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‘Survivor’ Castaway David Samson: J’Tia ‘Is the Mayor of Crazytown’

February 27, 2014

David Samson (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY TV is the place to be for all sorts of “Survivor: Cagayan” back-stabbin’, torch-snuffin’ fun. On Mondays we’ll have Power Rankings with a “Blood vs. Water” competitor, 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=”7054975368782091112″ program_type=”series”]

Last night, it looked like Miami Marlins President David Samson made the mistake of playing the game too hard, too fast. When given the task of getting rid of his tribe’s weakest player, he sent real-life WWE action figure Garrett packing. When asked why he made this decision, David said it was because Garrett would be a threat down the line.

To put this in baseball terms; it seemed like David was preparing his closer while his starter was getting shelled in the first inning.

I spoke with David the morning after his elimination and had a chance to ask about what was really behind the decision, how nuclear engineering ties into shelter construction, and the dysfunctional Brains tribe…

Gordon Holmes: Now David, I’m not a nuclear engineer, but I’m going to do my best to conduct this interview.
David Samson: (Laughs) Neither am I, but we can get through this together.

Holmes: So, you hit the beach. Probst tells you you’re on the Brains tribe. I’m thinking that puts you at an immediate disadvantage because one of the benefits of being smart is when people underestimate you. What was going through your mind at that point?
Samson: That I was wearing a blazer.  That I was the older male on a tribe that was labeled as “smart.” I thought, “Uh-oh.” Then he said the worst words you can hear early on in “Survivor,” “Choose a leader.” You can’t run and hide in a six-person tribe. Five people unanimously looked at me and I had no choice. They thought I was a threat, chose me as a leader, then got rid of me.
Holmes: Now I understand why you wouldn’t want Garrett in the game, he’s going to be an immunity threat down the line, but did you worry that you’d come off as playing the game too fast by picking him as the weakest?
Samson: No, because if I had to choose first I would have chosen Kass. But when Morgan and Trish were chosen I went with Garrett because I thought there’s no way these people are leaving. He’s not switching tribes because he’s wearing green and so is everyone else in the tribe except for me. Maybe I was going to be moved. I thought there was going to be a day one challenge between Garrett, Morgan, and Trish.
Holmes: Did you ever try to make peace with Garrett?
Samson: Absolutely. I certainly didn’t want to take him far in the game, but I didn’t want him out first. I wanted J’Tia out first. It should have been five to one. She wasn’t doing anything around camp, she was bossing people around. We were a group of six leaders with no followers. We ended up getting nothing done. It cost us. As far as Garrett was concerned I figured having him around for a while would be fine. But after watching that second hour, the brainy tribe doesn’t seem very brainy.
Holmes: My mom made the point that a tribe of six dumb people couldn’t have done much worse.
Samson: Oh, I think that’s giving us way too much credit.

Watch Full Episodes of “Survivor: Cagayan”

Holmes: Was there any kind of clue that J’Tia would be the kind of person that would dump the rice in the fire?
Samson: No, the only thing I thought she was capable of was that level of laziness and entitlement. Dumping rice to me isn’t good gameplay. It’s not good TV. It’s not good anything. If she had dumped it and I was still there it would have taken some serious security guards to stop me.

Holmes: A lot of people were coming up with alternate back stories. You said you work in marketing for the Marlins.
Samson: I didn’t want to hide that I was with the Marlins, but I didn’t want someone to know I had money or power.
Holmes: I’m a huge Cardinals fan. I could probably recognize Bill DeWitt III. Were you worried a Miami baseball fan could have outted you?
Samson: Yes. But, it wasn’t going to stop me from playing. I’ve wanted to play this game since 2000. That’s a risk I was willing to take.

Holmes: Did Garrett ever tell you what the decision he had to make was?
Samson: No, he didn’t tell any of us. I sort of had a feeling that he had an idol. But, it didn’t matter to me because I thought he wouldn’t think someone would vote for him anyway because he was so big and strong. I figured he wouldn’t play the idol, and he didn’t.

Holmes: What was your take on Latasha?
Samson: I thought she was very insecure. A great girl, but she wanted to play so badly. She wanted to strategize and I wanted to focus on getting water and building a shelter. There’s a time for that, but I don’t think day one or day two is when you need to do that.

Holmes: Alright, let’s do some word association. We’ll start with Garrett.
Samson: More abs than brain cells.
Holmes: Latasha?
Samson: Insecure and a grudge.
Holmes: Kassandra?
Samson: Much smarter than she wants you to think she is, but much less evil than she wants you to think she is.
Holmes: Spencer?
Samson: Young.
Holmes: J’Tia?
Samson: Crazy as a loon. She literally is the mayor of crazytown and I love her for it.

Holmes: What’s been the reaction from your friends at the Marlins?
Samson: They’re definitely stoked that I did it. They know me well. And they know that I like to do interesting things. I think a lot of them thought I was going to go first or go last. There’s no middle ground with me. I’m very honest, consistent, and driven. The upside is you accomplish a lot. But, you fail too.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

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‘Survivor: Cagayan’ Episode 1 Recap: Brain Dead?

February 26, 2014

'Survivor: Cagayan' (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY TV is the place to be for all sorts of “Survivor: Cagayan” back-stabbin’, torch-snuffin’ fun. On Mondays we’ll have Power Rankings with a “Blood vs. Water” competitor, 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=”7054975368782091112″ program_type=”series”]

The season kicks off with a trio of groups making their way to an undisclosed location using different methods of transportation. The “Brain Tribe” is all packed up in a helicopter, because that’s how smarties travel.

We’re introduced to Spencer first. He immediately lets us know that he once tied for first in a big-time chess tournament and is a diabolical genius. So evil! If only he was old enough to grow a handlebar mustache.

Next up, Miami Marlins president David tells us that “Survivor” is like baseball because there’s only one winner in the end. OK, so it’s not like Spencer’s big-time chess tournament? Got it.

Kassandra then brags that she’s undefeated in a court of law. Hey, me too!

We then cut over to the “Beauty Tribe” as they zip along a river on a stylish speedboat. Sorry, Probst. I don’t buy that this is how pretty people travel. It’s totally messing up their hair.

We get to meet Morgan. She doesn’t want to sound conceited, but she can usually get what she wants from a guy. Ironically, the one thing a guy can’t give her is a way to have that statement not sound conceited.

Jefra tells us that she’s come in second place three times in the Miss Kentucky pageant. Was it second to the same girl all three times? Is it possible that girl tied Spencer in chess? This could be like “Lost.”

Also, people call Jefra, “Pageant Girl.” That’s the best nickname they can come up with? Sounds like her friends don’t belong on the Brains tribe either.

And finally, the “Brawn Tribe” is traveling in a bumpy truck. Cause they’re super rugged.

Cliff immediately wins me over by saying he’s playing, “For bread and meat, I don’t win, I don’t eat.”

Sarah loves MMA because she gets paid to punch people in the face. Ooo…that’d totally take away the Beauty tribe’s advantage.

Finally, our fearless host greets us from atop some hugenormous structure and says something about…

39 Days, 18 People, 1 “Survivor” Blog

Let’s take a look at these brainy, brawny, beauty…y tribes.…

The Appari Tribe (wearing orange)
Cliff – Former NBA Star, 46
Lindsey – Hairstylist, 29
Sarah – Police Officer, 29
Tony – Police Officer, 39
Trish – Pilates Trainer, 48
Woo – Martial Arts Instructor, 29

The Luzon Tribe (wearing green)
David – President, Miami Marlins, 45
Garrett – Pro Poker Player, 27
J’Tia – Nuclear Engineer, 30
Kassandra – Attorney, 41
Latasha – Accountant, 37
Spencer – Economics Student, 21

The Solana Tribe (wearing purple)
Alexis – Student, 21
Brice – Social Worker, 27
Jefra – Miss Kentucky Teen USA, 22
Jeremiah – Model, 34
LJ – Horse Trainer, 34
Morgan – Ex-NFL Cheerleader, 21

Quick Aside: How are Miss Kentucky Teen USA and Ex-NFL Cheerleader occupations? Also, how are you Miss Kentucky Teen USA when you’re 22?

The three tribes arrive via their various transportation methods and are greeted by “Two and a Half Men” star Jeff Probst. Are they disappointed that he’s fully clothed? Probably, but nobody is admitting to it.

Morgan again doesn’t want to sound conceited, but she’s pretty sure she’s on the Beauty tribe. She’s bad at not sounding that way.

Through process of elimination, Spencer realizes that he’s on the Brains tribe.

Before the game gets underway, each tribe is going to have to choose a leader.

The Beauties go with LJ because…he’s wearing a black hat? Maybe?

The Brawnies go with Sarah. Trish says they picked her because she seems confident.

The Brains go with David. Kass says it’s because she likes him. I’ve heard worse answers.

Next up, Probsty tells them that the leaders have to get rid of their weakest player. Whoa, Tocantins flashback.

LJ goes with Morgan because she seems like the least physical.

Later, LJ tells us that he got rid of Morgan because she’s hot and he doesn’t trust hot. He is right. She is hot.

Sarah decides to bounce Trish.

David decides to get rid of super strong Garrett. He says he made the decision for the last third of the game. Not loving that move. Now everyone knows how hard you are playing on day one.

Fortunately for the weaklings, they’re not out of the game. They’ll get a chopper ride to camp and will have to make a decision when they get there.

The weaklings are greeted by a note that lets them know that they can choose between a second bag of rice for the tribe or an immunity idol clue. Garrett, feeling like he’s already on the outs, goes for the idol. Trish goes for the rice because she’s a team player. Morgan goes for the idol and says LJ was probably intimidated by her looks. I get it, happens to me all the time.

So, I’m torn on this decision, I feel like the people who share rewards end up paying for it.

Garrett digs around in the water…and finds an idol. That’s got to be a record. Seventeen minutes into the first episode.

Morgan digs around in the rocks…and is caught searching by her tribe. Uh-oh.

However, Morgan shows some skills by saying the decision she had to make was between an idol clue and the food and shelter materials they were given. Not bad, but she’d better hope the other weaklings keep their mouths shut.

LJ doesn’t buy it, he thinks Morgan is too calm for someone who was just voted out. Ooo…he’s smart too.

Eventually the Beauties manage to create fire. Color me impressed.

Over at Camp Brawn, Trish lets her crew know that she chose the rice over the idol clue. Tony’s happy they have the second bag, but he wouldn’t have given up the clue.

Later on, Sarah asks Tony if he’s a police officer. He denies it. Bad move. That’s such a specific question to ask. I think at that point you’d have to own it.

At Casa de Brainy, J’Tia says she has a plan for a shelter because she’s a nuclear engineer. Wah-huh?

Sure enough, J’Tia is made the foreman (foreperson?) for the shelter project. And true to “Survivor” form, people aren’t loving how bossy she’s being.

Tasha tries out the shelter, and it immediately collapses. Glad to see our nuclear technology is in such capable hands.

Immunity Challenge Time: Teams will maneuver a cart through an obstacle course. While on the course they’ll unlock and retrieve three chests. They’ll then take the cart apart and fit it through an obstacle wall. Inside the chests are puzzle pieces. First two tribes to complete the puzzle will win immunity. The first tribe to finish will receive a fire-making kit. The second tribe will receive flint.

The challenge starts off and the Brawns jump out to an early lead, they’re the first ones to and through the obstacle wall. The Beauties are doing a solid job too. The Brains? Not so much.

How bad was it? Probst called it “one of the worst performances out of the gate in the history of ‘”Survivor.’” Does he remember Gabon?

LJ and Alexis manage to pull head and win for the Beauties. Sarah and Lindsey aren’t too far behind and give the Brawns second place. Kassandra and J’Tia never came close.

Back at Brainsylvania, David and Kass seem to be bonding. David wants to get rid of Garrett because he’s a threat and because he hasn’t said why he’s on the Brains tribe. Kass wants it to be J’Tia for tribe unity. She also said, “J’Tia, See ya.” Which is hilarious and awesome.

J’Tia asks who Kass thinks should go, and Kass admits that she’s gunning for J’Tia. Snap! Kass then tells J’Tia that she’s going to need to scramble.

Garrett, J’Tia, and Latasha have a pow-wow and Garrett wants them all to vote for David. Man, it’s tough when you’ve got these teeny tribes.

Spencer is worried about voting for David because he thinks he might have the idol. Garrett does not admit to already having it.

That night at Tribal Council, fire represents their life. And when their fire is gone, so are they. Unless there’s a Redemption Island or they’re brought back for another season.

As they’re sitting down, Garrett sees a spider and freaks right out. Ha! He’s been sleeping in a jungle for days.

J’Tia thinks Probst will want to talk to her because people want to vote for her. Hmm….she’s seen this show.

David thinks it was smart to listen to J’Tia about the shelter because she has the word “nuclear” in her title. They keep saying this. I’m worried that I don’t know what “nuclear” means.

Garrett didn’t like being cast as the outsider, but he trusts his team.

David then says that Garrett isn’t going home tonight.

Quick Note: It is pouring and Jeff’s hair looks ridiculous. What a trooper.

Voting Time: David votes for J’Tia, J’Tia votes for David, and the rest of the votes aren’t shown.

J-Pro tallies and returns. We’ve got one vote for J’Tia, one vote for David, one vote for J’Tia, two votes for David, and the first person to be voted out of “Survivor: Cagayan” is…David.

Wow, didn’t see that coming. Poor David was cast aside when he felt safe. Now he knows how Jose Reyes feels.

The next morning, Garrett lets us know that manual labor and starving aren’t fun. Thanks, Garrett.

Later on, Garrett and Spencer decide to bring Kass on board. Wow, whittling down the numbers so quickly.

At Brawn Central, Cliff and Woo take the boat out for a spin. That lasts for about two minutes before they tip over. Although, in their defense, that thing probably wasn’t designed for an eight-foot-tall dude.

Tony lets us know that he isn’t thrilled with how starstruck everyone is with Cliff. Well, it’s not like he can blend.

Anywho, apparently Tony is building a “spy shack” into the shelter so he can listen in to all the conversations. Um…kay. I wish it was two tin cans on a string.

In other Brawn news, Trish and Lindsey are getting on each others nerves.

At the Beauty Shop, Brice is sick of Alexis flirting and Jefra talking about her bathroom habits.

Also, Morgan thinks that Jeremiah has the hots for her. She didn’t preface this statement with, “I don’t want to sound conceited.”

Immunity Challenge Time: Teams will swim out to a bamboo cage. They’ll retrieve four fish traps and bring them back to shore. Then one tribe member will use the pieces inside the traps to complete a puzzle. First two tribes to finish the puzzle win immunity. The winning tribe will receive a fishing kit. The second-place tribe will receive a smaller fishing kit.

Cliff will sit for Team Brawn, Brice is out for the Beautiful People.

The challenge starts off and the Brains fall behind again. Apparently having “nuclear” in your title doesn’t make you a strong swimmer.

The Brains manage to make a comeback and are the first ones to get their traps back to the beach. J’Tia takes puzzle duty.

The Brawn are the second team back. Sarah (who has a nasty cut on her finger) gets to work on their puzzle.

Beauty is way…way behind. They’ve got to dig deep.

Sarah plows through the puzzle to give Brawn the win.

The Beauties eventually make it to the shore. LJ attacks the puzzle and manages to beat a clearly lost J’Tia.

“They’re still working on their puzzle? I think I’m on the wrong tribe.” – Sarah

Wow…just wow.

After the challenge, Tony smartly digs through the reward basket to find the immunity clue. He reads the clue, figures out the location…and finds himself an idol. Well done.

Things aren’t quite as cheery at Brainy Beach. During a group gathering, Kass again tells J’Tia that she should be the one to go. Spencer and Garrett both agree. Latasha would rather not talk about this out in the open. Garrett doesn’t want them to split up and have side conversations. Tasha does not take this well, telling him to quit if he doesn’t want to play the game.

Eventually Kass and Tasha do get an opportunity to talk outside of the community forum. Tasha pushes for them to vote for the guys.

WHOA! Then J’Tia goes all Brandon Hantz on their rice supply! She dumps it right in the fire. Hope there are a lot of pineapples on their beach.

Kass says she was going to talk to J’Tia about teaming up, but that’s out the window now…and into a fire.

That night at Tribal Council, J’Tia says she threw the rice on the fire to hurt Garrett. Well, mission accomplished.

Latasha then says that the reason she wanted to talk in private is because J’Tia is volatile. That’s probably our winner for understatement of the night.

Kass then kind of blames Garrett for leaving J’Tia alone with the rice.

Garrett then slips up and outs his alliance. Oh boy… this is the Brains tribe?

Voting Time: Garrett votes for J’Tia, J’Tia votes for Garrett, Spencer votes for J’Tia, and the rest of the votes are secret.

Probsty tallies and returns. We’ve got one vote for J’Tia, one vote for Garrett, one vote for J’Tia, one vote for Garrett, and the second person to be voted out of “Survivor: Cagayan” is…Garrett.

WHAT?! HE HAD AN IDOL!

Verdict: Two genuine blindsides, dumped rice, two idols found, one person voted out with an idol. This was definitely one for the books.

Who’s Going to Win? It’s early, but Sarah’s looking like a champ.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

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Official ‘Survivor: Cagayan’ Pre-Season Rankings

February 24, 2014

'Survivor: Cagayan' (CBS)

NOTE: “Survivor: Cagayan” starts this Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET and XFINITY TV is the place to be for all of the back-stabbin’, torch-snuffin’ fun. On Mondays we’ll have Power Rankings with a “Blood vs. Water” competitor, 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=”7054975368782091112″ program_type=”series”]

It seems like only yesterday that “Survivor” fashion plate Tyson Apostol was awarded the game’s biggest prize. But, here we are months later getting ready to rank a new batch of contestants who are hoping to fill the “Blood vs. Water” champion’s cupcake buckled belt.

And I know what you’re thinking, “Gordon, doesn’t the person you pick to win always lose?”

Yes.

“Didn’t Malcolm Freberg ask you not to pick him before ‘Survivor: Caramoan’ because you jinxed him in ‘Survivor: Philippines’?”

He may have said something like that. My memory isn’t so good.

“Didn’t you pick Michelle Chase to win ‘Survivor: Gabon’ and then she was the first person eliminated?”

Yes. Yes I did. Maybe I should do these rankings after the season airs…

Anywho, as always the views expressed by the “Survivor: Cagayan” pre-season rankings do not necessarily reflect those of XFINITY TV. Betting on the “Survivor: Cagayan” pre-season rankings is strictly prohibited. And, please keep your hands, feet, and personal items inside the “Survivor: Cagayan” pre-season rankings at all times.

 1. Latasha – Sophie Clarke, Kim Spradlin, and Denise Stapley have proved that strong, smart women can win “Survivor.” And, Latasha is a strong, smart woman. I also have a hunch that this season’s tribes aren’t going to get along very well. So, people who are able to blend into the background are going to have a real advantage.  2. Trish – I think it’s very possible that the Brawn team could get to the merge without losing a single player. We saw Tandang do it in the Philippines. The problem with that is; every tribe wants to get rid of someone. If they don’t get that opportunity, they can break apart. I have Trish this high in the rankings because I don’t think she’s that person. She’ll get to the merge easily and won’t be viewed as an immunity threat. She’ll have tons of room to maneuver.
 3. LJ – Anyone else getting a “Young Mike Rowe” vibe off of LJ? He seems like a good mix of strong, but not too strong, likable, but with an edge, young enough to hang with the kids, but old enough to relate to the elder tribe members. He’ll go far.
 4. David – David’s got the brains and the physicality to make a serious run at the Sole Survivor title. But, if his day job gets out, he could find himself taking the long, lonely walk from Tribal. First of all, it’s pretty safe to assume that the president of a MLB franchise is rolling in dough. And second, most baseball fans don’t think very highly of the Marlins’ business practices.
 5. Jeremiah – If the tribes embrace the Beauty/Brains/Brawn gimmick, the Beauties could find themselves with a bit of an advantage. After all, people have been voted out for being too strategic or for being too much of an immunity threat, but has anyone been voted out for being too attractive? Jeremiah makes me nervous with his talk of wanting a relationship, but hopefully he’ll forget all of that when everyone hasn’t brushed their teeth for a week.
   6. Sarah – Sarah is as sharp as a tack. She’s already figured out that Tony is a cop, which is bad news if he decides to lie about his job. She’s also very tough and seems to have a level head.
 7. J’Tia – I could truly go either way on J’Tia. She could be the silent assassin of the Brains tribe, or she could drive everyone nuts and be the first person out.
   8. Jefra – I like that Jefra has some outdoor skills and isn’t interested in flirting her way through the game. But, after that she’s a huge question mark. Does she have the stomach to stab people in the back? Can she build a resume of strong moves? How well can she relate to older members of the tribe?

 9. Kassandra – I love that Kassandra intends to downplay her abilities. That’s very valuable in a game with so many alpha personalities. My concern for her is that since she’s on the Brains tribe, people might have a hard time believing her story that she’s an animal handler on the family ranch. She might just want to fess up to having a brainy job. Something like a “Survivor” correspondent. (Ahem.)
   10. Brice – Brice’s time in this game is going to depend greatly on how well the Beauty team does in challenges. If they can hold their own, he could get to the merge and make some serious noise. He’s likable and doesn’t seem threatening. However, if the Beauties get Matsinged, he could be an early boot.

 11. Garrett – Garrett’s a smart, good-looking fellow. But, what if the Brains tribe thinks he’s a spy? They’re probably going to think someone with abs like that isn’t spending a lot of time in the library. (Note: Garrett may very well be doing that, but who’s going to believe him?) Also, Garrett seems a little intense for a slow-moving game like “Survivor.”  12. Alexis – I think it’s really interesting that Alexis wants to start an all-woman alliance. I wonder if she’ll change her tune once she realizes that she’s on a tribe of six. If she’s smart enough to see that that kind of division might not work well in a three-tribe system, she could go far. If she’s someone who can’t adapt, she won’t last long.
 13. Woo – Finally, a guy named after a pro wrestling catchphrase. But seriously, why is someone who’s so athletic, good looking, and seemingly nice so low on this list? Because most people are going to immediately view this kid as a threat. He’s giving off Ozzy vibes left and right.
  14. Cliff – NBA players don’t wear hats or helmets, so it’s much more likely that Cliff is going to get recognized than someone like Jeff Kent. In fact, David has already pegged him as a former NBA star.  Well, he’s a professional athlete, maybe he can go on a challenge streak? Doubtful. “Survivor” always has a balance challenge or a crawl around a low-to-the-ground post challenge. So, if the tribe wants to get rid of him, they’ll have several chances.
 15. Lindsey – Lindsey certainly seems like the odd person out of the jock tribe. She wants to manipulate people, but can you see her partnering with Tony, Cliff, or Sarah? Her best bet is if the Brawnies can make it to the merge without taking a loss.   16. Morgan – Oh, Morgan. The red-blooded American male in me wants you to go the distance. To keep gracing us with your presence on your way to a final-three appearance. But, the “Survivor” historian in me thinks you probably don’t have the life experience to pull this thing off.
 17. Spencer – Boy genius, chess grand champion, “Survivor” mega fan, self-proclaimed “John Cochran who doesn’t suck.” Now, I appreciate that Spencer may have written that comment before everyone saw Cochran win “Survivor: Caramoan,” but Cochran has a vital skill that I’m not sure Spencer has; humility. To sit and talk with Cochran, you wouldn’t know he was a Harvard graduate unless you brought it up. If Spencer is going to do anything in this game, he’s going to have to tone down the super villain vibe.   18. Tony – Holy cow, I didn’t realize the Incredible Hulk was based on a real dude. He is massive. Someone call Vince McMahon. My big concern for Tony is; how is he going to deal with the lack of food? Also, how is he going to deal with it psychologically when he sees his hard-earned muscle mass start to dwindle away? I think the actual act of surviving is going to be toughest on the Jersey cop.

Don’t miss “Survivor: Cagayan” this Wednesday, February 26, 2014 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

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‘Survivor: Cagayan – Brawn vs. Brains vs. Beauty’ Cast Revealed

January 22, 2014

'Survivor: Cagayan' (CBS)

“Survivor” has shown us what happens when heroes square off against villains, when returnees face off with newcomers, and when family members duel with each other. Now for their 28th season (28 seasons?!) they’re taking a page from the “Revenge of the Nerds” playbook with a twist that places smart people on one tribe, strong people on a second tribe, and attractive people on a third tribe.

“Survivor: Cagayan” Premieres Wednesday, February 26, 2014 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

The cast for this “Brawn vs. Brains vs. Beauty” concept was released by CBS this afternoon and includes the president of MLB’s Miami Marlins, a former NBA player, a pair of police officers, and two former NFL cheerleaders…

 Name: Cliff Robinson
Age: 46
Current Residence: Newark, NJ
Occupation: Former NBA All-Star
Personal Claim to Fame: Playing 18 years in the NBA. (Played for the Portland Trail Blazers, Phoenix Suns, Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, and the New Jersey Nets)
Hobbies: Golf, off roading/camping, and bowling
Pet Peeves: People who chew their food with their mouth open.
Words That Describe You: Adventurous, funny, and loyal
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: “Boston” Rob, because he had a good way of getting people to trust him.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I think I would do well in challenges. I also have a good ability to make people feel comfortable with me.
Name: Lindsey Ogle
Age: 29
Current Residence: Kokomo, IN
Occupation: Hairstylist
Personal Claim to Fame: Rising above all obstacles with a smile, by myself
Hobbies: Camping, recycled art projects, and planning parties
Pet Peeves: Incapable people, party poopers, and when people don’t tell you that you have something in your teeth
Words That Describe You: Random (hilarious), powerful, and tenacious
Reason for Being on “Survivor”: To win money, my daughter and I have been poor for too long.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I have overcome major resistance and challenges by myself. I am a fighter and there’s no limit to what I can do for my baby.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I own a salon so I’m around beauty all day. I’m a smart ass so that’s where I’m considered a brain. And, I’m feisty and strong so ultimately I’m a brawn.
Name: Sarah Lacina
Age: 29
Current Residence: Cedar Rapids, IA
Occupation: Police Officer
Personal Claim to Fame: I’m most proud of graduating college in four years
Hobbies: Boating, working out, golfing, and mixed martial arts
Pet Peeves: I hate when I can hear people chew their food, when people leave me voicemails (I’ll call you back if I don’t answer), and stupid people
Words That Describe You: Witty, competitive, and athletic
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I’m one of a kind. If I had to pick, I’d say Malcolm. He’s nice, but strategic and tasteful about it.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I have the brains and skills to dominate this game. I’m very strategic and determined. I interview people on a daily basis and get confessions. I will destroy this game.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I would consider myself brain and brawn. I think I will do well in puzzles and dominate physical challenges.
Name: Tony Vlachos
Age: 39
Current Residence: Jersey City, NJ
Occupation: Police Officer
Personal Claim to Fame: Becoming a New Jersey police officer
Hobbies: Jet skiing, playing pool, and surfing the web
Pet Peeves: Thugs who wear skinny jeans. Also people who see me speaking on the phone but yet they feel the need to start a conversation with me. Like it’s that urgent for them to know “how’s it going” while I’m speaking on the phone. SO RUDE!!!
Words That Describe You: Versatile, clever, and competitive
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Russell Hantz, because I can be just as devious. “Boston” Rob because I can be just as slick.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I have been a street cop for 12 years. My experience as a cop gives me a huge advantage going into this game. Being outside my element is my forte. What’s going to be normal for me will be very stressful for the average castaway.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? Sounds like a trick question. I’m a beautiful person that has a sharp brain and strong muscles. Based on appearance, I would consider myself a brawn. For the purposes of “Survivor” though, I would consider myself brains. Maybe I wasn’t the smartest in school, but I was always the sharpest!!!
Name: Trish Hegarty
Age: 48
Current Residence: Needham, MA
Occupation: Pilates Trainer
Personal Claim to Fame: My children
Hobbies: Figure skating, writing, and swimming
Pet Peeves: Liars, laziness, manipulators, and arrogance
Words That Describe You: Character, charismatic, and loyal
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I relate to Danni Boatwright, She played a true and honest game. She crushed the challenges and her social skills were top notch.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I am a great team player, a very hard worker, a very positive thinker, and an incredible people person. I get along instantly with most people. I am not a control freak and I go with the flow.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I would consider myself a brawn. I was raised in a home with four very tough brothers who were all incredible hockey players. They used to put me in goal and take slap shots off me from about two feet away when I was in kindergarten. Needless to say, they taught me well.
Name: Yung “Woo” Hwang
Age: 29
Current Residence: Newport Beach, CA
Occupation: Martial Arts Instructor
Personal Claim to Fame: Graduating college
Hobbies: Martial arts, surfing, and sports (basketball, tennis, soccer, golf)
Pet Peeves: Rude and loud people with no manners.
Words That Describe You: Loyal, positive, and ambitious
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: With my martial arts experience, my game is very strong, humble, grateful, and respectful, much like Ozzy.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: This game was made for me! I’m smart and can play a great social game. People tend to like me. I’m fast and agile. I’ll do great in obstacle course challenges. I have undeniable focus and concentration and I’ll smash the competition in balancing challenges. I can swim well and climb coconut trees. I am SURVIVOR!
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I guess I could fall under any of those categories. If I had to choose one I would have to say brawn because of my martial arts background.

 

Name: David Samson
Age: 45
Current Residence: Plantation, FL
Occupation: President, Miami Marlins
Personal Claim to Fame: Got local government in Miami to contribute over 350 million dollars to a new baseball park during the recession.
Hobbies: Running, watching movies, and traveling.
Pet Peeves: Laziness, entitlement, and those who are not charitable
Words That Describe You: Persistent, witty, and aggressive
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: “Boston” Rob, he won the game before others thought it had started.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I always win because people underestimate me.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I consider myself 60% brain, 35% beauty, and 5% brawn. While I have been able to accomplish athletic feats like being the only Team President to complete the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii, those feats are generally more a test of the mind than the body. The very hardest thing to accomplish is to convince your brain to keep going when your body is telling you to stop. I have been able to control my brain to maximize whatever talents I have both on and off the field.
Name: Garrett Adelstein
Age: 27
Current Residence: Santa Monica, CA
Occupation: Pro Poker Player
Personal Claim to Fame: Being valedictorian of my high school class of over 500 students. Graduating Summa Cum Laude with Honors at The University of Arizona.
Hobbies: Bodybuilding, alcohol, psychology, and cinema
Pet Peeves: Dishonesty and lack of ambition
Words That Describe You: Competitive, ambitious, and confident
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: Dedicated 2,000 hours in preparing for the strategic, social, and physical elements of “Survivor.” Did everything from 50 hours of yoga, to over-analyzing every episode, to mastering slide puzzles to ready myself.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I’ll go with the modest answer and say all three. I’ll probably be one of the physically strongest, most intelligent and my mom says I’m very handsome to boot.
Name: J’Tia Taylor
Age: 31
Current Residence: Chicago, IL
Occupation: Nuclear Engineer
Personal Claim to Fame: Passing my dissertation defense, because I was the expert on the subject matter and held my own against my professors. And, being the first black female to successfully defend and receive a PhD from the department.
Hobbies: Watching movies, reading, and playing strategic games
Pet Peeves: Ignorant, close-minded people, being late/off schedule, and chunks in food/drinks.
Words That Describe You: Intelligent, adaptable, and competitive
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Richard Harch, he played the game authenticallyand originally since he had no precedence, and was true to who he was.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I have an irrepressible drive and tenacity.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I’m definitely easy on the eyes, but I’m a true brain at heart. I would say I’m 1/4 beauty, 3/4 brain. My answer, in which I give myself a narcissistic compliment and then use fractions pretty much confirms this.
Name: Kassandra “Kass” McQuillen
Age: 41
Current Residence: Tehachapi, CA
Occupation: Attorney
Personal Claim to Fame: My daughter, putting myself through law school while working full-time and winning $1.2 million in my first trial with no court experience.
Hobbies: Reading, rabble rousing, and golfing/walking/hiking
Pet Peeves: Stupid people, toilet paper rolls left empty on the roller, laundry outside the basket, and whining/excuses.
Words That Describe You: Resourceful, tenacious, and underestimated
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Sandra, she didn’t seem to be in it for anything but winning money for her family.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I like to win and always do! Plus, I’m lucky and finagle my way out of situations.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? We all know I’m not here because of how I look in a bikini. I have a tendency to think I’m smarter than a lot of people, but don’t we all? I guess not or you wouldn’t be asking the question. There you have it – those are the analytical skills that prove I must be a brain!
Name: Latasha “Tasha” Fox
Age: 37
Current Residence: St. Louis, MO
Occupation: Accountant
Personal Claim to Fame: Being a former St. Louis Rams cheerleader
Hobbies: Golfing, dancing, and trap/skeet shooting
Pet Peeves: People biting down on forks as it leaves their mouths, bad breath, and panty lines
Words That Describe You: Competitive, spiritual, and “Jack of all trades”
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Ozzy, due to his physical play and Sandra who did what she had to do to win and not be apologetic.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I am equally balanced in both physical and social ability.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I consider myself a brainy beauty with a brawny physique because of my intelligence, inner and outer beauty, biceps and physical strength.
  Name: Spencer Bledsoe
Age: 21
Current Residence: Chicago, IL
Occupation: Economics Student at the University of Chicago
Personal Claim to Fame: Captain of my high school cross country and track teams, Georgia’s 2009-2010 High School Chess Champion, tying for 1st at the World Open Chess tournament for a prize of $6,609 and becoming a U.S. Chess Expert
Hobbies: Chess, ultimate frisbee, and partying
Pet Peeves: People who are stupid but still voice their opinions, incompetent leaders, those who don’t respect intelligence, and those who expect handouts in life
Words That Describe You: Brilliant, competitive, and arrogant
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: The cleverness and strategic planning of Stephen, but the personality of Marty. Like Marty, I am a natural leader and can come off as pompous and bombastic. Also, I shared Marty’s disdain for Jane on “Survivor: Nicaragua.”
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I’m the chess expert who can plan my victory 10 moves in advance. I can use economic game theory to know the incentives of those around me. I’m the only guy who has these skills and is still personable enough to win. Think of me as a John Cochran who doesn’t suck.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? A brain, in both life and “Survivor” super fandom. I’ve seen every episode. I know the game inside and out. I’ll know what I’m doing in camp life; I could probably even build a shelter just using rocks.

Name: Alexis Maxwell
Age: 21
Current Residence: Addison, IL
Occupation: Student at Northwestern University
Personal Claim to Fame: Studying abroad in Ireland and visiting eight different countries while I was there. It made me more independent, adventurous, and responsible.
Hobbies: Traveling, watching scary movies, and eating.
Pet Peeves: Guys who turn into “stage-five clingers” and people who blow their nose in public.
Words That Describe You: Funny, flirty, and smart.
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Hopefully Parvati because she combined sex appeal with strategy and intelligence.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I have always been aware of my role in a group and know how to lead in a sneaky way. I will use my education and flirty personality to assure I’m always in a good position.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I would consider myself a brain! I work my butt off at Northwestern and consider this an accomplishment that defines me.
Name: Brice Johnston
Age: 27
Current Residence: Philadelphia, PA
Occupation: Social Worker
Personal Claim to Fame: Being the only person in my immediate family to graduate college.
Hobbies: Watching reality TV, listening to music, going out to social events and hanging out with loved ones and friends.
Pet Peeves: Bad breath and an insecure person.
Words That Describe You: Competitive, funny, and goal oriented
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Cirie, Colton, or Ozzy
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: Everyone who meets me loves me! I’m a very loyal person and I keep my word. However, I can turn into a person-eating b*tch that will play you before you play me.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I would consider myself the package deal. I’m very easy on the eyes. I’m college educated, have common sense, am very socially aware and have street smarts. Plus, I consider myself to be physically fit; I’m a natural born runner. So, I’m a three-for-one kind of deal.
Name: Jefra Bland
Age: 22
Current Residence: Campbellsville, KY
Occupation: Miss Kentucky Teen USA
Personal Claim to Fame:  Winning the title of Miss Kentucky Teen USA 2009 and making Top 15 at Miss Teen USA.
Hobbies: Traveling, hunting, and pageants
Pet Peeves: People who have bad teeth and smack their gums.
Words That Describe You: Outspoken, charismatic, and fierce.
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: Chelsea Meissner as far as being a country girl and Kim Spradlin when it comes to being ballsy with big moves.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I have already survived cervical cancer, losing everything financially, the disease of addiction is more. It takes a fighter to survive this world and that’s what I am.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I consider myself a beauty. In my opinion, beauty if far more than just skin deep and true beauty comes from the heart.
Name: Jeremiah Wood
Age: 34
Current Residence: Dobson, NC
Occupation: Male Model
Personal Claim to Fame: Buying my first house on my own.
Hobbies: Fishing, hunting, and slow-pitch softball
Pet Peeves: People who are noisy eaters and people who have smart mouths.
Words That Describe You: Very happy, funny, and outgoing
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: JT, because he is a nice ol’ country boy who everybody loved. And Malcolm, because he is strong at challenges and very likable.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I will be very strong at challenges, able to win individual immunity, easily make alliances, and never give up.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I figured brawn. I’m not the smartest or prettiest guy.
Name: LJ McKanas
Age: 34
Current Residence: Boston, MA
Occupation: Horse Trainer
Personal Claim to Fame: Making the Hall of Fame at Northeastern University and my high school.
Hobbies: Horse racing, fishing, and designing
Pet Peeves: Incompetent people, liars, and thieves
Words That Describe You: Competitive, creative, and witty
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: “Boston” Rob, because he has just the right amount of charm, charisma, and looks to persuade anyone to do what he wants.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: My athleticism will carry me through the early stages, my charm through the middle, and smarts to play through to the end.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I’d consider myself a brawn. I’m a down-to-earth, rugged guy who’s not afraid to get his hands dirty.
Name: Morgan McLeod
Age: 21
Current Residence: San Jose, CA
Occupation: Ex-NFL Cheerleader
Personal Claim to Fame: I am most proud of being selected to the cheerleading squad for the San Francisco 49ers while still in high school.
Hobbies: Interior design, working out, and dancing
Pet Peeves: Slow drivers, guys who leave the toilet seat up, when people fish for compliments, terrible pick-up lines
Words That Describe You: Mature, determined, and attractive
“Survivor” Contestant You Are Most Like: I think I can relate most to Parvati Shallow because she is beautiful and manipulative just like me. She has the ability to make everyone love her but also fear her. That power and confidence is a good quality to have for this show. I can also relate to Natalie Tenerelli because she was a young contestant and also a dancer.
Why You Think You’ll Be the Sole Survivor: I could be the final Survivor because when I want something I get it. I do whatever it takes to get it. I am ambitious and very adaptive. I am never afraid to manipulate and back stab people when it puts me ahead.
Do You Consider Yourself a Beauty, a Brain, or a Brawn? I consider myself all three but if I have to pick, I would say beauty. Who wouldn’t want to be beautiful? When you are beautiful you get what you want and I like getting what I want.

“Survivor: Cagayan” Premieres Wednesday, February 26, 2014 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor’ Castaways Laura & Hayden: ‘It’s Not Redemption Island, It’s Laura’s Island’

December 20, 2013

Hayden Moss and Laura Morett (CBS)

Quick Note: Thank you for joining us for our “Survivor: Blood vs. Water” coverage. Follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute news on February’s “Survivor: Cagayan.”

You know why I love “Survivor”? Because if you showed someone a picture of Hayden Moss and Laura Morett and said, “One of these two is great at challenges, and the other has a really amazing social game,” most people would guess wrong as to which was which.

I spoke with the two Redemption Islanders who found no Redemption the morning after the “Blood vs. Water” finale and had a chance to ask them about Ciera’s shocking vote, Hayden’s amazing scrambles, and why “Survivor” is head and shoulders above “Big Brother”…

Gordon Holmes: Laura, is Ciera out of the will?
Laura Morett: (Laughs) No, are you kidding me? That child has done worse things to me in her life than vote me off.
Holmes: Yeah, but that’s the worst thing she’s done in front of a national audience.
Morett: That’s true. But, there’s nothing that girl could do to get voted out of my will.

Watch Every Episode of “Survivor: Blood vs. Water” Online

Holmes: Hayden, you had a hell of a run at the end there. I was crazy impressed with the way you got Ciera to flip and almost got Monica to flip. I spoke with Monica, she said she was pretty solid with the Bandits, but do you think she was leaning even a little?
Hayden Moss: That last Tribal, I thought we were really close. I thought we had a real shot at it. But, for whatever reason she decided to stick to her alliance. I would say I thought there was like a 33% chance.
Holmes: And was the scariest moment of your life the second where you realized you’d have to face Laura at Redemption Island?
Morett: (Laughs)
Moss: (Laughs) It’s not Redemption Island, it’s Laura’s Island. When I saw the challenge I knew I had a chance, but Laura and Tina crushed it.
Morett: It was that darn drop of sweat that came down Hayden’s face. It got in his eyes and if you get distracted for one second, that’s it. And I think it was like 120 degrees that day. He was not moving. I could see him and Tina out of my peripheral vision and they were solid. I was so shocked when his vase fell.
Moss: It was one of those things that’s super unfortunate. Literally one drop of sweat got in my eye, I went to wipe it and I lost my balance.

Holmes: Now that you’ve played “Survivor” and “Big Brother,” are you prepared to say that “Survivor” is way better?
Moss: (Laughs) I am…no…not prepared to say that. I love “Survivor” and I love “Big Brother.” Clearly “Big Brother” is my roots, and “Survivor” was amazing. The experience was unreal. But I love both shows.
Holmes: Laura, you’re prepared to say “Survivor” is way better, right?
Morett: Absolutely. “Survivor” is way better. On “Big Brother” you’re in a bed, you have a refrigerator full of food. But, you do have to stay there 90 days.
Moss: It’s apples and oranges, two totally different games. “Survivor” physically is way harder, I don’t know if that makes it better.
Holmes: It’s like comparing amazing, outdoor apples to not-as-good, indoor oranges.

Holmes: When Ciera voted the woman who brought her into this world out of the game, you said, “Don’t worry, I’ll be back.” Did you not get that that was the opposite of what Ciera wanted?
Morett: (Laughs) It’s really funny watching it back now, she must’ve been like, “Stop saying that!” I’m thinking my daughter needs me and she’s like, “Woman, you are ruining my game for me!” That conversation on the beach was by far the hardest day. It was a strict heart-to-heart and her saying, “This is where your game sucks” and me saying “This is where your game sucks.” It was hard as a competitor to hear my name brought up. And then to hear it from my daughter? I didn’t feel betrayed so much as it was panic of how do I get back into the game. But, I was so proud of her.
Holmes: Hayden, on the other side of that vote, when you see Ciera make that move are you thinking, “Sweet, she’s on our side” or “Oh crap, this girl came to play”?
Moss: It’s like, she’s a gamer. If she’s willing to vote out her own mother, she won’t bat an eyelash to vote me out. That’s everybody’s mindset. She was in my alliance and she said she was going to prove to us that she was loyal by voting her mom out.

Holmes: I’m not a Redemption Island fan, I don’t like idea of someone winning the entire game after they’ve been voted out. If Tina had run the table with those last two challenges and gotten to the final three, would you have voted for her?
Moss: I would’ve voted for Tyson still.
Morett: Up against Tyson and Gervase, as much as I love Tina, I still probably have given it to Tyson. But, it would have depended on what Tina presented. But, based on what we know, Tyson.
Moss: Yeah, it’s hard to give a million dollars to someone who has been voted out. And Tyson played really good.

Holmes: Monica had a rough, rough final Tribal. What was it about her that made the jurors feel like they didn’t know her?
Moss: Monica is a very selfless person. And every question she got she gave a perfect answer. We’re thinking nobody is this nice of a person. So, we all thought she was a little fake. But knowing her outside of the game, she’s legitimately an amazing person.
Morett: I agree. I think for me the frustrating this is I wanted to have a close relationship out there and bond with her, but she wasn’t very open out there. She kept me at a distance. It’s hard to get personal with someone when they don’t open up.

Holmes: Hayden, you came on like gangbusters at the end, you’re a strong player, you’re a really nice guy. Is it hard to stay in a relationship with someone who didn’t make it to the merge?
Moss: (Laughs) Believe it or not, Kat’s next to me right now. And no, our relationship is great. We’re long distance, so it’s a little tougher. But no, just because she didn’t make the merge doesn’t mean it’s hard to be with her.
Holmes: You know I love Kat. But, man…
Moss: (Laughs)
Holmes: Back me up on this, Laura. If your significant other had been out there and he didn’t make the merge, he’d be a goner, right?
Morett: Oh, absolutely. Twenty five years is nothing. You don’t make the merge? Papers are filed.
Moss: Give him the axe!

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

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‘Survivor’ Castaways Tina & Ciera: Why’d They Vote for Tyson over Gervase?

December 19, 2013

Tina Wesson and Ciera Eastin (CBS)

Quick Note: Be sure to come back throughout the week for interviews with the rest of the final seven. Follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute news.

Two of the big questions Jeff Probst was hoping to answer this season were; would someone sacrifice themselves for a loved one? And on the other hand, would someone vote out their loved one?

Ironically, the answers to both ended up being eliminated from the game in back-to-back Tribal Councils.

I spoke with Tina Wesson and Ciera Eastin the morning after the “Survivor” finale and got some insight into Probst’s two questions, whether Tyson and Gervase were really even steven, and more…

Gordon Holmes: So, good news, Ciera. I spoke with your mother and you’re not disowned.
Ciera Eastin: (Laughs) Good news!
Holmes: Going into this I thought there was no way it would make sense for anyone to get rid of their loved one. And then it made total sense for you to vote out your mother. Walk me through the thought process.
Eastin: I totally agree with you. Coming in I said I’d vote my mom out, but I didn’t see a scenario where it would make sense. You have a built-in person you can trust and someone you can talk to. But then to be out there and to have a scenario where it made sense to me, it was so unreal. But, only one person can win this game. And I’d put so much energy into the relationships that I’d built with these people. And she was away at Redemption Island. She wasn’t able to do that. I had a fear that I’d keep her around and then when they’d want to split us up, she’d go on a challenge winning streak.
Holmes: Tina, what do you think about this? Was Ciera a cold-hearted snake?
Tina Wesson: Not at all. Ciera has definitely established herself as a player in this game. And to be so young and to have that savvy…everything she said about why she did it was spot on. She was out there to run the game. She wasn’t out there to ride her mom’s coattails.

Watch Every Episode of “Survivor: Blood vs. Water” Online

Holmes: Tina, you squared off against your lovely daughter a few times, and it seemed like you got the best of her each time. Is this something that will be brought up at family dinners forever?
Wesson: (Laughs) Oh never, Katie is not a competitive person at all. And she’s not the most athletic person. She did this for me. It was nothing she ever aspired to do. So, this is nothing I could rub in her face.
Holmes: Now, you asked Katie if it was OK if you won the challenge. And Katie did what most people would be expected to do and said, “Yes.” But, what if Katie had said, “No”?
Wesson: That would’ve been a toughie. But, her key was really deep in the sand. We would have been out there all afternoon. (Laughs) That’s why she said, “Mom, go ahead.” It wouldn’t have been close.
Holmes: Well, if that helps you sleep at night.
Wesson: (Laughs) Yes, thank goodness. Katie and I talked about it before we went out. And we agreed that our love transcends this thing. Nothing’s going to make us love each other more, nothing’s going to make us love each other less.
Holmes: You wouldn’t love Katie more if she had a million dollars?
Wesson: No I would not.
Holmes: Then you’re a better person than I am.
Wesson: Do you have a kids?
Holmes: I do not. I haven’t given my mother any grandbabies.
Wesson: (Laughs) Then just you wait, mister.

Holmes: Ciera, I think you impressed a lot of people, me included. You gave up a secure fourth spot and ended up going out fifth, but you gave it up for a better chance to win. My question is, why did you wait till final six? Did you just not appreciate your standing at that time?
Eastin: The only way I can answer is to say, you’re seeing an hour out of two or three days. When Hayden and Caleb came to me and said, “Let’s get rid of Tyson” I was all for it. But then the plan kind of shifted, and they weren’t really 100% on board. And then I’d see Hayden walk away with Tyson and paranoia hits you. I just felt like I wasn’t willing to show all of my cards unless it was something concrete. And it wasn’t, it was kind of a wishy-washy plan. And I don’t have any regrets of what I did. But you’re right, at sixth I didn’t come all this way to end up fourth. So, I’ll make a big move and maybe win some jury votes.
Holmes: The people behind the ads seemed to like the idea of you being a villain, but that characterization never clicked because everything you did made sense.
Eastin: Yeah, I totally agree. I definitely got flack for that. People were saying, “What heartless person could vote out their mom?”
Holmes: I would’ve.
Eastin: (Laughs) But strategically, I think maybe people would’ve thought differently.

Holmes: Tina, the last time you played “Survivor” was during “All-Stars.” That seems light years away from the new-fangled “Survivor” we’re seeing today. Did you have any trouble adapting?
Wesson: To be honest, I was not prepared for what they’re calling “new school.” I was still in the “old school” mode. So, adapting was very challenging for me. Also, it was physically harder for me. So, I have to say that it kicked my butt in ways I wasn’t prepared for.
Holmes: How grueling was that last challenge? It looked exhausting.
Wesson: Oh my gosh, my little legs were just aching. And up and down those stairs 1,400 times. When I walked into it I was like, “Oh dear, I’m in trouble here.”

Holmes: The big question going into final Tribal seemed to be; how mad are people going to be at Tyson? The only real knock against him was his comment to Katie. Was there ever any real ill will toward Tyson?
Eastin: I had none at all whatsoever. I think Tyson played an amazing game. I was going to vote for the person who deserved it the most, not the person who didn’t hurt my feelings. It was an easy vote for me to make.
Wesson: It was a little harder for me. I was stuck at Redemption Island for half of the game, so I didn’t see things that were going on. There were things that bothered me, because you have to vote people off, but you have to make them feel like there’s no animosity. It’s the hardest thing in the world to do. And I think Tyson did a few things out there that left a bad taste in people’s mouths. He was eating all the food. He was making a few comments here and there. And everyone that came through Redemption was a little upset. So, when I was at Ponderosa, I relied on Katie. I said, “I don’t want to vote for anybody. I don’t know what to do.” So, she walked me through why she thought Tyson should win. And it made sense. And then when I watched the game, I was so glad that I voted for Tyson. I thought he was so deserving.

Holmes: Gervase made the comment that he and Tyson were making choices together. Did it seem like they were both making the calls?
Wesson: Ciera was out there longer than I was. I would say, no. But I’ll yield to Ciera on that one.
Eastin: I’d say no. I don’t think it was 50/50. Watching Tyson and then rewatching on TV, Tyson was the one finding idols, being proactive. I didn’t have as strong a relationship with Tyson as I did with Gervase. And Gervase didn’t have a relationship with Hayden like Tyson did. So, from relationships alone Tyson really took the time.

Holmes: Ciera, you made it so far in the game and made some really big moves. Which is amazing considering how close to elimination you were in the early going. I feel like that story somehow got lost in the mix.
Eastin: Thank you. I knew in the beginning that I was going to be bad at challenges, so I tried to play under the radar until the merge. And then at the merge I knew I had to make big moves to win. I think I followed and executed my plan really well. So it sucks to make it that far and not make it to the final three. But, my family is so proud of me, and I’m proud of myself. It was fun and I’d do it again.
Holmes: I hope you do. And Tina, it was great to see you get so deep and to see you come out swinging after your short stay in “All-Stars.”
Wesson: “Survivor” has been such a long journey. I had to wait four years after Australia to do the second one. Then I had to wait eight years for them to call me back for this one.

Holmes: So, are you going to be ready to go in twelve years?
Wesson: I’m ready. They’re going to have to make those challenges wheelchair accessible, but I’ll be ready.
Holmes: Could you imagine a wheelchair on that slide?
Wesson: (Laughs) That sounds like something out of “Jackass.”

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

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‘Survivor’ Runner-Up Gervase: ‘Nobody Knew Monica Was With Us’

December 18, 2013

Gervase Peterson (CBS)

Quick Note: Be sure to come back throughout the week for interviews with the rest of the final seven. Follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute news.

A lot has changed in “Survivor” over the years. Exile Islands have given way to Redemption Islands, hidden immunity idols have given way to barely-hidden idols, and Medallions of Power have cruelly been left in the Nicaraguan wilderness.

But, it’s good to know that one thing that was true in the first season of “Survivor” is still true today; Gervase Peterson will always hate eating live grubs.

I had a chance to talk to the ‘O.G.’ Survivor the morning after the “Blood vs. Water” finale and asked him about his seemingly unstable alliance with Monica, his feud with Hayden, and what his original “Survivor” pals think of his second outing…

Gordon Holmes: You were there in person for the iconic Sue Hawk final Tribal Council dress down. Were you disappointed that you didn’t get chewed up like that this season?
Gervase Peterson: I’m disappointed that I didn’t chew into someone like that. (Laughs) I’m glad it wasn’t that ugly of a Tribal Council. I think everyone got their point across. They were well-made points. You don’t have to be mean and nasty all the time.
Holmes: Was there anyone you were worried would’ve reached those levels?
Peterson: I don’t think me, Monica, or Tyson deserved that. We played a great game. That’s just bitterness. Even Vytas, his speech was borderline, kind of going there, especially with me. But I laughed at Vytas saying I coasted through the game. I’m like, “Vytas, you were doing the same thing with Brad. You had Brad in front of you as your shield.” That’s a smart way to play the game. But for some reason with Vytas on the jury it wasn’t the best idea.

Watch Every Episode of “Survivor: Blood vs. Water” Online

Holmes: It seems like you were branded a bit of a “coattail rider” by the jury. What was happening that the jury didn’t see?
Peterson: I guess it’s hard for people to believe that every decision we made, we talked about. I’d tell him my opinion, then he’d tell me his and we’d work it out. If I said, “Nah, Tyson, I don’t think that’s a good move.” He’d be like, “OK, cool, let’s not do it.” Everything we did was mutual. Half the ideas were me, half were Tyson. It was my idea that after he played the first idol, “Let’s tell everybody we found the idol back on Galang beach so they won’t want to vote for you, they’ll vote for me.” And it worked, they threw two votes for me, we threw three votes on Hayden. It worked.

Holmes: You were involved in some heated Tribal Councils, especially with Hayden, were there any worries that you were going to rub some jurors the wrong way?
Peterson: The only person I should have pissed off is Hayden.  I’m only arguing with Hayden. But, that’s taking things personally. That was a controlled, planned-out event that I wanted to happen. I knew Tyson was well-liked. The only way for me to beat Tyson was for him to be more hated than me. If I argued with Hayden, he’s going to tell people that Tyson is the man making all the moves, pulling all the strings. That’s going to make Tyson defend himself, because he’s only going to take it for so long. And it worked because when Katie was voted out he said, “Good job, and that’s your seat over there.” And everyone was pissed off about that because they thought it was uncalled for and dirty. I was like, “Yes! It worked!”

Holmes: I talked to Monica earlier, and she said that she was with the Bandits the whole way. Did you guys intentional give her leeway to go out and plot with the other factions?
Peterson: We had an original Galang five which was me, Tyson, Monica, Aras, and Tina. When Jeff did the tribe switch, I looked at Monica and said, “Stick with the plan.” Which to her meant, keep Galang together until we can get back together at the merge. So when the merge happened, Monica wasn’t in with us anymore because we’d made a deal with Hayden and Caleb. But we saw how people were treating Monica, nobody was showing her any love, and she’d come back and tell us everything that was going on. So, we were like, this is perfect, nobody knew Monica was with us and people keep dissing her all the time. She was with us that whole time.

Holmes: I spoke to all of you guys before the game and Aras said that nobody knew that you two were really good friends. You orchestrated his elimination. Is there any bad blood there or were you two able to patch things up?
Peterson: We patched it up. Aras has never been voted out of the game before, so to get voted out hurts. To get voted out by your best bud? Hurts even more. It was like a I took a grenade, it took out Aras, but the shrapnel took out Vytas, Tina, and Katie. So, I knew I lost four jury votes right there. That night we came back to the beach after getting rid of Aras, and Tina lost it? She was cursing out Tyson and Monica, she didn’t say anything to me. But Tina didn’t know. She thought I was still with her. But the next day someone told her and she said, “You will never get my vote.” I was like, “Oh my God! I lost another vote!” But I felt like Aras only cared about Vytas, so I needed to get rid of him before he got rid of me. He’d even admitted it. So, how can you be mad at me?

Holmes: I was there for that first immunity challenge, that was kind of a disaster for you. A few of the Tadhana members referenced your trash talk when they voted out Marissa. What was the conversation like when you and her finally had a chance to talk about what happened?
Peterson: It was good. Marissa understood that it had nothing to do with me. Day one on the beach when Laura B. got voted out, Marissa had three votes. It was Laura B., Ciera, and Katie. Right there she was a target. And when Brad said if he won a tarp he’d give it to his wife, I was like, “Marissa…don’t say anything.” And she’s like, “You’d better not do that if you’re on my team!” So, she put a target on her back early. I think Brad felt like he had to get rid of her.
Holmes: Speaking of Brad, what’s it like to hear a former NFL player say, “I’m going to bodyslam the (expletive deleted) out of Gervase”?
Peterson: (Laughs) That was awesome. But the funny thing is, that challenge was best out of three. I won the first round. I knocked Brad in in like five seconds. And as I did it I said, “E-A-G-L-E-S! EAGLES!” He won the next two. But, if they’d shown me winning that round everyone would have went bananas.
Holmes: You’ve got to stay on Probst’s good side, because he can probably get you that footage.
Peterson: Yeah! That would be pretty awesome.

Holmes: Alright, let’s do some word association. We’ll start with Monica.
Peterson: Loyal.
Holmes: Ciera?
Peterson: Liar.
Holmes: Laura M.?
Peterson: Disconnected. Meaning that we never talked strategy when we were in Galang.
Holmes: Hayden?
Peterson: Mr. No-show.
Holmes: Katie?
Peterson: Who? Was she in the game? Wallflower.
Holmes: Caleb?
Peterson: Good old country boy.
Holmes: Brad?
Peterson: Mr. Football.
Holmes: Tina?
Peterson: Veteran.
Holmes: Tyson?
Peterson: My left-hand man.
Holmes: And Marissa…
Peterson: That’s my salty niece. (Laughs)

Holmes: Have you gotten any feedback from any of the members of the original “Survivor” cast?
Peterson: Yeah, they loved it. Ramona loved it, everyone loved this season. They said it was pretty cool.  Joel said to tell Jeff that he wants to play. They all want to get that phone call.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

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‘Survivor’ Runner-Up Monica: ‘I Don’t Think Anyone Dragged Me Anywhere’

December 17, 2013

Monica Culpepper (CBS)

Quick Note: Be sure to come back throughout the week for interviews with the rest of the final seven. Follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute news.

One of the things you always hear in “Survivor” exit interviews is how a lot of moments end up on the cutting-room floor because the editors are cramming three days of video into a 42-minute show.

Unfortunately, it seems like we missed some solid strategy from the final threesome.

I had a chance to talk with first runner-up Monica Culpepper the morning after the “Blood vs. Water” finale and got to learn about how she faked knowing about the idol to try to win Tina’s support, how her and the Coconut Bandits never discussed strategy during the day, and the controversial strategy she had in her back pocket that she never used…

Gordon Holmes: You had a really rough Tribal Council last night and the sentiment from the jurors was that they didn’t know the real you. Was that something you had anticipated?
Monica Culpepper: You know, Gordon. No matter what I did I was going to get it. Being called paranoid? That’s a negative word. Cautious? Yes. Paranoid? No. After I’d been blindsided before I wasn’t going to let it happen again. A doormat? That’s crazy. A lapdog? I was prepared for anything going in there. They said I talk too much, so I stopped talking. Now I go to final Tribal and they say they don’t know me. Yes, they do, it’s just that they’ve never met anyone like me. You’ve never met somebody that’s just genuinely nice. I’m not the type of person to run people over. The life I’ve had with Brad has been awesome. And I’m in a position to not jeopardize my integrity. The Tribals before were foreshadowing what I was in for.

Holmes: Ciera and Hayden were on you to flip, then Ciera and Tina. And obviously you were solid with Gervase and Tyson. But…and I know how editing can twist things…you’d say things at Tribal like Ciera and Tina “told me the truth” about Tyson and Gervase. Were you considering swapping at all?
Culpepper: No, when Hayden and Ciera were fighting over me, that would have been a dumb move. I’m guaranteed the final three. You’ve got to be in it to win it to pitch to win. If I go with them I’m fourth at best and maybe five. I’d be the most selfless player out there, as Hayden had said, I’d won the most immunities, and now I’ve made the biggest move in the game by splitting up Tyson and Gervase? I’d have been the next to go. I had to go with the guys and at that point the lightbulb went off that not everybody likes Tyson and Gervase. I thought the best move was to drag the gangsters to the end and put their feet to the fire. It didn’t work out, but in the end it really did. Second place for me, a forty-three-year-old scrappy mom, is awesome. And let’s not forget that Tyson played a really good game.

Watch Every Episode of “Survivor: Blood vs. Water” Online

Holmes: Were you upset when Tyson played the idol for Gervase?
Culpepper: I knew he had the idol, he’d told me. I knew he was going to play it for Gervase. We’d talked about it.
Holmes: So, when you approached Tina and said you were upset about it, that was just a ruse to try to win her jury vote?
Culpepper: Correct. At that point Tyson and Gervase were relaxing in the hammock, so I was trying to work those jury votes as best I could.

Holmes: Before the game, you, me, and Brad sat in a gazebo…
Culpepper: I wanted to tell you, Brad and I’s favorite interview was sitting out there in that little hut.
Holmes: That’s very kind of you. I enjoyed it too. When we were out there you two told me about a very controversial strategy where you’d tell the other members of your alliance that they should take you to the end because you don’t need the money and you’d pitch for them to win. Did that strategy ever come into play?
Culpepper: You know, it would’ve 100% come into play, except when Tyson played the idol the first time, Gervase did know about it. Tyson played it and I turned around and was blown away. I went back and said, “I’m crushed that you have that idol and you didn’t tell me.” We made a final three pact when we got to the merge. And the pact was, “We’ll never be seen by the light of day.” A threesome voting the same way is so hard to break up. Nobody knew that we were together. We’d talk at night when everyone was asleep. I’d play the poor mouse role and say, “I’m the last to know, what do you guys think.” And as long as they said what we’d talked about the previous night, we went into Tribal feeling pretty good. So, when Tyson played that idol I felt like a second-class citizen in that alliance. I went to bed thinking, you know what? I’m going to grab Katie and I’m going to grab Ciera and we’re going to dump these guys. And I woke up and got a clear head. Katie and Ciera both have their mothers on the jury. It’s almost a flaw in “Survivor” that jurors go back to Ponderosa and can talk and be persuasive. So, I didn’t want to go to the end with someone with a loved one. And I wasn’t going to pitch Tyson or Gervase to win because I didn’t think they were as true to me as I was to them. And that’s why I didn’t. And I also felt like I deserved to win. I don’t think anyone dragged me anywhere.

Holmes: This is kind of a silly question, but a friend of mine was watching “Survivor” for the first time, and she refused to believe that you weren’t wearing make-up.
Culpepper: (Laughs) That’s a nice question. I’ve been asked that a lot of times. I’m very flattered that people say that. All I can say is it must be the bug spray and SPF combination that they give us out there. I credit that or maybe I need to stay on that diet of unripe coconuts and plantains.
Holmes: No, no…you were looking dangerously skinny, and that’s with the camera adding ten pounds.
Culpepper: I lost about 23 pounds, that’s over 20% of my bodyweight, so that’s a lot for me.

Holmes: Alright, word association time. We’ll start with Tyson.
Culpepper: Misunderstood.
Holmes: Ciera?
Culpepper: Kind.
Holmes: Katie?
Culpepper: Misplaced.
Holmes: Laura M.?
Culpepper: Gritty.
Holmes: Candice?
Culpepper: Lacks self-control.
Holmes: Marissa?
Culpepper: Lacks self-control again.
Holmes: Gervase?
Culpepper: Just a heart of gold.
Holmes: Hayden?
Culpepper: A caged lion.
Holmes: Caleb?
Culpepper: Nervous.
Holmes: Tina?
Culpepper: Gentle.
Holmes: And Brad?
Culpepper: A meteor. He’s a super stud.

Holmes: How did the Culpepper kids react when they saw mom down a shot glass full of worms?
Culpepper: They weren’t surprised. They said, “Mom, we’ve always known that you’re tough and awesome.” But that’s a typical day at the Culpeppers. Look who I’m married to with Brad. He’s so much fun. He’ll go fishing and the guys are like, “I double dog dare you to eat that mealworm.” That challenge meant so much to me because no woman has ever won it. I just think, it’s the epitome of “Survivor.” And they eliminated the cow eyeball round.
Holmes: Bleh…thankfully.
Culpepper: It was the most disgusting. You chew into these eyeballs and they explode. It’s just this viscous…thick fluid. And then chewing it is like chewing tire rubber.
Holmes: You certainly paint a picture.
Culpepper: I felt bad for Gervase to go through all that and get the big goose egg. But it was such an empowering moment for me.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

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‘Survivor’ Winner Tyson Apostol: ‘I Might Have to Go on a Fourth Time’

December 16, 2013

"Survivor: Blood vs. Water" Winner Tyson Apostol (CBS)

Quick Note: Be sure to come back throughout the week for interviews with the rest of the final seven. Follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute news.

Here’s a fun little snippet from a moment “Survivor: Blood vs. Water” champ Tyson Apostol and I shared about four and a half years ago after he’d been voted out of “Survivor: Tocantins”…

Tyson Apostol: I figured I had the game all sown up. I was already spending money out there.
Gordon Holmes: I know, you were going to buy a fur, you were going to buy a tiara…
Tyson: And I was also going to get a Ferrari and dip it in gold.
Gordon: That would be awesome.

I had a chance to speak to the newly crowned Sole Survivor the morning after his win and asked him about his dominant victory, his early injury, and his extravagant tastes…

Gordon Holmes: And how is it going, Mr. newly-minted millionaire?
Tyson Apostol: (Laughs) It’s crazy, right?
Holmes: It is truly awesome. I actually dug back into the archives and you said that you’d “get a Ferrari and dip it in gold.” Let’s get on this.
Apostol: Man…gold’s at an all-time high now. We might have to go with a silver or…I don’t know…a nickel?
Holmes: It’s breaking my heart to hear you depriving yourself so soon after your triumph.
Apostol: That I can’t get the one dream in my life, the gold-dipped Ferrari?
Holmes: This ruins my whole afternoon.
Apostol: Gordon, I don’t want you to feel this way. Get CBS to give me more money and we’ll definitely do it. Actually, we might be able to do one of the smaller models. I just think with gold prices where they are it’s getting more scarce.
Holmes: Alright, we started off on a bad note.
Apostol: Let’s reach out to the readers to send in their gold coins and their gold teeth. Let’s get it done.
Holmes: We can do this.
Apostol: We should start a kickstarter.
Holmes: I like that it’s not even gold-plated, it’s gold-dipped.
Apostol: I’m imagining these giant tongs. You grab the car and then dip it in this vat of gold. You let it dry, then put it in my front yard.
Holmes: Then you just toss out the excess gold.
Apostol: You just pull the plug at the bottom of the gold vat.

Watch Every Episode of “Survivor: Blood vs. Water” Online

Holmes: You had to have a good feeling leaving that Tribal Council. When you see Rachel, what did you say to her?
Apostol: I told her I had a pretty good shot. And that was really it. I didn’t have a real great feeling of how I did until after the Tribal Council. Leading into it I thought the jury was so upset with me that there was no way. And then, when I heard everyone’s questions I was like, “I’m probably going to win this thing.” And it’s funny because every time I’ve played I’ve come back fatter than when I left. In Tocantins I was 165 when I started. When my family saw me I was 185.
Holmes: So they’re thinking first boot.
Apostol: Yeah. So “Heroes vs. Villains” I left at 175 and came back at 190. So, this time I came back 15 pounds lighter. Rachel had a pretty good idea, and I definitely told her there’s a good chance. My parents, I let them believe what they wanted. My brother told me that my dad said, or he alluded to because my dad doesn’t talk like this, “Well, I think he’s second or third because I don’t think they’d vote for him to win.”
Holmes: (Laughs)
Apostol: So basically my dad thinks I’m too big of an (expletive deleted) to win this show.
Holmes: I said the same thing in my pre-season rankings. You had all these things going for you, but I didn’t know how you’d do in a final Tribal Council. Apparently you do pretty well. You told the story of how you felt when Rachel was voted out. How much of that was real and how much of that was to gain sympathy from the jury.
Apostol: It was all genuine, but it was also to get on the jury’s good side. It was calculated, but it was genuine. Going into it I needed to show the jury that I was human. So many people were like, “You’re like a god, Tyson. You’re so gorgeous and perfect in every way.” I needed to bring it down a level.
Holmes: I wouldn’t give the million dollars to someone who has so much genetically.
Apostol: Exactly.
Holmes: That’s smart.
Apostol: I was thinking I need to show I’m human. I can be there. That helped a lot, but even more than that was Gervase and Monica talking.

Holmes: The moment where you asked Rachel if she’d had fun was awesome. But, it kind of killed your reputation.
Apostol: (Laughs) What reputation did I have?
Holmes: People might start to think you’re a nice guy.
Apostol: Yeah, I really hope it doesn’t go that far. (Laughs) We’ll see. I might have to go on a fourth time to bring the bad-boy reputation back.
Holmes: Nice, kick babies, punch puppies.
Apostol: I really don’t cry that much. For some reason this time with Rachel leaving and then getting closer and closer was emotional.

Holmes: We didn’t hear about your shoulder much after the original injury. How was it holding up towards the end?
Apostol: At the very end I had the full range of motion, but it was tender. I didn’t have the strength in it. Now, I have all the strength and it only aches a little bit. I went and had an MRI and it is going to be 100%. There’s no cartilage damage. It’s just going to be a little sore for a while. I’m 35, so things don’t heal like they used to.

Holmes: Gervase said a few times that he thought he could beat you. What made you think you could beat him?
Apostol: It wasn’t so much that I thought I could beat him, I just thought I had the best shot with Gervase and Monica. We’d all committed the same crimes since day one, pretty much. And, the underdogs are always the heroes. They get the cheers and the praise, so if one of them got to the end they’d have a great shot at winning. Seeing how the votes played out, maybe I could’ve gone with different people. I really thought it’d be close with Gervase until we got through the final Tribal Council.

Holmes: Monica spent a lot of time with other factions. Had you just given her leeway to appease the people on the bottom or was she actually worrying you guys?
Apostol: I felt like she was really solid. But she’d just go off. And we’d tell her time and time again, there are four people here, just stay in the shelter with us. It’s going to make us more comfortable, it’s going to make you more comfortable with us. And then she’d be like, “OK, I’m going to go talk with Ciera by the beach for three hours. We’ll have a great time, then you’ll see us hugging and crying and smiling. But don’t worry about it.”
Holmes: (Laughs)
Apostol: It was hard, but she was always with us. But she did like to spend time with everybody. But you could tell her loyalty was with me and Gervase.
Holmes: The jury knock against her was they didn’t know who she was. Do you feel like you and Gervase got to know the real Monica?
Apostol: Um, I think so. Yeah, we knew the real Monica. What we saw on TV was the real Monica. She might be more reserved than people would like her to be. That’s just Monica.

Holmes: Alright, let’s do some word association…
Apostol: Is that a new thing you do?
Holmes: Nope, this guy’s a one-trick pony.
Apostol: Just kidding.
Holmes: You cut deep. OK…Gervase?
Apostol: Mouthy.
Holmes: Hayden?
Apostol: A lot of people said “teeth” but I think mine are better. I don’t want to pay him that compliment when people didn’t pay me the compliment I deserve. But, let’s just say “teeth.”
Holmes: Monica?
Apostol: Scrappy.
Holmes: Ciera?
Apostol: Did I say “hell raiser” before? (Laughs) That’s what old people call kids on Halloween night.
Holmes: She’s a whippersnapper.
Apostol: (Laughs) Yup! That little carpetbagger.
Holmes: Laura M.?
Apostol: Massage.
Holmes: Tina?
Apostol: We have to be positive with Tina here…
Holmes: I agree.
Apostol: She deserves a positive word. Let’s try “loving.”
Holmes: You’re killing that rep.
Apostol: I don’t need a rep, dude. I’ve got a million dollars.
Holmes: Vytas?
Apostol: I told you he’d beat me in a stretching competition. Let’s just say yogi. These are too hard for me. I need full paragraphs.
Holmes: I’m not here to tell the Sole Survivor what to do. You do whatever your comfortable with.
Apostol: And then you’ll bend my words to make me look like an (expletive deleted).
Holmes: And to make me look awesome. Precisely. Let’s try Rachel.
Apostol: Aww…sweet, sweet angel.

Holmes: Before last night, people remembered Tyson for the blunder during “Heroes and Villains.” Now they’ll remember him as a champ. How are you going to respond when people bring up the “Heroes vs. Villains” incident from now on?
Apostol: (Laughs) I don’t know. I don’t really care. I’ll say “That was stupid.” I’ll just jump in my gold Ferrari, and it’s not going to go anywhere because it’s too heavy. I’ll just sit in it and be like “Suck it.”

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

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‘Survivor: Blood vs. Water’ Recap – And the Winner Is…

December 15, 2013

'Survivor: Blood vs. Water' (CBS)

Quick Note: Be sure to come back Monday and throughout the week for interviews with the winner of “Survivor: Blood vs. Water” and the rest of the final seven. Follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute news.

[xfinity-record-button id=”6541379645042428112″ program_type=”series” cid=”45576771592″]

Last Week: Katie lost to her mother, Monica almost left her alliance for another, and Ciera said “farewell” to her Big Brother.

39 Days (well…technically 39.5), 20 People, 1 “Survivor” Blog

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

The Kasama Tribe (wearing purple)

Ciera – Cosmetology Student, 24
Gervase – Cigar Lounge Owner, 43
Monica – Homemaker, 42
Tyson – Store Manager, 34

Another Quick Note: I interviewed Tyson after “Survivor: Tocantins” and he told me if he had won the money he would, “Get a Ferrari and dip it in gold.” If he wins, I’m going to hold him to that.

Tonight’s super-sized episode kicks off after Wednesday’s wild Tribal. Ciera is in good spirits because she knows whoever returns from Tribal will be in her corner.

Later, Tyson smartly brings Monica into the fold permanently by offering her the idol. She seems to turn it down. Her thinking being that she can go to the final three with either side. Yeah, that’s all well and good, but I don’t think she can beat either side.

Meanwhile at Redemption Island, the Mom Squad is not thrilled to see their buddy Hayden. However, Laura is giddy when she learns that challenge prowess seems to run in the Morett genes.

Redemption Island Time: The players will stand with one foot on a teeter totter board. On the other end is a vase. Last person standing with an intact vase will return to the game. They’ll also receive an idol clue.

Note: This is the same challenge that Power Rankings fave Andrea Boehlke used to get back into the original Redemption Island.

Not much to describe here except for a bit of teeterin’ and a fair amount of totterin’. Laura has some trouble early on, but she manages to keep it together.

Fifteen minutes later, Hayden is the first one to go.

Laura begs Tina to give up, but Tina won’t hear of it. Laura wavers, but Tina seems rock solid.

Thirty minutes in, Laura wobbles, wavers…and eventually drops. Tina will return to the game. Didn’t see that one coming.

Probst asks Hayden how “Big Brother” differs from “Survivor.” He says that it makes him appreciate his life and his pre-merge girlfriend. (OK, he didn’t say “pre-merge.”)

Laura doesn’t feel like a success at this time, but she might later. Probst gives her credit for finishing strong. She did “dig deep.”

Ciera reassures her that she was amazing. And then the waterworks start. Meanwhile in Delaware, the DVR pauses as water starts to randomly pour out of my eyes.

Tina, to nobody’s surprise, decides to hold onto the idol clue.

Back at camp, Tina and Ciera rush off to look for the idol. Next thing you know, Tina’s up the Tyson tree. If my mom scaled a tree like that I’d have a heart attack.

Later on, Tina tells Monica that all of the jurors are pissed at her. Ciera disagrees with this course of action and tells Monica that they think she’s a great competitor, she just needs to prove that she’s not a lapdog.

Immunity Challenge Time: Players will pull on a rope that levels a table. They’ll then go out to get wooden blocks and then return to place them on the table. If the rope slackens, their blocks will fall and they’ll have to return to set them back up. First person to get all the blocks on the table will win immunity.

Wow, this is tough, the blocks are falling like crazy.

Monica, Ciera, and Tina have a slight lead. Tyson is right behind them.

Tyson eventually pulls ahead and grabs the lead. Gervase and Monica are slightly behind him, but it’s too late. Tyson wins immunity.

Awesome challenge. It was original, it was tense, and anyone could have won. Good job, Mr. Kirhoffer.

As Tyson receives the immunity necklace, he kneels like he’s being knighted. Although, it was more like in “Caramoan” when Probst gave Brandon Hantz a neckrub.

Politicking around camp involves Gervase wanting to get rid of Ciera and Monica wanting to get rid of Tina. Monica wants to oust Tina because she hasn’t upset anyone on the jury. Gervase’s argument is that Ciera has made a big move.

For some reason, this argument gets really heated with Gervase kinda getting intense. Way to add some credence to Ciera’s lapdog theory there, Gerv.

Later on, Monica approaches Tina and Ciera with the idea of getting rid of Gervase. She won’t say she’s on board though, which makes me think this isn’t happening.

That night at Tribal Council…Hayden has a mustache! REPEAT! Hayden has a mustache!

Monica feels like she in the middle of the two alliances. She thinks the women were honest with her and said they could take out the villains.

Gervase doesn’t know why they think he’s a villain because they’ve both played the game and he kept his word to his alliance.

Ciera says that the guys have been calling Monica an easy vote and a lapdog.

Tyson says he’s never called Monica a lapdog, but he has said that she’s in his alliance.

Monica feels bad because everyone is digging (“dig deep!”) into her. But, tonight will be her big strategic move because it’s good for Monica. You know she means business because she referred to herself in the third person.

Voting Time: No votes are shown.

J-Pro tallies and returns. He asks if anyone would like to play and idol and…we’ve got a commercial. Curse you, Probst!

Alright, we’re back. Tyson hands the idol to Gervase and he plays it. Honestly, good for them. Monica was being too wishy-washy.

We’ve got two votes for Gervase, one vote for Ciera, and the seventh member of the jury is…Ciera.

The votes are shown, and we learn that Monica did, in fact, vote for Ciera.

Back at camp, Monica is annoyed that Tyson and Gervase didn’t trust her. Dude, you approached Tina and Ciera about getting rid of Gervase. Solid alliances don’t do that.

The next morning, Tina lets us know that winning the challenge is her only way to get to the end. Yup, unless Colby somehow wins.

Immunity Challenge Time: Players will race through a series of obstacles gathering bags of puzzle pieces. They’ll carry them to the top of a tower, then use a water slide to go get more. They’ll use the puzzle pieces to get a combination. They’ll use the combination to raise their flag. First person to raise their flag gets immunity and a guaranteed spot at the final Tribal Council.

The challenge starts off and there are so many weird obstacles that it’s hard to follow.

Gervase and Monica are in the lead, but Tyson isn’t too far behind them. It eventually even ups with Tina way out of it.

Tyson, Gervase, and Monica seem to all start their puzzles at the same time. Tina eventually joins them.

Tyson finishes his puzzle first. He has to count the puzzle pieces, the stairs, and the letters. Tyson smartly goes down the slide so he can count the stairs on the way back up. He puts in the code and wins immunity.

He’s gotta be a lock to take this whole thing right? He pulled rocks, he played idols, he won challenges. The others will pick him over hot-head Gervase and emotionally…awkward Monica.

Back at camp, Gervase isn’t happy that Monica checked him while they were doing the challenge. He’s annoyed because they had the same goal, defeating Tina.

Later on, Monica tells Tina that she’s annoyed that the Bandits didn’t tell her that they were going to play the idol. Tina wants Monica to vote for a tie so that it’ll come down to a fire tie-breaker. Yeah…but Monica can’t beat Tina…or anyone else at this point.

Tina also says that she thinks more people like Gervase than Tyson. Really? Are we watching the same show?

That night at Tribal Council…Hayden’s glorious ‘stache is gone. Sad…

Monica doesn’t feel bad for checking Gervase because he talks smack.

Gervase says he was surprised because they were kind of on the same team.

Monica says she’s here to win and she realizes that she’s still kind of a swing vote. She then tells everyone about her conversation with Tina.

Gah…don’t say things like that before the vote! What if Gervase and Tyson change their minds? You vote for Tina, Tina votes for Gervase, and the boys vote for you?

Monica is kind of bad at “Survivor.”

Voting Time: No votes are shown.

Probsty tallies, then returns. We’ve got two votes for Tina, one vote for Gervase, and the eighth and final member of the jury is…Tina.

Fun Fact: There have been three seasons where an even numbers of newbies and returnees squared off. Of those three seasons, seven of the eight finalists were returnees.

The next morning, the final three is greeted by the Day 39 feast.

Tyson says he can’t believe that he made it. Gervase says that he has come full circle as an original player who came back to play a totally different game and get to the end. Monica refers to herself in the third person, then cries.

That night at Tribal Council, Gervase says that he meshed new-school and old-school “Survivor” to get to the end. He says Aras wouldn’t have been blindsided without him.

Next, Monica says that everyone thinks that she’s a lapdog, but she made the choice to be a lapdog. Oof…that isn’t going to play well.

Quick Aside: Nobody has brought up that Monica is loaded, but that’ll probably weigh on jurors’ minds.

Finally, Tyson feels like he had a target on his chest, so he was going to have fun and have no regrets. He then breaks down when he says that seeing Rachel at Redemption Island changed his mind because she left because people thought he was a threat.

Hmm… Tyson probably won that round, but none of them knocked it out of the park.

Juror #1: Vytas gives Tyson credit for getting before he got got. Vytas then says that he promised Tyson that he wouldn’t vote for him, and he’s going to stick to that. He then says that Tyson carried Gervase. He finishes it off by saying that Monica turned on him and he doesn’t know who to vote for. Hmmm…no question from Vytas.

Juror #2: Katie asks Tyson why he told her that she was going to end up on the jury after they pulled rocks. Tyson says that’s the one thing he regrets and that his mouth worked faster than his brain. He hopes she’ll vote for who played the best game.

Juror #3: Caleb asks Gervase what his biggest move was. Gervase says it was getting rid of Aras. Everyone thinks Tyson was making the moves, but a lot of the ideas came from him. He then asks Monica to be vulnerable and tell him something from the heart. She says her whole life has been about Brad and she wants to be Sole “Survivor” for her. She then breaks down and says she’s proud of herself. Wow, that was vulnerable.

Juror #4: Ciera asks Tyson if he sees himself as a hero or a villain. Tyson says he doesn’t see himself as a villain because his moves were strategic, not personal. She then asks Gervase if he was ever going to vote out Tyson. He says he was waiting for the right moment, but that he worried he’d be the next to go. He also thinks he can beat Tyson. Well, that makes one of us.

Juror #5: Laura tells Monica that she doesn’t know who Monica really is. Monica says that she feels out of place because people think she’s a puppy dog and that she talks too much.

Juror #6: Tina wants one word from everyone that describes the core of who they are. (Hey! That’s my gimmick!) Monica says “Generous.” Gervase says, “Honorable.” Tyson says, “Fun-loving” even though he’s worried that that’s two words.

Juror #7: A mustache-less Hayden asks Tyson if he had the idol when he drew rocks. Tyson says he did and he found it in a bird nest that was right under Hayden’s nose. Hayden shows some love for Kat by responding “Touche.” Adorable.

He then tells Monica that she comes off as fake and he wonders what she thinks the jury thinks of her. She says she doesn’t know how to respond because they’re beating up on her. She pleads with them, asking if they’ve ever met a nice person before. Hmm…that could come off as arrogant.

Juror #8: Finally, Aras asks Gervase to prove that he has game awareness and tell him to vote for either Tyson or Monica. Gervase says he’d vote for Tyson because there were so many facets to his game.

He then asks Monica who made the best moves of the Bandits. Monica says Tyson because he found idols and won challenges.

Tyson then gets the same question. He goes for Monica because she kept her distance during the game. She wanted people to think she was on the bottom when she wasn’t.

Hmm…Tyson was good, Gervase was meh, and Monica’s breakdowns could go either way. I could see some people feeling sorry for her. Sorry enough to vote for her? Probably not.

Voting Time: Caleb votes for Tyson, Vytas votes for Monica, and the rest of the votes aren’t shown.

No votes for Gervase? Not shocking.

And…next thing you know we’re back in Los Angeles and someone in the audience has a glow stick. OK…

Also, Tyson is wearing a tuxedo shirt. Please give him the money so he can afford some tuxedo shorts.

Alright, we’ve got one vote for Monica, three votes for Tyson, and the winner of “Survivor: Blood vs. Water” is…Tyson!

Verdict: I remember standing on a beach with Jeff Probst at 3 a.m. in the Philippines and having him tell me the 47 ridiculous twists that were going to happen this season. I thought it was going to be a train wreck.

After seeing the first three days of shooting, I was ready to upgrade it to an entertaining train wreck.

I’m now prepared to call it the best season since “Heroes vs. Villains” and maybe in the top five seasons of all time.

Simply awesome.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter: @gordonholmes

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