Ken Jennings Draws Criticism From Trans Activists Over Sarcastic Response to New York Times Boycott Call

“Jeopardy!” host Ken Jennings ignited an online firestorm Thursday when he responded with sarcasm to activist demands that readers cease supporting The New York Times and its subsidiaries, including popular word games. Jennings’ quip prompted swift rebukes from transgender advocates who contended his remarks minimized legitimate concerns about the publication’s editorial direction. The exchange unfolded on Bluesky, where Jennings initially posted about his family’s recreational use of the Times’ Spelling Bee game.

After another user expressed that supporting New York Times games constituted disrespect toward transgender people, Jennings replied by claiming he had obtained “express permission from the trans community” to maintain his subscriptions. He elaborated with mock-serious commentary about needing written approval for his news subscription, describing a fictional 30-day review process. The response drew immediate criticism for what detractors characterized as dismissive mockery of genuine grievances.

The original commenter subsequently expressed disappointment that Jennings declined to acknowledge his remarks as offensive or offer any apology. Other Bluesky users echoed calls for the television personality to better understand audience sentiment, with some demanding he take responsibility for trivializing transgender concerns. Jennings has not publicly responded to the mounting criticism as of Friday.

Journalist Jesse Singal suggested the backlash reflects the insular nature of partisan social media platforms rather than widespread sentiment among transgender people generally. Singal told Fox News Digital that such platforms tend to concentrate ideologically rigid users whose disagreements escalate through competitive rhetoric. He noted that most transgender individuals likely prioritize other matters over boycotting New York Times games.

Transgender activists have maintained a sustained campaign against The New York Times for years, asserting that the publication has produced coverage they characterize as biased against transgender people. A 2023 open letter signed by hundreds of Times contributors and thousands of subscribers objected to the outlet’s transgender coverage, with advocacy organization GLAAD separately condemning what it termed “irresponsible, biased coverage.”

Jennings has previously demonstrated support for transgender rights on social media, including criticism of California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s position on transgender athletic participation in 2025. Despite his stated advocacy, Jennings has not responded to inquiries from Fox News Digital regarding the recent controversy.