‘Jeopardy!’ Did Defeated Fan Favorite Ryan Long Lose On Purpose?

Jeopardy! viewers are wondering if defeated fan favorite Ryan Long lost on purpose. Sadly, his reign came to an end on the Monday, June 6 episode. The Philadelphia-based rideshare driver lost his winning streak. Some fans were shocked at what happened in the previous episode.

They had a feeling that Ryan would be on the show for a little longer. Other fans noticed that he was feeling a little defeated and “threw the game.” In a shocking turn of events, the beloved fan-favorite lost after 16 wins. Viewers had a feeling that Ryan decided to give up while he was ahead.

Relatable rideshare driver Ryan Long loses

On June 6, Ryan Long lost after 16 consecutive wins and $299,000 total.  The 39-year-old looked defeated during the game. Actress Mayim Bialik is hosting Jeopardy! for the fifth week in a row amid Ken Jennings’ extended hiatus. He previously told fans that he would be out for “months.”

The permanent hosting job should be announced by the end of Season 38 of Jeopardy! in July 2022. Monday’s episode was the last time that fans would see Ryan. He claimed defeat in a finish that left fans flabbergasted. They didn’t think Ryan’s time on the show would end this soon.

Things took a turn during the “Daily Double” round when the favorite contestant drew a blank. Ryan better $2,000 earlier on. However, he didn’t have an answer to the clue. In “Final Jeopardy,” Ryan got stuck once again and drew a blank. Ryan felt defeated during the game.

New Jeopardy! contestant Eric Ahasic, a meteorologist from Minneapolis, Minnesota, wagered $10,200. He correctly responded “Castor and Pollux” to the Greek Mythology clue. Ryan headed into “Final Jeopardy” with $6,800. Unfortunately, he incorrectly guessed the answer and ended with just $1. Eric pumped his fist in the air with his $18,000 win.

Ryan, it's been a pleasure watching you play. *Arnold voice* YOU'LL BE BACK (in the Tournament of Champions). https://t.co/RQ0m7Ys7KF

— Jeopardy! (@Jeopardy) June 7, 2022

Tired Jeopardy! champ claims defeat?

Some Jeopardy! viewers flocked to Twitter to talk about the surprising turn of events. Some of them think that Ryan “threw the game.” They couldn’t believe what happened since he was always on top of his responses. However, some couldn’t help but notice that his demeanor was different.

• “I’m so sad I don’t even have a #blindguess answer #Jeopardy.”
• “@Jeopardy Ryan you had a great run! Thanks for sharing your knowledge w us! We enjoyed watching you play!”
• “What the hell was that? Ryan stopped ringing in!”
• “Ryan Long was ready to go home. He definitely threw that game.”
• “Ryan was more than tired and threw in the title.”

Other Jeopardy! fans were upset with Eric. They blamed him for Ryan’s loss. Despite his loss, he had a great run on the quiz show. The brainiac won 16 consecutive games, which isn’t bad. He probably got tired and wanted to go back home to his family.

What are your thoughts on Ryan’s loss? What are your thoughts on Eric’s win? Who is your favorite champ? Sound off below in the comment section.

Strap in and get ready for the ride, Eric! #overheardonset pic.twitter.com/wDVcVrNARY

— Jeopardy! (@Jeopardy) June 7, 2022

Check back with TV Shows Ace for more news on Jeopardy!