The second season of the reality show Claim to Fame kicked off with a bang after contestant Carly Reeves was revealed to be the niece of renowned actor Tom Hanks during the premiere episode.
However, her journey on the show took a turn when she was eliminated early and threw a massive tantrum on camera that left her fellow cast members and fans in shock.
As the season premiere unfolded, contestant Hugo exposed Reeves' familial connection to Hanks, which had been subtly hinted at earlier in the show through a park bench reminiscent of Hanks' iconic film, Forrest Gump.
Reeves' emotional response took a more intense turn once she retreated to her room. Outbursts of anger and frustration filled the air as she voiced her disappointment about not having the opportunity to showcase her skills in the challenges and lamented her early departure.
Her castmates, who overheard the commotion, were taken aback by the level of drama that unfolded.
You can watch the moment in the video below.
Upon being eliminated, Reeves said:
“I’m just a little shocked. I didn’t realize that he was going to pick me. I was not expecting this at all."
She then proceeded to yell loudly about her early elimination as she went to pack her bags:
“I didn't even get to do any challenges. I don’t deserve this. I should have more camera time. I should be here longer!”
No one was impressed by Reeves' complete lack of decorum.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly following the episode's airing, Reeves offered insight into her emotional reaction and the factors that contributed to her outburst.
She admitted to overreacting but described herself as an "emotional" and "dramatic" person:
“Yeah, I was really upset. I think I overreacted a little bit, but I'm an emotional, very dramatic person. I was really angry that I didn't get a chance to play as long as some of [the] other contestants.”
“I mean, there was no one to be angry at. I was just angry in general at myself, and at the fact that I was going home."
"And then that turned to complete despair and sadness. I even say, like, ‘I should get more camera time!’ That's just so silly of me to say."
"But I also was just saying things out of my mouth.”
Reeves disclosed that she informed her famous uncle about her participation on the show and subsequent elimination.
She recounted the amusing conversation, mentioning that she told Hanks his clue was a bench, to which he initially responded with confusion. After explaining the game's concept of clues from his movies, Hanks grasped the idea and expressed his understanding.
Reeves expressed her desire for Hanks to watch the episode, hoping to entertain him rather than embarrass him "because I think it's hilarious" and he is "happy for me no matter what."
