Archive for the ‘General’ Category

‘Survivor’ White Collar Shirin – “Morons Are Great to Play With”

January 22, 2015

"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.

Name: Shirin Oskooi
Age: 31
Current Residence: San Francisco, California
Occupation: Yahoo Executive

Gordon Holmes: I’m told there’s some special significance with your last name?
Shirin Oskooi: (Laughs) You may notice that my last name has three Os in it for Outwit, Outplay, Outlast.
Holmes: Hmm…my name has two Os in the first name and a third O in the last. I might steal that before this interview goes to press.
Oskooi: Doesn’t count!
Holmes: I’m stealing your gimmick.

Holmes: Yahoo Product Manager sounds super important. What does it entail?
Oskooi: It means that you’re like the CEO of your own product. You do everything from conception to launch to post launch. You have an idea and a vision and you work with designers and engineers. You work with marketing and PR. You work with users to collect their feedback. You figure out what’s missing in people’s lives, then you fill that gap for them.
Holmes: Much like someone would want to do on “Survivor.” How many people are under you?
Oskooi: (Laughs) I run the org of Yahoo Answers, so while I’m not their direct manager, I’m probably running a hundred people. A hundred people are executing my vision.
Holmes: Keeping a hundred people focused can’t be an easy task. Can that leadership apply to the game?
Oskooi: Oh yeah. Another thing about being a product manager is that you don’t have people reporting to you, so you have to lead by influence.

Holmes: How can you win people over in a situation where there is no corporate structure and there’s a goal that everyone shares, but only one person can achieve?
Oskooi: That’s very similar to how it was at Google. There’s nobody I can go to and say, “They’re not doing what I want them to do.” At the end of the day the engineers were king and they could do whatever the (expletive deleted) they wanted to do. It’s really about a couple of key things. My style is really befriending people and getting them to believe in me and trust in me. Not that they really can or should, but at the end of the day if you win someone over on a friendship level they’re going to have a much harder time (expletive deleted) you over. And you’re going to be able to have more frank conversations to get them to do what you want them to do. I don’t want to be bossy and tell people what to do. These people are going to be very type-A.
Holmes: Oh…so you’ve watched this show?
Oskooi: I’ve watched a ton. I want to have a one-on-one relationship with every player in this game. At best, that would be an actual friendship with all of them. And at worst, I want to have a working relationship with them. I don’t give a (expletive deleted) what I feel about them. I wanna have groups. A threesome here and go-to twosomes over here. I’m going to be constantly running these numbers in my head and adjusting as necessary.

Holmes: What are your early thoughts on this cast?
Oskooi: I’m pleasantly surprised and excited. There are a lot of fun, high-energy, youthful looking people. And when I say “youthful” I don’t necessarily mean age. There’s a positive energy here. And for me, I was hoping to play with people who are fun rather than a cast full of Phillips and me. (Laughs)
Holmes: That would be an adventure.
Oskooi: It would be challenging, but not enjoyable. There’s a girl here with a tattoo on her face. There’s a guy here with feathers in his hair. There’s a guy who’s like a beautiful specimen of man. He’s got Greek goddess hair and he’s tall. And beyond that, he’s friendly and gentlemanly. He’s got a first class ticket to the end. Because in spite of being attractive, he’s also so nice. You can tell that he’s outdoorsy and skillful and has an artistic side. He’s the kind of guy I want to work with. I want him to trust me. But, I’m going to have to (expletive deleted) him over. In JT’s season, everybody just wanted him to win. Nobody talked about voting him out. I think we’ve got a couple of people that if I want them out that nobody is going to be on board. I’m going to have to do some shady (expletive deleted).

Holmes: First thoughts on Nicaragua?
Oskooi: It’s beautiful. The weather has been perfect, which is a downer for me because I was hoping for pouring rain for days on end. I think that it’s going to break everybody down.
Holmes: And it won’t break you down?
Oskooi: I’ll be miserable. But I’ve been miserable plenty of times, including in cold, wet weather. And I can help people get out of a dark situation, or I can push people over the edge if I want them to quit.

Holmes: You don’t like “morons.”
Oskooi: It depends on the kind of moron. Morons are great to play with. You figure out what their needs are and make sure that they’re being met. It’s the stereotype that you get a couple of young girls who don’t know what they’re doing. They’re looking for mommy/daddy figures. As long as you’re keeping them happy and keeping them fed, they’re don’t realize they’re playing a game and will vote the way you want them to vote. It’s easy to get them to hate somebody. There’s one girl, she’s got a nose ring and short blonde hair, she reminds me of Kat. She walks and she will kick a rock and then be like “(expletive deleted)!” and then keep going.
Holmes: (Laughs)
Oskooi: And that just happened. I want her on my side. There’s no way that girl can win. She’s going to be a sore loser, she’s going to be a sore winner.

Holmes: Any issues with lying?
Oskooi: Lying comes easy to me. It’s like my first language. And because I’m such an expert at lying, I don’t believe in frivolous lying. I think people are going to come in thinking they need to make a big move and they’re going to lie a lot. It’ll be really easy to catch them in those lies. The easiest way is to let them run their mouths. And then a couple of days later you pick on a bunch of small things. And when you see their reaction you can see if they remember.

Holmes: You have a boyfriend at home, will that influence your ability to flirt?
Oskooi: I’m totally OK with flirting. But because I’ve had a boyfriend for four years, and we’re practically married, I haven’t had to be a sexual being to the world.
Holmes: You feel like a partner.
Oskooi: Right. And furthermore, for the majority of my adult life I was overweight by a lot…I was fat. I wasn’t attractive enough to use flirting to get ahead. And then there was a turning point where I lost a lot of weight and I learned how to flirt and how to use sexuality to get free drinks at a bar. So, I’m not opposed to doing that. I just don’t see myself in that way. I don’t think that I need to do that. It’s a tool that’s buried deeper down.

Holmes: You compared yourself to Jonny Fairplay and Rob Cesternino. I’m assuming that makes you an old school fan. Is it better to be a fan or to come in blind and open to more diverse possibilities?
Oskooi: I think if you know how to use the information that it’s an advantage. So for me, it’s an advantage. My boyfriend who watches the show because I make him, the more he watches, the worse the information he gives me. And he’s a brilliant guy. He has social aptitude. But for him, he does worse with more information. I think that’s a personality type. I know the twists and turns that have happened. I know what to read into and what not to read into. I know all the places the immunity idols have been hidden. As long as people don’t feel like I’m dangerous because of how much I know about the game, then it’s a tool. What I love about Rob Cesternino is that he had a one-on-one relationship with every single person at his camp. It wasn’t necessary friendship, but he had a relationship with everybody. That’s why he was able to flip as often as he did and as effectively as he did.
Holmes: He changed the game.
Oskooi: And another way where we’re alike is he was a big goofball.
Holmes: He still is.
Oskooi: (Laughs) But, I’m a big goofball.

Holmes: Any guesses as to what kind of twists Probst and his buddies might have in store for you?
Oskooi: It would be a twist to not have twists at this point.
Holmes: “Survivor: 30 – Twistless!”
Oskooi: Twistless! Back to season one. Pure…old school. That could happen. I just don’t think that will happen. I think they want to see people really squirm. I have a feeling that they might change the twists based on how the game is turning out. If they see one tribe that is way too successful, like maybe they’d do something to (expletive deleted) that tribe.
Holmes: So, “Survivor: 30 – (expletive deleted) Over Everybody.”
Oskooi: “(Expletive deleted) Over Everybody Constantly”…yeah.

Holmes: If you had your choice of any past player to align with, who would it be and why?
Oskooi: Amanda. I absolutely hate her.
Holmes: Amanda Kimmel?!
Oskooi: Yeah. To be clear, personally…I do not like her. But, she is loyal to a fault. She’s not quite as emotional as Dawn, but she’s emotional to the point that it makes you sick and alienates other people. If I could align with her I’d never have to worry about her deceiving me. She’d annoy lots of people. And, she’s good enough in challenges to not weigh me down, but she’s not always going to win.

Oskooi: I want to bring the chest bump to “Survivor.”
Holmes: That’s random.
Oskooi: (Laughs) No, it’d be like, “Yay! We won.” Chest bump. So, keep an eye out.

Holmes: So, I’m told you have a unique strategy for a fire-making challenge.
Oskooi: I’ve grown my hair particularly long so if we’re in a fire challenge I can cut off a ton of my hair, and it catches fire really easily, especially if everything else is really damp.
Holmes: That is hardcore.
Oskooi: I hope they have a gross food challenge. I’ve eaten every “gross” food item they’ve ever had except for a tarantula.
Holmes: I beg for that every season. Hopefully Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer will come through for us.

Don’t miss the 90-minute premiere of “Survivor: Worlds Apart” on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at 8 pm ET on CBS.

Meet the Cast of ‘Survivor: Worlds Apart – White Collar vs. Blue Collar vs. No Collar’

January 21, 2015

'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!

Olympic Medalists, New Kid on the Block to Try ‘The Amazing Race’

January 20, 2015

'The Amazing Race' (CBS)

Note: XFINITY is the perfect pit stop for “Amazing Race” fans. Every Monday after an elimination leg, we’ll have an interview with the team that was sent packing and the most recent episode. And, you’ll be able to watch all of the previous episodes. Follow @gordonholmes on Twitter for immediate updates.

As if racing through foreign countries while competing in grueling challenges wasn’t stressful enough, now some players are going to have to do it while on a blind date. For the 26th season of the Emmy-winning juggernaut “The Amazing Race,” five of the game’s eleven teams will be made up of people who have never met before. To add to the fun, the teams will have a chance to win a special “Date Night” reward that will allow them to enjoy a special one-on-one activity.

CBS announced the cast for this unique new edition this morning and it includes a professional wrestling promoter, a pair of Olympic medalists, and a member of the legendary boy band New Kids on the Block.

Name: Aly Dudek
Age: 24
Hometown:Milwaukee, WI

 

Current Occupation:Athlete and Global Spokeswoman

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Winning an Olympic bronze medal and competing in two Olympic Games.

Name: Steven Langton
Age: 31
Hometown:Boston, MA

Current Occupation:Olympic Athlete

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? I’m most proud of winning two Bronze Medals at the Sochi Olympic Games in Russia and double Gold at the 2012 World Championships.

Relationship Status: Dating
Length of Relationship: 7 months

Name: Harley Rodriguez
Age: 41
Hometown: New York, NY

 

Current Occupation:Group Fitness Trainer

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of?Uprooting my life on the West Coast and starting a new chapter with work on the East Coast.

Name: Jonathan Knight
Age: 46
Hometown: New York, NY

Current Occupation:Entertainer

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of?Being fortunate to have the same career for 30 years that I started when I was 16.

Relationship Status: Dating
Length of relationship: 7 years

Name: Jeff Magee
Age: 57
Hometown:McCall, Idaho

 

Current Occupation: Airline Pilot

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Finishing my experimental (kit) airplane. (It took me 10 years!) Now I love flying it.

Name:  Lyda Grawn
Age: 49
Hometown: Scottsdale, Ariz.

Current Occupation:Flight Attendant

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? I am most proud of my family and trying to be a good daughter! We are all very close!

Relationship Status: Dating
Length of Relationship: We’ve known each other for 20 years and been dating for 4 years.


Name: C.J. Harris
Age: 
26
Hometown: 
Tuskegee, AL

 

Current Occupation:Information Technology

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Being the first male in my family to graduate from college in 4 years and being only the second male period to graduate from college in my family.

Name: Lebya Simpson
Age: 25
Hometown Tuskegee, AL

Current Occupation: Medical Support Assistant

Relationship Status: Dating
Length of Relationship: Known for 15 years, dating for 10.

Name: Matt Cucolo
Age: 30
Hometown:Scarsdale, NY

 

Current Occupation:Master Hairstylist

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Being a very successful hairstylist. It’s much more than just hair. It’s an amazing feeling making people happy.

Name: Ashley Gordon
Age: 28
Hometown:Scarsdale, NY

Current Occupation:Hairstylist

Relationship Status: Dating
Length of Relationship: Known for 10 years, dating for 3.


Name: Rochelle Nevedal
Age: 29
Hometown: Kalkaska, MI

 

Current Occupation:Contract Engineer

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Raising an 8-year-old son who is creative, unique and absolutely amazing!

Name: Michael Dombrowski
Age: 26
Hometown:Traverse City, MI

Current Occupation: Pro Wrestling Promoter and Truck Stop Manager

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Booking WWE Hall of Famers Mick Foley and Scott “Razor Ramon” Hall in my hometown of Kalkaska, MI. It was front page news here.

Relationship Status: Dating
Length of Relationship: 8 months

Name: Bergen Olsen
Age: 23
Hometown:Sunnyvale, CA

 

Current Occupation:Human Resources Project Manager

3 Words to Describe You:Energetic, driven and empathetic.

Favorite Hobbies:Watching and playing sports, especially volleyball. I love to cook and bake – my favorites include chocolate chip cookies, meatballs, pasta and mashed potatoes!   So naturally, I love eating all of my favorites! I also love to travel, even though I haven’t done much of it!

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of?Not to sound cliché, but coming out and being proud of who I truly am to my friends and family, especially in a conservative Minnesota county, was one of my proudest accomplishments.  I’m also really proud of where I am at with my career at only age 23.

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship? I can’t date anyone that smokes, does drugs, has poor personal hygiene or has a tendency to cheat and lie.

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate? A good personality, has a good sense of humor and someone who makes me feel special and loved.  I love nothing more than for my partner to make me laugh and smile each and every day!


Name: Blair Townsend
Age:
31
Hometown: Amelia Island, FL

 

Current Occupation:Physician

3 Words to Describe You:Versatile, brave and inventive.

Favorite Hobbies:Ironman competitions, sailing, scuba diving and golf.

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Being a good son to my parents and a good brother to my sisters.

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship?Lack of curiosity in the world, complacency and dishonesty.

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate? Razor-sharp wit, bold confidence and a contagious smile.


Name: Hayley Keel
Age: 28
Hometown:St. Petersburg, FL

 

Current Occupation:Registered Nurse

3 Words to Describe You:Genuine, witty and passionate.

Favorite Hobbies:Going to the beach, anything active (biking, paddle boarding, working out), cooking, traveling, attending Cleveland/Tampa Bay sporting events and exploring new places (cities, restaurants, local attractions).

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of?Becoming a registered nurse. It is simply amazing to be able to help people and make a difference in their lives.

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship?Poor communication, lack of goals, no motivation, boring, bad attitude and laziness.

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate? Confidence, loyalty and happiness.


Name: Jackie Ibarra
Age:
27
Hometown:
Las Vegas, NV

 

Current Occupation:Professional Dancer

3 Words to Describe You:Passionate, positive and adventurous.

Favorite Hobbies:Dancing, working out, cooking and traveling.

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Other than being on “The Amazing Race,” when I was 18 years old, I headed out to Miami and auditioned to become a Miami Heat Dancer. Went up against about 300 women for a spot on the team and I made it!

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship? Deal breakers for me would be a man who does not want marriage or children, who is disrespectful or dishonest, or who does not take care of their appearance and body. Also, if they smoke cigarettes, stay away from me.

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate? I am looking for a respectful gentleman who is passionate, motivated and confident, with a good sense of humor. Being attractive with a great body doesn’t hurt either!

Name: Jeffrey Weldon
Age: 26
Hometown:Tampa, FL

 

Current Occupation: Account Executive/Sales

3 Words to Describe You: Outgoing, charismatic and intelligent.

Favorite Hobbies: Fitness, professional networking, spending time with family/friends and anything outdoors.

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Launching a startup company with colleagues – Internet marketing/consulting firm.

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship?Dishonesty, communication issues and cheating.

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate? Great sense of humor, a woman who has passion/drive for success and a great-looking face.



Name: Jelani Roy
Age: 
32
Hometown: 
New York, NY

 

Current Occupation:Lawyer

3 Words to Describe You:Loyal, intelligent and fun.

Favorite Hobbies:Playing/watching sports, cooking and bar hopping.

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of?Passing the New York bar exam the first time I took it.

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship? They have to be compassionate.

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate? Pretty, laid back and fun.


Name: Jenny Wu
Age:
32
Hometown:
Los Angeles, CA

 

Current Occupation:Blogger/lawyer

3 Words to Describe You:Feisty, bubbly and adventurous.

Favorite Hobbies:Photography, attending music festivals and hiking.

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of?Coming to terms with who I am and what I want in life while letting go of my fear of being alone.

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship? Selfishness, laziness, settling for the status quo and aversion to desserts.

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate? Excellent banter skills, quick wit and a striking resemblance to Leonardo DiCaprio.

 

Name: Kurt Jordan Belcher
Age: 24
Hometown:Butler, KY

 

Current Occupation: Pageant consultant

3 Words to Describe You: Gifted, abrasive (sometimes) and funny.

Favorite Hobbies: Karaoke, volleyball and pageants.

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? Honestly, probably coming out as a gay man in high school. I’m from a very small town.

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship?Controlling and lazy! I want somebody that’s loving and a hard worker.

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate? Family oriented, funny and stability.


Name: Laura Pierson
Age: 
29
Hometown: 
Los Angeles, CA

 

Current occupation:Talent Booker

3 Words to Describe You:Outgoing, ambitious and positive.

Favorite Hobbies:Cooking delicious and healthy meals, going on adventures (hiking, exploring and traveling), yoga, DIY crafting projects and anything that has to do with fashion.

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of?That I don’t snooze through my alarm clock on Monday mornings for my big girl job.

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship? Unmotivated, emotionally inept, selfish, untrustworthy and cheap.

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate? Loving, genuine and optimistic.


Name: Tyler Adams
Age: 
26
Hometown: 
Santa Monica, CA

 

Current occupation: Co-Founder HORSE

3 Words to Describe You: Enthusiastic, adventurous and a dreamer.

Favorite Hobbies: Fishing, surfing, traveling, reading and cooking.

What Is the Accomplishment You Are Most Proud Of? This year I won Startup Weekend LA and decided it was time to quit my job and venture out on my own. Trying to start my own business has been incredibly challenging yet rewarding.

What Are Your Deal Breakers in a Relationship? If a girl has a negative/pessimistic attitude it is an automatic deal breaker. Life is too short – enjoy it!

What Are the Top 3 Qualities You Are Looking for in a Mate?  I’m looking for a girl that approaches life with a positive attitude. She must be up for any adventure and confident and comfortable in her skin.

Don’t miss the 90-minute premiere of “The Amazing Race” on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at 9:30 p.m. ET on CBS.

‘Survivor’ Host Jeff Probst Spills the Beans on ‘Survivor: Worlds Apart’

December 17, 2014

'Survivor: Worlds Apart' (CBS)

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.

Gordon Holmes: Alright, explain how this Blue Collar vs. White Collar vs. No Collar concept works.
Jeff Probst: The truth is; we had our cast together, but we didn’t have a theme. And everyone’s trying to think of a theme, and I just had the cards spread out on a table, and I kept coming back to Brains, Brawn, and Beauty. We had the perfect blend for that, but we didn’t want to do that again. So, kind of what you do is you just pair them together and you’re like, “We’ll these two could go together, and what about her? And this guy over here…”
Holmes: Because I feel like I’ve heard White Collar vs. Blue Collar tossed around a few times.
Probst: We never wanted to do White Collar vs. Blue Collar because it’s too flat. That’s very basic. That’s what “Survivor” is, we do it every season. But over here I had these cards that we couldn’t figure out what to do with and I said, “We’ve got these gypsies and beach people,” and then it just hit me. These are the No Collars, which wasn’t a term that I’d heard before but made sense to me. Our “Survivor” crew, we’re No Collars. Most of these people have spent the last 15 years on islands in the middle of nowhere doing a TV show. Then I thought of my boss, Mark Burnett. He’s a No Collar. Then I thought; White Collars make the rules, Blue Collars follow or enforce the rules, and No Collars break the rules.
Holmes: And you’ll get full credit when “No Collar” ends up in the dictionary.
Probst: I should get full credit. For me it was a discovery like discovering that the world was round. That’s how good I felt. I was jumping around my house going, “I got it!”

Watch Every Episode of “Survivor: San Juan del Sur”

Holmes: This is the 30th season, I think people were expecting a big returning player showdown. Instead, we’ve got 18 new faces. How was the call made to just let the show stand on its own merits?
Probst: We didn’t start with the “let it work.” I wish we were that smart. We actually started about two years ago saying, “If we get to 30, let’s think about the big, blowout season.” We did pitch a few things to Mark and CBS that were fun and different. But even as we pitched them they felt predictable and tired. Nobody was getting excited. It was Mark Burnett who said, “Do we need to do an all-star season?” So, that gave us permission to get rid of the all-star strategy. Maybe it will be our last, who knows? Maybe when we get to 40 we’ll be asking the same question. But I’ll tell you this; not doing all-stars was the best decision because it would have deprived us of 18 of the most interesting people we’ve had on the show in a long time.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter at @gordonholmes.

‘Amazing Race’ Host on Natalie’s Possible ‘Survivor’ Win: ‘What an Upset, Right?!’

December 17, 2014

'Survivor'/'The Amazing Race' (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY TV is the place to go for “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” coverage with “all the fixin’s.” This Wednesday evening we’ll bring you a recap of the season finale, and starting Thursday you’ll be able to watch the finale and read interviews with the new champion and the other castaways. Be sure to follow Gordon Holmes on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for immediate updates.

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Former “Survivor” players have been ripping open “Amazing Race” clues for years.  “Boston” Rob and Amber, Jenna and Ethan, and Keith and Whitney have all traded in their colored buffs for giant backpacks. And while their journeys were very different, they all ended with “Amazing Race” host Phil Keoghan telling them that they were the last team to arrive and that they have been eliminated.

No team had ever gone the other way until “Race” favorites Natalie and Nadiya, “The Twinnies,” signed up for “Survivor: San Juan del Sur – Blood vs. Water.”

I spoke with Keoghan on the eve of the “Survivor” finale and had a chance to get his thoughts on what could be an “Amazing Race” win if Natalie can make it to tonight’s Tribal Council and get the votes she needs…

Watch Full Episodes of “Survivor:  San Juan del Sur” and “The Amazing Race

Gordon Holmes: The “Survivor” finale is tonight and Natalie of “Amazing Race” fame is in a decent position to win the whole thing. If she pulls it off, are you going to give Jeff Probst some grief?
Phil Keoghan: (Laughs) No.
Holmes: Cause I love to give Probst grief.
Keoghan: I think it’s amazing. It’s the first time, if I’m not mistaken that an “Amazing Race” player has gone over to another franchise like that. Goodness knows we’ve done it a few times. She’s representing and she’s there. What an upset, right?! Nobody saw that coming.

Holmes: I was debating this with some friends; Probst gets to go to one location for 39 days while you get to go to many locations for 21 days. He gets to know one place better, while you see a wide variety of places for shorter periods of time. Who has the better gig?
Keoghan: I’m sure we’d both have our arguments. I love that he owns his gig, he has a passion for “Survivor” and he’s really made that show his own. I can’t imagine that show without him. I was up for that show and now I can’t imagine having done it because I’ve been so involved in “Race.”
Holmes: But is it better to see many places quickly, or to take your time and get to know one place really well?
Keoghan: Well, what I like about my gig is I do get to see more and that it’s this frantic…I love the pace of the shooting. It’s without a doubt the toughest job I’ve ever done in my life as far as trying to stay on top of my game. It’s not easy. But, I feel really lucky that I’ve had this opportunity. I feel like it came in my career at the right time. There are very few gigs that would appeal to me like this. I think “Survivor” would be a fun thing to do, I was very excited about it when it was a possibility. But, ultimately it’s worked out for the best.

Don’t miss the finale of “Survivor: San Juan del Sur – Blood vs. Water” tonight at 8p ET on CBS.

And, don’t miss the finale of “The Amazing Race” this Friday, December 19 at 8p ET on CBS.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter at @gordonholmes.

‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame: Host Jeff Probst Names His Top Tribal Councils

December 5, 2014

'Survivor' Host and Executive Producer Jeff Probst (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY TV is the place to go for “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” coverage with “all the fixin’s.” We’ll have Power Rankings with “Cagayan” fave Spencer Bledsoe, every Wednesday evening we’ll bring you a recap of the most recent episode, and every Thursday you’ll be able to watch the previous night’s episode and read an interview with the eliminated contestant. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for immediate updates.

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As members of the Executive Voting Committee, “Survivor” Host Jeff Probst (along with other “Survivor” luminaries) will nominate his three favorite Tribal Councils.

Then, from Monday, December 8, 2014 at 10 am ET through Friday December 12, 2014 at 5 pm ET, the top three Tribal Councils will be chosen by a fan vote.

Note: All of the nominations were requested at the same time, so some Tribal Councils may be nominated more than once.

Jeff Probst’s “Survivor” Hall of Fame Nominations…

“Survivor: Micronesia – Fans vs Favorites” – Episode 13 Tribal Council: Erik gave up his immunity necklace to Natalie and moments later was voted out. You can’t have a Tribal Council Hall of Fame and not include this memorable moment because it speaks to a part of “Survivor” that often gets overlooked – “Life Lessons.” I don’t remember this as Erik making a dumb move, I put it in the same category as my first girlfriend, Rhonda Smith whom I gave all my Halloween candy to simply because she said she liked me. It’s a lesson every boy has to learn: “Don’t get blinded by the breasts!” Poor Erik had all these beautiful women working him over emotionally and he just fell victim to it all. The saddest part for Erik is he really did have a legitimate shot to win the game.

“Survivor: Blood vs. Water” – Episode 12 Tribal Council: Ciera goes for broke and forces everyone to draw rocks. The drawing-rock tie breaker is so severe that it rarely happens because the risk is so high and nobody wants to go home simply because they drew the wrong colored rock! Especially when they were safe to begin with! Ciera earned the right to call herself a “big time player” by making this move because this is the kind of move winners make. You must play big. Yes, it may fail. It probably will. But you have no shot to win without going big. This moment was so shocking I literally heard the yells of crew members who were watching on a monitor thousands of yards away. I kid you not. I heard the gasp. Fortunately none of the players did.

“Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains” – Episode 10 Tribal Council: Parvati plays two idols for Sandra and Jerri. She didn’t even tell her closest ally, Russell about the plan. This is number one for me because it was a massive game changer and illustrated why Parvati has been so successful on the show. Advantages are very hard to come by on “Survivor” so when you have one, or two in this case, the key is how to maximize their value. Most players would have held onto those two idols and used them to save their own hide at two different Tribal Councils. That wouldn’t be a bad move, it guarantees you to get pretty deep in the game. But Parvati wasn’t going for deep – she was going for the win. By sacrificing her own safety she flipped the game and made it to the final where she lost to “Survivor’s” only two-time winner, Sandra Diaz-Twine.

Follow the “Survivor” Hall of Fame on Twitter and Facebook for up-to-the-minute updates and Tribal Council nominations.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter at @gordonholmes.

‘Survivor: San Juan del Sur’ Episode 11/12 Recap: The Silent Assassin

December 3, 2014

'Survivor: San Juan del Sur' (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY TV is the place to go for “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” coverage with “all the fixin’s.” We’ll have Power Rankings with “Cagayan” fave Spencer Bledsoe, every Wednesday evening we’ll bring you a recap of the most recent episode, and every Thursday you’ll be able to watch the previous night’s episode and read an interview with the eliminated contestant. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for immediate updates.

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Last Week:  Reed performed a split, Team Jacljon’s vote were split, and Wes just split.

39 Days, 18 People, 1 “Survivor” Blog

Let’s take a look at the tribe as it currently stands…

The #Huyopa Tribe (wearing blue)

Alec – 22, Student
Baylor – 20, Student
Jaclyn – 25, Media Buyer
Jon – 26, Financial Assistant
Keith – 53, Fire Captain
Missy – 47, Owner of Cheerleading Gym
Natalie – 28, Crossfit Coach
Reed – 31, Broadway Performer

Quick Note: We are flying without a DVR tonight. So, if I miss anything, I apologize.

Jon is a happy camper after last week’s crazytown Tribal. He claims he was going to play the idol, without Natalie’s pleading. Whatever dude, you owe Natalie a mega hug.

Later, he discusses things with Jaclyn and says that they should take as much credit as possible to look good in front of the jury. After he explains to her what a jury is, she thinks she deserves some of the credit for him playing the idol and they have a little spat over it. This is kind of a stupid thing to fight over. If my girlfriend wins a million dollars, I can still get the gold-plated back-scratcher I’ve had my eye on.

Later, some guy named Alec is really upset at Keith for giving away his alliance’s plan.

Reward Challenge Time: The players will answer questions about their tribemates. If they get it right, they’ll get to chop a tribemate’s rope. If a person loses three ropes, they’re out. Last person standing gets a horseback ride to a resort.

Round One: Natalie and Nadiya are twins. Who else has a twin? The correct answer is Jeremy. Everyone gets it right except for Keith.

Natalie cuts Reed, Jon cuts Reed, Alec cuts Natalie, and Missy eliminates Reed.

Jaclyn and Baylor both cut Alec. Reed cuts Missy.

Round Two: Who owns a tanning business? Everyone knows this was Julie.

Jon eliminates Alec.

Alec cuts Jon, Missy and Jaclyn cut Keith, Keith cuts Missy, and Baylor eliminates Keith.

Natalie discusses her swing with the rest of her alliance.

Probst interrupts them and asks if they’re wasting everyone’s time. They all agree that Missy will get the reward, so Probst cancels the rest of the challenge. What?! But the art department worked so hard!

Jon volunteers to go to Exile. Missy decides to take Baylor and Natalie on the reward.

Probst points out that the five-person alliance looks like a three-person alliance now.

Reed’s cool with it though, because he likes Jaclyn. Reed and Baylor get into it and he calls her a “brat.” Missy does not approve of this and flips right out.

Way to butter up those future jurors, Missy.

The trio heads off and Jaclyn is not happy. She feels like Jon sacrificed by going to Exile and she got nothing. And still no credit!

Jon is psyched to be back at Exile because two of the forty idols were played at the last Tribal. He takes about five minutes to look around…and finds another one.
Yup.

At the resort, Natalie points out that it might have been a mistake not taking Jaclyn on the reward. I swear, her and Reed are the only players left.

Natalie also tells Missy that her and Baylor have an idol. Missy is very proud of her daughter for finding an idol.

NOTE: Baylor totally didn’t find that idol.

The trio agrees to take each other to the final three. There’s no way Natalie would lose.

Back at #Huyopa beach, Reed and Alec begin Operation Suck Up to Jaclyn. This is smart because Jaclyn is still mad about the reward snub.

When the trio gets back to camp, Missy tries to get back on Jaclyn’s good side. Because that worked so well with Julie.

Later, Jaclyn tries to figure out the Baylor/Alec relationship. He says he wouldn’t go on a date with her. He doesn’t say whether or not he still wants to fart on her.

Natalie believes there’s some flirting going on between Jaclyn and Alec. She doesn’t think the body language they’re showing to each other is appropriate. Could you imagine an affair during a “Blood vs. Water” season? The producers’ heads would explode with joy.

Immunity Challenge Time: Players will balance a paddle on a stand. They’ll roll a ball down the paddle and try to get the ball to stay in a hole. First person to fill their holes with balls wins  immunity. (I feel awful for having typed that last sentence.)

Not much to describe here except for ball rollin’ and paddle balancin’. Jon jumps out to a lead, but Keith manages to pass him and win immunity.

The howler monkeys greet the tribe as they return to camp. Or, so editing would have us believe.

Jaclyn is debating between voting for Missy or Reed. She approaches Jon with this news and he’s bummed because he just wanted to cuddle. They have yet another spat and she walks away from him.  She breaks down because she thinks what happened to her doesn’t matter to him because he has it all figured out.

Reed approaches them and Jon says that he still trusts Reed in spite of what happened at the last Tribal. Then Natalie comes over and Jon says he can’t trust Reed ever again.  Master strategist.

Next up, he admits to Missy that he found an idol. Jaclyn doesn’t like this because Jon asks his mom for advice in real life and now Missy is his new mom. OK, I need to make sure my girlfriend never goes on “Survivor.”

Jon tries to talk to Jaclyn, but she’s just not having it. Five hours later, she still not having it. This is kind of awesome.

Reed is very concerned that he might go home because of Jaclyn giving Jon the silent treatment.

That night at Tribal, Jon explains the tiff he and Jaclyn had. Oh man, Probst can’t wait to play relationship counselor.

Reed thinks it was frustrating because he didn’t get as much of a chance to scramble.

Jon laughs because they’re in the middle again. That just might be a sign that you’re wishy-washy.

Missy doesn’t think she should be a target because she’s not the leader. Also, they shouldn’t trust someone who just targeted Jon.

Missy then calls Alec out for flirting with Jaclyn.

Jon thinks it’s a little weird the way Alec and Jaclyn flirt. Seconded.

Jaclyn admits that she was hurt that she wasn’t chosen to go on the reward.

Missy says she knew choosing Natalie would be an issue. Then why not take Natalie and Jaclyn and leave Baylor?!

Voting Time: Missy votes for Reed, Reed votes for Missy, and the rest are secret.

JPro tallies and returns. We’ve got one vote for Reed, one vote for Missy, three votes for Reed, and the eleventh person to be eliminated from “Survivor: San Juan del Sur – Blood vs. Water” and the fourth member of the jury is…Reed.

Back at camp, Jon and Jaclyn kiss and makeup. Adorable.

Alec is upset because he doesn’t have anyone to talk to. Sad Meat Collector.

The next morning, Jon admits to Alec that he trusts his alliance and that Alec probably won’t find any cracks.

We’re hearing a lot from Alec. That can’t be good for his future.

Reward Challenge Time: Players will stand on a small block while stabilizing a ball against a post with a piece of wood. Last person standing will have a bed delivered to camp. They’ll also get to have all kinds of delicious food.

The challenge starts and there isn’t much to describe except for block standin’ and ball stabilizin’.

Alec’s out quickly. He’s followed by Missy, Keith, and Baylor.

We’re down to Jon, Natalie, and Jaclyn.

Jon struggles for a while, then drops out.

Natalie should consider throwing this. If she wins, who would she choose?

And just as I type that, Jaclyn fall out.

Natalie chooses Alec to go to Exile. She then picks Jon and Jaclyn to share her reward with. Smart.

Missy’s annoyed because she wasn’t picked. Missy, shut up. Do you understand how this show works? (Unless you’re acting up so JaclJon doesn’t think you have a final three alliance. In that case; well played.)

When the bed is delivered, Missy, Baylor, and Keith immediately head off to get water. Jon and Jaclyn don’t like that one bit, but Natalie tells them to chill out.

Natalie thinks that Keith is probably the next target, but she wants to get rid of Jon. Apparently she wants revenge for Jeremy.

Hmm…Baylor got rid of Nadiya. Where are your priorities Natalie?!

Jon proves that he doesn’t see Natalie’s wrath coming by admitting to her that he has an idol.

Natalie approaches Baylor with her idea, but she doesn’t want her to tell her mother. Oh man, too soon.

Baylor’s into this because she gets nervous around any man that her mother gets close to. Uh… This is like the deep relationship episode of “Survivor.”

Immunity Challenge Time: Players will hold a rope that’s attached to a wobbly table. They’ll have to gather blocks and stack them on the table. If the blocks fall, they have to drop the block they’re transporting, and put the blocks back up. First person to stack all of their blocks wins immunity.

The challenge starts and Keith gets an early lead, but Jaclyn and Jon both manage to pass him.

Eventually it comes down to Jon and Keith with Jon managing to pull off the win.

Politicking around camp centers around Keith vs. Alec. Jon wants to split the vote with the majority of the votes going toward Keith.

Natalie is bummed that she can’t get rid of Jon just yet. Dude, too soon.

Alec tries to sweet talk Baylor and she seems to like it. She tells him to be patient.

Keith gets in Natalie’s ear and tries to point her toward Jaclyn. She’s considering swaying the vote in Alec’s direction to keep Keith around. She thinks he’ll be loyal to her.

Natalie pitches this idea to Baylor and Baylor isn’t completely sold because she looooooves Alec.

That night at Tribal, Missy says she’s voting based on who’s strong in challenges. Jon agrees with her.

Keith admits that he’s good at challenges, but bad at other things…you know…like not blowing up your alliance’s secret strategies.

A rat runs across the Tribal set and everybody freaks out. Well, everyone except Alec. He says he’d eat it.

Ooo…a rat…symbolism? Just like “The Departed.”

Jon tells everyone that the wine at the reward reminded him of his dad who is dying of brain cancer.

Probst asks Keith if Jon’s tragedy could work against him. Keith thinks all’s fair in “Survivor.”

Natalie is confident that there won’t be any surprises in her alliance tonight.

Voting Time: Alec votes for Keith, Keith votes for Alec, and the rest of the votes aren’t for our eyes. No, they’re only for those who stick around through the credits.

Probst tallies and returns. We’ve got one vote for Keith, one vote for Alec, one vote for Keith, one vote for Alec, one vote for Keith, one vote for Alec, and the twelfth person to be eliminated from “Survivor: San Juan del Sur – Blood vs. Water” and the fifth member of the jury is…Alec.

Oh…Jon and Missy are not amused.

Verdict: Wow, two hours of “Survivor” and the best moment was in the last minute.

Who’s Going to Win? If Natalie can get to the end with Baylor and Missy, she’s gonna take it. Buuuuut…Jon’s got a hell of a resume. Should be interesting.

Power Rankings Results: Spencer had Reed in seventh and Alec in sixth. I had Reed in eighth and Alec in sixth. So, the current score is Team Farm Guy 92, Team Corinsanity 109.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter at @gordonholmes.

‘Survivor: San Juan del Sur’ Power Rankings – Double Elimination Edition

December 3, 2014

'Survivor: San Juan del Sur' (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY TV is the place to go for “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” coverage with “all the fixin’s.” We’ll have Power Rankings with “Cagayan” fave Spencer Bledsoe, every Wednesday evening we’ll bring you a recap of the most recent episode, and every Thursday you’ll be able to watch the previous night’s episode and read an interview with the eliminated contestant. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for immediate updates.

[xfinity-record-button id=”6034085997813089112″ program_type=”series”]

Important Announcement: The “Survivor” Hall of Fame is honoring the show’s most iconic Tribal Councils.

The Rules: Each week our two combatants will create separate power rankings. The ranking of the person who is voted out of the next episode will determine the number of points the two players will earn. For example, if Baylor is voted out this week, Spencer will receive three points and Gordon will receive two points. At the end of the season, the person with the most points will be named the “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” Power Rankings Challenge Champion.

Last Week: Spencer and Gordon both had Wes in spot seven. So, the current score is Team Farm Guy 79, Team Corinsanity 95.

Watch Full Episodes of “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” on Your Computer

Team Farm Guy’s Score = 79

Any questions for Spencer? Drop him a line on Twitter: @SpencerBGM

  Team Corinsanity’s Score = 95

Any questions for Gordon? Drop him a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

 1. Jon – There looks to be trouble in paradise in this week’s “Survivor” double-header, as Jon and Jaclyn are seen fighting. They’ve both proven solid game players, though, and I trust the couple to keep their eyes on the prize even whilst hangry.
  1. Jaclyn – Natalie totally saved the day last week. If she doesn’t speak up at Tribal, Jon doesn’t play his idol, he’s sent packing, and you’re probably next. Now, don’t let that move make you feel too warm and fuzzy toward your new favorite Twinnie. With the exception of possibly Reed, Natalie is the last person you want to be sitting next to at the final Tribal.
 2. Jaclyn – With the numbers down to eight, Jon, Jaclyn, Missy, and Baylor have it within their power to face nothing worse than a tie at Tribal Council. If a dice roll comes, Jon and Jaclyn at least have an idol going their way.
  2. Baylor – I can’t imagine a scenario where Baylor could win at this point. She could get to the end against acne on prom night and yellow snow and still not get any votes.
 3. Baylor – In “Survivor,” any press is bad press, so it’s bad news that Reed is seen calling Baylor a brat. Whether he’s targeting her or trying to rustle her feathers, I felt better about Baylor when she was flying under the radar / Missy’s wing.
  3. Missy – I think you’re in the same boat with your daughter. You just haven’t done enough for a jury to award you the big prize.

 4. Natalie – Natalie’s in an excellent spot this week. She has an idol, and the Jon/Jaclyn/Baylor/Missy coalition need her vote. While shaking things up Ciera-style might be risky and mean a nonzero chance of going home, it could be the play she makes to have a shot at winning.
  4. Natalie – “Survivor” champions Ethan Zohn, Jenna Morasca, “Boston” Rob Mariano, and Amber Mariano have all played the “Amazing Race” and lost. Are we prepared for what’ll happen if Jeff Probst has to hand over a million-dollar check to one half of the Twinnies? (Also, what convenient bookends it’d be with Nadiya being the first out.)
 5. Missy – If Natalie decides to make something happen, and we end up in a gridlock, idols will become paramount. Natalie will have one. Jaclyn or Jon will have one. Missy will almost definitely not have one.
 5. Jon – You dodged a major bullet, buddy. And I’m betting things will finally calm down so you can cut the excess players from the tribe. But, don’t think for a second that because Natalie doesn’t have a loved one that she’s the right person to take to the end. I feel like people respect her game more than yours.
  6. Alec – “Survivor” teases that this week, contestants will willingly give up reward in the middle of a challenge. Surely they’re not talking about our beloved meat collector? Alec hasn’t made waves in a while, so hopefully two hours will be long enough to see something interesting from him.
 6. Alec – Hey…weren’t you on “Survivor”?
  7. Reed – You have to feel for someone who constructed a plan that was going to work – going to shake the game – and fell apart with four small words: “Stick to the plan.” Reed has fought the good fight, but he’s nearing his last lifeline, and has little hope of establishing long-term trust anywhere.
 7. Keith – Wow…just wow. That was… I can’t believe… Of all the… You know, when they talk about the biggest mistakes in “Survivor” history, people lean toward the showier ones like people being voted out with idols or Erik giving up his idol. But Keith’s has to be up there. If he’d played it right, he’d have the numbers and an idol right now.
  8. Keith – Talk about screwing the pooch. Keith claims not to understand “mathematics and all that mess,” and paid for it last week when he let the cat out of the bag regarding “that mess.” I’m rooting for more soundbites, but fear this is the week an idol-less Keith finally takes his last spit in San Juan Del Sur.
 8. Reed – Oh, Reed. You deserve better. It’s not your fault that Keith dropped the ball…and the ball rolled into the street…and a gasoline truck ran over the ball…and the truck swerved and hit a tree…and the gasoline doused the remnants of the ball…and an errant spark ignited the ball and burned it to dust…and then a dog relieved itself on the ashes...

Watch Full Episodes of “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” on Your Computer

‘Survivor’ Hall of Famer Sandra Diaz Twine’s Top Three Tribal Councils

December 2, 2014

2010 "Survivor" Hall of Famer Sandra Diaz-Twine (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY TV is the place to go for “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” coverage with “all the fixin’s.” We’ll have Power Rankings with “Cagayan” fave Spencer Bledsoe, every Wednesday evening we’ll bring you a recap of the most recent episode, and every Thursday you’ll be able to watch the previous night’s episode and read an interview with the eliminated contestant. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for immediate updates.

[xfinity-record-button id=”6034085997813089112″ program_type=”series”]

The “Survivor” Hall of Fame is proud to have 2010 inductee Sandra Diaz-Twine as a part of the Executive Voting Committee. As a member of this exclusive committee, Sandra (along with Host Jeff Probst, Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, and other “Survivor” luminaries) will nominate her three favorite Tribal Councils.

Then, from Monday, December 8, 2014 at 10 am ET through Friday December 12, 2014 at 5 pm ET, the top three Tribal Councils will be chosen by a fan vote.

Sandra Diaz-Twine’s “Survivor” Hall of Fame Nominations…

“Survivor: Borneo” – Final Tribal Council: Sue’s “Snakes and Rat” speech. After that people always brought the drama to Tribal Council. Put it all out there. Sue made you wanna make a difference and matter at Tribal Council. “Say what you mean and mean what you say.”

“Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains” – Episode 10 Tribal Council: The Double JT Idol takedown. I wanna thank the princess herself Ms. Parvati Shallow for giving Jerri and myself her JT idol and sending him packing and also using Russell’s idol and pissing him off and making his paranoia surface.

“Survivor: Micronesia – Fans vs Favorites” – Episode 13 Tribal Council: I know Erik is tired that he can’t catch a break and put this ordeal behind him but when he gave Natalie his immunity and these Gangsta Girls sent him home it really opened eyes. No one ever wants to be another Erik!

Follow the “Survivor” Hall of Fame on Twitter and Facebook for up-to-the-minute updates and Tribal Council nominations.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter at @gordonholmes.

‘Survivor: San Juan del Sur’ Power Rankings – Misch Best Served Bold Edition

November 26, 2014

'Survivor: San Juan del Sur' (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY TV is the place to go for “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” coverage with “all the fixin’s.” We’ll have Power Rankings with “Cagayan” fave Spencer Bledsoe, every Wednesday evening we’ll bring you a recap of the most recent episode, and every Thursday you’ll be able to watch the previous night’s episode and read an interview with the eliminated contestant. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for immediate updates.

[xfinity-record-button id=”6034085997813089112″ program_type=”series”]

Important Announcement: The “Survivor” Hall of Fame is honoring the show’s most iconic Tribal Councils.

The Rules: Each week our two combatants will create separate power rankings. The ranking of the person who is voted out of the next episode will determine the number of points the two players will earn. For example, if Natalie is voted out this week, Spencer will receive four points and Gordon will receive nine points. At the end of the season, the person with the most points will be named the “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” Power Rankings Challenge Champion.

Last Week: Spencer had Jeremy in spot three, Gordon had him in spot nine. So, the current score is Team Farm Guy 72, Team Corinsanity 88.

Watch Full Episodes of “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” on Your Computer

Team Farm Guy’s Score = 72

Any questions for Spencer? Drop him a line on Twitter: @SpencerBGM

  Team Corinsanity’s Score = 88

Any questions for Gordon? Drop him a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

 1. Baylor – Last week Baylor actually received… zero votes. The apocalypse is here. I don’t see why anyone would want to take her out before Missy. I sense the move for Reed, Wes, Keith, Natalie, and Alec is to band together against the other four, but I also sense it won’t happen.
  1. Jaclyn – The Jasmine to Jon’s Aladdin was in the middle of things again this week and now that I’ve had time to think about it…I don’t hate the move to get rid of Jeremy. I mean, I hate it from the sense that I had picked Jeremy to win and it would’ve finally broken my stupid curse, but getting rid of Jeremy makes a JaclJon win much more likely.
 2. Jaclyn – Our power couple is living the swinging dream – surfing from alliance to alliance leading into the endgame. As long as they can stay afloat, and people need their votes, I like them to go far.
  2. Baylor – I can’t imagine a situation where a jury would give the win to Baylor. There’s simply no final-three combination that’s going to award her the prize. Well, maybe if she gets there with Keith and Wes after they murder the rest of the players.
 3. Jon – …And they have an idol.
  3. Missy – Missy, on the other hand, could win it. If people can ignore her train-wreck social game and focus on her big, bold moves, she has a chance. Not a good chance, but a better chance than Baylor.

 4. Natalie – Who cares if giving up reward is transparent? Who cares if Jon and Jaclyn saw through it? Transparent gestures can still carry weight, and although this one didn’t work, it gives even more proof that Natalie is one of the few left who is PLAYING.
  4. Jon – Hate on Jon all you want, but the fact remains that he and his girlfriend got rid of the game’s two most dominant players in back-to-back weeks. And, he’s still got an idol. If he and Jaclyn can figure it out so there’s some combination of him, Jaclyn, Missy, or Baylor at the end, they’re going to walk away with that million-dollar check.
 5. Missy – I’m actually way higher on muffin than many; she’s pulling strings, and whether or not she’s a good player she’s some of the better casting on the season. With Jeremy gone, we’re gonna need someone who can form a coherent sentence.
 5. Reed – Kudos to Reed for going from the bottom of the barrel to seemingly being a part of the new dominant alliance. However, he is nowhere near safe. He’s the most popular member of the new fivesome and his boyfriend is a well-liked member of the jury.
  6. Keith – Only talking to females when he passes them, Keith boasts a social game somewhere in between John Rocker and Shannon Elkins levels. With an idol, hopefully he doesn’t also meet John Rocker’s fate.
 6. Keith – It took some guts to hold onto your idol last week. But, the time for being shy with that thing is over. You need to figure out which way Jon and Co. are voting and counter it. I’m thinking the only people you can trust at this point are Wes and Alec. Make your move this week to bounce one of the dominant alliance, then you can pick up Natalie and possibly Reed.
  7. Wes – Wake up. Spit. Burp. #TacoOverload. Talk to women in passing. Spit. Wes’s simple “Survivor” life is in danger of coming to a screeching halt very soon.
 7. Wes – You or Alec need to win immunity this week. It’ll give Team Jonclyn one less person to target at Tribal and it will give you a better chance at correctly playing your dad’s idol.
  8. Reed – The sky is falling! Not only does Reed now speak on the show, but he seems… possibly… safe this week? After uniting with Jon/Jaclyn/Baylor/Missy to blindside Jeremy, that foursome is hardly in a position to immediately turn on him. And yet, the season’s first idol play could easily leave someone like Reed out by a few stray votes.
 8. Alec – See Wes.
  9. Alec –This ain’t no charity, now! If you’re bad at “Survivor,” you’re gonna go home eventually.    9. Natalie – “What the ___, Missy?” Thank you for so eloquently expressing exactly what I was thinking. Unfortunately for Natalie, when the leader goes, that person’s right hand often follows. I doubt she can work her way into the dominant alliance, but maybe she can inspire Keith to finally shake up the game with his idol.

Watch Full Episodes of “Survivor: San Juan del Sur” on Your Computer