In 2014, the Try Guys emerged as a sensational group of YouTubers within the BuzzFeed web series. Comprised of Ned Fulmer, Keith Habersberger, Zach Kornfeld, and Eugene Lee Yang, their videos quickly amassed millions of views portraying various entertaining challenges, such as attempting to bake a pie without a recipe or eating 400 dumplings in one sitting. The Try Guys decided to venture on their own in 2018, breaking away from BuzzFeed to establish their independent production company, 2nd Try LLC, which flourished with two dozen employees.
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However, the trajectory of the Try Guys took an unexpected turn in September 2022 when it was disclosed that Ned Fulmer, known for his affable “wife guy” image, had engaged in an extramarital affair with a colleague at the company. The revelation caused a stir amongst fans and the remaining members – Habersberger, Kornfeld, and Yang – swiftly distanced themselves from Fulmer, announcing his departure from the company and editing him out of upcoming videos.
The aftermath of the scandal saw Fulmer receding from the public eye, acknowledging the detrimental impact on his mental health. Despite the tumultuous period, he re-emerged by launching a podcast named Rock Bottom, where he delves into conversations with individuals who have triumphed over adversities. In a candid interview, Fulmer’s estranged wife, Ariel, vocalized her steadfast stance on the infidelity, asserting her unequivocal position on forgiveness.
Keith Habersberger, a stalwart member of the original Try Guys quartet, continues to create content for the group, with recent ventures including a new YouTube channel titled Try Every Day. Alongside Zach Kornfeld, they embark on a daily video series where they undertake novel endeavours each day for an entire month, resonating with their audience through diverse experiences.
Zach Kornfeld has maintained his involvement within the group following personal milestones such as his marriage to Margaret “Maggie” Bustamante, a pediatric nurse. The duo announced the inception of 2nd Try, a subscription-based service aimed at streamlining content delivery and fostering a direct connection with their viewers. In conjunction with their primary channel, Kornfeld and Habersberger curate content for Try Every Day, amplifying their creative repertoire.
Eugene Lee Yang, recognised for his pivotal role in the Try Guys and his poignant coming out video in 2019, delineates a departure from the group to pursue new avenues encompassing writing, directing, and storytelling. A testament to growth and evolution, Yang’s progression denotes a shift towards a multifaceted career trajectory beyond the confines of YouTube. Despite the turbulence faced by the Try Guys’ founding ensemble, each member has exhibited resilience and adaptability, embarking on individual endeavours that resonate with authenticity and creativity.