This week’s holiday-themed episode of The Price Is Right brought plenty of excitement, cheer, and an unexpected dose of controversy. Drew Carey, known for his light-hearted humor and quick wit, sparked debate after a comment made during a spirited game of Plinko, a fan-favorite segment of the show.

During the episode, married couple Kathleen and Steven took center stage dressed in festive Santa’s helper costumes. The cheerful pair earned their chance to play Plinko, where players drop chips down a pegged board hoping to land in high-value slots — with the highest prize being $10,000 per chip.

Starting with just one chip, Kathleen and Steven had the opportunity to earn four more by correctly guessing the prices of various featured products. Unfortunately, they only guessed one additional price correctly, giving them just two chips to play with. One of the products they failed to price accurately was a gravy boat with a warming tray. When they guessed it started with a “2,” Drew Carey revealed the actual price — $80 — and reacted with a quip that quickly drew mixed reactions.

“What? $80? I’m just going to squeeze my gravy out of the bottle, thanks!” Carey joked.

While some audience members and viewers found the remark funny and relatable, others criticized it for potentially undermining the product — especially given that items featured on the show double as promotional placements for manufacturers. The jab at the gravy boat was seen by some as dismissive and inappropriate in a setting where products are not only prizes but advertisements.

Despite the hiccup, Kathleen and Steven stunned the crowd by hitting the coveted $10,000 slot twice with their two chips, walking away with a combined $20,000. “Who needs a gravy boat? I think we just saved $30,000,” Drew joked again, referencing the potential grand prize of $50,000 they narrowly missed.

The audience erupted in applause, and many online celebrated the couple’s incredible luck. Still, the comment about the gravy boat lingered. On social media, some fans wondered how the product’s manufacturer felt about the remark, while others voiced concerns over hosts making fun of the items.

“This is why I can’t stand this game. These two airheads got $20,000 from two chips, but people with five chips get like $1,500,” one viewer complained. Others defended Drew’s spontaneity, saying his unscripted style is what makes the show entertaining.

Since taking over from Bob Barker in 2007, Drew Carey has infused The Price Is Right with his own brand of humor and charm. While generally well-received, his off-the-cuff remarks occasionally stir controversy — as seen in this latest episode. The show walks a fine line between being a game show and a commercial platform, and moments like this highlight the tension between authenticity and promotional responsibilities.

Plinko, which debuted in 1983, continues to be a beloved element of The Price Is Right. Its mix of chance, excitement, and nostalgia keeps viewers engaged. Kathleen and Steven’s win is now part of the game’s long legacy of memorable moments.

Whether Drew’s gravy boat remark was harmless fun or a misstep remains up for debate. What’s certain is that this episode will be remembered not just for the surprising win, but for the conversation it sparked about humor, respect, and the evolving role of TV show hosts.

Do you think Drew Carey crossed a line? Or was it all in good fun? Let us know your thoughts.