Introduction
In the world of YouTube creators, few stories have gripped the internet quite like that of Ned Fulmer. Once known for his wholesome “wife guy” persona and comedic charm as a member of The Try Guys, Ned’s career took a dramatic turn in 2022 after revelations of a workplace affair surfaced. The Ned Fulmer scandal sparked widespread discussions on influencer authenticity, professional boundaries, and the risks of mixing personal life with public branding.
This in-depth article explores Ned’s early career, his meteoric rise with The Try Guys, the scandal that shook his fanbase, and how his Ned Fulmer IG presence shifted in the aftermath.
Who is Ned Fulmer?
Early Life and Education
Edward Gallo Fulmer, widely known as Ned Fulmer, was born on June 11, 1987, in Jacksonville, Florida. He attended Yale University, graduating with a degree in chemistry. Initially pursuing a traditional career path in science, Ned transitioned to the entertainment industry after discovering his passion for media and storytelling.
Career Beginnings at BuzzFeed
Before becoming a household name, Ned worked behind the scenes as a video producer at BuzzFeed. His ability to mix humor, relatability, and genuine emotion made him stand out in the crowded world of digital creators. It was here that he connected with Keith Habersberger, Zach Kornfeld, and Eugene Lee Yang—eventually forming the viral sensation The Try Guys in 2014.
The Rise of The Try Guys
The Concept
The Try Guys’ format was simple but addictive: four men stepping out of their comfort zones to try new experiences—whether that meant ballet dancing, labor pain simulations, or skydiving. The blend of comedy, vulnerability, and friendship struck a chord with millions.
Breaking Away from BuzzFeed
In 2018, the group left BuzzFeed to form 2nd Try LLC, gaining full creative control over their brand. Ned played a critical role in the business side of the operation while continuing as an on-camera personality.
The “Wife Guy” Persona
Ned’s unique contribution to the Try Guys’ identity was his open devotion to his wife, Ariel Fulmer. From affectionate mentions in videos to family-centered content, Ned built his personal brand around being a loving husband and father. This “wife guy” image became central to his appeal and an integral part of the Try Guys’ wholesome aesthetic.
The Ned Fulmer Scandal
The Initial Rumors
In September 2022, fans noticed something unusual: Ned was absent from recent Try Guys videos, social media posts, and promotional content. Internet sleuths quickly pieced together clues, leading to rumors that he had been involved in an extramarital affair.
The Viral Moment
A fan claimed to have spotted Ned kissing Try Guys associate producer Alexandria Herring at a New York City bar. The report spread rapidly on Reddit and Twitter, with multiple eyewitnesses confirming similar sightings.
Official Statement
On September 27, 2022, The Try Guys released a public statement:
“Ned Fulmer is no longer working with The Try Guys. As a result of an internal review, we do not see a path forward together.”
Shortly after, Ned posted his own apology on Instagram:
“Family should have always been my priority, but I lost focus and had a consensual workplace relationship. I’m sorry for any pain my actions caused to the guys, the fans, and Ariel.”
Public Reaction
Betrayal of Trust
For many fans, the Ned Fulmer scandal was particularly shocking because of how strongly his public persona revolved around marriage and family values. His authenticity was a key selling point, making the revelation feel like a personal betrayal.
Impact on The Try Guys
The remaining members—Keith, Zach, and Eugene—released a YouTube video detailing their disappointment and explaining the steps they took to address the matter. Their transparency was widely praised and helped them retain much of their audience despite the controversy.
Discussions on Workplace Ethics
The scandal sparked larger conversations about workplace relationships, especially those involving a power imbalance. Even if consensual, such relationships can create ethical challenges and affect workplace dynamics.
Ned Fulmer IG: Before and After the Scandal
Before the Scandal
Before the controversy, Ned Fulmer IG was a lively mix of family snapshots, behind-the-scenes Try Guys content, and personal updates. With hundreds of thousands of followers, his Instagram reinforced the “wife guy” image.
After the Scandal
Following the public fallout, Ned’s Instagram activity sharply declined. Fans reported that both he and Ariel deleted older posts featuring their relationship. For a period, his account went inactive, fueling speculation about his career direction.
Ariel, meanwhile, shifted her focus to her own projects, including a ceramics business, and maintained a more low-key social media presence.
The Broader Cultural Impact
Parasocial Relationships
The scandal underscored the risks of parasocial relationships—one-sided emotional bonds fans form with public figures. When a creator’s personal life contradicts their public persona, it can lead to intense feelings of betrayal.
Brand Vulnerability
For brands tied closely to an individual’s personality, any personal scandal can have business consequences. The Try Guys’ swift action to remove Ned was seen as an effort to protect their overall brand integrity.
Life After the Scandal
Ned’s Current Activities
Since leaving The Try Guys, Ned has largely stayed out of the spotlight. While there are occasional unverified sightings and rumors, he has not announced any new public projects.
The Try Guys Moving Forward
Keith, Zach, and Eugene have continued producing content, collaborating with guest creators, and expanding their brand. In mid-2024, Eugene also stepped back from regular appearances to focus on other creative ventures, though he remains a co-owner.
Lessons Learned
- Authenticity Is a Double-Edged Sword – Building a brand on personal values creates strong connections but leaves little room for personal mistakes.
- Transparency Matters – The Try Guys’ clear communication helped them navigate the controversy without losing their entire fanbase.
- Boundaries in Professional Spaces – The Ned Fulmer scandal reignited debates on workplace ethics in the creator economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Ned Fulmer?
Ned Fulmer is a former member of The Try Guys, a YouTube group known for comedic and adventurous content.
2. What was the Ned Fulmer scandal?
In 2022, Ned was revealed to have had an extramarital affair with a Try Guys employee, leading to his departure from the group.
3. What happened to Ned Fulmer IG?
After the scandal, Ned’s Instagram activity decreased significantly, with many older posts removed.
4. Are Ned and Ariel still together?
As of now, neither has publicly confirmed their current relationship status.
Conclusion
The story of Ned Fulmer is a cautionary tale about the fragility of public image in the digital age. His swift rise and sudden fall show how quickly the tides can turn when personal actions clash with a carefully curated persona. From the Ned Fulmer scandal to the silence on Ned Fulmer IG, his journey remains one of the most discussed influencer controversies of recent years.
