Additional Coverage:
- ‘Price is Right’ fans have a major problem with recent contestants and producers might be behind it (marketrealist.com)
“Come On Down!” (But Maybe Not Too Enthusiastically): “Price Is Right” Fans Call Out Over-the-Top Contestant Antics
America’s longest-running game show, “The Price Is Right,” is facing a surprising challenge: its own enthusiastic contestants. While boisterous energy has always been a hallmark of the show, a growing chorus of viewers is expressing dismay over what they perceive as increasingly forced and over-the-top celebrations, leading some to wonder if producers are pushing the envelope a little too far.
For decades, “The Price Is Right” has been synonymous with electrifying entrances, memorable outfits, and the pure, unadulterated joy of winning big. Contestants are practically required to be brimming with excitement, often seen jumping, hugging, and even playfully tackling host Drew Carey. However, these antics, once seen as genuine expressions of elation, are now drawing criticism from a segment of the show’s loyal fanbase.
According to a recent report from TV Insider, many viewers believe that contestants are taking their celebrations to an excessive degree, sometimes even before they’ve officially made it to the stage. From elaborate dance routines down the aisle reminiscent of “Soul Train” to attempts at crowdsurfing, some participants are seemingly prioritizing showmanship over genuine reactions.
The sentiment is palpable on online forums, including Reddit’s r/ThePriceIsRight. One user sparked a lively discussion with the post, “We have got to stop having every contestant dance down the aisle like it’s Soul Train.”
The response was overwhelmingly in agreement, with many fans suggesting that the show’s producers might be inadvertently contributing to the problem. “My friend was just at a taping recently and said that they literally tell you to do this,” one Redditor revealed, sparking concerns about the authenticity of the reactions.
Long-time viewers fondly recall a time when contestant reactions felt more spontaneous and heartfelt. “I understand that it’s something the producers encourage, but I really can’t fathom why,” another fan commented.
“Back in the day, when an occasional contestant acted silly, it was mildly amusing and showed the person’s true self. Now every contestant is encouraged to showboat, and it’s become grossly fake and annoying.”
For some, the issue has become so pronounced that it’s impacting their viewing experience. “The show has gotten unwatchable for me lately,” one disgruntled viewer wrote.
“It never used to be this ‘extreme’ in terms of over-the-top contestants. I literally put on Regis Philbin’s Millionaire on GSN instead of TPIR now.
They really need to tone it back a few notches. It’s almost cringey.”
While the energy of “The Price Is Right” is undeniably part of its enduring appeal, it seems viewers are hoping for a return to more genuine expressions of excitement, rather than what they perceive as manufactured jubilation. Perhaps a little less “Soul Train” and a little more authentic “come on down” is what the fans are truly wishing for.