Archive for the ‘General’ Category

TV Tapas: Grande Embarrasses Her Mom, Tonight’s Must-See Shows, and More

April 26, 2016

Ariana Grande's Mom Is Embarrassed on National TV (The Tonight Show)

Random Thoughts…

I can’t wait (read: CAN’T WAIT) for today’s first “Live with Kelly and Michael” since Michael Strahan’s announcement.  Should be fascinating. … Big kudos to Jodie Sweetin for last night’s “Dancing with the Stars” performance. I pulled a muscle yesterday jogging in the park and cried like an infant. … “Blindspot” has been hiding clues in the opening titles. “The Mole” did that. Best show ever. Wonder what happened to the host Anderson Cooper. … Dear WWE, three hours is too long for “Monday Night Raw.” … The last scene of last night’s “Lucifer” finale? I don’t want to spoil it, go check it out.

Breaking News…

Trending Videos…


1. ‘Dancing with the Stars’Wanya Morris’s tribute to N’Sync was easily the highlight of last night’s episode. Totally worth a click.
2. ‘The Voice’I’m a sucker for Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” and Daniel Passino did a pretty solid cover of it last night.
3. ‘The Late Late Show’ Legendary late-night staple Jack Hanna visited James Corden and brought a wide variety of cute creatures including a pair of baby leopards. Totes adorbs. (Do kids still say that?)

What to Watch Tonight…

1. ‘The Night Manager’ (AMC: 10pm ET) – Here’s a show that gets a twelve-star recommendation (out of twelve stars). It’s like James Bond and Jason Bourne had a baby.
2. ‘Limitless’ (CBS: 10pm ET) – A pretty solid season one comes to an end and Brian is starting to feel side-effects from the drug. Which is typical of most drugs. I watch TV ads.
3. ‘Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ (Bravo: 9pm ET) – With all this drama, I’d be OK if this reunion had forty parts. Unfortunately there are only three. The second one is tonight.

Celebs on Twitter: “Game of Thrones” Star Peter Dinklage

 

 

That’s all the TV Tapas for today. Be sure to check back tomorrow for a second helping. If you have any questions, please drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

TV Tapas: Hemsworth Assaults Corden, Major ‘GoT’ Twist, and ‘Simpsons’ Honor Disney

April 25, 2016

Chris Hemsworth Nailed James Corden with a Ping-Pong Ball, It Had to Hurt (The Late Late Show)

Random Thoughts…

So seriously, where can I get one of those “Game of Thrones” necklaces? I’d look like prime James Van der Beek. … Also, nice to have “Veep” and “Silicon Valley” back. … I want to like you, “Fear the Walking Dead,” but there are way too many supposedly-smart-people-doing-dumb-things moments for me to fully commit. … “Turn: Washington’s Spies” returns tonight.  I want to love that show, but something isn’t clicking for me. If you’re into it, drop me a line on Twitter (@gordonholmes) and tell me why.

Breaking News…

Trending Videos…


1. ‘Saturday Night Live’Yeah, I went crazy for Prince’s performance of “Let’s Go Crazy” from the “SNL: 40” party. Just awesome.
2. ‘The Simpsons’I thought it was cool to see the family pay tribute to Disney with their couch gag. Although, at this point, “The Simpsons” have been around almost as long as Disney.
3. ‘The Late Show’ Stephen Colbert’s “Game of Thrones” parody is a little on the nose, but Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s reaction makes it worth it.

What to Watch Tonight…

1. ‘Lucifer’ (FOX: 9pm ET) – I’m told the last scene of tonight’s season finale is a jaw-dropper.
2. ‘Dancing with the Stars’ (ABC: 8pm ET) – We’re going to find out if Jodie Sweetin’s injured ankle is going to keep her out of the competition.
3. ‘The Voice’ (NBC: 8pm ET) – The final eleven artists perform.

Who to Follow on Twitter: “Late Night” Host Seth Meyers

 

That’s all the TV Tapas for today. Be sure to check back tomorrow for a second helping. If you have any questions, please drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

TV Tapas: A Little Kid Trump, Steve Harvey Yodels and Priyanka Tweets

April 18, 2016

Cute Kid Does a Dead-On Donald Trump Impression ("The Tonight Show")

Random Thoughts…

Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ performance of “Saturday Night Live” could have been 90 minutes of dead air and I still would have considered it a winner after Tony Hale’s monologue cameo. … I have a theory that they’re keeping “Fear the Walking Dead” intentionally boring to make us appreciate “The Walking Dead.” … I had a chance to catch the premiere of John Cena’s “American Grit” this weekend. They could really have something if every episode is as satisfying as the first one. … Wait, why are you reading this? It’s Watchathon Week. You should be watching every episode of “The Sopranos” for free…

Breaking News…

This Weekend’s Trending Videos…


1. ‘The Tonight Show’I know auto-tuning a news clip and setting it to a beat isn’t new, but it still makes me laugh. Fallon’s Bernie Sanders Rap is gold.
2. ‘Little Big Shots’Steve Harvey could have a future as a yodeler. This is amazing.
3. ‘The Good Wife’ – Nothing is more exciting than when a show is building up steam toward a big finale. And Alicia and her crew are doing this nicely.

What to Watch Tonight…

1. ‘Better Call Saul’ (AMC: 10:05pm ET) – You’ve come a long way from “Mr. Show,” Bob Odenkirk. And “Better Call Saul” is definitely something to be proud of. I can’t wait to see how tonight’s Season 2 finale turns out.
2. ’12 Monkeys’ (Syfy: 9pm ET) – I don’t think anyone could have predicted how good this TV remake of the Bruce Willis/Brad Pitt 1995 time-traveling head-scratcher would turn out. Let’s hope they can keep the goodness coming during tonight’s Season 2 premiere.
3. ‘Supergirl’ (CBS: 8pm ET) – The first season of this fun series comes to an end tonight as the Woman of Steel must literally save every person on the planet. Quite a contrast to her big-screen cousin and his Metropolis leveling ways.

Who to Follow on Twitter: “Quantico” Star Priyanka Chopra

That’s all the TV Tapas for today. Be sure to check back tomorrow for a second helping. If you have any questions, please drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

TV Tapas: ‘Trump’ Calls Cruz, ‘Blacklist’ Shocker, and a Violent Attack on ’60 Days In’

April 15, 2016

"Donald Trump" Gives Ted Cruz Some Advice on "The Tonight Show" (NBC)

Random Thoughts…

“Orphan Black” is finally back, and I don’t want to give anything away, but my admiration for Tatiana Maslany keeps growing. … Caught “American Grit” and immediately felt terrible for how lazy I am. With all the TV I watch I need to install a treadmill in my living room. … Sorry “Rush Hour”, I tried. … How many seasons does “New Girl” have to be around until they get around to changing the title? … If only there was some amazing seven-day event where you could watch full seasons of shows for free…

Breaking News…

Last Night’s Trending Videos…


1. ‘Blacklist’If you are a ‘Blacklist’ fan and you missed last night’s show, drop everything and watch it now. I’m not kidding. Stay off social media, don’t answer your phone, this is your top priority.
2. ’60 Days In’This is the reality show where innocent civilians go undercover as prison inmates. Well, last night one of those volunteers was attacked by a real inmate. Horrifying. Also riveting.
3. ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live‘ – I know Kimmel has been doing “This Week in Unnecessary Censorship” for something like 30 years, but it still makes me giggle. I’m an eight-year-old.

What to Watch Tonight…



1. ‘Blue Bloods’ (CBS: 10pm ET) – So, a serial killer leaves a note on a victim to taunt Danny. You have to be really confident in your serial killing skills to pull a move like that.
2. ‘Tanked’ (Animal Planet: 10:05pm ET) – I am a sucker for shows where people get to show off how creative they are. I’m talking “Shark Tank,” I’m talking “Cake Boss,” and I’m definitely talking “Tanked.” These guys are capable of some amazing things.
3. ‘Grimm’ (NBC: 9pm ET) – Keiko Agena is appearing in tonight’s episode. So, that falls under my rule where I watch shows that feature “Gilmore Girls” alumni.

Who to Follow on Twitter: “Amazing Race” Host Phil Keoghan

That’s all the TV Tapas for today. Be sure to check back Monday for a second helping. If you have any questions, please drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

TV Tapas: Meme Goes Terribly Wrong, Olsen Twins Hit Instagram and ‘Chicago Melon’

April 14, 2016

Why Did This Silly Viral Photo Lead to Threats of Violence? ('The Internet Ruined My Life')

Random Thoughts…

“Survivor” Host Jeff Probst has been guilty of over-hyping bad seasons in the past, so I was nervous with the lack of hype for “Survivor: Kaoh Rong.” But, it’s quickly becoming one of the best original-cast seasons I’ve ever seen. Last night’s idol-filled Tribal Council was a doozy. … Big cuts on “The Voice” last night. Some serious talent was sent packing. … Oof, the medicine-ball sit-up challenge on “Strong” would’ve had me reaching for a bucket. … I think I like fake-conservative-pundit Stephen Colbert more than I like “Late Show” host Stephen Colbert. … So, if you know someone who watches “Empire,” give them a hug today. They went through a lot last night.

 

Breaking News…

Last Night’s Trending Videos…


1. ‘The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon’An exclusive look at NBC’s newest hit show “Chicago Melon.” Seriously, it looks awesome.
2. ‘Kocktails with Khloe’Are the Kardashian Kids watching “The People v. O.J. Simpson”? C’mon…I think we all know the answer to that.
3. ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live‘ – Can people name more Avengers or more U.S. Presidents? Things like this make me sad for society. Still funny though.

What to Watch Tonight…


1. ‘Orphan Black‘ (BBC America: 10pm ET) – Alright, Clone Club…Season 4 has finally arrived. And if you don’t count yourself among the Club’s members, you should really consider giving this show a shot. Tatiana Maslany deserves all the acting awards ever.
2. ‘American Grit’ (FOX: 9pm ET) – “The Champ Is…on FOX?” Huh… Anywho, WWE Superstar John Cena tries his hand at hosting with this new military themed reality show. Sixteen men and women will push themselves to their physical limits while under the guidance of some of the Armed Forces’ top names.
3. ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (ABC: 8pm ET) – We’re getting a double dose of the gang from Seattle Grace tonight and it seems like the theme is, “What is Ben thinking?!”

Who to Follow on Twitter: “Modern Family” Star Eric Stonestreet


That’s all the TV Tapas for today. Be sure to check back tomorrow for a second helping. If you have any questions, please drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

TV Tapas: Schumer Defends Photo, ‘Doctor Strange’ and Aguilera’s Odd Gloves

April 13, 2016

Amy Schumer Defends a Photo Jimmy Fallon Found on Her Phone (Tonight Show)

Random Thoughts…

Alright, I’m officially prepared to go on record saying “The People v. O.J. Simpson” has been the best thing I’ve seen on TV all year. … ”The Amazing Race” just isn’t clicking with me this season. Maybe the stakes aren’t as high because the teams are already famous? … Why isn’t anyone talking about the young cast of “Blackish”? All four of them (Marcus Scribner, Yara Shahidi, Miles Brown, and Marsai Martin) bring the funny every week. … Now that “American Idol” is done, I’m setting the reboot over/under at 1.5 years. … Anyone notice Christina Aguilera’s weird half gloves on “The Voice”? They would make terrible oven mitts…

Breaking News…

Last Night’s Trending Videos…


1. ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live‘ – So…I love me some Marvel movies, but I didn’t really know much about “Doctor Strange.” After watching the trailer on “Kimmel” I am fully in. Fully in.
2. ‘Late Night with Seth Meyers‘ – Seth’s staff is sick of hearing about his new baby so they stage in intervention. Hilarious.
3. ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills‘ – We’ve known about Yolanda’s divorce announcement for a while, but that didn’t lessen the impact. Yikes.

What to Watch Tonight…


1. ‘Stronger‘ (NBC: 9pm ET) – Ten women working with personal trainers to achieve their physical and mental goals? Sign me up! I’m a sucker for shows where people push themselves to their limits.
2. ‘Survivor: Kaôh Rōng’ (CBS: 8pm ET) – It’s borderline cruel to make us wait seven days for the next installment after Cydney’s stunning blindside last week. Will she be able to keep the momentum going or will Scot and Jason be able to regroup?
3. ‘The Last Panthers‘ (Sundance: 10pm ET) – This excellent six-episode is what you get when you mix an amazing cast (Oscar Nominees John Hurt, Samantha Morton) with a gripping crime story. I don’t want to give too much away, but this is worth your time.

Who to Follow on Twitter: “Orphan Black” Star Tatiana Maslany


Oi Oi ya little meatbreads!!! #OrphanBlack returns Thursday, April 14th at 10/9c on @BBCAmerica. pic.twitter.com/oMAdzYWWsU

— Tatiana Maslany (@tatianamaslany) April 12, 2016

That’s all the TV Tapas for today. Be sure to check back tomorrow for a second helping. If you have any questions, please drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

XFINITY TV Binge-Watching Guide: It’s a Good Time to Have Free Time

April 8, 2016

Start stock-piling your snacks and laying out your sweatpants because XFINITY Watchathon Week is almost here!

“Hey Gordon, what is Watchathon?”

Glad you asked. (That, or I’m hearing voices.) Basically, from April 18th through April 24th you can enjoy thousands of episodes of TV shows from HBO, Starz, Cinemax and other networks for free. It is truly a binge-watcher’s dream come true.

Alright, before we jump into this week’s picks, let’s head over to Twitter for an Outstanding Achievement in Binge-Watching

@gordonholmes the last two seasons of Game of Thrones in a 28-hour period. Recognize.

— Offended Nerd (@OffendedNerd) March 28, 2016

Wow. Consider yourself officially recognized, Offended Nerd. (If that is your real name.)

If you want to match Offended Nerd’s feat, we have every episode of “Game of Thrones” on XFINITY On Demand. If you have your own Binge-Brag that’s worth mentioning, drop me a line on Twitter and be sure to tag your tweets #bingewatching and #XFINITYbinge.

 1. – “Outlander”: You might need the ability to time travel to watch season one of this epic before Saturday’s premiere. But, you can always just make the start of season two the cherry on top of a worthwhile binge session by using On Demand.
 2. – “Orphan Black”: Two words: Tatiana Maslany. I don’t want to give too much away about this show’s concept, but universities should offer classes on her performance…er…performances…
   3. – “The Magicians”: Seriously, who needs Hogwarts? This magical hit has cast a spell on us. The question is; what’re we going to do after Monday’s finale?
 4. – “Chrisley Knows Best”: These quick, comedic episodes fly by so quickly. You can easily catch up on the full season of this hysterical guilty pleasure before Tuesday’s finale.
  5. – “The Girlfriend Experience”: Fun Fact: Riley Keough, the star of this racy new Starz show, is actually Elvis Presley’s granddaughter. Anyone know the title you give to the daughter of the daughter of a king? Anywho, the full first season will be available Sunday.  6. – “Dice”: This fictional look at the life of comedian Andrew “Dice” Clay is surprisingly…endearing. Check out the premiere now, then come back Sunday when we get the rest of season one.
 7. – “Lucifer”: Now that “Lucifer” has been picked up for a second season, we’re calling it “Safe Investment TV.” By that we mean; if you fall in love with this devil-turned-somewhat-good tale, you won’t have to worry because there will be plenty more to come.
 8. – “Those Who Can’t”: Let me be clear, this comedy about high-school educators is not for everyone. It gets a bit randy. But, if that’s your cup of tea, you’re going to definitely want to tune in to these teachers.
 9. – “The People vs. O.J. Simpson”: I don’t think I’m  exaggerating when I say ‘TPVOJS’ has been the best show of 2016. Now you can watch the whole thing from the Bronco chase, to the gloves, to the verdict, to the aftermath.
 10.“Hap and Leonard”: A six-episode season? You can bang out this action-packed hidden gem in an evening.

‘Survivor: Kaôh Rōng’ Power Rankings: I-Scream-Man Edition

April 6, 2016

'Survivor' (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: XFINITYTV.com is the place to be for all of your bug-eatin’, back-stabbin’, “Survivor” coverage. During the season we’ll have insightful weekly Power Rankings, exit interviews, and full episode recaps. Follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Watch Full Episodes of “Survivor: Kaôh Rōng”

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 players will earn.  For example, if Scot is voted out this episode, Shirin will receive eight points and Gordon will receive nine points. At the end of the season, the person with the most points will be named the “Survivor: Kaôh Rōng” Power Rankings Challenge Champion.

Last Week: Shirin and Gordon both had Neal in spot six. The current score is Team Shirin 66, Team Gordon 64.

Quick Note: Rankings are not based on who the player thinks is most likely to win. The smart strategy is to rank the contestants based on who is the most likely to be voted out in the next episode.

 

Shirin’s Score = 66

Any questions for Shirin? Drop her a line on Twitter: @theshirin

Gordon’s Score = 64

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

 1. – Infections: Mother Nature is this season’s lethal mama, and someone else will steal credit for her work in the end. #DawnWasRobbed
 1. – Infections: First of all, you’re all welcome for using a shot of Probst for this graphic. I could’ve used something much more graphic. (I hate myself for that joke.) And second, curse you, infections. Aubry was on her way out and I would’ve had the points lead.
 2. – Joe: The chicken-Tai alliance is more of a threat than Joe.
 2. – Tai: Listen up, dude. We’re in an alliance! I hope Debbie never changes and is on on the next twelve seasons. Kudos to Tai for not letting her bully him.
 3. – Chicken: See above.
 3. – Chicken: Chicken, what are you doing?! Fighting over food will always get you kicked out. Relax and embrace the Tai/Chicken alliance. (Actually, Thai Chicken sounds delicious right about now.)
 4. – Tai: Tai’s not used to women coming at him so hard. Even the chicken wants a piece of him.
 4. – Julia: That bad buff pull might’ve been Julia’s best moment. She’s now right in the middle of the dominant alliance and she doesn’t have any blood on her hands.
 5. – Julia: Julia’s taking a stroll down Abbey Road. “Her Majesty’s a pretty nice girl but she doesn’t have a lot to say.” #HiddenTrack
 5. – Michele: Let tricky Nick take all the bullets for a while, then wait for the perfect time to send him to the jury. He’ll respect you for it.
 6. – Michele: You know who’s rich AND a jerk AND won the game? James Potter. Your vote matters. #MakeDonaldDrumpfAgain
 6. – Jason: You’ve gotta keep Tai close. He’s got to want to give up an idol for you. That’s no small deal.
 7. – Jason: The expression is “speak softly and carry a big stick.” Put down the megaphone, bro.  7. – Joe: Your only danger is being the person they target because they think Aubry has Neal’s idol.
 8. – Scot: After a few episodes as pleasant, diplomatic Dr Jekyll, liquid courage transformed him back into Mr Hyde.
 8. – Nick: How did they fit 90 minutes of Nick into last week’s one-hour episode? It can’t look good with all of the moves he’s making.
 9. – Nick: Peacocks’ colorful plumage attracts both mates and predators.
 9. – Scot: You’re never safe, Scot. You’re too big and athletic and the stand-in-one-place immunity challenges won’t last forever.
 10. – Debbie: People will lose their minds if Debbie doesn’t win some hearts. #lobotomy
 10. – Aubry: It seems like a little comment cost you Neal’s idol. If I were you’d I’d fake a pants bulge immediately. (Not that I know anything about faking pants bulges…moving on.)
  11. – Aubry: Aubry lacks a bulge in her pants, which puts her at a disadvantage.
 11. – Cydney: You’re under the radar, your alliance has forty idols…now is the time for you to sit back and cruise. Why are you involved in arguments?
  12. – Cydney: It seems as if this episode will put to the test whether Cydney is our season’s Khaleesi or just another Quentyn Martell. #ADanceWithDragons
  12. – Debbie: Oh, Debbie. You’re not going to win this game, but you’re entertaining. I’m assuming one of your past jobs wasn’t “Master of Subtlety.”

XFINITY TV Weekend Binge-Watching Guide

March 25, 2016

A recent study conducted by the research firm Deloitte states that 70% of Americans now indulge in binge-watching sessions. As someone who fit a whole eight-episode season of “True Detective” into a single day, it’s nice to feel normal for once.

If you’re a binge-watcher like me, part of the trending 70%…rejoice! We’ve put together a list of ten awesome, binge-worthy options for your weekend. All you have to do is provide some snacks.

If you’re not part of the 30%…relax. It’s not too late for you. Join us…the couch is super comfy…

And if you have a binge experience that tops my “True Detective” fest, I want to hear about it. Drop me a note on Twitter. The most impressive feats may be used in our future “Great Moments in Binge-Watching” tribute.

 1. – “The People vs. O.J. Simpson”: This is my favorite show of the year. You’ll watch it and say, “Oh yeah…” to the stuff you remember and “What, the what?!” to the stuff you don’t. A perfectly acceptable use of your weekend time.
 2. – “Empire”: If the second half of season 2 is as crazy as the first, then we’re all in for a wild ride. Check out the entire first half before “Empire” returns this Wednesday.
  3. – “Shades of Blue”: C’mon…you knew J’Lo wasn’t going to return to TV for any old show right? This one has an insane amount of twists and turns. Now’s the perfect time to jump on board before this Thursday’s big finale.  4. – “Black Sails”: Why aren’t more people talking about “Black Sails?” This pirate epic is one of our faves. Do yourself a favor and get caught up before this Sunday’s finale.
  5. – “Hap and Leonard”: Here’s another under-the-radar find that is worth your time. Get caught up on season one right now.  6. – “Younger”: There is a moment in this week’s “Younger” that is one of the top shockers of the year. But, you need to know the context. So, dive into this hidden gem of a show.
 7. “Quantico”: This show started off with a bang (literally) and has not let up since. Sure, there are some minor holes in the plot, but they’re a small price to pay for the mind-bending twists.  8. “The Walking Dead”: If you’ve written off this hit as “just a zombie show” you are missing out. This season has been amazing with morality questions, surprise romance, and epic battles. And next Sunday’s finale looks like it’s going to be insane.
 9. “60 Days In”: I would never agree to spend 60 days in prison. But, I’m glad these innocent civilians have. This inside look at life behind bars is fascinating. Watch one and you’re hooked.  10. “Game of Thrones”: Truthfully, you shouldn’t need a reason to binge this show. It’s that good. But if you need one; we’re less than a month away from the Season 6 premiere and you don’t want to be the person at the water cooler who doesn’t fit in.

‘Survivor: Kaôh Rōng’ Power Rankings: Dig Trouble in Little Cambodia Edition

March 8, 2016

'Survivor: Kaôh Rōng' (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: XFINITYTV.com is the place to be for all of your bug-eatin’, back-stabbin’, “Survivor” coverage. During the season we’ll have insightful weekly Power Rankings, exit interviews, and full episode recaps. Follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Watch Full Episodes of “Survivor: Kaôh Rōng”

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 players will earn.  For example, if Anna is voted out this episode, Shirin will receive nine points and Gordon will receive three points. At the end of the season, the person with the most points will be named the “Survivor: Kaôh Rōng” Power Rankings Challenge Champion.

Last Week: Shirin had Elisabeth in spot fourteen. Gordon had her in spot thirteen. The current score is now Team Shirin 20, Team Gordon 15.

Quick Note: Rankings are not based on who the player thinks is most likely to win. The smart strategy is to rank the contestants based on who is the most likely to be voted out in the next episode.

Another Quick Note: It seems like there is a medical evacuation this week. Shirin and Gordon both stayed away from promos that could hint at the identity of the unfortunate player.

Shirin’s Score = 20

Any questions for Shirin? Drop her a line on Twitter: @theshirin

Gordon’s Score = 15

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

 1. – Jason: Between his Mecha build, Scot’s height, and Alecia’s idol, when push comes to shove, Jason is the biggest man to ever play the game.
 1. – Tai: I’m a hardcore carnivore, and even my heart went out to poor Tai when he was conflicted over killing the chicken. So, I guess it’s official; I am Team Tai. I’m part of the Trang Gang. Hopefully that idol helps him stick around for a long time.
 2. – Tai: A crying Tai holds his idol up in the air as the sun drops his competitors, one by one, to their knees. All hail the king. Maaaaaaaaa zeemenyaaaaaaa zabagichi yama… It’s the Circle of Life. #NoWaste
 2. – Jason: “I am possibly one of the best bounty hunters in South-East Michigan.” Not THE best? So, Jason is basically Dengar. But, he’s Dengar with an idol.
 3. – Scot: Scot took a shot at the idol, but Jason grabbed the rebound. Unfortunately for Scot, I don’t think Jason will try for an assist.
 3. – Anna: She’s clearly running the show at the Beauty tribe. Add that to the fact that she won’t be an obvious target after a swap and you have someone who could be sticking around for a long time. And, as a male with functioning eyes I’m OK with that.
 4. – Caleb: Everyone on this tribe wants to cuddle with Bamboo Mode Cowboy.
 4. – Scot: I was way off last week. Scot and Jason are still besties, Scot just voted for Alecia because he gave his word to Jennifer. Scot’s going to be fine again this week, but he’s going to be in big (tall?) trouble if there’s a tribe swap next week.
 5. – Michele: I can’t hear you over all the Tai buzz. #MuffliatoCharm
 5. – Aubry: Things are far from stable over with the Brainy Bunch. But, there’s no reason to target Aubry this week.
 6. – Julia:

So it’s gonna be forever,
Or it’s gonna go down in flames,
…But I got a blank space baby,
And I’ll write your name.
 6. – Julia: I super-underestimated Julia at the beginning of this season, she can go. She did a fantastic job with the ball maze. (Also, did anyone else hear Probst say, “The key is to avoid the holes in the maze”? That’s like saying “The key to winning football is to have more points than your opponent.”)
 7. – Cydney: To the left, TO THE LEFT CYDNEY, everything you could’ve owned in a box to the left.
 7. – Michele: Hey.
 8. – Aubry: I would sob if Aub was robbed by squabbling doc and the quant job. But Aub is mob and hobnobs with Deathstick Deb (obv) and 6-pack Joe whose DOB predates Bob…Crowley. #BustaRhymes  8. – Caleb: The Beast Mode Gardeners are in good with Anna’s Angels and now they’re packing an idol.
 9. – Anna: She’s busting ahead in these primary stages, but she’ll pay the price in the general election.
 9. – Joe: You can’t get me to do exercises when I’m well fed in the comfort of a gym. This guy is doing leg-lifts in the crazy Cambodian heat. Cranky-ness aside, he’s harmless and it seems like he’s just a floating vote.
 10. – Joe: Bust out a 6-pack and enjoy the show, Joe.  10. – Cydney: I should feel better about Cydney. She played last week’s idol situation as best she could, but Scot and Jason might worry that she has Alecia in her pocket.
  11. – Debbie: The tiger suit is still there…beneath the goat suit. But zip it back up so the others can’t see!
 11. – Neal: Peter and Elisabeth targeted Neal because they thought he was a strategist who couldn’t be trusted. That does not bode well for the future of his game. It’s gonna be a rocky road. (I hate myself for that.)
 12. – Neal: The reason Neal keeps smirking is because there *is* a snake in those pants, Peter. But which way will Debbie Bobbitt’s knife fall in the age old “Survivor” battle of peter vs snake in the pants? #DeathstickDeb
 12. – Debbie: This tiger has claws! She put a plan into action last week and it played out perfectly. But, can she keep the momentum going?
 13. – Nick: I think this guy studied “Worlds Apart” for social graces, which has left him worlds apart from the beauty tribe vibe.
 13. – Peter: Dude, “Survivor” is a social game. You can’t hang out in the water talking strategy all day. Didn’t you see “Second Chance”? Oh wait, you totally didn’t.
  14. – Peter: Neal’s pants creamed you.
 14. – Nick: How did Nick end up on the outside? He seems to get along with everybody well enough. Maybe he just can’t compare to the combined charisma of the Beast Mode Garderers.
15. – Alecia: Alecia’s embryo must have had a storied past because a bounty hunter raided her box and snatched it. #RedWedding  15. – Alecia: I don’t blame Alecia for trying to cement an alliance with Cydney with the immunity clue, but…wow… The mental giant needs a tribe swap more than anyone right now.