Drew Carey’s approach to hosting The Price Is Right has long been defined by a light-hearted, supportive energy and his own quirky brand of humor. Since stepping into the iconic role after Bob Barker’s retirement, Carey has infused the show with his comedic style, encouraging contestants and interacting with the audience in a way that often blends compassion with sharp wit.
A recent episode highlighted this dynamic perfectly. During the game “Switcheroo,” a contestant named Brian faced unexpected negativity from the crowd. As he struggled to pick the right numbers, the audience responded with audible boos and jeers. Drew, quick on his feet, turned to the crowd and said, “Good morning, judgmental,” a remark that both defended the contestant and broke the tension, allowing Brian to concentrate and ultimately win a brand-new car. It was a classic example of how Drew uses humor to shift the mood and maintain a positive tone.
However, not all viewers are enamored with Drew’s hosting style. A growing number of fans have taken issue with what they call “Drew-isms”—his signature, sometimes obscure jokes, particularly those centered on donuts and other inside references. During a recent spin-off of the show, one fan took to social media to express confusion, stating, “It’s confusing since some have no idea what Drew is talking about. It’s strange.” The joke in question, involving donuts, had become a recurring gag that some say has overstayed its welcome.
This isn’t the first time Drew’s humor has sparked debate. His dad-joke style and running gags are appreciated by some but bewilder others. Critics argue that the repetition makes the show less accessible, especially for newer viewers who might not understand the context of certain jokes. Still, Carey has his loyal defenders.
Fans have come to Drew’s defense online, claiming his jokes are part of the show’s charm. “It’s just a Drew-ism,” one viewer wrote. “A strange one, but it’s part of who he is.” Another fan insisted, “Nah, I love Drew. Keep doing you, Drew.” A third added a more direct take: “It’s Drew’s job to make the jokes, not to explain them. Remember that as you stumble through life.” Some even compared his humor to long-running in-show gags like the “37 hours” joke from the Range Game.
Drew Carey’s journey to hosting The Price Is Right is rooted in a successful comedy career. He got his start as a stand-up comic and gained fame after a breakthrough appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. This led to The Drew Carey Show, a sitcom that became a staple of 1990s television. His comedic background made him a natural, if unconventional, successor to Bob Barker.
While the show has certainly evolved under his leadership, the core format remains intact, and Carey has brought in a new sense of energy that continues to resonate with many fans. His interactions with contestants are often warm and encouraging, creating an environment where players feel supported. That sense of camaraderie is one reason fans continue to tune in, even if his brand of humor doesn’t land with everyone.
Ultimately, the debate over Drew-isms reflects a broader divide in the audience. Some want a return to a more traditional, straightforward game show host. Others appreciate the fresh spin Drew brings, quirks and all. Humor, after all, plays a vital role in the success of a show like The Price Is Right. It keeps the energy high and makes the experience memorable, even when the jokes are a bit offbeat.
Despite the criticism, Drew Carey remains a beloved figure in daytime television. His passion for the show, his loyalty to the contestants, and yes—his donut jokes—have cemented his status as one of the most recognizable and endearing hosts in modern game show history.
Whether you’re rolling your eyes or laughing along, there’s no denying Drew Carey has made The Price Is Right his own.
