A recent episode of the popular quiz show "Jeopardy!" sparked controversy when a clue was perceived as sexist by viewers and contestants alike. Heather Ryan, a health program director from Binghamton, New York, who participated in the October 28th episode, has now shared her thoughts on the incident.
The clue in question appeared in the category "Complete the Rhyming Phrase" and read, "Men seldom make passes at...". The correct response, provided by returning champion Will Wallace, was "Girls who wear glasses," a phrase attributed to renowned poet Dorothy Parker.
Ryan, who wore glasses during her appearance on the show, described the moment as "unexpected" and admitted it created an uncomfortable atmosphere on set. "I think it made everybody in the audience and on stage, and Ken Jennings too, a little uncomfortable," she told Binghamton University's newspaper Pipe Dream.
The contestant expressed concern about the potential impact of such phrases on young female students, particularly those who might be hesitant to wear glasses. "Unfortunately, there are still girls who are [in] middle school, and they don't want to wear their glasses, and they're losing out on their education," Ryan explained. She emphasized the importance of clear vision over adhering to outdated stereotypes.
Host Ken Jennings acknowledged the problematic nature of the clue during the episode, apologizing to Ryan. Wallace, the contestant who provided the correct answer, also recognized the issue, describing it as "very" problematic.
Despite the awkward moment, Ryan maintained that her overall experience on "Jeopardy!" was positive. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the long-running show, which has been a staple of American television for four decades.
The incident has sparked discussions about the need for more careful consideration of clue content in the future. Ryan suggested, "Maybe we choose better rhyming phrases in 2024," highlighting the importance of evolving with the times and being mindful of potentially offensive or outdated content.
As "Jeopardy!" continues to captivate audiences, this incident serves as a reminder of the show's cultural impact and the responsibility that comes with it. The controversy has prompted reflection on the importance of inclusivity and sensitivity in popular media, even in seemingly innocuous game show clues.