Watching Jeopardy! is usually an educational experience for fans, but right now, it's the show that's learning a lesson. In the episode that aired on Monday, June 21, Jeopardy! included an offensive clue that led to serious backlash for the long-running game show. The clue was about postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), and the clue referred to the disorder with an outdated and offensive nickname.
Jeopardy! immediately began receiving criticism from viewers and from an organization focused on disorders of the autonomic nervous system. The show has since issued a response.
Read on to find out why the clue was called "outdated" and "misogynistic" and to see how Jeopardy! responded.
RELATED: This Is Who Fans Want to Succeed Alex Trebek as Host of Jeopardy!.
First, here's what the clue actually said.
The statement in question was part of a category called "Plain-named Maladies" during Monday's episode, which was hosted by guest Savannah Guthrie. The clue read, "Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome is also known as Grinch syndrome because this organ is too small." The answer they were looking for was, "What is the heart?"
The backlash was due, in part, to the nickname the show used.
The organization Dysautonomia International, which "raises funds for research and promotes awareness of disorders of the autonomic nervous system," led the charge when it came to pointing out the issue with Jeopardy!'s clue. On Monday, the organization tweeted, "Hey @Jeopardy no one with any credibility calls POTS 'Grinch Syndrome.' Promoting outdated misogynistic terms to describe a debilitating autonomic nervous system disorder that impacts millions of Americans is not cool. We request an apology on behalf of our community. Do better."
The group also tweeted an image of the clue on the board and wrote, "This appeared on Jeopardy tonight. Grinch syndrome is an offensive term. Can you imagine Jeopardy making light of cancer or MS patients with a 'funny' name for their debilitating health condition? Not acceptable. We'd love to see real questions about the autonomic nervous system."
Many viewers with POTS also tweeted about finding the clue problematically worded.
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome does not usually involve having a smaller than normal heart.
The Grinch in Dr. Seuss' classic children's book is described as having a heart "two sizes too small." So the clue wasn't just seen as insensitive, but also inaccurate. People with POTS don't usually have abnormally sized hearts.
According to Johns Hopkins, "POTS is a form of dysautonomia—a disorder of the autonomic nervous system." It is a blood circulation disorder that involves the heart rate increasing when one goes from laying down to standing upright and specific symptoms that occur when this happens, including fatigue, light-headedness, brain fog, heart palpitations, and more. John Hopkins explains that "in most patients with POTS, the structure of the heart itself is normal."
For more celebrity news delivered right to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.
The clue was called "misogynistic" for a specific reason.
Hey @Jeopardy no one with any credibility calls POTS "Grinch Syndrome." Promoting outdated misogynistic terms to describe a debilitating autonomic nervous system disorder that impacts millions of Americans is not cool. We request an apology on behalf of our community. Do better.
— Dysautonomia Intl. (@Dysautonomia) June 22, 2021
It's more immediately clear why the clue is considered "outdated"—the phrase "Grinch syndrome" is inaccurate and offensive. As for why Dysautonomia International would call it misogynistic, that's because POTS is more common in women than men, the clue downplays the seriousness of the disorder, and there are discrepancies in the way women and men receive medical treatment in general—not just for POTS.
Jeopardy! issued a formal apology.
Yesterday's program included a clue about postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). After hearing from the community, we found we used an outdated and inaccurate term for this disorder, and we apologize.
— Jeopardy! (@Jeopardy) June 22, 2021
On Tuesday, Jeopardy! apologized for the clue in a tweet. "Yesterday's program included a clue about postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)," it reads. "After hearing from the community, we found we used an outdated and inaccurate term for this disorder, and we apologize."
In response, Dysautonomia International wrote, "Update… Jeopardy has apologized. Thank to all of the patients, caregivers and medical professionals who spoke up."
RELATED: Alex Trebek's Daughter Just Shared a Rare Photo of Him With All His Kids.
Lia Beck Lia Beck is a writer living in Richmond, Virginia. In addition to Best Life, she has written for Refinery29, Bustle, Hello Giggles, InStyle, and more.Read moreFiled UnderEntertainment • Health Facts • NewsRead This NextWhy "Jeopardy!" Fans Are Boycotting the Show
Fans and former contestants are not happy to see Dr. Oz filling Alex Trebek's shoes.March 23, 2021Alex Trebek's Last "Jeopardy!" Episodes Are Here
The legendary host's final episodes will feature an unplanned "very special" speech about 2020.January 4, 2021Here's Who Is Replacing Alex Trebek on "Jeopardy!"
It's a face fans already are very familiar with.November 24, 202010 Things You Didn't Know about Justin Trudeau
Athlete, nerd, hopeless romantic, thespian. Yes, there’s a lot more to Canada’s Prime Minister than just politics.March 21, 2017Jon Hamm: The Best Life Interview
Jon Hamm, star of TV's Mad Men, reveals the secrets of manliness in a postmodern world.November 15, 2016Driving Tips Smart Men Know
Ten easy ways to be the safest driver on the road. April 3, 2017Men Who Set the Time: Cash Warren
The successful producer, entrepreneur and husband of Jessica Alba reveals how you, too, can live your best life.October 31, 2016Dr. Oz: The Best Life Interview
Mehmet Oz, M.D., asks the toughest question: Are you living or dying?October 23, 2016Dr. Oz's 15 Best Life Tips
October 23, 2016The One That Got Away
A single nutrient—omega-3 fatty acids—may have turned early humans into civilized man. Has stripping it from our diet given rise to cancer, diabetes, and other civilized diseases? Our correspondent investigates.February 23, 2017
