Overview
Try Guys member Ned Fulmer’s workplace affair with producer Alexandria Herring (September 2022) became the internet’s most-discussed scandal, resulting in his removal from the group and a masterclass in crisis management by remaining members.
The Scandal
Leaked: Fan-submitted photos (Labor Day weekend 2022) showed Ned kissing Alexandria Herring at NYC bar. Both married with kids.
Hypocrisy factor: Ned’s entire brand was “Wife Guy” — constantly talked about loving his wife Ariel, made it his personality.
Workplace dynamics: Alexandria was Try Guys employee, reports directly to producers. Power imbalance.
Try Guys Response (September 27, 2022)
Keith, Zach, Eugene released video “what happened” addressing scandal:
- Conducted internal review
- Ned removed from company (fired as employee/partner)
- Editing him out of pre-filmed content
- Legal/HR investigation ongoing
Tone: Professional, disappointed, protecting other employees. Never named Alexandria publicly.
Ned & Ariel’s Statements
Ned: “Family should have always been my priority, but I lost focus… I’m sorry.” Confirmed “consensual workplace relationship.”
Ariel (via IG): “Nothing is more important to me than our family.” Stayed in marriage (as of 2023).
Internet Reaction
- “Wife Guy to Lies Guy” jokes
- Comparisons to Adam Levine scandal (same month)
- Sympathy for Ariel, Alexandria’s husband Will
- Debate over power dynamics (boss-employee affair)
- Try Guys praised for swift, transparent action
Business Impact
- Ned owned 25% of company, bought out by others
- Food Network show Phoning It In cancelled
- Edited out of months of pre-filmed content (fans noticed “Ned-shaped blur” in backgrounds)
- Try Guys viewership initially dipped, then rebounded stronger
Comparison to Other YouTube Scandals
More professionally handled than most (David Dobrik, Shane Dawson, etc.). Set new standard for accountability.
Legacy
Ned became cautionary tale: your brand can destroy you if you violate it. “Wife Guy” persona made betrayal worse.
The Try Guys survived, Ned’s career didn’t. As of 2023, he’s stayed largely offline.