More Whatnot

“Survivor: Ghost Island” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Domenick Abbate
Age: 38
Hometown: Nesconset, New York
Current residence: Nesconset, New York
Occupation: Construction Supervisor

Gordon Holmes: Are you a “Survivor” fan?
Domenick Abbate: Yes. Since its origination. I can honestly say I’ve watched the show since it came out. Some people are late to it and they’ve binge watched twenty seasons over the last two years. I’m one of the few that watched it as it went. Not to say I haven’t binge watched in the last few months to catch up.

Holmes: You’ve recently transformed your body.
Abbate: Yes.
Holmes: Does that make you more in tune with your limitations, what your body needs to sustain itself?
Abbate: Yeah, definitely. One of the diets I did was the Ketogenic diet. It’s a high-fat, low carb diet. It teaches you to live off of the fat of the land. Coconut is pure fat. The only thing that concerns me is rice. But fish and coconut…I’d live great. As far as my transformation, the fact that I’ve changed my physiology. I used to sit on the couch and do nothing. Now I work out six days a week, I eat tremendously better. My energy level is there. Whether it’s going to have an effect on me out there? I have no idea. I like to think I’ve conditioned myself.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Abbate: I ask myself that every day. I see the people I’m out here with. I get why they’re here. I don’t get why I’m here. But, there’s something right?
Holmes: Gotta be.
Abbate: I think that I’m a father, I work in the city, I do construction. Some of that old-school, old-Italian kind of persona. I come from a pretty hardcore Italian family. I have eight brothers and sisters all from the same parents. Family is everything, work ethic is everything. Maybe that has something to do with it? My transformation story, most people are in the best shape of their lives in their twenties. I’m in the best shape of my life in my life now. In my twenties I was a trainwreck. I never touched drugs, but I enjoyed my cocktails. I didn’t mind betting on a horse from time to time. But then you have children and you have to make a decision. Am I going to keep going down this path or am I going to make a move. And that’s what I did.

Holmes: When you talk about work ethic; it’s day two and you’re building this shelter. Meanwhile, I’m sunning myself on the beach. How does the rest of this story play out?
Abbate: In real life, work ethic is critical to me. If the job doesn’t get done, the business doesn’t make money. If the business doesn’t make money, he can’t pay us. Out here, work ethic is important, but I’m not going to hammer people about it. I’m not going to be a supervisor out here. That’s the last thing I’m going to do. I feel like, if someone else with a huge ego wants to take the reins on it? I’m going to sit back and be that person’s number one cheerleader. If you’re laying on the beach? That’s perfect for me. Everyone’s going to look at you and say, “That bum is not doing anything.” And that way they’re not looking at me.

Holmes: Is there anything in your backstory that you’re going to keep a secret?
Abbate: I may just lie about the supervision component. I don’t want them to think I’m a natural-born leader. If anyone volunteers to make the fire, and they can’t get it done…I’m going to let everyone else try first. Once, they’ve exhausted it, I’ll take control and light the fire. I think there’s more reward in letting someone with an ego complete the task without me. Then I come off as someone who couldn’t live without them and their skills. That way, they feel like I’m glued to them. And really, I think I’ll have that person under my control.

Holmes: Have you set any ethical boundaries as far as lying, cheating, stealing, etc.?
Abbate: I won’t go to Varner’s level.
Holmes: Smart.
Abbate: But at this point, if someone is out here because of their faith? I’m exploit it. If someone is out here because they’re honorable? I’ll exploit it. I’m going to exploit anything and everything I can.
Holmes: You’re married?
Abbate: Yes.
Holmes: Have you two discussed your limits as far as flirting?
Abbate: She did mention, “It must be nice you get to go on this island with all of these hot, young girls.” I don’t know how many times I had to reassure her, not that I need to reassure her, she’s the love of my life. The girls out here are attractive, but I’m not thinking that. I’m thinking about the game. I’m thinking about bringing my wife home money. And even if I find them attractive, I’m pretty sure in a week when I’m dehydrated and exhausted, I’m not going to find them attractive anymore. The whole sexual component would be out of the game. We have a strong relationship. I’ve been dating her for 21 years.
Holmes: That’s awesome.
Abbate: We’re high school sweethearts.

Holmes: You’re in the dark as far as twists and themes. If you had to guess, what do you think they have in store for you?
Abbate: I had one thought on theme and it’s only based on shirts that people have worn. I’ve seen Brooklyn, LA…a couple of East Coast city shirts. The only thing I can come up with is some kind of East Coast/West Coast thing. But at the end of the day, none of that matters. If it’s territorial, it won’t matter because there are idiots in California and there are idiots in New York.

Holmes: Have you been having any “Survivor” stress dreams?
Abbate: I’ve been having a lot of wacky dreams. I’ll be in an episode that has already happened. Or, I’m in my truck and I’m driving down the beach. I had another one where if my wife can’t be here for the family visit, my brother will come instead. I really want my wife to be here, and I had one where we were on the beach together. It wasn’t great, we might have even been arguing in the dream. (Laughs)
Holmes: That’s very rare in the family visit. That’s some Colby Donaldson kinda stuff.
Abbate: Yeah.
Holmes: She’s going to vote you out.
Abbate: Sounds about right.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you two “Survivor” situations. You tell me which one you would rather deal with.
Abbate: Got it.
Holmes: Align with a Trump supporter or a Hillary supporter?
Abbate: I could care less. A few months ago I would’ve said Trump, but let’s go with Hillary. I had a little faith in him, but if he ever read a book on emotional intelligence, he doesn’t fit any characteristic. He scares the (expletive deleted) out of me. Especially with this North Korea (expletive deleted).
Holmes: Good thing we’re in Fiji.
Abbate: (Laughs) That’s what I said.
Holmes: Steal a vote or eliminate a juror?
Abbate: Steal a vote.
Holmes: Endurance challenge or word puzzle?
Abbate: I’d do an endurance challenge, but overall I’d rather a slide puzzle.
Holmes: Yeah, once you know the trick, they’re not so hard.
Abbate: Yeah, I’ve got that pinned.
Holmes: Align with a racist or a sexist?
Abbate: (Laughs) A racist…there’s no turning back. As a sexist you can kind or work your way back. But once you’re a racist, you’re a racist for life.
Holmes: There’s something to be said for standing in front of a jury and saying, “Yeah, I lied to you. But this dude is a racist.”
Abbate: (Laughs) That’s what I’m saying! I think a racist is the way to go.
Holmes: Voted out first or before final Tribal?
Abbate: Final Tribal.
Holmes: Align with an adulterer or a tax cheat?
Abbate: Align…ugh…I’m looking at the long game. Maybe a tax cheat. These aren’t easy.
Holmes: They’re not designed to be. But imagine that final jury, “This guy is a racist adulterer!”
Abbate: (Laughs)
Holmes: Lose the family challenge or win and decide who to take along?
Abbate: Lose the family challenge.
Holmes: Caught stealing food or idol hunting?
Abbate: Stealing food.
Holmes: Align with a super fan or someone who doesn’t watch the show?
Abbate: Someone who doesn’t watch the show.
Holmes: Dance challenge or karaoke challenge?
Abbate: A gun.
Holmes: (Laughs)
Abbate: Karaoke.

Holmes: What kind of first impression do you think you put out there?
Abbate: We have a lot of stone faces out here. It makes it a tough read. I know the more you give, the more people can take away from it. So, I’m cautious with what I give people. And with certain people I’ve been giving a sense of invitation. A smile here, a smile there. Even though we can’t talk, if something funny happens, there will be a communal laugh. I let them know I’m good. I’m here and I’m relatable. Let’s play together, let’s work together. I think my self-awareness is high. But, you never really know.

NOTE: The cast members do not know each other’s names at this point. I showed Domenick a picture of each of the competitors and asked him to share his first impressions.

	LIBBY Abbate: Cute…bubbly…probably could work with her. She seemed a little fearful at one point. Now she seems a little more warm.
	ANGELA Abbate: Stone faced. Doesn’t give me much to play with. I don’t know if she’s going to be a demanding person. She seems like she might be. Maybe impatient?
	CHELSEA Abbate: Another one…another stone face. It was recently that I got her to crack a smile at me. Maybe fearful, but she’s starting to warm up.
	JENNA Abbate: Kinda fits that same category, the fearful category. I don’t see her smile often. She’s just business.
	GONZALEZ Abbate: This one I’m afraid of. She has an attitude. She’s like a diva. I see her taking an early exit. She’s not friendly.
	STEPHANIE Abbate: She scares the crap out of me. Way too excited to be out here. Not that she’d be untrustworthy, but too flamboyant. Too pumped. Maybe she’s a mega fan
	MORGAN Abbate: Sweet girl. Looks trustworthy…I think she’ll be someone to work with.
	LAUREL Abbate: Sweet girl also. A little fearful, afraid to give you a look. But realizing she needs to warm up to people. I could see myself working with her.
	KELLYN Abbate: Another sweetie. She’s a teacher or something. I could definitely work with her.
	DESIREE Abbate: Cold fish. Won’t look up. Won’t give you anything. Does her own business, she could be an early exit. It doesn’t look like she wants to participate with anybody.
	BRADLEY Abbate: “Clark Kent” I call him. He looks intellectual. He looks trustworthy. He may have us all fooled.
	BRENDAN Abbate: Family guy. Maybe something along the lines of me. I know he’s married. He looks like he’s probably a dad. Around my age, possibly a man of honor. Possibly ex-military. I’d like to play with him.
	CHRIS Abbate: (Laughs) This guy. He doesn’t even own a shirt. Holmes: If I looked like this guy, I wouldn’t own a shirt either. Abbate: Yeah, I hear you. Cold fish, man! I’m not sure if it’s arrogance or confidence or fear. It’s one of those three and I’m leaning toward arrogance.
	SEBASTIAN Abbate: Love this guy. Just chill, me and him…we don’t speak, but we’re constantly smiling at each other.
	WENDELL Abbate: Another guy I like. Keeps to himself, doesn’t throw much at you. He seems pretty straightforward. He doesn’t seem like he has an agenda.
	JACOB Abbate: The number one “Survivor” fan in the entire world. He can’t stop smiling. This smile goes everywhere. We pulled up to Ponderosa and it was like he just met Jesus. He scares the (expletive deleted) out of me.
	JAMES Abbate: This is the man that lives by the code. His parents are from some distant land and they taught him the most correct ways to live life. He’s a man of honor, a man of principle. I’m going to exploit him to death.
	MICHAEL Abbate: At first I thought he was a Marine or something, but he said something and I changed my mind. I think he’s missing a few screws… Holmes: Screws are loose, Domenick. They’re not missing. Abbate: (Laughs) Right, right. He’s maybe a little ditzy. But he seems like a powerhouse. Holmes: What did he say that threw you off? Abbate: We were under that tent and we had to take pee breaks, and a man in the military wouldn’t say, “Uh…hey, I’ve got to take a leak.”
	DONATHAN Abbate: I like this guy. I’ve got a good rapport with him. We were in finals together, we shared some smiles. He was wearing a Def Leppard shirt. I was like, “Yes!” He seems a little scared. But, people who are scared out of the gate can turn it around.

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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

“Survivor: Ghost Island” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Angela Perkins
Age: 42
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Current residence: Cincinnati, Ohio
Occupation: Army Veteran

Gordon Holmes: I’ve been asking people why they think they were cast, but I think I have a pretty good idea why you were cast.
Angela Perkins: And why is that?
Holmes: I think you’re a badass.
Perkins: (Laughs) That’s what my son would say.
Holmes: Is that not how you’d describe yourself?
Perkins: No, not really.
Holmes: Then why do you think you were cast?
Perkins: I have no idea. I’ve questioned that since the beginning.
Holmes: Well, it’s too late now.
Perkins: I know! (Laughs) It’s like jumping from a plane, if you’re in the door, you’ve got to go.

Holmes: Your bio says that even when your mouth is shut your friends know what you want to say because your facial expression talks. That sounds like something that could get you in trouble on “Survivor.” Is that something you can control?
Perkins: I don’t know if I can control it, but I may be able to make up for it. I can see the reaction from somebody else. I’m giving them some kind of aggressive gesture. I may not mask it, but I can act on it.

Holmes: Is there anything about your backstory that you’re going to keep from people?
Perkins: Not that I would lie about. I don’t think I will share my military experience. A lot of people would never think I was in the military for twenty years. I deployed several times. I’m going to keep it to myself unless it is brought out.
Holmes: It seems like you’ve already had some pretty extreme survival experiences.
Perkins: Yes.
Holmes: What do you make of all of this? Is this a walk in the park compared to what you’re used to?
Perkins: No, because I think it’s not physically…it’s mentally and social. That’s what you struggle with. I’m a leader. So, that definitely can get me into trouble as far as the game.
Holmes: Leaders end up with targets here. Can you pull back if you need to?
Perkins: This is going to be a challenge. I’ve never had to. I recently retired and my kids have grown up to where they can take control of themselves. I’ve always been in charge. So, it’ll be a different side of myself. I hope that I can. My family members said that’s my strongest attribute and my weakness.

Holmes: Are you a big “Survivor” fan?
Perkins: I am.
Holmes: For how long?
Perkins: Since it started, except for the parts where I was deployed.
Holmes: Are the kids fans?
Perkins: They watch it, but they aren’t big fans.

Holmes: Some people set boundaries as far as lying, cheating, stealing. Have you set any boundaries for yourself, or does anything go?
Perkins: No boundaries, game on. I’m going to allow it to develop. I don’t have any really big secrets. Ethical decisions? It’s a game. I don’t think I’m compromising my ethics or religion by playing the game.
Holmes: What about flirting?
Perkins: I’d use it. It’s a natural instinct for a lot of people.
Holmes: Is there anyone back home that’ll be upset if they see you flirting?
Perkins: No, I’m recently divorced.

Holmes: You’re in the dark as far as themes and twists. Any guesses?
Perkins: Looking at the dynamics of the group, I go back and forth as to what it could be. I see it as Males vs. Females. I don’t think it’s like “Worlds Apart” because it’s so many young people. The way we came in, the majority of them seems to be the middle class or upper middle class, so I don’t think that’s a division. There’s really only two older people. There could potentially be three of us.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you two “Survivor” situations. You let me know which one you’d rather deal with.
Perkins: OK.
Holmes: Align with a Hillary supporter or a Trump supporter?
Perkins: Hmm…Trump supporter. They seem to be aggressive and not afraid to speak their minds. That way I know what’s coming. I’ll know if I have to make a big move or not. A Hillary supporter is more reserved, quiet, polite.
Holmes: Steal a vote or eliminate a juror?
Perkins: Eliminate a juror.
Holmes: Endurance challenge or word puzzle?
Perkins: Endurance.
Holmes: Align with a racist or a sexist?
Perkins: Sexist…no…yeah…if I align with a sexist, it’s not as emotionally connected as a racist. I could give two (expletive deleted) if someone doesn’t like me as a female. Or doesn’t like a male. But when race is involved I get very sensitive. Because when I was a kid, my family was more or a minority. And I didn’t know this. I grew up around a lot of black people and Mexicans. And I didn’t know much about race until we moved into an all-white community. There was only one black girl in my school and she was my friend. That’s when racism was exposed to me. So weird. I didn’t know.
Holmes: Voted out first or before final Tribal?
Perkins: Before final Tribal.
Holmes: Align with an adulterer or a tax cheat?
Perkins: Tax cheat, it hurts financially, but not emotionally.
Holmes: Lose the family challenge or win and have to decide who to take.
Perkins: Win.
Holmes: Caught stealing food or idol hunting?
Perkins: Idol hunting.
Holmes: Align with a super fan or someone who doesn’t watch the show?
Perkins: Someone who doesn’t know the show.
Holmes: Dance challenge or karaoke challenge?
Perkins: Dance challenge. I can’t sing or dance, but screw it.

Holmes: What kind of first impression do you think you put out there?
Perkins: It depends on who it is. If I go to a bar or a social gathering, people are a little set off because I have a strong demeanor about me. I’ve been told I’m aggressive and intimidating. But, once people get to know me they say, “Oh my God, you’re slightly crazy.” I think I have a resting observation face, if that makes sense. I’m always trying to be situationally aware.

NOTE: The cast members do not know each other’s names at this point. I showed Angela a picture of each of the competitors and asked her to share her first impressions.

	LIBBY Perkins: Oh my God, she appears to be so sweet.  Like my daughter, sweet, kind, soft, young.
	CHELSEA Perkins: A little bit reserved. Maybe somewhat rigid. May be difficult for me to work with.
	JENNA Perkins: She appears to like to have fun, but she’s strictly business when she needs to be. She might be a tough competitor.
	GONZALEZ Perkins: Nice…a little reserved. She appears to be skeptical. She doesn’t allow a lot of people into her inner circle.
	STEPHANIE Perkins: Lights up the room. Very bubbly, fun. Probably talks a lot.
	MORGAN Perkins: Sweet…but probably a little more privileged. She’s carrying expensive bags. Well put together. She probably has a different motivation than a lot of people.
	LAUREL Perkins: I can’t read her. She seems like a game player. She seems athletic.
	KELLYN Perkins: I don’t see a ring, but she appears to be a Suzie Homemaker in the making. Good wife, religious, sweet. I don’t know if I can align with her because I don’t want to hurt her feelings and I’m not sure if she could hurt someone else’s.
	DESIREE Perkins: She does not express a lot. She seems strong, independent.
	BRADLEY Perkins: Nice, kind…intelligent. But, seems like he’s willing to listen.
	BRENDAN Perkins: Close to my age. Probably a type-A…maybe a service background. He has the high-and-tight haircut. I’d align, but we’d probably cut each other’s throat.
	CHRIS Perkins: A little cocky, a little funny. Very confident, young. I could align with him.
	SEBASTIAN Perkins: Probably the coolest looking person here. His look is sick. Relaxed, surfer, chill. Physically fit. Don’t know that he’d make huge moves with me.
	WENDELL Perkins: Seems honest and sincere, but cautious. He doesn’t make a whole lot of eye contact. But, when he does, it seems genuine.
	JACOB Perkins: He seems goofy, relaxed, I’ll be your friend. I don’t think he’s aggressive at all. I could use him, but I don’t think we’d align very well.
	JAMES Perkins: Intelligent, could make some big moves that you wouldn’t see coming. I could see myself being very cautious around him.
	MICHAEL Perkins: I haven’t seen him a lot. He’s young.
	DONATHAN Perkins: Really sweet, yet seems to be a little uncertain or insecure. He’ll make eye contact, but not for a long time. I think he’s very impressionable.
	DOMENICK Perkins: He seems like he is definitely in the game. He could be a threat, he’ll be in people’s ears.

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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

“Survivor: Ghost Island” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: James Lim
Age: 24
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Current residence: New York, New York
Occupation: Business Analyst

Gordon Holmes: You were the captain of the Harvard Track and Field team.
James Lim: Yes.
Holmes: Immediately that little tidbit tells me that this dude is smart and athletic. Are you going to keep that under wraps?
Lim: Here?
Holmes: Yeah in the game. I mean, in real life I’d tell everybody. I’d have it tattooed on my forehead.
Lim: (Laughs) No way. It’s a big source of pride and it was a defining aspect of my college career. But, there’s no way I’m telling anyone out here. I went to Harvard, so they’ll think I’m a big strategic threat, because everyone who went to Harvard is a strategic threat. That’s not the case.
Holmes: Cochran ruined that for everybody.
Lim: Yes, he did. And as for the track, I will say that I ran track in college, but the whole captain thing? They don’t need to know about it. I’ll let someone else be the captain of my tribe and I’ll just follow that person around.
Holmes: And you won’t tell them about Harvard?
Lim: Right.
Holmes: As far as letting someone else be the captain, are you capable of hanging out and taking the back seat?
Lim: Absolutely, I don’t really think I’m a natural-born leader. For Harvard track, it was more of a function of me being dedicated to my sport and my teammates and showing that through actions and words. That earned the respect of my teammates. So, despite me being one of the slower guys on the team, they voted me as their captain my senior year. So, if someone else has to take the reins, let them. I don’t want to be the guy that’s out there as a vulnerable target.

Holmes: So, we meet on day one. We shake hands, I say, “Pleased to meet you, my name is Gordon and I’m a writer.”
Lim: I’m James and I’m a track coach.
Holmes: And you have the level of track knowledge to pull that off? What if there are other track stars out here?
Lim: Absolutely.
Holmes: So if someone says, “Oh do you guys run the WD-40 in the 401K” you’d be able to speak to it?
Lim: Yes.
Holmes: I don’t know track terms.
Lim: (Laughs) I can talk about track for hours. And it’s going to be part of my strategy, it’s one of my passions. And, my Head Coach at Harvard is a die-hard “Survivor” fan. It’s kind of a tribute to him.
Holmes: If you’re out first, he’s going to be livid. He’ll make you run laps.
Lim: Definitely.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Lim: CBS thought I was interesting enough.
Holmes: That is how it tends to work.
Lim: And I appreciate that. As a person, I do have a unique background. I try to give everything that comes my way 100%. And that attitude makes a good season of “Survivor.” It’ll be interesting to see me react with all of these people who have interesting backgrounds.

Holmes: Some people come out here with boundaries as far as ethical behavior?
Lim: My boundary does include lying, blindsiding…I’ll probably stay away from the level that Russell Hantz or Tony Vlachos went to. I will not swear on my parents. I know “Survivor” requires lying, not a single person has won this game by being so loyal and straight up with everyone. But, I want to do it in a manner that’s always respectful of their game. I’m blindsiding you so I can advance. Even if I get blindsided, I hope to move past it and think, “This person did what they had to do.” Hopefully at the end of the game I’ll have made 19 new lifelong friends.
Holmes: Any boundaries as far as flirting?
Lim: That’s not going to be a focal point of my game. I’m not the kind of guy that flirts with everyone. I know it’s part of the game. Parvati is a master of that. And there are some girls this season who are attractive. They might try to use it as one of their cards to play. I get it. I’ll be responsive, but I won’t fall for it to the point that I’m blinded. It’s easier said than done.
Holmes: Anyone back home who’ll be upset if they see you flirting on CBS?
Lim: No, I’m single.

Holmes: Any guesses for twists or themes?
Lim: As a baseline, I’m not the biggest fan of twists. All these vote steals and jury vote-off takes away from the pure game strategy that “Survivor” started with. But, it’s the reality that I have to deal with. If I had to guess…31 had a vote steal, 32 had a jury vote off, 33 had a reward steal, and 34 had another vote steal and a legacy advantage. So, probably another legacy advantage.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you two “Survivor” situations. You tell me which one you would prefer.
Lim: OK.
Holmes: Align with a Trump supporter or a Hillary supporter?
Lim: Hillary supporter because I am one. I interned for President Obama in college. And, I’m a registered democrat. Nothing against Trump supporters. I want to keep politics out of this. This is “Survivor,” it’s a good sacred game. I’m here to get away from the Washington drama for 39 days.
Holmes: I envy you for that. Would you rather have a steal a vote or an eliminate a juror advantage?
Lim: If I have the feeling that I can make the final three, then the juror vote becomes so powerful. But, it only becomes useful if you make it to the final three, otherwise it’s useless. The game vote and the jury vote are so different and the jury vote is so powerful, that I’ll go with jury.
Holmes: Align with a racist or a sexist?
Lim: That’s a good question. Being a Korean American means a lot to me. And me being a first-generation American, I don’t want anyone to mess with that part. So, I’ll align with a sexist.
Holmes: Voted out first or right before final Tribal?
Lim: Definitely before final Tribal.
Holmes: Align with an adulterer or a tax cheat?
Lim: (Laughs) Very good question. That’s easy, a tax cheat won “Survivor.” So, a tax cheat.
Holmes: Lose the family challenge or win and decide who to take along?
Lim: I’ve seen over and over, being in that position doesn’t help you. Whoever is left out wants to murder you. But, I want to win the reward and go on it with my dad. I think…I’d rather lose…and be picked.
Holmes: Caught stealing food or idol hunting?
Lim: An idol hunter…poses a risk to everyone else. But a food stealer as far as camp life, people don’t want to live with that person. I’ll say idol hunting.
Holmes: Align with a super fan or someone who doesn’t watch the show?
Lim: A novice is better because then I get to set the direction.
Holmes: A dance challenge or a karaoke challenge?
Lim: I’m mediocre at best at both. I’ll say dancing.

Holmes: What kind of first impression do you think you put out there?
Lim: This guy is well put together, mature-ish, professional-ish. It’s something I picked up on the job. I have a professional job, and it’s important to put off a good impression so they trust the advice that you give them. But when the producers in LA first met me, they thought I was 30 because I put off that vibe. I think that’s a good first impression. That way, people are more inclined to work with you because I seem to have my (expletive deleted) together.
Holmes: Do you have any problems relating to people your age?
Lim: That’s an interesting point. In my real life, no. But that’s because I’m friends with people from a similar background. The people I mingle with are part of a small bubble, the northeast school and then my white-collar job. I do really want to take this opportunity to see if I can relate to 19 other people that have gathered here from all of these crazy backgrounds. Can I build a bond with them? I’ll have to venture beyond my bubble.

NOTE: The cast members do not know each other’s names at this point. I showed James a picture of each of the competitors and asked him to share his first impressions.

	LIBBY Lim: Jennifer Lawrence. She’s objective attractive and she knows it. She seems like a nice person. I’ll probably want her on my side.
	ANGELA Lim: The only older lady this season. She seems pretty reserved, but genuine. I want to know her life story.
	CHELSEA Lim: Kristen Stewart. Nice girl. In real life she might be a little shy, but when you get to know her she opens up and becomes friends.
	JENNA Lim: She looks like Baylor from “Blood vs. Water.” She has the physique of an athlete. I think she plays soccer or something like that.
	GONZALEZ Lim: If there is a drama queen for our season, it’s her. That’s a first impression, no hard feelings.
	STEPHANIE Lim: She’s like the token bubbly girl of our season. She smiles the most. She kind of hops around Ponderosa. She might be quirky. That might make her a target.
	MORGAN Lim: She’s pretty tall, very fit. She has the physique of a crew rower. I think she also has her (expletive deleted) together. If she decides that someone’s her target, it’d be tough to work against that. I’d rather have her on my side.
	LAUREL Lim: She looks like NaOnka. Hopefully she won’t quit. She looks pretty young. I’d put her at college-aged maybe. So, as the same age group, we’ll be able to relate.
	KELLYN Lim: Jessica Chastain. We were in the same final round. She had this thick history book. She’s probably some kind of professional. She seems nice.
	DESIREE Lim: When I first saw her I thought, “You’re wearing both straps of your swimsuit on the same shoulder. What are you doing?” She is composed, I think she won’t break down too much. She’s going to be a strategic mastermind or she’s going to make a lot of enemies.
	BRADLEY Lim: I sat next to him on the plane for 12 hours. We slept the whole time. He seems young. I’m seeing lots of college-aged people. If we have a super fan, it’s him.
	BRENDAN Lim: Brody from “Homeland.” I’d be willing to put some money on him being a veteran of some sort. He’s obviously very fit. He’s on the older side.
	CHRIS Lim: It’s good that he’s here because I want some meat shields. I think he might have a big ego. I’ll let him be the tribe leader, I’ll be helpful. I can’t even pin down his accent or where he’s from.
	SEBASTIAN Lim: He’s Malcolm Freberg meets Joe Anglim and they have a baby. He’s from California, he’s some kind of surfer. I think we both have a similar physique. If we get to the individual phase, he’d give me a run for my money for immunity wins.
	WENDELL Lim: We were in the final round, and he was wearing a Syracuse hoodie. I think he’s a chill kind of guy. I don’t think he’ll play too hard or cause too much drama.
	JACOB Lim: He’s the male quirky person. A nice guy, he claps the most when production speaks. If he doesn’t find the right footing early, he’s an early boot.
	MICHAEL Lim: Who is this? All these big white guys get mixed up. He’s built, he’s big. On the reserved side. I think I need to talk to him. .
	DONATHAN Lim: This guy, even during finals, we vibed well. We might become allies early on, he seems like a nice guy. But, I don’t know what’s hiding behind that clean haircut. I have to keep an eye on him.
	DOMENICK Lim: He’s the hustler. I think whatever his job is, it involves not taking any (expletive deleted) and working your ass off to get where you need to be. He’s either going to be the villain of the season, or channel the hustling energy to the tribe and become a good asset.

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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

“Survivor: Ghost Island” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Chelsea Townsend
Age: 24
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Current residence: Los Angeles, California
Occupation: EMT/Pro Cheerleader

Gordon Holmes: If you were on a deserted island, you would want ice cream. I love ice cream, so I get it.
Chelsea Townsend: (Laughs)
Holmes: What’s the best ice cream? And there is a correct answer.
Townsend: Um…it’d have to be Half Baked. It’s like vanilla, chocolate, cookie dough, and fudge bites.
Holmes: That sounds good. It wasn’t the correct answer though.
Townsend: OK, then what is it?
Holmes: We were looking for cookies and cream. Cookies and cream.
Townsend: You’re wrong.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Townsend: I have a lot to offer. I have a girly, cheerleader side, which is good and peppy. But I also have a very competitive, go-getter side. That involves all my medical job. I’m a dynamic person.

Holmes: Is there anything that isn’t in your bio that you didn’t list? You can tell me now, because it’s too late to kick you out if you have some horrible secret.
Townsend: (Laughs) No.
Holmes: It doesn’t have to be big, but if there’s a homicide, you should let me know.
Townsend: (Laughs) I don’t think I could kill anyone.
Holmes: That speaks well of you.

Holmes: Is there anything about your backstory that you’re going to keep a secret?
Townsend: I’m actually going to try to be a physician’s assistant. I’m in the middle of applying to grad school now. I think I’m going to leave that part out. I feel like with doctors and people who are in the medical profession are thought to be extremely smart. So, I think if I play off the cheerleader thing, they might not know that I’m a strategic person. It’ll keep the target off of my back until I have to bust out.
Holmes: Just slitting throats left and right.
Townsend: Yeah!

Holmes: Are you a “Survivor” fan?
Townsend: Huge. I’ve been watching it for years.
Holmes: This is where you say something annoying like, “I’ve been watching it since I was six.” And then I hate myself for being old.
Townsend: (Laughs)
Holmes: Is that where this is going?
Townsend: A long, long time. Many years.
Holmes: Who knows you’re out here?
Townsend: My immediate family knows, so they are excited to say the least. They’ve been like, “You’d better do well or you’re going to get so much crap from us.”
Holmes: Will you be disowned if you’re the first one out?
Townsend: That’s not going to happen. I’ll be sitting there at the end.
Holmes: What’re we going to do with that million dollars?
Townsend: Hmm…
Holmes: Cause I’ve got some big plans. I want you to be on board.
Townsend: (Laughs) A chunk of it is going so I don’t have student loans.

Holmes: Some people come out here and set boundaries for themselves as far as lying, cheating, stealing…where are you with that?
Townsend: My mindset is I want to give this my all. This is a game, and even though in a normal format I’m a very loyal person, I’m very honest with my friends. But, this is a game. You have to lie, you have to deceive sometimes to get further in the game. It’s not personal, you’re playing the game. I’ve come to terms with the fact that I’m going to have to deceive people I’m going to befriend.
Holmes: What about flirting? Is that on the table?
Townsend: I’m a girl. If I have to flirt a little bit… (Laughs)
Holmes: Is there anyone back home who’s going to be upset if they see you flirting?
Townsend: I don’t know.
Holmes: You don’t know if you have a significant other?
Townsend: Oh…sorry…just family back home.

Holmes: You’re in lockdown now, but there’s always winking and nodding. Are you doing any of that?
Townsend: There are people who are more friendly than others. It’s kind of weird. You smile, you nod, you laugh a little bit. That’s only with some people. Others just walk right by you. I’ve tried to smile at everybody.

Holmes: You’re in the dark as far as themes or twists. Any guesses?
Townsend: I’m excited to find out, but I don’t know. They’ve given us nothing.

Holmes: Have you been having any “Survivor” stress dreams?
Townsend: I’ve had a couple. It involves me finding an idol and then not using it.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you two “Survivor” situations. You tell me which one you’d rather deal with.
Townsend: Oh no.
Holmes: You’ll be fine. Would you rather align with a Hillary supporter or a Trump supporter?
Townsend: (Laughs) I’d have to say a Hillary supporter. Not a big fan of Trump, I’m a woman.
Holmes: Steal a vote or eliminate a juror?
Townsend: Steal a vote, I think I can woo over the jurors.
Holmes: Endurance challenge or word puzzle?
Townsend: Endurance challenge…but I’m good with both.
Holmes: Align with a racist or a sexist?
Townsend: Neither? (Laughs)
Holmes: Not an option.
Townsend: (Laughs) I guess a sexist so I could change their mind.
Holmes: Voted out first or before final Tribal?
Townsend: Final Tribal, I want to experience as much of this game as I can.
Holmes: Align with an adulterer or a tax cheat?
Townsend: Oh jeez! I guess a tax cheat. I don’t know.
Holmes: Lose the family challenge or win and have to decide who to take with you?
Townsend: I’d rather win. My sister told me before I went on the show, “If you don’t make it there, I’m going to be so mad at you. I have to be on ‘Survivor.’” But I told her she’d better be ready to win. She has to win so I can eat.
Holmes: Caught stealing food or idol hunting?
Townsend: Stealing food. Everyone will be pissed, but if they think you have an idol that puts a huge target on your back.
Holmes: Align with a super fan or someone who doesn’t watch the show?
Townsend: Super fan, I feel like they’ll be better with strategy.
Holmes: I know the answer to this last one; dance challenge or karaoke challenge?
Townsend: Dance challenge!

Holmes: What kind of a first impression do you think you put out there?
Townsend: I’d like to think it’s that I’m very friendly. Easy to talk to. I’m easy-going, you can come talk to me. Hopefully people feel like they can trust me.

NOTE: The cast members do not know each other’s names at this point. I showed Chelsea a picture of each of the competitors and asked her to share her first impressions.

	LIBBY Townsend: She’s seem very sweet.
	ANGELA Townsend: I’ve had a hard time reading her. She seems like she has this punk rock edge to her.
	CHELSEA Townsend: Future winner!
	JENNA Townsend: She’s hard to read. She doesn’t come off as super friendly at first. Maybe it’s because we haven’t been able to talk.
	GONZALEZ Townsend: She seems pretty nice. She’s independent. She does her own thing.
	STEPHANIE Townsend: She’s very nice. She seems optimistic and friendly.
	MORGAN Townsend: She seems like an athlete. She’s got ripped shoulders. She keeps to herself.
	LAUREL Townsend: She keeps to herself. She seems reserved…observant.
	KELLYN Townsend: She seems very smart. She’s always reading. She seems nice. She seems strategic.
	DESIREE Townsend: I don’t have a read on her. I’m going to have to see how the game unfolds.
	BRADLEY Townsend: He seems nice, very smart. He’s another one that’s constantly reading. He seems observant.
	BRENDAN Townsend: I think he might be a body builder. He seems really fit. He’s going to be a physical player.
	CHRIS Townsend: This guy…very strong. He doesn’t seem as friendly. He seems very confident. I’m not sure if it’s confidence or cockiness.
	SEBASTIAN Townsend: Super chill…surfer dude. He seems friendly, he goes with the flow.
	WENDELL Townsend: No read on him. He seems nice, polite, studious.
	JACOB Townsend: This guy is funny. He seems very goofy and fun. He’s always smiling.
	JAMES Townsend: I think he’ll be good physically and strategically. He seems to be keeping an eye on everybody.
	MICHAEL Townsend: He’s very independent. He keeps to himself.
	DONATHAN Townsend: (Laughs) He seems so nice. He’s smart.
	DOMENICK Townsend: He’s always watching people. From what I can tell, I don’t know if I can trust him.

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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

“Survivor: Ghost Island” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Chris Noble
Age: 27
Hometown: Florida Keys, Florida
Current residence: Brooklyn, New York
Occupation: Male Model

Gordon Holmes: Chris Noble! That’s like a superhero name.
Chris Noble: It’s a great name. My dad always told me to wear my name proudly.
Holmes: You’ll be out here and people will be like, “Hey, I don’t know if I trust this guy.” And you can say, “Relax, I’m Chris Noble.”
Noble: I am “The Noble One.” (Laughs)

Holmes: You consider yourself to be the most dramatic. What do you mean by that?
Noble: (Laughs) I didn’t even (expletive deleted) know about it. In high school I was the first ever all-state athlete in two sports for baseball and basketball in my county, I was a jock. That was my pride. I was thinking, “I have to get most athletic. If I don’t it’s a crime.” And I didn’t get most athletic, I got most dramatic which made it even more dramatic, cause then I was pissed off.
Holmes: You flipped a table and were like, “Who the (expletive deleted) thinks I’m dramatic?!”
Noble: (Laughs) Yeah, who says that?! And they said, “That’s why.”
Holmes: There was probably some theater kid that was furious.
Noble: (Laughs) It’s just my emotions, I wear my heart on my sleeve. I don’t hold anything back, really. I’ve learned to keep my emotions in check. I love Micheala in the game, I see a lot of myself in her. She does wear her heart on her sleeve, sometimes it gets her in trouble, but she’s got this fire and competitiveness. Along my path in life, I’ve had to learn to change that. But, I don’t think I’m going to change much of my natural antics. It’s a show, we’re supposed to have fun. I want to be who I am.

Holmes: So, we’re on the same tribe. We’re tethered together and running through an obstacle course. I can’t keep up. How do you deal with me? Can you maintain your composure, or am I going to meet Mr. Most Dramatic?
Noble: That’s going to be one of my toughest challenges. I’m a sweetheart, I’m a good guy, I really stand for what my name is. But, when it comes to things that are competitive and you put me into an octagon or something like that, my whole mode changes. I’m so tunnel-visioned. I’ll have to tell myself, “This person might not be at the same level as me.” There’s a certain level of respect that has to go into it. Was it season 16 where that happened? Was it Big Joel or something like that? And he was pulling around someone who wasn’t on his level. I think he may have taken it too far.
Holmes: You remember season 16, are you a big fan?
Noble: I am, I wouldn’t consider myself one of the die-hards out there. I’d be doing them an injustice if I told everyone I was a super fan. I’m not on their level. I’ve seen somewhere between ten and fifteen seasons. It’s an honor to be out here.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Noble: I bring that all-American look that I’m sure most shows would like. I’ve got the blonde hair, the physique. I was part of the Versace campaign with Bruce Weber, Gigi Hadid, Donatella Versace. That was the big start of this new life of mine. I also bring a very sympathetic story. My mother was diagnosed with MS at 27 years old. She had me at 34. This lady, you talk about invincible, she was working on her doctorates, working for NASA, she had everything all set up and then it was all taken from her from a very serious disease that there is no cure for. The disease varies from person to person, but she has a very severe case. Growing up, it was difficult for the family. When I was 17 she was told she only has two months to live. Ever since then, I took it upon myself to become a better man and to grow up with added responsibility. I’d take care of her, feeding her medication, carrying her to the bathroom, carrying her in and out of cars. Not necessarily something new, I’d been doing that my whole life. This isn’t really about me, but to tell my mom’s story…she’s a true survivor. She’s still alive today. She was told she had two months to live ten years ago. The crazy, cool irony of this whole story, and I didn’t even realize when I got cast, I’m 27 right now, and that’s when she was diagnosed. I think the cast came out in March, which is MS Awareness Month. My mother said she wonders why God has kept her around for so long, and I said, “One day I will be famous and tell your story. And it’d be selfish if I was the only one who could be inspired by her.” That’s the essence of this. This is God doing great and beautiful things for her and everyone out there with MS. Over two million people worldwide have it. There’s no cure, but they’re working on it. I personally feel like we need to spread awareness more.
Holmes: She sounds amazing. How does she feel about her little boy’s big adventure?
Noble: (Laughs) Let’s put it this way, she knows what “Survivor” is, and when I did the Versace campaign, she didn’t know what Versace was. I don’t hold it against her, but it was sort of a little buzzkill. But she knew what it was and she said, “They should fly me out there, I can tell my story.” (Laughs) I was like, “Hold up, mom.”
Holmes: That’s a long flight. (Laughs)
Noble: She’s always known that this is one of my biggest dreams on the number one reality TV show in the world.
Holmes: You’re damn right.

Holmes: Some people come out here with ethical boundaries as far as lying, cheating, and stealing. How about you?
Noble: I’ve set some boundaries. In real life, I don’t steal, maybe there are white lies. But, sometimes I’m too brutally honest. But I feel like in society we aren’t honest enough. Look, there are going to be times when I’m brutally honest with people, even if it hurts their feelings. But, as far as moral judgments? I’m not going to say anything to demean someone. I wouldn’t do what Varner did. That really crossed the line. I get some of the lies Survivors have told, who knows what I’m going to feel like after 28 days without food. I don’t hold it against them. But, there are boundaries that you don’t cross. I’m not racist, I’m not homophobic, I’m not sexist. I’m not going to say any things like that.
Holmes: What about flirting?
Noble: Oh, I’m going to flirt a lot. Women flirt all the time. I want to be one of those Survivors where I flip it a little bit. If they dish it to me, I’m going to dish it right back. I’m going to use some of that to my advantage. The most powerful emotion in life is love. It’s almost like they say “Love is blind.” And love is blind. If I can make you feel good and there’s something about me that makes you not think about blindsiding me, then I’ve won. I’ve won that battle. And then if I need to, I can blindside you when I need to.
Holmes: Is there anyone back home who will get upset if they see you flirting?
Noble: No, and frankly, if there was I wouldn’t give a (expletive deleted). This is my time. I want to do things that’ve never been done before. Maybe a “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” thing where there’s romance and maybe some spy games type stuff. I want to run around like Tony. I watched “Predator,” I want to put myself all in mud and act like Arnold.
Holmes: Promise me that will happen.
Noble: I promise. Yeah, it can get me in trouble, but you can get in trouble by not doing anything too.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you two “Survivor” situations. You let me know which one you would rather deal with.
Noble: OK.
Holmes: Align with a Hillary supporter or a Trump supporter?
Noble: Wow…a Trump supporter. I feel like America needed to go a different route. And I think change is good. The same way I think Obama was a good change back in 2008. We have a good change now and we’ll see if it works out.
Holmes: Steal a vote or eliminate a juror?
Noble: Steal a vote.
Holmes: Endurance challenge or word puzzle?
Noble: Endurance challenge?
Holmes: Align with a racist or a sexist?
Noble: Sexist…we’re too advanced as a society to judge people based on race. I understand out here we have to judge people based on their front cover right now, and that’s crazy. I think racism is ridiculous. I think being sexist is ridiculous as well. Most of my friends are women and they go through it. All of it chaps my ass.
Holmes: Voted out first or before final Tribal?
Noble: Before final Tribal.
Holmes: Align with an adulterer or a tax cheat?
Noble: A tax cheat.
Holmes: Lose the family challenge or win and decide who to take?
Noble: Win and decide who to take.
Holmes: Caught stealing food or idol hunting?
Noble: Idol hunting.
Holmes: Align with a super fan or someone who doesn’t know the show?
Noble: Doesn’t know the show.
Holmes: Dance challenge or karaoke challenge?
Noble: Karaoke.
Holmes: What’s your go-to jam?
Noble: “Pour Some Sugar on Me.”
Holmes: That’s actually a really good call.

NOTE: The cast members do not know each other’s names at this point. I showed Chris a picture of each of the competitors and asked him to share his first impressions.

	LIBBY Noble: She beautiful, she’s flirtatious. I think she’s smart. I also think she has some good outdoor skills.
	ANGELA Noble: I think she’s older and I click with the older generation. She might not click with some of the other women.
	CHELSEA Noble: She could have a dark side. She could be silent. It could get her eliminated quickly.
	JENNA Noble: She’s going to add outdoor skills. She could flip back and forth.
	GONZALEZ Noble: She’s absolutely beautiful. I’m like James Bond; I have a lot of good skills, but a good woman is a weakness.
	STEPHANIE Noble: Very flirtatious. I think she’s going to be like a Parvati.
	MORGAN Noble: She’s been a tough read. I don’t know if she’s going to mesh well with everyone.
	LAUREL Noble: She’s silent, I think she could be like Michaela where she has some real fierceness to her.
	KELLYN Noble: I think she’s good outdoors. I think her tribe is going to benefit in the beginning. But, I don’t see her meshing well with everyone.
	DESIREE Noble: She’s intriguing. I like her. She could be from New York which I can relate to. I know how New Yorkers roll, and the minute you think they’re your friend, they can snap you.
	BRADLEY Noble: That guy…I like him more and more. I think he’s a corporate guy. I think he’s going to be good strategically.
	BRENDAN Noble: I think he’s a business man, middle-aged guy. I think I can trust him. And I don’t trust most men. I think he’ll be great in challenges.
	SEBASTIAN Noble: He’s like my brother. I think he’s a fisherman. I think he may be a surfer or a paddle boarder. He definitely hits the weed from time to time. I think he’d be awesome to be a shield.
	WENDELL Noble: Quiet. I’m not sure how long he’ll last.
	JACOB Noble: This guy cracks me up. He’s like a Zach Galifianakis…but I think he’s going to flip from side to side because people are going to push him over.
	JAMES Noble: I think he’s a business man, into yoga and fitness. I should be able to relate to him.
	MICHAEL Noble: He’s a good-looking dude from the Midwest. Maybe one of the other alphas out here. Could be good to team up with if the men are getting thin.
	DONATHAN Noble: I’ve thought about him a lot. With everything that happened with Zeke, I feel like we could have a very similar storyline with that. But, he seems like a very nice guy. He could be a very trustworthy person.
	DOMENICK Noble: This guy is from New Jersey or New York. I could have a connection. But, there’s something off-putting to me.

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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

“Survivor: Ghost Island” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Stephanie Gonzalez
Age: 26
Hometown: Aguada, Puerto Rico
Current residence: Ocala, Florida
Occupation: Graphic Sales

Gordon Holmes: You’re in sales, I’m assuming you’re constantly meeting people, getting them to like you…
Stephanie Gonzalez: Every single day. I’m in and out of networking events where I’m trying to meet people. Constantly shaking hands with everyone I can. Make a good impression, get some business cards, set up some meetings.
Holmes: That feels like it would lend itself to a game where you’re about to meet nineteen strangers.
Gonzalez: Definitely…of all ages, all kinds, all ethnicities.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Gonzalez: I think it’s my unique personality. I’ve got so many different dimensions to my personality. I’m this girly girl, but I can transform into this super tomboy. Hang out with the guys, go to a game, grab a beer.

Holmes: Is there anything about your background that you’re going to keep a secret?
Gonzalez: That’s a tough one…I was a rebel. (Laughs)
Holmes: How so?
Gonzalez: I would run away from home, I got this tattoo at sixteen years old, pierced my own belly button. I was kind of a rebel in that sense. They’d tell me not to do something and I’d be like, “OK, watch me.”
Holmes: They should’ve used some kind of reverse psychology. “Stephanie, get a tattoo.”
Gonzalez: (Laughs) Oh yeah? I won’t get a tattoo.
Holmes: Someone’s going to figure that out and play you like a fiddle in this game. “Stephanie, vote me out.”
Gonzalez: I’m not going to vote you out. (Laughs)

Holmes: Have you set any boundaries as far as lying, deception, etc.?
Gonzalez: I’m not going to physically hurt someone.
Holmes: Well, you’re totally not allowed to do that.
Gonzalez: (Laughs) That’s probably my only boundary. The lying and the backstabbing, I think there’s a way of doing it so it’s not so abrupt to that person. You don’t do certain things so it’s putting salt in the wounds.
Holmes: What about flirting?
Gonzalez: Yeah, I don’t call it flirting. I call it charm. You bring out the smile, you bring out the eyes, the shoulder rub.
Holmes: The shoulder rub?
Gonzalez: That’s the move. (Laughs)
Holmes: That’s the move. Is there anyone back home who will be upset if they see you busting out the charm?
Gonzalez: Not at all.
Holmes: So, you’re single?
Gonzalez: No.
Holmes: OK, so there is someone, but they won’t get upset.
Gonzalez: Yes. He trusts me 1000% and I analyze things to a tee. I’m good at sales, so I know how to speak to people. When I meet with a husband and wife, I know to always charm the wife first. It’s all about making feel comfortable. So, the boyfriend knows exactly how I work. He thinks I’m a masterpiece.
Holmes: He’s not wrong. That’s a smart strategy. I started dating this girl and her male friend was not happy about it because he was interested in her. So, the first time we hung out, I was all over him. Using the charm. And it worked. We’re buddies now.
Gonzalez: You’ve got to know how to play it.

Holmes: You’re in the dark as far as twists and themes. Any guesses?
Gonzalez: I think there’s a little bit of a “Heroes vs. Villains” kind of theme. But, I’m not sure.

Holmes: Are you a big “Survivor” fan?
Gonzalez: I am. I watched it in Puerto Rico growing up. And then I moved to the States and didn’t watch TV for a couple of years, but got back into it about six years ago.
Holmes: Do you ever have “Survivor” stress dreams?
Gonzalez: Oh God, yeah. Probably for the last two months. I’m sitting with four other people and Jeff is walking to me with a paper which is the check. It’s great. And I’m crying. It’s awesome.
Holmes: That’s not a stress dream. That’s a wonderful dream.
Gonzalez: That’s a great dream. It’s stressful because I haven’t even started yet.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you two “Survivor” situations. You tell me which one you would rather deal with.
Gonzalez: Let’s do it. I love these games.
Holmes: That’s basically my whole gimmick. Would you rather align with a Hillary supporter or a Trump supporter?
Gonzalez: Hillary supporter. I hate Trump. All he cares about his power. He scares people into voting for him and he’s extremely racist. And coming from a Hispanic background…he’s pathetic.
Holmes: Steal a vote or eliminate a juror?
Gonzalez: Steal a vote, it’s pretty powerful.
Holmes: Endurance challenge or word puzzle?
Gonzalez: Word puzzle.
Holmes: Align with a racist or a sexist?
Gonzalez: Sexist…it doesn’t phase me.
Holmes: Voted out first or before the final Tribal?
Gonzalez: Final Tribal?
Holmes: Align with an adulterer or a tax cheat?
Gonzalez: An adulterer…I don’t know why.
Holmes: Lose the family challenge or win and have to decide to who to take along?
Gonzalez: Win and decide.
Holmes: Caught stealing food or idol hunting?
Gonzalez: Idol hunting. It’s “Survivor.” That’s kind of OK.
Holmes: Align with a super fan or someone who doesn’t watch the show.
Gonzalez: Super fan. That’s a given.
Holmes: Dance challenge or karaoke challenge?
Gonzalez: Dance challenge!
Holmes: What’s your go-to move? Is it the lawnmower?
Gonzalez: The sprinkler. (Laughs)

Holmes: What kind of first impression do you think you put out there?
Gonzalez: Girly girl. She’s a girly girl. She’s got her hair done, she’s got her makeup on. Look at what she’s wearing. She has bright, happy colors. She’s in sandals. She’s probably educated, because I speak kind of proper.

NOTE: The cast members do not know each other’s names at this point. I showed Gonzalez a picture of each of the competitors and asked her to share her first impressions.

	LIBBY Gonzalez: Barbie! Extremely concerned with her looks at all times She’s worried about her hair. When she walks she sways her hips so she’s pretty confident. She lingers around the guys a lot so she can flirt with them. Holmes: If you catch her doing the shoulder rub… Gonzalez: Oh, that is it.
	ANGELA Gonzalez: She nice, but she’s nervous. She’s twitching a lot, looking around. She’s somebody that you have to reassure. She’s probably going to play a paranoid game. She’s a coffee drinker, so I think she’s going to be a high-anxiety person.
	CHELSEA Gonzalez: She’s nice. But, I believe she is one of those that is very peer-pressure, go-with-the-flow, I’ll do what the crowd thinks. She’s got red hair, which is a trend. So, what’s cool is what she’ll do.
	JENNA Gonzalez: Very dominant. She runs the show. She doesn’t care what you think.
	STEPHANIE Gonzalez: Super friendly. Spending a little time with everyone. She’s likable, which could hurt her. She’ll probably build shallow alliances with everyone.
	MORGAN Gonzalez: She’s a swimmer. Her body is perfectly sculpted. I want her on my team. She’s friendly and kind of quirky.
	LAUREL Gonzalez: She’s built like an ox. (Expletive deleted) She’s definitely a physical threat. She probably runs. Her calves are beautiful. Socially she hasn’t really made a whole lot of connections.
	KELLYN Gonzalez: I like her. She’s smart. She reads big books. She’s focused. She’ll read for an hour straight with no distractions. She’s awkward…I like that. She doesn’t wear much makeup. She’s probably all brains.
	DESIREE Gonzalez: She’s nice, but easily intimidated. I tried to give her a friendly smile and she wouldn’t look at me. I think she’s going to have a wall to break down before you connect with her.
	BRADLEY Gonzalez: He’s analytical like me. I think people will assume he’s not a threat, but he’s going to be a big threat. He’s got a charming smile.
	BRENDAN Gonzalez: He’s super organized. The way he stacks books, the way he reads, he watches what he eats, puts sunscreen on. I think he’s going to be a play-by-the-rules kind of guy.
	CHRIS Gonzalez: He’s extremely cocky and arrogant. I kind of feel bad for him because he’s this over-the-top Ken doll. He waxes his chest, tans four minutes on one side and four minutes on the other. My hands probably have more calluses than his.
	SEBASTIAN Gonzalez: Looks like a surfer kind of guy. Laid-back, not too worried about how to play the game.
	WENDELL Gonzalez: He’s cool. He has this sway about him. He’s down-to-Earth. Not a complainer.
	JACOB Gonzalez: He’s cool, he’s super quirky. There’s this great nerdiness about him. He was listening to music and doing the air drums to it. He does want to be liked, though. He’ll be the goofball.
	JAMES Gonzalez: I call it “Little Man Syndrome.” He’s short, but he presents himself in a very dominant way. He’s very fit. He’s going to be a physical threat. But, I don’t know if he’s going to rub people the wrong way.
	MICHAEL Gonzalez: He’s nice, but he’s trying to work his charm with the girls, so I don’t think the guys will like him.
	DONATHAN Gonzalez: I like him, I think he’s gay and I have a lot of really good gay friends. He’s goofy, he’s really quirky, he’s kind of awkward. But, there’s a good aura around him.
	DOMENICK Gonzalez: I think he was in the military. Probably Hispanic or Italian. If he’s Hispanic we’ll click immediately. He eats like me. We’ll have that in common. I don’t know about him playing a good social game.

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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

“Survivor” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

The XFINITY “Survivor” Power Rankings committee is thrilled to announce that “Survivor: Heroes vs. Healers vs. Hustlers” star Roark Luskin has agreed to accept the Power Rankings challenge. To kick things off, we’ve asked Roark to rank the players based on how likely they are to win the game.

Another Quick Note: Roark asked if this exercise could be referred to as the “Power Roarkings.” The committee is looking into the viability of this request.

1. Domenick: There is something about Domenick that just says “hungry.” When people play “Survivor,” they want it for a variety of reasons, but I think you can tell when someone views “Survivor” as a job. They are there to get down and dirty and get it done. Both Joe and Ben had that drive in Season 35. Dom has it here.	2. Sebastian: First of all, I’m pretty sure C-Bass borrowed Andrew Savage’s necklace. Second, I bet I can guess his favorite Bob Marley song and it starts with an “L” and ends with an “egalize it.” Third, he is obviously chill AF and easygoing and doesn’t jump out as a pre-merge boot. None but ourselves can free our minds…right, Sebs?
3. Kellyn: People who list “gambling” as a hobby are the ones who will yell at you that THEY CAN STOP AT ANYTIME AND THEY HAVE IT TOTALLY UNDER CONTROL. Besides that Kellyn seems benign.	4. Laurel: Avenge me, Laurel! A smart, self-assured, female super-fan. I adore you. Just PLEASE don’t stand up for yourself and tell the boys what to do on like, day 1. That’s a good day 2 activity.
5. Wendell: Heyyyy, Wendell ;). Can we negotiate something like – if I rank you first every week you’ll buy me a drink? Lemme know and we can start next week.	6. Brendan: I like Brendan. He seems like a guys-guy who also has respect for women. Also, the last name Shapiro has a proven track record of success, so I think he’ll make the merge.
7. Morgan: Majorly vibing with Morgan’s hobby of “sleeping.” Thank you for this. In addition, she seems strong and bubbly and normal. I assume mid-jury.	8. Jenna: I think Jenna will float to the merge on social bonds and what reads as a DGAF attitude. That said, she’s gotta get over about half of her pet peeves if she intends on making friends. People are constantly talking about their bodily functions, lying, and bad breath permeates. No traffic, though. Have fun, girl!
9. Bradley: For these rankings I’ve only read their CBS bios, that’s it. I’ve heard rumblings that Bradley’s pre-game stuff is quite a lightning rod, but that is *not* the vibe I get from his written bio. Dare I say it, he seems downright vanilla. Which makes me think he’ll tone down for the game whatever he is putting out there prior.	10. Chelsea: Have they found Morgan 2.0? God I hope so.
11. Desiree: To be clear, there is only one Des – and that is Healer Des. That said, this Des seems completely legit and I guess she can sit with us.	12. Libby: Her “Survivor” analogs are like those Highlights Magazine challenges – one of these is not like the others! Jenna Morasca, Kim Spradlin, and Natalie White. I have a feeling I know which one she won’t play like.
13. Michael: This man is allegedly a real estate agent. Would you ever buy a home from an 18 year old? He’s handsome and if he’s an Eagle Scout he knows his way around survival skills. I think I know this guy and his name is Cole Medders.	14. Donathan: If his bio is any indication, Donathan doesn’t seem to know how to self-edit. He may fall victim to talking *way* too much and not listening enough.
15. Chris: I genuinely don’t know where to begin with Chris. This bio is completely bonkers. His bravado is off the charts. His syntax is a mess. And the verbiage is psychotic. He wants to bring two bottles of lotion and I am officially terrified. Also, he reminds me of Krystal on “The Bachelor” — I can’t wait until he talks about the texture, the color, and the aura of his game play.	16. Stephanie: So let me know if I have this right. If they want to vote for this chick they can’t write Stephanie or Johnson because both of those could refer to multiple people on her starting tribe. She’ll be safe for a few cycles just due to sheer confusion.
17. Gonzalez: This bio is *way* too much. To say you “understand how to manipulate the numbers, play idols how they should be played and hustle the social game” is like saying you definitively know what happens in the after life. She also thinks she’ll play like Tony and Sandra. I am very worried.	18. Angela: Angela seems like a badass. But she also seems really intense and she strikes me as someone who is going to demand hard work around camp and not suffer laziness. She certainly won’t hold her tribe down in the challenges, but she may grate on people.
19. James: Based on his pedigree, and his writing style, it is clear James is a cerebral guy. His resume is downright impressive. My question is if he is able to play it cool and just rely on social bonds.	20. Jacob: What. A. Doll. A self-deprecating Jew who lives in Brooklyn is probably my key demographic. Not sure how well he will do as I think this “type” has high variance, but more important than his “Survivor” outcome – can we be friends?

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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

“Survivor: Ghost Island” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Sebastian Noel
Age: 22
Hometown: Melbourne, Florida
Current residence: Satellite Beach, Florida
Occupation: Fishing Guide

Gordon Holmes: As a fisherman, do you have the ability to look at the waters of Fiji and be like…I can fish here, I’ve got this?
Sebastian Noel: Oh yeah. The water is my home. It’s that natural feeling.
Holmes: So, I want to go fishing, you take me out and show me what to do because you know the area?
Noel: Yeah.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Noel: I think I fill the role of prior contestants like Ozzy.

Holmes: It says your personal claim to fame is that you’re everybody’s favorite person.
Noel: Yeah.
Holmes: You’re not my favorite person yet.
Noel: (Laughs)
Holmes: But it’s early in the interview. I’ll give you time.
Noel: The beauty of my job is every day I have to meet new people. That’s kind of like this game. You have to meet people to do a good job and get a good tip at the end of the day.

Holmes: Is there anything about yourself that you’re going to keep a secret?
Noel: No, I’m pretty open. I like to tell people how it is. I like being upfront. If people don’t like it, that’s fine. But, I’m always positive.
Holmes: Being honest can get you in trouble on this show. How do you handle that?
Noel: I’m not going to do that to begin with. You can’t be bossy and tell people what to do. But, when it comes to it, I will. One of my best skills is listening to people. I can depict what needs to be done after that.

Holmes: Some people set boundaries as far as lying, cheating, stealing. Have you set any ethical boundaries?
Noel: I’m not worried about that. I’m going to say something so stupid, I just know it.
Holmes: Yeah, but that might make you my favorite person.
Noel: (Laughs) I blurt things out and then five minutes later I think, “Oh no, did I just offend 800 people?” My dad always used to say, “Seb, you have to think about things before you say them.” I’m a doer. That’s going to get me in trouble.
Holmes: What’s an example of something you’ve said?
Noel: Not just that I’ve said, but I’ve stolen things from stores or restaurants. I just don’t think about what I say to grandparents or family. I’ll just say something stupid. It’s going to bite me in the butt.
Holmes: What about flirting, any boundaries there?
Noel: I can’t help it. It comes with the people I’m around. But, I do have boundaries because there are people I love back home and I don’t want them to be ashamed of what I’m doing out here.
Holmes: Does that mean family members or a girlfriend?
Noel: Like a girlfriend. I’m not playing this game to get a girl, I’m playing to get a million. But, if they’re part of your alliance and that’s how you get them in, by flirting.
Holmes: Have you and her had a conversation about what’s acceptable?
Noel: I’m just going to play the game like I’m myself, and if she doesn’t like it, she doesn’t like it.

Holmes: You’re in the dark as far as twists or themes. Any guesses?
Noel: I have no idea. I’ve been trying to figure it out since we’ve started. There’s only three older people.
Holmes: Are you a big “Survivor” fan?
Noel: I am. I missed about six season in high school. But I’ve always been a big mega fan.
Holmes: Any “Survivor” stress dreams?
Noel: Yeah, where I get voted out first. I had that dream last night.

Holmes: Alright, I’ll give you two “Survivor” situations. You tell me which one you’d rather deal with.
Noel: OK.
Holmes: Align with a Trump supporter or a Hillary supporter?
Noel: Hillary…I work better with women than bossy males.
Holmes: Steal a vote or eliminate a juror?
Noel: Steal a vote, I’m going to be friends with everyone on the jury.
Holmes: Endurance challenge or word puzzle?
Noel: Endurance challenge, I suck at puzzles.
Holmes: Align with a racist or a sexist?
Noel: A racist because I can take that (expletive deleted).
Holmes: Voted out first or before the final Tribal?
Noel: Final Tribal.
Holmes: Align with an adulterer or a tax cheat?
Noel: A tax cheat…I don’t know why.
Holmes: Lose the family challenge or win and decide who to take along.
Noel: I’d rather win because I love my sister. It’s her 21st birthday. She’s a mega fan and she’s in love with Jeff Probst.
Holmes: Caught stealing food or idol hunting?
Noel: Idol hunting, stealing food is a for sure way to get out.
Holmes: Align with a super fan or someone who doesn’t watch the show?
Noel: Doesn’t watch the show. Super fans know everything.
Holmes: Dance challenge or karaoke challenge?
Noel: Oh! I’m so good at both! Probably a dance challenge because I have rhythm.

Holmes: What kind of first impression do you think you put out there?
Noel: Like a wild child hippie. But, that’s not me. I just like to be flamboyant. I like being me and I like the surf, positive vibes. That’s why my hair is long. That’s why I wear board shorts everywhere. That’s me being me.

NOTE: The cast members do not know each other’s names at this point. I showed Sebastian a picture of each of his competitors and asked him to share his first impressions.

	LIBBY Noel: Gorgeous. Initial contact back at tryouts. Great personality, I can tell.
	ANGELA Noel: Whack job, crazy. Just from what I’ve seen. Spazzing out…digging holes in the sand when not necessary. Weird little things she’s been doing.
	CHELSEA Noel: Very quiet, sheltered, possibly dangerous.
	JENNA Noel: Happy-go-lucky, my kind of person.
	GONZALEZ Noel: Nothing from her.
	STEPHANIE Noel: A little bit out there. I don’t know see myself working with her, but I could see her trying to work with me.
	MORGAN Noel: She’s another dangerous threat, but I don’t think anyone else realizes it.
	LAUREL Noel: There’s another quiet threat. She might have some athletic ability because she’s built.
	KELLYN Noel: I think she’s got a weird skill that nobody knows yet. I think she’s got something underneath the skin.
	DESIREE Noel: She’s a powerhouse. She’s very self-oriented, she’s going to work by herself.
	BRADLEY Noel: He’s going to win the game if I don’t. It’s the people that pay attention to things. He was listening in to conversations on the airplane.
	BRENDAN Noel: He’s going to go to the end or he’s going to get voted out third. I can work with him.
	CHRIS Noel: He’s going to be one of my better allies. Initial contact for sure.
	WENDELL Noel: I’m not sure how I’m going to roll with him. He’s either going to be one of my better buddies, or he’s going to be the backstabber.
	JACOB Noel: Clueless. I don’t know what to expect from him. He looks like he’ll be a ball. I can’t wait to meet him.
	JAMES Noel: He’s another threat. He’s like the Jackie Chan of the crew. He’s going to corral us with his quiet monotone way.
	MICHAEL Noel: He’s going to be a physical threat, but I think he’s too much in his own game. I probably can work with him.
	DONATHAN Noel: Interesting character. Very flamboyant. I think he’ll be one to keep in your pocket
	DOMENICK Noel: Keep him in my pocket, but he’s going to be a flipper. He looks like he can get mad at anything.

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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

“Survivor: Ghost Island” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Kellyn Bechtold
Age: 31
Hometown: North Manchester, Indiana
Current residence: Denver, Colorado
Occupation: Career Counselor

Gordon Holmes: It says in your bio that you got married and divorced within a year. You don’t mess around.
Kellyn Bechtold: (Laughs)
Holmes: What happened?
Bechtold: Nothing really happened. I’d been with this person for six years. He’s on his own journey and I needed to be on mine. We went on our honeymoon to Iceland and I realized it wasn’t where I wanted to be for the rest of my life. I wish him all the very best, I just woke up and realized that the life I wanted and things I love about myself, those things weren’t coming out in the relationship. I’m excited to have the things I like about myself out here to play “Survivor.”
Holmes: Were you able to maintain a friendship?
Bechtold: No. I moved out and I haven’t spoken to him since then. It’ll be interesting when he sees me on “Survivor.”
Holmes: So he’ll have no idea? One day he’s going to turn on the TV and be like, “Hey, that’s my ex-wife starving.”
Bechtold: (Laughs) That’s right.
Holmes: Is he a “Survivor” fan?
Bechtold: No. That’s why I had to divorce him. (Laughs)
Holmes: I don’t know the guy, but you’re better off.

Holmes: You’ve participated in an MMA Fitness Challenge. Does this involve striking?
Bechtold: Oh…no. That’s so funny. After I moved out and I was finishing grad school, I was wrapping up my final work there. I got a new job, I decided to put myself through this six-week challenge of training in MMA fighting, which is so out there for me. I’m not this buff person. I’m not here to be a physical threat.
Holmes: But if anyone messes with you, you can put them in a triangle choke.
Bechtold: Yeah! No, not really. It was not aggressive in any way, but we did get to punch bags and kick pads and stuff. It was a really fun thing. And I was in the best shape of my life for my 30th birthday. I was in better shape then than I am now, but don’t tell anybody.
Holmes: When this is over, they’re going to ask me what you deal is. I’m going to say, you should’ve cast her six months ago when it was her 30th birthday.
Bechtold: (Laughs)

Holmes: Speaking of, why do you think you were cast?
Bechtold: I wore these black-and-white checkered pants and Jeff said he remember those. So, it might be the pants.
Holmes: That’s the key to that dude’s heart.
Bechtold: (Laughs) Apparently.
Holmes: Away from the show, all he does is play checkers.
Bechtold: (Laughs) I think I was cast because I applied a year ago and nothing happened, so I made a new video and said, “This is what’s happened in my life since last year, I got married, divorced, blah blah blah.” And I think I was so vulnerable and genuine and I had watched videos where people said, “Just be yourself.” And I find the best way to live life is to be yourself and be vulnerable and tell the truth about who you are and where you want to go. That’s how you can relate to people. And people fall in love with you for being genuine. Then they feel like they can be genuine and then they can love themselves more. I’ve been saying that empathy is my superpower. The only thing different about that in “Survivor” is…I’m going to use that.
Holmes: So, you’re fully prepared to lure them in and then slit their throats?
Bechtold: Yeah. That’s the game, right? I couldn’t be fake. I’m falling in love with these people, they’re all little treasure boxes. I can’t wait to see what gems are in there. I will genuinely care about them. But, I know the “Survivor” world enough to know that some of these people might become my best friends for life. And that part will be genuine. And if I never have to do any lying or stabbing to get to the end, then I won’t. But, I’m not above doing that for the game.
Holmes: It is weird to think that these 19 strangers who you’re not allowed to talk to…several of them will be in your life forever.
Bechtold: They’ll be guests at my next wedding! (Laughs)
Holmes: (Laughs)

Holmes: I have a question written down that I haven’t been asking to everyone because it’s kind of dumb. “Is there anything that isn’t in your bio that should be?” And then in parenthesis I have, “Ever kill a hobo?”
Bechtold: (Laughs)
Holmes: I don’t know why killing hobos is the first place my mind goes.
Bechtold: I don’t know what the bio says, we haven’t seen it.
Holmes: It’s probably what you filled out at casting.
Bechtold: So, you’re trying to get to the deep, dark secrets.
Holmes: Yes, have you killed a hobo, and if so, how many?
Bechtold: No.
Holmes: I swear I will not tell anyone. However, I will publish it next winter.
Bechtold: What do they not know about me? The “Survivor” folks? I’ve been so open and vulnerable.
Holmes: My secret is I almost killed a player during pre-game interviews.
Bechtold: What happened? Should I be worried?
Holmes: Not too worried. In “Survivor: Philippines,” a framed document fell off a gazebo and cracked over Dawson’s head. It probably wasn’t my fault.
Bechtold: Oh…OK, I think my thing is I got out of a speeding ticket once by saying I had a female procedure done and I really needed to get home.
Holmes: What’s a female procedure?
Bechtold: I don’t know, but it worked.

Holmes: Have you set any boundaries as far as what you will and will not do ethically?
Bechtold: Lying, cheating, stealing, I’ll do whatever. But I will not attack someone personally. I’m not saying I won’t call people names in confessionals. That guy is fricking annoying.
Holmes: So harsh, “Fricking annoying?”
Bechtold: Is that bad?
Holmes: No, I’ve been called worse today.
Bechtold: So, I might do that, but if someone shares something with me personally, I’d never use that. I think we should all hold each other sacred as far as personal life. Now, I know not to tell people about super secrets that I don’t want to be said on television. I think people deserve to come out of this game with some bit of privacy.
Holmes: At the end of the day, you’re people and you have to go back to your regular lives.
Bechtold: Yes, I don’t want to go too far. For me it was the Will and Shirin thing. And he said, “I understand why your family doesn’t love you,” or something like that. That stuff is too far. It’s one thing to say, “You’re the most annoying (expletive deleted) person to live with out here.” But to say, “Your mother should have abandoned you” is too much.
Holmes: What about flirting?
Bechtold: In my real life I’m not above flirting, but you have to understand where you are in the deck of cards. It’s human poker and that’s not my hand. This place is Barbie doll central up the wazoo. That’s not me. I don’t have the long blonde hair. I’m not the cute girl, that’s not why I’m here. Will I make people feel good about themselves? Make people feel loved? Flirting in a…this sounds screwed up…like in a motherly way.
Holmes: (Laughs)
Bechtold: That sounds so wrong. But, like in a caring way. I’m going to make you feel good about yourself. I’ve got to live on my social game. I’m not going to win every challenge.
Holmes: Except for the MMA ones.
Bechtold: Yes, if there’s a round kick to the face challenge, I’ve got it.

Holmes: You’re in the dark as far as twists and themes. Any guesses?
Bechtold: I can’t figure it out. I can’t put people into buckets. There aren’t enough old people to do “Millennials vs. Gen-X.” I’d love a guys vs. girls theme. But, I don’t think it’s that.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you two “Survivor” situations. You tell me which one you would rather deal with.
Bechtold: OK.
Holmes: Align with a Hillary supporter or a Trump supporter?
Bechtold: Oh…dear God. A Hillary supporter I would rather spend time with…but a…oh…is this a Republicans vs. Democrats season? If so, then shoot me. I can’t even fake it, Hillary.
Holmes: Steal a vote or eliminate a juror?
Bechtold: Eliminate a juror.
Holmes: Endurance challenge or word puzzle?
Bechtold: Word puzzle.
Holmes: Align with a racist or a sexist?
Bechtold: I guess a sexist. I play that game all the time being a career woman. You deal with sexism every (expletive deleted) day. I think I’d know how to handle it.
Holmes: Voted out first or before the final Tribal?
Bechtold: Final Tribal.
Holmes: Align with an adulterer or a tax cheat?
Bechtold: A tax cheat.
Holmes: Lose the family challenge or win and have to decide who to take along?
Bechtold: Lose.
Holmes: Caught stealing food or idol hunting?
Bechtold: Caught idol hunting.
Holmes: Align with a super fan or someone who doesn’t watch the show?
Bechtold: Someone who doesn’t watch the show.
Holmes: Dance challenge or karaoke challenge?
Bechtold: (Laughs) I’d lose both.
Holmes: Too bad, cause that’s this season’s theme.
Bechtold: (Laughs) That would be so fun, but I’d have to pick dancing. Karaoke, I’d be (expletive deleted) because I can’t keep a tune.

Holmes: What kind of first impression do you think you put out there?
Bechtold: I think that I come across as someone who loves life and is happy to be here. I think I’m very approachable. I don’t think I seem like a bitch or cold-hearted. I wonder if people think I’m smart. I’ve been reading a big book. You have so much time. But, I was wondering if I shouldn’t have brought this 600-page book.
Holmes: Hold the book upside-down.
Bechtold: (Laughs) That’d do it.

NOTE: The cast members do not know each other’s names at this point. I showed Kellyn a picture of each of the competitors and asked her to share her first impressions.

	LIBBY Bechtold: That girl was reading Malcolm Gladwell and she looks like that? She’s going to do well.
	ANGELA Bechtold: She’s kept to herself. Seems quiet. Will be more of a listener than a talker.
	CHELSEA Bechtold: She looks like a blast. If I’m going to the club, I’m calling her.
	JENNA Bechtold: I’m not sure about her. She seems self-confident and it seems like she doesn’t need me. I like it when people need me.
	GONZALEZ Bechtold: I can not get a read on her at all. She keeps to herself. I can’t picture her at home watching “Survivor.”
	STEPHANIE Bechtold: She is going to be the life of the party. Those are the kinds of people I want to have a good time with.
	MORGAN Bechtold: She seems very smart. I’d love to work with her. She’s like a female empowerment person. I’d like her to be my fourth. I can convince people to vote her out because she’s walking around with a Louis Vuitton bag. She does not need the million dollars.
	LAUREL Bechtold: She’s been fairly introverted. She smiles a lot. She looks really young
	DESIREE Bechtold: I haven’t seen her interact with the staff at Ponderosa. She’s not smiling at anyone. She has kept very much to herself. She either needs a friend and will be open to me coming up to her, or she’s a non-emotional person.
	BRADLEY Bechtold: I’m scared of him because he seems smart and super friendly. He’s not super buff, so he doesn’t seem like a challenge threat. He seems dangerous.
	BRENDAN Bechtold: He’s my favorite. If I had to vote right now to give someone the money, it’d be him.
	CHRIS Bechtold: He seems like a bro/beach guy, but he’s reading this book called “The Four Agreements.” That’s a book I’ve read with my yoga friends. I’m wondering who bought him that book.
	SEBASTIAN Bechtold: My mom is so worried about me. She’s been praying that there’s someone who can provide me food. I think he’s the answer to my mom’s prayers. He looks like he knows his way around the ocean.
	WENDELL Bechtold: He’s my first choice for an alliance. He was there during casting and when I got to the airport. We smiled at each other. I feel like whenever we’re in the same space with each other that it’s like, “I’ve got you.” But, we’ll see.
	JACOB Bechtold: This guy is “Survivor” super fan. He probably has every show memorized. I may work with him for a little bit. But, I don’t like the idea of someone knowing the show better than I do.
	JAMES Bechtold: This guy is so sweet. He’s always so put together. His hair is perfect, his shirt is on a hanger. His whole life seems to be incredibly perfect. I wonder how he’s going to handle the elements.
	MICHAEL Bechtold: I just don’t know. He seems like a bro, but maybe he has a sensitive side.
	DONATHAN Bechtold: He’s really a bunch of contradictions. He has these heavy work boots, but the rest of his personality doesn’t seem like a farm boy.
	DOMENICK Bechtold: This is who I think of as a Boston Rob wannabe. He seems like he thinks he knows what he’s doing. He’s going to want to be a leader, and I’m going to let him. Take attention away from me.

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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

“Survivor: Ghost Island” (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Ghost Island.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Brendan Shapiro
Age: 41
Hometown: Herndon, Virginia
Current residence: Herndon, Virginia
Occupation: Physical Education Teacher

Gordon Holmes: It says here you left your unsatisfying, high-paying job to start your own business. Is that aside from the teaching?
Brendan Shapiro: Yeah, I’ve only been a teacher for…we’ll, I’m just about to turn 41.
Holmes: Yeah, dude. As a 40 year old, I don’t appreciate the amazing physique you’re parading around here with.
Shapiro: (Laughs) When I was 39 I started teaching. So, I’ve only been a teacher for the last year and a half. Before that I ran a small retail business with my wife and her sister and her sister’s husband. About two years ago we sold out half of the business to our business partners.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Shapiro: That’s a good question. I’ve been trying to crack this nut for sixteen years. I first applied in 2001. And, I think it was “Survivor 4.” I made it to the semi-final round. I thought I did fine, but I had the sense at the time that as a 25 year old with a kid, who was married, I maybe wasn’t what they were looking for. And I told my wife, “If they’re still making this show when I’m 40, I think I’ve got a shot.” And from then to now, I applied like 13 times. And at various stages got a little bit of the way down the road. And finally here at 40, I got the nod.
Holmes: People ask me why I don’t play “Survivor,” and I’ve always said, “I’m not good looking and muscular enough to be the young guy, and I’m not old enough to be the old cranky guy.” So, if we see “Survivor 70” it might be my time.
Shapiro: Right in your wheelhouse. (Laughs) But, I think the time was right. I’m so lucky to be here, I think I’ll do better now than I would have back then. It sounds cliché, but I feel like I’m wiser now.

Holmes: Is there anything you left out of your bio? Any bachelor parties that went horribly wrong? Are you actually Brendan’s evil twin?
Shapiro: (Laughs) No, I’ve never been arrested. In my youth I ran from the police many times, but was never caught. Nothing too bad.

Holmes: Is there anything about your backstory that you’re going to keep a secret from your tribe?
Shapiro: Yeah, I’m going to tell them that I’m a teacher. And that’s easy to talk about because I am. But, I’m going to omit the part where I ran a business for a dozen years. I’m also going to make sure that I keep people in the dark about me being a big fan of the show. I just feel like that marks you. It’s just another threat level. I don’t want people to look at me and think this guy does well in challenges and he knows the game. I want them to think I’m happy to be here. High fives and smiles all around.
Holmes: When they hand you that buff, you’ve got to play it cool.
Shapiro: Exactly.

Holmes: Have you set any personal boundaries as far as lying, cheating, stealing, etc.?
Shapiro: No, my personal opinion on “Survivor” is that it’s no different from any other game. When my son was nine years old, he was playing football. And you had nine year olds who were trying to trick the other players into thinking they were going to run one way. Every game we play is about deception, so why do people get bent out of shape here? The only difference is you’re deceiving more with your words than your actions. The only thing I’d say is, I wouldn’t be gratuitously nasty. I’m not going to say things just to make someone feel bad. I think people who do that, like Russell, are sociopaths. They’re probably mean to dogs and waiters.
Holmes: You’ve got that wedding ring. I usually ask a question about flirting, but I’d imagine that’ll be tough to do with that on your finger.
Shapiro: Yeah, and I’m an old fart. I’ll be 41 in a couple of weeks. We’ve got a bunch of good looking 20-somethings. They can flirt with each other. I have a lot of tools to use in this game, that’s probably not one of them.

Holmes: You’re in the dark as far as twists and themes. Any guesses as to what’s going on?
Shapiro: No, not a one. I’ve been trying. How can you divide this group up and make a theme? So, it’s either a theme that’s never been done before and it has to do with our characteristics. Or, it has nothing to do with us and it’s a new twist like Redemption Island back in the day.

Holmes: Alright, I’ll give you two “Survivor” situations. You tell me which one you would prefer.
Shapiro: OK.
Holmes: Align with a Hillary supporter or a Trump supporter?
Shapiro: I think…a Trump supporter, because Trump supporters believe they’re standing on principle and are maybe less easily moved off of that principle. And out here predictability is a good thing.
Holmes: Steal a vote or eliminate a juror?
Shapiro: Steal a vote. You’ve got to get to the end for it to matter. If I get to the final three, I think I can talk my way into a win regardless of who’s on the jury.
Holmes: Endurance challenge or word puzzle?
Shapiro: Endurance challenge.
Holmes: Align with a racist or a sexist?
Shapiro: (Laughs) They’re both bad. I guess a sexist? There’s an even split of men and women. That’s a tough one.
Holmes: Voted out first or before the final Tribal?
Shapiro: Before final Tribal, without question. That’s my biggest fear is being voted out first.
Holmes: Align with an adulterer or a tax cheat?
Shapiro: Tax cheat.
Holmes: Lose the family challenge or win and have to decide who to take along?
Shapiro: Win and decide.
Holmes: Caught stealing food or caught idol hunting?
Shapiro: Idol hunting.
Holmes: Align with a super fan or someone who doesn’t watch the show?
Shapiro: Doesn’t watch the show. A super fan is more likely to turn on you.
Holmes: Dance challenge or karaoke challenge?
Shapiro: I could nail either one of those. If I have to pick, I’ll say dance.
Holmes: What’s your go-to karaoke jam?
Shapiro: The last time I did karaoke I did “Hard to Handle” by the Black Crowes.

Holmes: What kind of first impression do you think you put out there?
Shapiro: I’ve been accused of seeming really intense, just in life, back home. I think my resting face is a very intense kind of face. And I don’t mean it to be. I’ll be perfectly content, I’ve got a monkey on a unicycle rolling around in my head. And they think I’m stewing about something. So, I’ve got to do a good job of having a happy face. And here, I’ve been trying to smile at people, seem approachable.

NOTE: The cast members do not know each other’s names at this point. I showed Brendan a picture of each of his competitors and asked him to share his first impressions.

	LIBBY Shapiro: I think she’s probably the youngest person out here. I’m tempted to say that she’s young and doesn’t know what she’s in for, but she could be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
	ANGELA Shapiro: When I saw her I thought I wasn’t the oldest one here. She’s probably in my demo. If we’re together, hopefully she’ll feel like a kindred spirit.
	CHELSEA Shapiro: Very athletic. The whole cast is athletic. I’m guessing she’s a high-level athlete.
	JENNA Shapiro: She’s interesting. She’s borderline aloof. Maybe she’s trying not to let anybody in.
	GONZALEZ Shapiro: Kind of a loner. Keeps to herself. She’s got a bunch of tattoos, I’m interested to hear the stories.
	STEPHANIE Shapiro: Very bubbly. I’m guessing she’s outgoing. I think I can work with her.
	MORGAN Shapiro: She’s got one of the kindest faces out here. She’s another one I could make a relationship with.
	LAUREL Shapiro: Someone else who I think could be a high-level athlete. She’s got a very strong, muscular build. Seems personable. Very friendly.
	KELLYN Shapiro: My first thought for her is she’s a teacher. She has that classic teacher look.
	DESIREE Shapiro: She’s interesting, I can’t figure her out at all. I’ve tried to engage. She’s got a serious game face.
	BRADLEY Shapiro: My guess is he’s a super fan. He’s got that Ivy League buttoned-up look to him. I think he’s very analytical. He thinks of himself as a real student of the game. Those guys you have to look out for.
	BRENDAN Shapiro: Oof…this guy. Holmes: Future “Survivor” champion. Shapiro: I think he’s got the tools to get it done.
	CHRIS Shapiro: All-American there. I’m guessing he’s a football quarterback or something. My guess would be is he’s not a big fan of “Survivor.”
	SEBASTIAN Shapiro: Classic surf dude. “Survivor” casts a lot of people like this. Good energy, positive guy.
	WENDELL Shapiro: He doesn’t smile. He looks really intense. I think he’s come to play. Not the friendliest demeanor, but who knows?
	JACOB Shapiro: He’s funny. Looking at him I thought, Fozzy Bear. And then today he was wearing a bandana and he looked like a bearded Richard Simmons. I bet he’s full of personality. Probably a super fan too.
	JAMES Shapiro: He walks around like Superman. Big strong guy, chest is out. Seems friendly. No idea what his deal is. I’m guessing he’s some kind of executive.
	MICHAEL Shapiro: I’m going to guess New Jersey. Blue-collar kind of guy.
	DONATHAN Shapiro: I think he’s a super fan. He’s looking at everyone sideways. I’ve got to look out for him.
	DOMENICK Shapiro: I have a feeling he might be like a Tony 2.0. I bet he’s full of personality, maybe a New Jersey guy.

Don’t miss the season premiere of “Survivor: Ghost Island” – Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 8 pm ET.

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