The Try Guys: From BuzzFeed To Independent Creators And Beyond
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital content, few creators have managed to carve out a niche as distinct and enduring as The Try Guys. This American comedy collective, renowned for their willingness to "try" everything from bizarre food challenges to complex physical feats, has captivated millions with their unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and genuine curiosity. Their journey from a viral BuzzFeed series to an independent media powerhouse is a testament to their adaptability, creative vision, and the strong bond they share with their dedicated fanbase.
The narrative of The Try Guys is one of constant evolution, marked by significant milestones, unexpected challenges, and a relentless pursuit of authentic storytelling. From their humble beginnings in 2014, experimenting with diverse activities, to launching their own streaming service in 2024, their trajectory reflects the dynamic nature of online entertainment and the power of a collective spirit. This article delves deep into their history, content, and the pivotal moments that have shaped their remarkable career, providing a comprehensive look at why The Try Guys continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Table of Contents
- The Genesis of The Try Guys: A BuzzFeed Phenomenon
- The Bold Leap: Forming 2nd Try LLC
- Navigating Uncharted Waters: Content Evolution and Expansion
- The Try Guys Members: A Dynamic Collective
- A Defining Moment: The Departure of Ned Fulmer
- The Evolving Landscape: Eugene Lee Yang's Transition and Future Prospects
- The Try Guys' Legacy and Impact
The Genesis of The Try Guys: A BuzzFeed Phenomenon
The story of The Try Guys officially began on September 12, 2014, within the bustling corridors of BuzzFeed. It was here that four distinct personalities – Eugene Lee Yang, Keith Habersberger, Ned Fulmer, and Zach Kornfeld – converged to create a unique brand of comedy content. As Buzzfeed employees, they embarked on a series of videos that quickly captured the internet's imagination. Their core concept was simple yet revolutionary: four men testing various activities and challenges, often pushing themselves outside their comfort zones for comedic effect and genuine discovery. From trying on women's underwear for the first time to experiencing labor pain simulators, their willingness to be vulnerable and embrace the absurd resonated deeply with viewers.
During their tenure at BuzzFeed, The Try Guys cultivated a massive following. The sheer relatability of their reactions, coupled with the inherent humor in their "trying" endeavors, led to explosive growth. The data speaks volumes: across more than 100 videos produced for BuzzFeed, they accumulated over 103 million views. This immense success was not just about virality; it was about building a loyal community that genuinely connected with their individual personalities and their collective dynamic. They transformed from mere content creators into internet personalities, laying a robust foundation for their future endeavors and establishing "The Try Guys" as a recognizable brand.
The Bold Leap: Forming 2nd Try LLC
Despite their phenomenal success at BuzzFeed, The Try Guys harbored ambitions that extended beyond the confines of a corporate media company. In April 2018, they made the courageous decision to leave BuzzFeed and embark on an independent journey. This move was not just a separation; it was a declaration of creative autonomy and a strategic pivot towards building their own media empire. They formed their own company, 2nd Try LLC, a name that perfectly encapsulated their ethos of continuous experimentation and their second act in the digital landscape. This transition marked a pivotal moment, transforming them from employees into entrepreneurs.
The decision to go independent was driven by a desire for greater creative control, ownership over their content, and the ability to directly engage with their audience without intermediary corporate structures. It was a risky move, as leaving a well-established platform like BuzzFeed meant starting anew in many respects. However, their existing fanbase, built on years of authentic content, followed them. This loyal support proved crucial as they navigated the complexities of running their own business, from production logistics to brand partnerships. 2nd Try LLC became the vehicle through which they would expand their content, diversify their offerings, and solidify their unique position in the digital media space, continuing the legacy of "The Try Guys" on their own terms.
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Navigating Uncharted Waters: Content Evolution and Expansion
Since forming 2nd Try LLC, The Try Guys have demonstrated an impressive ability to evolve their content and expand their reach across multiple platforms. Their independent YouTube channel became the primary hub for their signature "try" videos, but they quickly understood the need to diversify. This strategic expansion allowed them to connect with their audience in new ways, offering different forms of entertainment and engagement, and further cementing their brand as a versatile comedy collective. Their journey post-BuzzFeed is a masterclass in digital media entrepreneurship, showcasing how a strong brand can thrive beyond its initial platform.
Beyond YouTube: Podcasts, Books, and TV
The Try Guys wasted no time in branching out beyond their core YouTube videos. Recognizing the growing popularity of audio content, they launched a highly successful podcast, offering a more intimate and conversational space for their audience. This allowed them to share behind-the-scenes stories, discuss current events, and delve deeper into their personal lives, fostering a stronger connection with listeners. The podcast became an essential component of their content ecosystem, providing a different dimension to their comedic and personal narratives.
Their ambition also led them into traditional media. They authored a book, further demonstrating their storytelling capabilities and offering fans a tangible piece of their creative output. Furthermore, they ventured into television, developing a TV show that brought their unique brand of humor and experimentation to a broader audience. These ventures into different media formats underscored their versatility and their commitment to exploring various avenues for content creation, proving that The Try Guys were more than just YouTubers; they were multi-platform entertainers.
The Digital Empire: 2ndtry.tv and Substack
The commitment of The Try Guys to innovation and direct audience engagement reached new heights with the launch of their streaming service, 2ndtry.tv, in 2024. This platform offers exclusive shows and early access to content, providing a premium experience for their most dedicated fans. It represents a significant step towards building a direct-to-consumer model, allowing them to cut through the "digital void" and deliver "just the good stuff" directly to their audience. This strategic move highlights their foresight in an increasingly fragmented media landscape, offering a dedicated space where their community can access unique content.
In addition to their streaming service, The Try Guys have also leveraged platforms like Substack, where their publication boasts hundreds of thousands of subscribers. This provides another direct channel for communication, allowing them to share written content, updates, and more personal insights with their community. Complementing these ventures is their official apparel and merchandise line, available at thetryguys.com, which includes free domestic standard shipping on U.S. orders. This multi-faceted approach to content distribution and merchandise has solidified their status as a comprehensive digital empire, continuously finding new ways to engage and reward their global fanbase.
The Try Guys Members: A Dynamic Collective
At the heart of The Try Guys' enduring appeal are the unique personalities and chemistry of its members. Originally a quartet, the group's dynamic has evolved over time, but the core essence of their collective remains. The original founding members were Eugene Lee Yang, Keith Habersberger, Ned Fulmer, and Zach Kornfeld. Each brought a distinct flavor to the group, contributing to the rich tapestry of their comedic and emotional content. Eugene, often known for his dramatic flair and advocacy; Keith, with his boisterous humor and musicality; Ned, the "dad" figure known for his wholesome persona; and Zach, the quirky, often anxious, and highly creative spirit.
Currently, The Try Guys consist of Keith Habersberger, Zach Kornfeld, and Eugene Lee Yang. While Eugene is set to appear in 2nd Try TV content as part of his final season with the team, his transition marks another significant shift in the group's composition. Their individual strengths and their collective ability to navigate challenges and adapt have been key to their longevity. They are not just performers; they are friends who have shared profound experiences, both on and off camera, which translates into the authentic and relatable content that their fans adore. Their willingness to be open about their lives, their struggles, and their triumphs has forged a deep connection with their audience, making The Try Guys feel like an extended family to many.
A Defining Moment: The Departure of Ned Fulmer
The journey of The Try Guys has not been without its significant challenges, and perhaps the most impactful was the highly public departure of founding member Ned Fulmer. On September 16, 2022, Ned was ousted from the group following revelations that he had been cheating on his wife, Ariel Fulmer, with one of the 2nd Try employees, Alexandra Herring. This news sent shockwaves through their dedicated fanbase and the wider internet community, particularly because Alexandra had appeared in several of The Try Guys’ videos, making the betrayal feel even more personal to many viewers.
The scandal was a profound test for the remaining members and the integrity of 2nd Try LLC. The group handled the crisis with a level of transparency and professionalism that garnered respect. They addressed the situation directly and publicly, acknowledging the pain and disappointment felt by their audience and by those directly involved. Ned's actions were a stark contrast to the family-man persona he had cultivated, which was a significant part of his appeal within The Try Guys' brand. His departure necessitated a rapid and sensitive restructuring of their content and public image, highlighting the complexities and responsibilities that come with building a brand rooted in authenticity and personal connection in the digital age.
The Evolving Landscape: Eugene Lee Yang's Transition and Future Prospects
Following the significant changes brought about by Ned Fulmer's departure, The Try Guys are once again navigating a period of transition with the planned shift in Eugene Lee Yang's role. While Eugene is still set to appear in 2nd Try TV content as part of his final season with the team, his eventual step back from the core "Try Guys" trio marks another pivotal moment for the collective. This transition, unlike Ned's abrupt exit, appears to be a more planned evolution, allowing for a thoughtful restructuring of the group's dynamic and content direction. Keith Habersberger and Zach Kornfeld openly discussed Eugene's exit on Anthony Padilla's YouTube channel in the online segment 'The Try Guys React to Your Assumptions,' providing insight into the group's ongoing evolution and their commitment to transparency with their audience.
The Expanded Cast and New Horizons
As The Try Guys move forward, the concept of an "expanded cast" since 2024 signals a new chapter for the group. This suggests a more fluid and collaborative model, potentially bringing in new talent and perspectives to their videos. This adaptability is crucial for long-term relevance in the fast-paced world of online content. By broadening their creative team, The Try Guys can introduce fresh ideas, tackle new challenges, and maintain the dynamic energy that has defined their brand. This strategic move ensures that while the core leadership remains, the content can continue to evolve and resonate with an ever-changing audience, proving their resilience and forward-thinking approach to digital entertainment.
The Try Guys' Enduring Appeal: Connection and Community
Despite the challenges and changes, The Try Guys continue to thrive, largely due to their enduring appeal and the strong community they have fostered. Their success isn't just about viral videos; it's about the genuine connection they build with their audience. This is exemplified by their massive presence on platforms like TikTok, where they boast 84.7 million likes and 2.4 million followers, constantly sharing funny and comedic content. A dedicated Wiki Fandom page, created by fans, serves as a testament to the depth of their community, inviting new and old fans alike to "learn more about them."
Their motto, "This is the internet done right," encapsulates their commitment to authentic, engaging, and often thought-provoking content. They dive into a world of "endless entertainment where laughter, excitement, and creativity collide," inviting viewers to "join us on this journey as we bring you captivating content." From trying strange foods to addressing deeper social issues (like "questions for a tran..." or "reclaiming some piec..."), they consistently push boundaries while maintaining relatability. This unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and a willingness to explore diverse topics ensures that The Try Guys remain a beloved and influential force in the digital landscape, continually captivating their audience.
The Try Guys' Legacy and Impact
The journey of The Try Guys, from their inception at BuzzFeed in 2014 to their current status as independent media moguls, is a compelling narrative of innovation, resilience, and the power of human connection in the digital age. They began as four men creating comedy videos on YouTube, testing various activities and challenges, and through sheer dedication and creative vision, transformed into a multi-platform entertainment collective. Their ability to adapt, expand their content offerings—from podcasts and books to a TV show and their own streaming service, 2ndtry.tv—demonstrates a keen understanding of the evolving media landscape and the importance of direct audience engagement.
Their legacy is not just in the millions of views or the diverse content they produce. It lies in their pioneering spirit as independent creators who successfully navigated the transition from a corporate umbrella to self-sufficiency. It also lies in their transparency and integrity, particularly evident in how they handled significant internal challenges, reinforcing the trust they have built with their audience. The Try Guys have proven that authentic storytelling, combined with a willingness to "try" new things—both literally and figuratively—can lead to sustained success and a deeply loyal community. They continue to be a prime example of how to thrive in the dynamic world of online content creation, constantly pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be digital entertainers.
In conclusion, The Try Guys represent more than just a comedy group; they are a testament to the potential of independent creators to build a lasting brand based on authenticity, experimentation, and a genuine connection with their audience. Their journey, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, offers valuable insights into the complexities of digital media and the enduring appeal of human curiosity. As they continue to evolve with an expanded cast and new ventures like 2ndtry.tv, their commitment to delivering captivating content remains unwavering.
What are your favorite Try Guys moments? Have you explored their new streaming service or Substack? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don't forget to subscribe to their independent channel and check out their official merchandise. Join us in celebrating the laughter, excitement, and creativity that define The Try Guys' world!
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