative, underscoring the devastating consequences of Ned's actions beyond just his professional life. Here's what happened to Ned and Ariel. Their personal lives, once so openly shared, were now irrevocably altered by the public nature of the infidelity.

Workplace Ethics and Public Trust: A Broader Discussion

The Ned Fulmer scandal transcended mere celebrity gossip; it ignited a crucial conversation about workplace ethics, professional boundaries, and the inherent trust placed in public figures. For a company like 2nd Try LLC, built on the personalities of its founders and reliant on a collaborative environment, a "consensual workplace relationship" between a senior partner and an employee presented significant ethical dilemmas.

The Importance of Professional Boundaries

In any professional setting, especially one where power dynamics exist, relationships between superiors and subordinates are fraught with potential complications. Even if "consensual," such relationships can create an uncomfortable work environment for others, lead to accusations of favoritism, and ultimately undermine the integrity of the workplace. For The Try Guys, a group that prided itself on its tight-knit, family-like atmosphere, Ned's actions were a direct breach of the trust placed in him as a leader and a co-owner. This incident serves as a stark reminder of why clear workplace policies regarding conduct and relationships are vital, particularly when dealing with employees who may feel pressured or compromised.

Rebuilding Trust in the Public Eye

For public figures and brands, trust is their most valuable currency. The "wife guy" persona of Ned Fulmer had cultivated a specific type of trust with his audience – a belief in his authenticity and moral uprightness. His infidelity shattered that trust, not just in him, but potentially in the very concept of authenticity that The Try Guys represented. The remaining members faced the daunting task of rebuilding that trust. Their transparent communication, swift action, and unwavering commitment to their company's values were crucial steps in this process. This situation underscores the E-E-A-T principles (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) that apply not only to content creation but also to the conduct of those who create it. When a public figure's personal actions contradict their public image, it erodes trustworthiness, which is paramount for long-term success and audience engagement.

The Try Guys Moving Forward: A New Chapter

In the wake of Ned Fulmer's departure, The Try Guys faced an existential question: could they continue as a trio? Their decision to push forward, albeit with a heavy heart, marked the beginning of a new and challenging chapter for the group.

Adapting Content and Brand Identity

The immediate challenge was adapting their content. Ned's presence was pervasive, not just in recent videos but in their extensive back catalog. They had to make difficult decisions about how to handle past content featuring him and how to re-edit ongoing projects. More importantly, they had to re-evaluate their brand identity. The "four friends" dynamic was central to their appeal, and now one was missing. They chose to embrace this change, acknowledging the shift while emphasizing that their core mission of "trying" new things and creating engaging content remained. They introduced new segments, brought in more of their behind-the-scenes staff into videos, and explored different comedic avenues, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability. The focus shifted more heavily onto the individual personalities of Eugene, Keith, and Zach, allowing them to shine in new ways. Eugene's artistic vision, Keith's comedic timing, and Zach's earnestness took center stage, proving that the group's strength wasn't solely reliant on one member.

The Future of The Try Guys

The future of The Try Guys now rests on their ability to continue evolving and connecting with their audience in authentic ways. They have demonstrated remarkable strength and unity in navigating an incredibly difficult public crisis. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and their company's values, they have managed to retain a significant portion of their fanbase and even gain new supporters who admire their handling of the situation. While the "Ned Try Guys" era is definitively over, the remaining members have shown that the spirit of The Try Guys endures. They continue to produce content, engage with their community, and explore new ventures, proving that even in the face of profound change, a strong foundation built on shared vision and integrity can prevail. Their journey serves as a compelling case study in crisis management, brand resilience, and the ever-changing dynamics of digital celebrity.

The group, which gained popularity at BuzzFeed for their viral videos and eventually departed to begin producing content through their own company, announced on Tuesday that Ned Fulmer is no longer part of viral YouTube comedy troupe The Try Guys, admitting to “a consensual workplace relationship” with a colleague after photos of them kissing. On September 27, The Try Guys official YouTube and Twitter announced that Ned Fulmer will no longer be working for the company, with Ned tweeting an admission to infidelity. He is no longer a member of The Try Guys. Ned Fulmer, a member of the popular group “The Try Guys,” has been a beloved figure online. His sudden absence has left fans with many questions. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what happened to Ned Fulmer and the impact on the group.

Producer | Writer | Host #1 NYT Bestseller | Formerly @TryGuys @BuzzFeed. YouTube group The Try Guys parted ways with original member Ned Fulmer following allegations of infidelity. Ned Fulmer is no longer part of viral YouTube comedy troupe The Try Guys, admitting to “a consensual workplace relationship” with a colleague after photos of them.

Conclusion

The story of Ned Fulmer's departure from The Try Guys is a complex narrative of personal failure, professional accountability, and public trust. What happened to Ned Fulmer was a stark reminder that even beloved public figures are subject to the consequences of their actions, particularly when those actions betray the very image they've cultivated. He was kicked out of The Try Guys after it was revealed he had been cheating on his wife, Ariel Fulmer, with an employee. This seismic event, occurring on September 27, 2022, irrevocably altered the trajectory of one of YouTube's most popular groups. The remaining members, Eugene, Keith, and Zach, faced this crisis head-on with transparency and a clear commitment to their values, successfully navigating a turbulent period that could have easily dismantled their entire enterprise. Their resilience, coupled with the unwavering support of their fanbase, allowed The Try Guys to emerge from the scandal, albeit in a new form, ready to write their next chapter. The incident serves as a powerful case study on the importance of ethical conduct in the workplace, the fragility of public trust, and the profound impact personal choices can have on professional careers. For fans and creators alike, it underscores the need for authenticity, accountability, and the understanding that actions, especially in the public eye, carry significant weight. What are your thoughts on how The Try Guys handled the situation, and how has it changed your perception of the group? Share your comments below, and if you found this deep dive insightful, consider sharing it with others who might be curious about what happened to Ned Fulmer. For more insights into the world of digital creators and media ethics, explore other articles on our site.