'Survivor: Worlds Apart' (CBS)
NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.
Get ready for a clash of the classes when Jeff Probst and Co. return with “Survivor: Worlds Apart.” The 30th edition of this legendary show, which will premiere Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at 8 pm ET on CBS, will feature a special three-tribe format that will pit White Collar players against Blue Collar players against “No Collar” players.
What is a “No Collar?” Well Probst himself describes it as, “We’ve got these gypsies and beach people…these are the No Collars; which wasn’t a term that I’d heard before but made sense to me. Then I thought; White Collars make the rules, Blue Collars follow or enforce the rules, and No Collars break the rules.”
 |
Name: Carolyn Rivera Age: 52 Current Residence: Tampa, Florida Occupation: Corporate Executive Personal Claim to Fame: Maintaining a 36-year relationship with my husband, raising three successful kids, and getting my master’s degree while working full-time. I have also been able to mentor others and guide them to complete their education. Hobbies: Sports, karaoke, and shopping. Pet Peeves: I hate to be lied to (so this should be interesting on “Survivor”). Do what you say you are going to do. If something is wrong, you need to tell me, because I can’t read your mind. Don’t ask the question if you are not ready for the answer! Three Words to Describe You: Competitive, funny and passionate. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I want to play like Sandra because she is two for two. I also loved Denise because she was smart, in good shape and used her psychology background to help her. She was able to hang with Malcolm and the older crowd. I am going to play like that. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: My primary motivation for being on “Survivor” is for the adventure of a lifetime! It is my dream. Every time I watch an episode, I picture myself in the situation, and I know I can win. I am also motivated by money, so the prize is very attractive. And then I will have a new favorite topic for dinner conversations! Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: “Survivor” is about three things: You have to be athletic, strategic and build relationships. This game was made for me. I push myself to do things. I am highly competitive and I know how to influence others. But I do need to keep my Queens attitude in check. You have to be a leader and know when to make the big move. And look, I am a New Yorker and good TV! A true winner for all! |
|
|
Name: Joaquin Souberbielle Age: 27 Current Residence: Valley Stream, New York Occupation: Marketing Director Personal Claim To Fame: Living a life that has allowed me to overindulge and experience so much of the beauty the world has to offer. Hobbies: Traveling, sports and fitness. Pet Peeves: People who have no common sense. Three Words to Describe You: Outgoing, charismatic, and social. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I’m not like any prior contestants. It’s the first time you’ll ever see anyone like me. I promise you will enjoy this. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: I’m taking my talents to “Survivor”, to show the world my athletic skills and relentless will to win at any cost. Obviously. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I’ll be the sole “Survivor” because I have all the attributes it takes to win this game. I’m smart, social, and unbelievably athletic. |
 |
Name: Max Dawson, Ph.D. Age: 37 Current Residence: Topanga, California Occupation: Media Consultant Personal Claim to Fame: I taught a college class on “Survivor” at Northwestern University. Hobbies: Going to the beach, swinging kettlebells, and collecting vinyl records. Pet Peeves: Waiting Three Words to Describe You: Outspoken, brilliant, and bearded. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Jonathan Penner. We are both opinionated, outspoken, truth-telling Jews who make our livings with our words. Like him, I love “Survivor” and all that it stands for. I believe that the game deserves to be honored by the individuals who are fortunate enough to play it. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: First and foremost, I am playing to win. That said, I’m also strongly motivated by the prospect of hearing Probst say, “All the fixins.” Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I am a natural salesperson, and the product I am best at selling is myself. I’ve aced every interview I’ve been in, received every job I’ve applied for and sold hundreds of thousands of dollars of research to major corporations. In recent years, I have consciously worked to hone my abilities to read, understand, and influence others, learning and refining new techniques that I’ve employed to great effect in my career and personal life. I have no doubt whatsoever that I will enjoy an equal level of success in “Survivor.” |
 |
Name: Shirin Oskooi Age: 31 Current Residence: San Francisco, California Occupation: Yahoo Executive Personal Claim to Fame: Made Google Calendar the #1 online calendar in the world, and helping take care of my mom financially. Hobbies: Traveling, exotic food, whistling champion, and mind games. Pet Peeves: Quitters and morons. Three Words to Describe You: Competitive, clever, and quirky. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Sandra as a sassy brown woman who doesn’t take crap from anybody. Rob Cesternino as a witty, sharp, know-it-all “Survivor” nerd who keeps tabs on everybody. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: I want to win the ultimate social game, my favorite game in the world. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I practice “voting people out” in real life and succeed. I’m a fighter and risk-taker. I’m super smart, observant, and don’t let my emotions govern my actions at work, let alone in games. I have no qualms with using people or their secrets to get ahead. |
 |
Name: So Kim Age: 31 Current Residence: Long Beach, California Occupation: Retail Buyer Personal Claim to Fame: Having the courage to reinvent myself. Last year, I turned 30, went through a divorce, moved across the country, and changed jobs. It was simultaneously one of the best and worst years of my life, and I’m a stronger person for it. Hobbies: Laughing, adventuring, traveling, dancing, and LIVING. Pet Peeves: Indecisiveness, “princess” attitudes, narcissism, procrastination, losing, and complacency. Three Words to Describe You: Spirited, charming and brutally honest “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I am a combination of Ozzy (physically capable, agile, a bit self-righteous), Parvati (cute, flirty, coy), and Cochran (self-deprecating, paranoid, and devious). Reason for Being on “Survivor”: I want to win and become the legendary female sole “Survivor” who made big moves and didn’t play it “safe!” The million bucks doesn’t hurt. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: People who know me say I’m the strongest girl they know – physically, mentally and emotionally. Physically, I would kill it in challenges. Mentally, I am extremely analytical and approach things objectively. Emotionally, I know how to laugh at myself and make the best of any situation. And I would have no problem being manipulative in order to further myself! |
 |
Name: Tyler Fredrickson Age: 33 Current Residence: Los Angeles, California Occupation: Ex-Talent Agent Assistant Personal Claim to Fame: Kicking the game-winning field goal against #3 USC on National Television. Hobbies: Doing what others won’t, traveling and dressing up as a bearded hobo and jumping out at children in downtown Pasadena. Pet Peeves: Quitters, apathy, people with horrible work ethics, and whiners. Three Words to Describe You: Achiever, competitor, and manipulator. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Boston Rob, because I’m a flirt with a relentless passion to win and will cut my tightest ally at the last minute. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: To win and to prove I still got it. I’m a huge fan, never missed a show and now that I’ve had time to build my life experiences, I have all the skills to dominate. I can’t wait to prove myself. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I worked two years at the top agency in the world – I can outwit. I have two master’s degrees, one from Berkeley and one from USC – I can outsmart. I played on seven professional football teams – I can outlast. |
 |
Name: Dan Foley Age: 47 Current Residence: Gorham, Maine Occupation: Postal Worker Personal Claim to Fame: I had a terrible fear of heights, so I faced it head-on. I went on my first airplane ride…and jumped out at 13,000 feet. Heights don’t really bother me anymore. Hobbies: Anything with my wife, Erin, disc golf and working on my properties. Pet Peeves: People who drive too slow in the fast lane and won’t get out of the way. Three Words to Describe You: Opinionated, adventurous, and gregarious. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I think I have Stephenie’s competitive spirit, Tony’s cunning and scheming gameplay, and Rupert’s strength, love of family and stunning good looks. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: To claim my rightful place amongst the elite winners of “Survivor!” Second, to challenge myself in the greatest psychological and sociological challenge ever! Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: As a landlord, I am excellent at reading people and controlling some pretty out-of-control situations. As an Irishman, I have a glorious stubborn streak and I hate to lose. As a technician, I have a very analytical mind, so I’ll be great at puzzles. I’m also very good with my hands so I’ll be a big help around camp. I am the entire package. Also, I am not above taking the rules of fair play in a spirited competition and grinding them to dust beneath my heel. |
|
|
Name: Kelly Remington Age: 44 Current Residence: Grand Island, New York Occupation: State Trooper Personal Claim to Fame: My career, because I get to use my pepper spray, handcuffs, night stick, and Taser before I even walk out of the house. Pet Peeves: Commitment Three Words to Describe You: Compassionate, adventurous, and spontaneous. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: The million dollars and the adventure of being on “Survivor.” Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”: I am smart, witty and have the drive/need for the $1 million. |
 |
Name: Lindsey Cascaddan Age: 24 Current Residence: College Park, Florida Occupation: Hairdresser Personal Claim to Fame: I’m proud of me in general. I think building a human being is a pretty cool landmark. I’m proud of the fitness competition I’ve won. I’m proud of the success I have built in my career. I’m just proud. Hobbies: Working out, cooking, and anything artistic. Pet Peeves: Know-it-alls, people that talk too much, laziness, annoying accents, people who push their beliefs on people. Three Words to Describe You: Crazy (in the best way!), competitive, and quirky. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I most relate to Ciera from “Blood vs. Water” because she’s a young mom, a hairstylist, and I think she made big moves when it mattered most. She’s hard-working and competitive. I’m all that, plus strength! Reason for Being on “Survivor”: I want to be on the show because I want to win! I want to show America that you can’t judge a book by its cover! I want to have the time of my life. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I’ll win because I am the perfect storm of smart, strategic, and strong. I’m well-versed in people-pleasing when I need to. I’m tough as nails and people will underestimate me! |
 |
Name: Mike Holloway Age: 38 Current Residence: North Richland Hills, Texas Occupation: Oil Driller Personal Claim to Fame: Paying off my house in 2 ½ years. It took a lot of Ramen noodle nights, but to see the focus and drive pay off, was priceless. Hobbies: Disc golf, running, and picking up the ladies! Haha! Pet Peeves: People who are bad at time management. If you say you’re going to be somewhere at a certain time, be there! Also spelling, I can’t stand it when someone can’t spell. Three Words to Describe You: Loyal, Ambitious, and Clever. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Cochran, because he knows the game and how to move pieces; Ozzy because that dude has the best posture of anyone and he’s a badass; and Rob because he takes over and gives 110% at everything. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: There’s a competitive fire inside me. I can’t get enough. I live to compete daily in my own life. If you guys let me loose on the challenges you will see. Also, I want to see if I am as good of a manipulator as I think I am. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: My life is constantly changing. At work, I must adapt to what the oil well is doing and sometimes drastic measures need to be taken. In my personal life, I have had to overcome being molested and bullied when I was young and not having a father. Learning to be influenced by the right people has been no easy chore. I have grown into my own skin – I know who I am and what I am about. My faith has made me whole, my family and friends have made me strong, and my experiences have made me adapt. Let’s get it on!! |
 |
Name: Rodney Lavoie Jr. Age: 24 Current Residence: Boston, Massachusetts Occupation: General Contractor Personal Claim to Fame: I was captain of the Boston high school all-star football team and the basketball team. Also, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree. Hobbies: Going to the gym, working out, playing basketball, video games, popping bottles at the club, and going to sporting events and concerts. Pet Peeves: When guys take kissy-face selfies on social media and poor driving etiquette. Three Words to Describe You: Loyal, passionate, and amusing. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: No one! Nobody is going to play this game like how you’re about to see me play! Reason for Being on “Survivor”: To show the world I am the total package. I’m not just an athlete or hustler, but I can beat out everyone for the million. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: With my smarts, athletic ability, hustle like a salesman and personality, I think I can make it, baby! |
 |
Name: Sierra Dawn Thomas Age: 27 Current Residence: Roy, Utah Occupation: Barrel Racer Personal Claim to Fame: I was the national champion barrel racer and all-around cowgirl in high school rodeo and also a national champion in college rodeo rankings. Hobbies: Rodeo, basketball, football, hunting, and fishing. Pet Peeves: Being late because it’s so disrespectful, when people loudly chew their food, and underachievers (at least give it an honest try). Three Words to Describe You: Competitive, athletic, and outgoing. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Parvati Shallow, hands down, because she’s not overly aggressive and uses her female traits to her advantage, she’s a very intelligent woman. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: I truly believe there is little I cannot do. My physical, mental, and emotional capabilities are of a man’s level. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I am a 6’1” model and most people just see me as a pretty face, but I’m a cowgirl and rancher who doesn’t mind doing a man’s job. I am also an extreme athlete. I played basketball, volleyball, and ran track and cross-country in high school (got offered a full ride scholarship for college basketball but decided to take the rodeo scholarship). I am a college student who’s going to school for a master’s in Criminal Justice with an emphasis in Corrections. I believe in strategizing and I am not afraid to push myself mentally and physically. |
 |
Name: Hali Ford Age: 25 Current Residence: San Francisco, California Occupation: Law Student Personal Claim to Fame: Catching a huuuge wave last winter in Kauai. Hobbies: Surfing, jiu-jitsu, motorcycles and whatever comes my way. Pet Peeves: Not maximizing time and resources. Three Words to Describe You: Tenacious, free, and focused. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Parvati Shallow, because she is fun and vivacious, but more than meets the eye, always planning, calculating risks both strategic and social. She is physically strong and undaunted by rejection and resistance. We also have matching tats. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: The game itself. It is the ultimate personal challenge and something to tell the grandkids. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I grab everything I do by the horns and don’t let go until I get what I want. “Survivor” will be no different. |
|
|
Name: Jenn Brown Age: 22 Current Residence: Long Beach, California Occupation: Sailing Instructor Personal Claim to Fame: Traveling the world solo on a whim. Hobbies: Surfing, kickboxing and hiking. Pet Peeves: Sleeping with sleeves or socks on. Three Words to Describe You: Outgoing, resilient/savvy, and candid. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Malcolm. He’s just like me in guy form, or maybe Kate, as she had a strong personality. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: I’ve wanted to be on the show since I watched the first season in third grade. I would absolutely kill it in the game and I could use the bucks. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I’ve seen every season. I know how to win and I know what strategies work and for how long/when in the game they are best to start using. Also, I’m mean enough to make it to the end but likeable enough to still get the jury’s votes. Plus, I can B.S. my way through just about any situation. |
 |
Name: Joe Anglim Age: 25 Current Residence: Scottsdale, Arizona Occupation: Jewelry Designer Personal Claim to Fame: I am most proud of winning a state championship for basketball my senior year of high school. In college, I played indoor volleyball at Northern Arizona University. After four years of being self-coached and self-funded, we upset the #1 team in the nation in the finals of a Vegas tournament. Hobbies: I enjoy anything that allows me to work with my hands. These include metalworking, painting, drawing and welding. I also love the outdoors- you name it: Hiking, climbing, hunting, camping, etc. Pet Peeves: Bad hygiene, rude, inconsiderate people, that person with really nasty coffee breath who has no idea what personal space is, when the last person to use the bathroom doesn’t replace the empty toilet paper roll, and when someone is telling a story and every other word is “like.” Three Words to Describe You: Creative, compassionate, and charismatic. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: There are so many players that I relate to in different ways. In terms of game play, I would have to say it’s a combination of Malcolm and Ozzy. Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”: With every season I watch, I can’t help but imagine that I’m actually in the game playing. My brain goes into game/strategy mode as I put myself in the shoes of the current contestants and analyze how I would deal with the conflicts each is faced with. Of course, it’s different when you’re sitting at home on the couch and know what every player is thinking. However, I feel that I am well rounded enough, athletic enough and mentally strong enough to adapt to the people I’m put with. I am confident in the life skills I possess and I feel I can maintain my focus despite all of the other personal and crazy things the game may and will throw my way. After being such a huge fan for so many years, I truly respect how complex and challenging the game is. I am ready to battle and I want my shot in the ultimate arena that is “Survivor.” |
 |
Name: Nina Poersch Age: 51 Current Residence: Palmdale, California Occupation: Hearing Advocate Personal Claim to Fame: Overcoming my deafness. At no point did I let it rule my life. I did not let it bring me down. I have been able to educate people about the Cochlear Implant. I am very proud to say that I have inspired people to not let life’s unexpectedness beat them up, to find the positive, and to live life like there’s no tomorrow. Hobbies: Running, hiking, reading, and photography. Pet Peeves: Laziness, rudeness, and people who can’t park between the lines. Three Words to Describe You: Persuasive, resourceful, and funny. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I would say that I can relate to Tina Wesson because she played the game how I would – strategically and with integrity. She’s also physically fit, active, and enjoys adventure, much like myself! Reason for Being on “Survivor”: My primary motivation would be for the million dollars. I’d buy my parents first class tickets to Japan! My secondary motivation would be for the adventure and to be able to show people that you can overcome anything life throws at you. I would love for more people to know about the Cochlear Implant! Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I have always said that to win “Survivor” you need to sell yourself. That is something in my favor because of my own persuasive abilities. I also feel strategy is important and I have always been a proactive person. I don’t like surprises and therefore I am always thinking one step ahead. |
 |
Name: Vince Sly Age: 32 Current Residence: Santa Monica, California Occupation: Coconut Vendor Personal Claim to Fame: Traveling through 39 countries; all done on whim, wit, and self-actualization. Hobbies: Dancing, storytelling, and art of all kinds. Pet Peeves: Snoring, people who are lazy, passive and entitled. Also, junk stuck in my teeth! Three Words to Describe You: Magnetic, unconventional, and intelligent. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I’m flirty and use my sex appeal like Parvati. I also have a bit of Coach and Fabio too. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: This is possibly the greatest challenge that I’ll face in life… and YES – a million bucks is a plus! Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: I can find a way to connect with almost anyone. I’m fit in body and mind. The “challenges” will be fun! |
 |
Name: Will Sims II Age: 41 Current Residence: Sherman Oaks, California Occupation: YouTube Sensation Personal Claim to Fame: Being a husband and father. Hobbies: Basketball, karaoke, and traveling. Pet Peeves: People who can’t admit when they are wrong and people who don’t tip. Three Words to Describe You: Funny, loyal, and caring. “Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Earl. Reason for Being on “Survivor”: Money! Money! Why Will You Be the Sole “Survivor”?: Because no one will be able to outplay my social game! |
Tags: jeff probst, survivor, survivor worlds apart
More Whatnot 