Summary

  • The successful game show host Drew Carey has evolved significantly since his early days on Whose Line Is It Anyway.
  • Despite his prior role on Whose Line Is It Anyway, Carey hasn't returned to the show due to potential contract constraints and low compensation.
  • Colin Mochrie expressed concerns about the show's future, emphasizing the cast's struggles with fair compensation despite the success of Whose Line Is It Anyway.

He has evolved into one of the richest game show hosts in the world. Drew Carey has clearly come a very long way since his edgy moments on Whose Line Is It Anyway.

With all his success on The Price Is Right, Carey has returned to Whose Line Is It Anyway, despite its revival. Although the show returned, Colin Mochrie isn't optimistic about the future. Discussing his concerns, Colin may have revealed the reason Carey hasn't returned to the show. We're going to reveal what the comedian had to say, and why the show's compensation has been so problematic over the years.

In addition, we are going to take a closer look at other behind the scenes problems on Whose Line is Anyway, and what the future holds for Drew Carey. Is Drew considering retirement? We'll reveal the latest scoop on his status.

Drew Carey Hasn't Returned To Whose Line Is It Anyway, And Cast Members Blame It On Residuals

Whose Line Is It Anyway originated way back in 1998 and enjoyed tremendous success. Not only was the show a hit, but years later, the cast continues to trend. However, fans have noticed some omissions to the show, like Drew Carey, who never returned. Speculation suggests his contract with the Price Is Right might make it impossible to work with another network.

On the flip side, salary might have something to do with it. Colin Mochrie, a staple of the show, opened up about the show making a comeback, but the low odds of returning. According to Mochrie, residuals have been a nightmare to deal with.

Mochrie tells Vulture, “The short answer is that if it comes back, it probably won’t be with this cast. There is a complicated relationship with the show. The cast loves each other, and the actual shooting is always fun. We are all grateful that the show gave us a showcase and allowed us to be able to tour. The downside is that we never received fair compensation for the success of the show.”

Drew Carey's last appearance on Whose Line Is It Anyway came in 2007 after 214 episodes.

Mochrie added that other things don't add up with the salary they make on the show. That includes:

  • Providing content but not getting paid as writers.
  • Never getting any residuals despite the show's longevity.
  • Strange PR work for the show.

Of course, Mochrie doesn't want to come across as bitter either, “Seeing announcements about the sale to the show overseas or to HBO Max can get irritating… I hope I don’t sound bitter, because I learned long ago that this business is not fair, and being bitter about it gets you nowhere.”

Drew Carey hasn't responded to any of the claims. Nonetheless, fans have theories of their own as to why he never returned, not even for a single episode as a guest.

Redditors wrote:

  • "He's not an actual improv actor like the other performers (i think i read that a while ago on this sub? cant say for sure though). Maybe he was fine with doing a skit at the end of episodes but he wouldn't feel as comfortable performing as a full cast member."
  • "Dudes got Price is Right money. He doesn't have to do anything other then flim that show."
  • "He might’ve just moved on but who knows what guest stars/improv comedians they get for any upcoming filming dates."

Sitting at a net worth of $165 million, it is likely that Carey is content with his current circumstances.

Wayne Brady Also Admitted Whose Line Is Anyway Wasn't Always Positive To Work On

Wayne Brady was another crucial part of Whose Line Is It Anyway over the years. However, he also suffered behind the scenes, and one moment in particular took place on-camera. During a scene with Colin Mochrie, and Jonathan Mangum, Brady was picked as the robber. Although the audience found it funny, Wayne doesn't have the fondest memories of such skits.

  • "I have felt the sting of racism, whether it's been in an elevator with a person who clutches their purse tightly to their chest, or maybe talking to someone who, before they've gotten to know me and if I'm not dressed in a suit, has assumed I am a thug or of lesser intelligence," Brady said.
  • "Anywhere there is a lack of representation, be it onscreen or in life, is a problem. And I'm aware that Australia has a problem, too," he continued.

Despite still being angry at the racist joke, Brady appreciates how his career has evolved, and so has comedy.

"On the positive side, I'm a Black man who can travel the world and spread comedy in a place where a couple of decades ago, people would have said it would not be possible for me to do that," Brady said.

Wayne Brady remains extremely active while sitting on a $12 million net worth.

Drew Carey Is Still Making A Fortune Thanks To The Price Is Right

Not only did he take over from the late Bob Barker, but in addition, Carey became one of the highest paid hosts in the world. His salary is estimated to be between $9 million and $12.5 million per year for hosting the show.

At the age of 66, Carey revealed he's here to stay. Carey tells TV Insider, "I just show up and punch the clock and hope I have a job every day. I don’t think in terms of I’m the longest one. I do have a goal: I want to keep going until I die. This is my 18th season. I’ve got to get the 35 and 41 so I can catch Bob Barker and Pat Sajak."

Great to see Carey still so motivated and content with his role all these years later.