Two dedicated teachers from North Dakota recently fulfilled a dream by becoming contestants on the popular Fox show “The Floor.” Jeremy Johnston, who teaches in Rugby, and Julie Johnson, an educator at Our Redeemer’s in Minot, were chosen to represent their state on the show’s thrilling latest season.
Their journey began with a simple online application. Julie recalls seeing an advertisement for the show and deciding to apply on a whim. To her surprise, she and Jeremy were selected as contestants and were soon packing their bags for Ireland, where the show is filmed.
Having a familiar face on set provided some comfort in the high-pressure environment, Jeremy noted. The experience was more challenging than expected, remarked Julie, who described how the pressure and bright lights of the set make answering questions much more difficult than it seems from the comfort of one’s couch.
The show’s unique format involves 100 contestants each standing on a numbered square. Contestants are required to answer questions based on their expert categories while competing to “own” territory on the floor. A contestant loses when their time runs out, with the winner claiming the loser’s square.
Before filming began, contestants were given a list of 100 categories and had just five days to prepare. Their specific expert category was only revealed the day they left for Ireland, adding to the intense preparation.
Despite the competition, Julie and Jeremy formed strong bonds with other contestants, many of whom they now call lifelong friends. Julie even participates in a book club with some of her new friends.
While both teachers are tight-lipped about the outcome of their participation on “The Floor,” they fondly describe the experience as both a fun adventure and an honor to showcase their home state.
As the show premieres, Julie plans to join a watch party in Minot, while Jeremy will celebrate with family and friends in Rugby. For those who miss the live airing, new episodes will be available on Hulu the following day.