Posts Tagged ‘jeff probst’

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »

‘Survivor’ Strategy Roundtable: Jeff Probst, Parvati Shallow Take on the White-Collars

February 20, 2015

"Survivor: Worlds Apart" (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

[xfinity-record-button id=”7116600190773202112″ program_type=”series”]

The days before the launch of a new season of “Survivor” are full of fun little “what-ifs.” What if Corinne Kaplan and Ace Gordon team up to rule Gabon with a cruel, yet hilarious iron fist? What if Michael Skupin literally loses a limb? What if the young tribe tries to trade the Medallion of Power for some Fun Dip?

So, I thought it’d be a fun exercise and a chance to learn more about this season’s contestants if I asked; what if “Survivor” host Jeff Probst, “Survivor: Micronesia” champion Parvati Shallow, and some other random dude played with the “Worlds Apart” cast?

Jeff Probst: I’d align with Carolyn quickly. I think people won’t see her and she’ll blend quickly. She’s got that east-coast thing that I don’t have. I’d go straight up to her and say, “You’ve got something I don’t have. Let’s meet the coasts in the middle and run this game.”
Gordon Holmes: I’d really have to see how Carolyn interacts with others before teaming up with her. If she can stay cool, we’re in business. If she’s looking like a first boot, I don’t want to put my neck on the line to save her. I do think she’d be great to work with though because she has good enthusiasm and fun catchphrases.
Parvati Shallow: I like Carolyn, but for some reason I think she’s going to clash with some of the personalities in her tribe. She’s got strong opinions and is really loyal. I would keep her around because I think she’d stick with me and she’d take some of the heat off of me by rubbing some people the wrong way.


Probst: I’d want to align with him, but there isn’t room for him in my game. Only because I think he’ll beat me.
Shallow: This guy is so full of himself. I think he’ll just get on everyone’s nerves by trying to be the big shot know-it-all. I’d flirt with him but wouldn’t worry about pledging allegiance. He’s going to dig his own grave.
Holmes: How is this guy not a dream partner? He’s fit, he’s charismatic, he’s probably going to make a ton of enemies. Perfect person to team up with. He’s an alpha, I’d be a good lieutenant. And if it looked like he was becoming the jury’s fave, I’d lose him at final five.
Probst: I don’t trust Max. He probably knows the game as well as I do, and I don’t like that. So, simply by the fact that I see him as competition, I’m going to take that beard, I’m going to bury him in the sand, and let the scorpions have at him.
Shallow:  This guy knows too much. He’s been studying the game for years, and he’s incredibly manipulative. I would cut him day one, way before he saw it coming and could do any damage.
Holmes: I’m torn on Max. I could see us working together and having a grand old time, but I don’t want to go to the end with him and I don’t think he wants to go with me. It’d become a matter of who bounces who first. That’d probably make for some really tense Tribals. I think I’d rather partner with some lower-risk people.
Probst: Shirin is going to be too much for me. I’m going to ask for a recast. I’m going to ask to be put on a new tribe. They do that right?
Holmes: You could pull some strings. OK, here’s the thing with Shirin; she’s a great person to take to the end. She’s mega smart and she’ll probably be making some enemies along the way. However, most people have a “Just get me to the final three and I’ll figure it out from there” attitude. I’m sure Shirin is going to be thinking about who she wants to take to the end on day one. So, I’d have to pull a page from Sophie Clarke’s playbook and make an intentional enemy or two. In real life, I get along with most people. If it’s looking like I get along with everyone out there, I’d pick a fight with an unpopular future juror or two to make myself a more attractive finals partner.
Shallow: Shirin loves her some Parv. I would work with her because she’s freaking smart. We could put our heads together and pull off some badass moves that would make Jeff’s eyeballs bug out at Tribal.
Shallow: So is savvy. I think she would need to align with someone who needs her to play the protector. She reminds me a lot of Natalie from Micronesia. I would see who So was protective over and make sure she knew that I was also on board with keeping her “little sister” safe.  I would cut So right before the end of the road in a way that ensured I would get her vote at the final Tribal.
Probst: I would align with So. I would tell her, “I think you’re devilish. I think you’re super smart.  I think you can win this game and I’d like to go deep with you to the end. If you beat me, I’m OK with that. If you betray me, I’ll never let you forget it.” Then I would get rid of her three weeks before she’d ever see if coming.
Holmes: Devilish again? OK, with the year So has had, I think she has a lot banking on the next 39 days. Nobody wants to go home, but she realllly doesn’t want to go home. I’d make her feel as safe as possible. Also, it’s not enough for her to go far, she wants to do so in a way that stands out. I’d constantly be building her up and complimenting her moves. Then, I’d try to get rid of her at final seven or final five. No way I’d go to the end with her.

Holmes: I think I could go all the way with Tyler. I think he’s a logical guy and I’d just have to keep giving him logical reasons to stick with me. It would just be a matter of making sure my resume was better than his at the end.
Shallow: Tyler is endearing. He’s strong and pretty self-aware. I think he’d be a great early alliance, but I wouldn’t keep him around for too long after the merge, only because I could see him roping in a few bottom dwellers and making it all the way to the end. Then again, I may just go to the end with him because he could be the Stephen Fishbach to my JT.
Probst: Tyler would be easy for me to work with because I do think he wants to be in my club. I would let him be in my club and I’d keep him because he’s strong and malleable. I’d rein him in, and then when it was time to get rid of somebody, Tyler would go.

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ Strategy Roundtable: Jeff Probst, Parvati Shallow Take on the White-Collars

‘Survivor’ Strategy Roundtable: Jeff Probst, Parvati Shallow Take on the Blue-Collars

February 19, 2015

"Survivor: Worlds Apart" (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

[xfinity-record-button id=”7116600190773202112″ program_type=”series”]

The days before the launch of a new season of “Survivor” are full of fun little “what-ifs.” What if Corinne Kaplan and Ace Gordon team up to rule Gabon with a cruel, yet hilarious iron fist? What if Michael Skupin literally loses a limb? What if the young tribe tries to trade the Medallion of Power for some Fun Dip?

So, I thought it’d be a fun exercise and a chance to learn more about this season’s contestants if I asked; what if “Survivor” host Jeff Probst, “Survivor: Micronesia” champion Parvati Shallow, and some other random dude played with the “Worlds Apart” cast?

Jeff Probst: Dan I would say, “You’re right, dude…you’re right. Funny story!” And until he got in the way, he’s fine. I like Dan. He’s not a bad guy. He’s got a lot of stories. I’m alright with that.
Gordon Holmes: You’ve got to either work with Dan until the end, or cut him immediately. Dan has been dying to play “Survivor” forever. He’s going to want to get in there and make moves and stir things up. And if he’s on the outs, there’s no telling what he’ll do. He reminds me of Jimmy Tarantino in that he has a BIG personality that could rub some people the wrong way. That makes him a solid choice to take to the end. So, work with him or boot him first, nothing in between.
Parvati Shallow: Oh, this guy. No. He’s on par with Rupert for me. Outskies.


Shallow: I would want to work with Kelly. I think she’d easily make friends and allies and could be a valuable source for gathering intel.
Holmes: Kelly worries me because she isn’t going to tell people that she’s a State Trooper. That lie is going to be a tough lie to keep up, just ask Tony. I’m just not a fan of that strategy. It makes me worry what other questionable strategies she has lined up. I’d work with her if I had no other options, but otherwise I’d get rid of her early.
Probst: I’d keep Kelly at arm’s length. I know a lot of people in law enforcement. They’re savvy for a reason. They don’t trust people and they can read people. Kelly, I don’t feel like I could ever trust that she would trust me. I’d have to vote her out.
Probst: I don’t think Lindsey will trust me, so I’ll have to work hard to get her to trust me. I’ll say, “Lindsey, I want to work with you. I’m a lot more like you than you know. And I’m going to prove it to me. Anytime you want, give me a trust challenge and I will pass it.” And then I would do it. If she said we’re going to vote this person out, I’d say, “Sure.” “But they’re you’re best friend.” “I don’t care. I want to work with you.” You’ve got to get Lindsey, she doesn’t trust.
Shallow: Lindsey wants to be included but works hard on looking different. She’s sweet, but she’s also covered in tattoos and is a young mother — so she’s also tough and capable. I think she’s a little too unpredictable to keep around for too long. I could see her messing up one of my plans by wanting to do something her way.
Holmes: Lindsey, Lindsey, Lindsey…out of this cast, she could be first out or she could take the whole thing. I would wait a bit to see how well she gets along with everyone else before approaching her. Don’t get me wrong, I’d try my best to get on her good side, but I’d be wary to talk strategy at first. I guess I’d really need to make sure we clicked before moving forward with her.

Holmes: I love me some Mike. But, playing with him would depend on which Mike we see. If he’s a big bulldozer and he’s driving people crazy, I’d partner with him and let him take all the bullets. If he’s lovable Mike that’s everybody’s bestie, I’d probably have to cut him loose after the merge.
Shallow: He’s too easy. He thinks he’s hard and in control, and I could see him wanting to get rid of the cute girls right away just to prove a point.  
Probst: I’d align with Mike and I would trust Mike. I’d go straight up and say, “I’m from the Midwest, you’re from the Midwest. Let’s just get it done. And I’ll never betray you.” And all of these, it goes without saying, if I’ve got to betray someone? No problem.
Shallow: Yes. I would work with this one. He’s strong and rough and I would play him soft and flirty. He just wants a little affection and feminine sweetness to balance his rugged masculinity.
Probst: I want Rodney around because he’s so fun. If I had to work with him? Rodney’s used to being in charge. I guess I’d go to Rodney and say, “I trust you, man.” Then I’d slowly try to convince him of my ideas.
Holmes: Which sounds better; Team Roddon or Team Gorney? I wouldn’t even need a turkey sandwich and a couple of beers, me and this Boston bad boy are going to the end. He’s a good guy, I’d make him laugh. We’d have a blast. And when it came time to talk strategy I’d be like Jiminy Cricket, not telling him what to do, but offering sound advice.

Probst: I like Sierra, she’s a dark horse.  I think she can malleable enough that she’ll work with you. But, I think she’s got her own ideas, she’s just not used to showing them because she’s kind of a loner in terms of her job. So, I would approach her and say, “I don’t quite get you, but I’m interested.” I would try to get her to woo me.
Shallow: I would play with Sierra. She’s shown she’s capable of pulling off big heists, and I like her determination. She’s also a little nasty and you need that to go far in this game.
Holmes: As a person, Sierra seems awesome. As an alliance buddy, I feel like it would take a lot of time and effort to keep her from being wooed by other alliances. I think her unfamiliarity with the show is what’s giving me pause. But, if she seems solid and isn’t running off to get water and firewood with every other person, we could make a run of it.

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in General, RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ Strategy Roundtable: Jeff Probst, Parvati Shallow Take on the Blue-Collars

‘Survivor’ Strategy Roundtable: Jeff Probst, Parvati Shallow Take on the No-Collars

February 18, 2015

"Survivor: Worlds Apart" (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

[xfinity-record-button id=”7116600190773202112″ program_type=”series”]

The days before the launch of a new season of “Survivor” are full of fun little “what-ifs.” What if Corinne Kaplan and Ace Gordon team up to rule Gabon with a cruel, yet hilarious iron fist? What if Michael Skupin literally loses a limb? What if the young tribe tries to trade the Medallion of Power for some Fun Dip?

So, I thought it’d be a fun exercise and a chance to learn more about this season’s contestants if I asked; what if “Survivor” host Jeff Probst, “Survivor: Micronesia” champion Parvati Shallow, and some other random dude played with the “Worlds Apart” cast?

Parvati Shallow: Hali’s really cute, she’s smart. She has a good perception of other people. I would definitely work with her and trust her in my alliance. As far as getting to the end with her, I think she’d be a clear threat to win the game. So, I’d take her to the end, but not all the way to the end.
Gordon Holmes: I’m really on the fence about her. This cast wants to make moves and I’d have to convince her that the best moves for her would involve keeping me around. We’d need a common enemy instead of just picking off random people we’re not aligned with. I guess the fact that I’m so wary of her speaks to how much respect I have for her potential.
Jeff Probst: So much potential. She’s one of my favorites on this season. When she walked in the door I fell in love. I like the underdog. Me and her to the end.


Probst: My concern would be that she’s going to change her mind. She’s going to get a better offer. She might think it’s fun to vote me out even though it makes no sense. I wouldn’t mind stabbing her in the back. I like Jenn. I’d love to be on a boat that she’s sailing. She’s a blast.
Shallow: (Laughs) I agree with a lot of that. I think Jenn is a bit of a wild card. You want to trust her, you want to like her. She’s definitely incredibly likable. I’d like to play the game with her and hang with her on the beach. But, I think she could go whichever the wind blows. I could see her being manipulative and the kind of person who wants to make a big move. Make a big splash. Make a name for herself.
Holmes: I really like Jenn. She is a mega-ton of fun. But she is scary. I could see myself being very paranoid whenever she wanders off to get water. I’d work with her, but I wouldn’t make any long-term plans with her. Fortunately, I could see her being a juror that would respect and reward you if you cut their throat.
Probst: I’m not going to align with Joe. He’s just too young for me, I don’t trust his life experience. Way too likable and good-looking for me to give him a chance to go deep in the game. I’m going to use him until I can get rid of him.
Shallow: I disagree. I really like Joe and I don’t think he’d be able to beat me at a final jury. I’d take him all the way to the end. And I think that he and Hali would be a good combination. I’d work with those two. Something about Joe makes me really want to trust him.
Holmes: Joe is my dream alliance. Golden boy, challenge stallion, I’d be no threat in his eyes. He can take all of the attention off of me and what I’m doing. I’d just have to get rid of him in the final stages. No way I’m sitting next to this guy at the end. And if the tide does turn against us, him getting voted off would give me time to scramble.

Shallow: Nina reminds me of Kathleen Sleckman from “Micronesia.” She’s one of those people I think wants to be liked. So, if she feels comfortable, and liked, and valued, and included, then she can be an asset and a vote. But as far as relying on her for strategic plans? I wouldn’t do that. She’d be like Will to me. You’d tell them how to vote.
Holmes: Yeah, in a season that seems overrun with hardcore players, she’s going to be someone who’s happy not to be first and then happy not to be second. I think I’d try to do a thing where I’d make others think she’s on the outs like Monica Culpepper in “Blood vs. Water.”
Probst: Eh…Nina…it’s not happening. She’s not meant for this game long term. Nice woman, but I wouldn’t even consider aligning with her.
Holmes: Harsh.
Probst: Hey, it’s how I feel.
Holmes: I like Vince. I think I could definitely work with him. Let him take the lead, hang back. “Yeah Vince, you’re right Vince.” Then I’d have to get a gauge on how potential jury members were liking him before deciding when to make a move on him. If he was rubbing people the wrong way, I’d try to take him to the end.
Probst: He’s not going to be in my alliance. If I was on a tribe with him and I had to align with him, my approach would be, “Brother, just tell me what to do. You’re clearly the wise one. You’ve lived on the streets. I haven’t.” Then I’d follow his lead and hope for a switch or a merge.
Shallow: Yeah, I agree. This guy reminds me of Coach so much. I would appeal to his ego. I’d fan the ego, give him a lot of praise, a lot of compliments. I’d make him feel really comfortable, like he’s running the show. And then, get rid of him whenever you need to.

Probst: I would probably align with Will. And I’d make him want to please me. I’d say, “This is the way it’s going to go; my way. I know this game, you don’t. If you move left when I tell you to move right? You’re done.” And eventually I’d get rid of him because he’s super likable.
Shallow: He’s really likable. But, he could also be a liability. He doesn’t seem to really know the game much. I wouldn’t get that close to him. I’d think he’d go with the last person that told him what to do. I’d make sure I was that last person he spoke with before Tribal Council.
Holmes: Yeah, he’s my Edna Ma. If he’s loyal and listens, we can go a long way. If he wavers, he’s gone. I think this cast is a bunch of players and the jury will really appreciate gameplay. So, if I can get a coaster on my side, all the better for the final Tribal.

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in General, RealityTV, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ Strategy Roundtable: Jeff Probst, Parvati Shallow Take on the No-Collars

‘Survivor’ White Collar Max – “I Don’t Think There’s Any Filler on this Cast”

February 17, 2015

"Survivor: Worlds Apart" (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

[xfinity-record-button id=”7116600190773202112″ program_type=”series”]

Name: Max Dawson, Ph.D.
Age: 37
Current Residence: Topanga, California
Occupation: Media Consultant

Gordon Holmes: Your pet peeve is waiting. You’ve been sitting around, not talking to anyone for days. How are you holding up?
Max Dawson: The last couple of days have really put my psyche to the test with all of the sitting around, all of the inactivity; physical inactivity, mental inactivity, social inactivity. I feel like they’re pushing us to the brink of snapping, and then right when we get there Probst is going to say, “Come on in guys!” and they’re going to turn the cameras on and let us go at each other. So, I recognize what they’re doing. It’s been really hard. I think it’s going to put me into a fine form for when the game gets underway.

Holmes: You’re a super fan. You even teach a course in “Survivor.” Is it better to come into the game knowing so much about the show or is it better to trust your gut?
Dawson: I think being a “Survivor” super fan is something that really only hurts people in the game. I see one of two things happening; people start to over-analyze everything through the lens of past seasons. Well, it’s been nine days and we’ve got three tribes, so we probably have a swap coming up so I should probably be making my decision on this vote based on…you can’t do that. They love to lull people into a sense of security and then flip the script on them. The other thing is if you’re identified as a superfan, your competitors, many of whom will have very little familiarity with the show might identify that as some sort of advantage and use it as a reason to target you. I feel like it’s not something I’m going to hide, but it’s not something that I feel gives me any sort of advantage in this game. Quite the contrary, I think it puts a target on me.
Holmes: So, if your background comes out, it comes out.
Dawson: There are a lot of lies I intend to tell. What I do for a living is not one of them. I’m not going to say that I’ve met a lot of people who’ve participated in the game. But, if it comes up and somebody knows my class or they saw me on Twitter, I’m not going to lie about it. I’m going to do my best to say, “I love ‘Survivor’, I’m so excited to be here. But when we’re out here it’s about what’s in our hearts, in our heads, and in our guts as opposed to how many episodes we’ve watched.”

Holmes: You said “the game deserves to be honored.” Which is (expletive deleted) poetry.
Dawson: (Laughs)
Holmes: However, I read that and I worry that someone might make less-than-strategic moves to entertain the audience. That usually comes off poorly.
Dawson: When I think of honoring the game, I think of the way Jonathan Penner plays. He plays hard, he play passionately, he does what is asked of him which is giving every ounce of blood and sweat on the challenge field, which is fighting hard for his life in the social game, which is giving amazing confessionals, and doing great Tribals. It’s really participating. It’s throwing yourself in there and not trying to play under the radar. It’s not using this as a platform to get famous. It’s recognizing that “Survivor” is bigger than the individuals that play it. That “Survivor” rewards those who honor it. Those who play hard, those that give to “Survivor” everything it deserves…I think things turn out pretty well for them.  They might not win, they might not be fan favorite, but they end up having really positive experiences.

Holmes: You’re very prominent in the “Survivor” online community. What happens if Probst drops you on a beach and three days later he’s snuffing your torch?
Dawson: Listen, there are certainly a lot of pressures that are on me that are not faced by the typical first-time player. In putting myself out here, I’m taking a big risk. Especially because I’m not just a young guy in his mid 20s who grew up watching this show. I’m a guy who actually stood up in front of a classroom and stood out in front of the world and expressed some kind of expertise about this show. So, I’m thinking there are probably a lot of people who would love to see me fall flat on my face. Some of them might be involved in production. I can’t imagine that someone like Jeff wouldn’t love to see this so-called expert go out there and be undercut by his own hubris. Well, the difference for me is that the appeal has never about the trivia. It’s not about the personalities. It’s about that primal fantasy, reconnecting with that core essential element of yourself, that reptilian instinctual person that lurks inside of us. That Robinson Crusoe fantasy, the Swiss Family Robinson, the thing that’s captured by “Lost,” by all of these pop culture texts that have tapped into that element of “what will happen to you when you are stripped of all of society’s trapping and are put into the wild.” In that case, I have a great deal of confidence that good things will come out of me. I will thrive in that environment.

Holmes: The first season I attended was “Survivor: Gabon.” I remember getting on this plane and being worried that this show I enjoyed was about to be ruined. What if Probst is a jerk? What if they have catering for the players? What if it’s really on a Hollywood backlot? Fortunately none of that was true. Are you worried about ruining something you’ve grown to love?
Dawson: There’s always the risk that when you find out how the sausage gets made that you’ll never be able to enjoy another cookout. That’s something that by nature of what I do for a living,  I’ve had to contend with for a long time. By profession, I’m someone who takes his passions and studies them for money. I watch TV for money. I think about TV and pop culture for a living.
Holmes: It’s an awesome job.
Dawson: Exactly! Take your passions and make them your life. And that’s sort of what I’ve done with “Survivor.” It’s been a part of my life over the last eight years where it’s something that people identify me with having not even played it. And I feel fortunate that I’ll meet someone and they’ll say, “I know you, you taught that class on ‘Survivor.’” To be in any way able to bask in the halo of such a storied, legendary entertainment franchise is great. There certainly is the risk that a negative experience out here could sour my perception of the game. But the way I’m going into it is very much the way Ian Terry went into “Big Brother.” I want to eat slop. I want to go to Exile Island. I want to be on a (expletive deleted) tribe that goes to Tribal all the time. I want the “Survivor” experience, including being there on day 39 and explaining to the jury why I deserve the million dollars.

Holmes: Any worries that you might have trouble communicating if you’re viewing the game up here and someone else is down here?
Dawson: Certainly. The appeal for me has many layers. There’s the primal layer that I mentioned before. I love the unintentional comedy of “Survivor.” Some of the moments that I talk  about the most are when Bruce Kanegai and Bob Dawg locked up in the (expletive deleted) and drank the wine and pissed everybody off. Those are the things that stick out for me. So, I certainly have that weird geeky appreciation for the show that might go over the heads of people who say, “I’m just like Parvati.” They were given “Heroes vs. Villains” and “Cagayan” on DVD and the three episodes they’ve watched are their entire exposure to the show. I recognize those people are going to be out here, and I don’t dismiss them. Those people are out here for a reason. And based on the casting of season 28, it seems like they’re moving away from putting in the human mannequins, the people who are just filling space. When you’ve got a season with returning players like “Philippines” and you’ve got Penner, you need a Katie and Dana. Because Penner is going to take up three times the screen time as a normal person. And they’re going to take up a third of the time of a normal player.
Holmes: So we can expect Max Dawson – Screentime Hog?
Dawson: I’m not one to be at a loss for words. Especially when I’m talking about my two favorite subjects; “Survivor” and myself.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it’ll be?
Dawson: I don’t think there’s any filler on this cast. They love the fact that people played hard on “Cagayan.” Jeff talked about it. You guys have talked about it. The fans have talked about it. I expect them to build on that success. My guess is eighteen people, divided into three tribes, and there are a lot of players. Either that or Malcolm and Reynold are at some off-site location waiting for the ultimate “Survivor” bro-down.
Holmes: “Survivor: Brodown.” That’s the subhead.
Dawson: (Laughs) “Survivor: Bro-back Island.”

Holmes: You mentioned lies you’re going to tell. Do you already have some brewing behind that beard?
Dawson: Not so much about myself. I tend to believe that people who go into the game prepared to tell lies about themselves…more often than not it goes wrong. Those interactions are the ones that build the trust that you later on will exploit when you blindside someone. So, they’re not identity-based lies. RC tried to tell people she was a receptionist as opposed to someone who worked in finance. That’s something you have to keep on your mind the entire time. I want to be keeping track of the fact that I told Dalton that I’m getting rid of Gordon and I told Gordon that we’re getting rid of Dalton.
Holmes: But you’d be keeping me right?
Dawson: We’ll see.
Holmes: (Expletive deleted)

Holmes: Women love, as a rule, “Survivor” super fans.
Dawson: Do they?
Holmes: They can’t get enough of them. So, will you be using flirtatious ways to get ahead?
Dawson: I don’t see that as being something. I’m comfortable with it, but I don’t anticipate it being a big part of my game. There are much cuter, younger guys with bigger muscles who I anticipate will attract that sort of attention. And I’m happy to let them too because we know any semblance of a showmance usually places a target on the backs of the people who are participating in it. If there’s someone out there who likes arrogant intellectuals with glorious beards, be they man or woman and they want to flirt with me to solidify an alliance? I’ll do anything to win this game.

Holmes: Any experience in the outdoors?
Dawson: I spend a lot of time camping, hiking, in the outdoors. In my early twenties I spent a couple of years living in Australia, most of it in the back of a van, doing the hippie/vagabond thing. I’ve never roughed it quite as hard as we’re about to in a few hours.

Holmes: If you could align with any past Survivor, who would it be and why?
Dawson: Wow…this is a loaded question for me. I think a lot of people will read this and be disappointed that I didn’t select them. I would pick Dawn Meehan. Not only because I find her to be a strong player, but I think she’s someone I can relate to on an intellectual level. I’ve just always loved Dawn. I’ve found her to be the ultimate wing woman. She’s trustworthy, loyal, tends to cry a little bit, but that’s endearing. I like that. Plus, I’m looking for a bread delivery in the near future.

Holmes: How do you do with extreme heat?
Dawson: I prefer extreme heat to extreme cold. I hated living in Chicago, I love living in LA.
Holmes: What about the sun?
Dawson: I’m a sun worshiper.
Holmes: Lack of food?
Dawson: That’s going to be tough. In preparing to play, when I was first contacted, and I was contacted, I’m not an applicant, I weighed 153 pounds. I’m 6’3”. I’d gotten so badly out of shape that I didn’t have anything on my bones. Between then and now, I fluctuate between 195 and 200. So, that required a lot of eating. Eating has become like my second job. The fact that I’m about to go cold turkey off of calories is a little daunting.
Holmes: What about extreme paranoia?
Dawson: I feel both positive and apprehensive about it. Positive because it suits my personality. I’m kind of a hyper vigilant person who can monitor three conversations at a restaurant while still being able to pretend to be interested in what the person across from me is saying. I tend to pick up on those subtle signs. I’m apprehensive because after 39 days and I’ve won and I have to go back to regular life, how do I reintegrate into society? It’s something that will come naturally, but I want to keep it in check.

Holmes: What are your thoughts on this cast?
Dawson: There are some interesting characters. There’s one guy who I think medical should take a look at. I think he was attacked by a seagull, there are feathers everywhere. It was quite tragic.
Holmes: I see what you did there.
Dawson: There are your requisite mom types, and it’s so funny to think an older woman on “Survivor” is 32. There is a guy who looks like he has a picture of Malcolm in his mirror and he looks at that picture every morning and he says, “You and me, bro. You and me.” He’s copied Malcolm down to the scrunchie.
Holmes: You can’t blame him.
Dawson: Listen, he is Malcolm. He is Mr. Survivor. There are a couple of bros. If you have a Malcolm you have to have a Reynold and Eddie, right? There’s going to be some broing down going on. There are some younger women who look like they could be in that vulnerable position where they’re looking to align themselves with a more experienced individual, be it male or female. But, who knows? They could be a Parvati-type and be extremely cunning and manipulative. There’s one guy who I know if going to be tough competition. Tall, well-built, blonde hair, clearly carries himself like someone who has accomplished a lot in life. He has an observant look and a self-assured gait. I’ve been keeping my eye on him. He’s either my top competition or my number-one ally. Either way I don’t want to be next to him at the end. I take every one of them seriously even though I might want to go off on their fashion sense. But, each one of them is here for a reason. Each one has a story. Even if their story is they’re a pageant girl who caught the eye of someone in casting. They’ve got something that made them stand out.

Holmes: So when you win…
Dawson: Right, when.
Holmes: First of all, I don’t think there will be any living with you anymore.
Dawson: Please.
Holmes: What’s the plan for the money?
Dawson: I just got a divorce. So, I have half a set of silverware, half a set of glassware. Me and the cats, we’re roughing it in a little 375-foot rental. It’d be to start building up my life again. I was with my high school sweetheart and I’m 37 now. It’s almost twenty years of a relationship that’s come to an end. I’m starting a new life. This is a great transitional moment for me. Get something crazy out of my system and then go back to life, hopefully a million dollars richer.

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ White Collar Max – “I Don’t Think There’s Any Filler on this Cast”

‘Survivor’ No Collar Nina – “Sometimes You Have to Destroy Relationships to Win”

February 16, 2015

'Survivor: Worlds Apart' (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

[xfinity-record-button id=”7116600190773202112″ program_type=”series”]

Name: Nina Poersch
Age: 51
Current Residence: Palmdale, California
Occupation: Hearing Advocate

Gordon Holmes: You are a huge “Survivor” fan.
Nina Poersch: Huge! I used to have “Survivor” parties with my girlfriends. You bring a dish, but it has to be rice. And her dish has to be beans.
Holmes: What’s it like to sit on a beach in Nicaragua in the days before the game?
Poersch: It’s very exciting…very surreal. I still don’t believe it. I think I’ll believe it for real as soon as I get out there and start playing. But, I’ve watched every season since the first, but don’t ask me a lot of questions about it, because I can’t remember.
Holmes: I won’t, I don’t have that kind of memory either.

Holmes: And you used to live in St. Louis.
Poersch: Yes.
Holmes: But you’re not a Cardinals fan.
Poersch: I should be, but I can’t watch baseball. It’s so boring.
Holmes: Booo…
Poersch: It’s like, is someone ever going to hit the ball and not catch it?
Holmes: This interview is not going well.
Poersch: (Laughs)
Holmes: And you’re into violent, full-contact rugby.
Poersch: I know. Rugby is an awesome sport. It never has timeout. It just goes and it never stops.

Holmes: You’re hearing impaired.
Poersch: I’m deaf. I have a Cochlear Implant, so I wear these little things on my ears and they’re speech processors. They have little microphones. Your sound goes in the microphone, travels up this cord, the magnet attaches to my head that communicates with the computer chip that’s inside my head. And there’s an electrode that goes into your cochlea and that’s what shoots off all of the…I don’t know what they’re called…
Holmes: You were doing an awesome job up until there.
Poersch: (Laughs) Well, it shoots off all of that stuff so I can hear.
Holmes: That’s amazing. I read your bio last night.  I knew there was a deaf person in this cast. I picked you up at the holding tent. We talked the whole way over here. And just now I’m realizing you’re the player with the Cochlear Implant. How long have you been deaf?
Poersch: I didn’t lose my hearing until seven years ago. That’s why my speech is fine. I was only deaf for six months before I got the implant.
Holmes: And what made you lose your hearing?
Poersch: They really don’t know. They call it unexplainable hearing loss. Nobody in my family has lost their hearing. I personally think it was from taking too many over-the-counter pain meds. There was a study that came out that said prolonged use of over-the-counter pain meds in your twenties, by the time you’re  in your forties you have a 90-something-percent chance of losing your hearing. And that was me, I had rebound headaches, which no doctor ever told me that‘s what it was. But I was taking over-the-counter pain meds at least five days a week and more than two a day. So, when I run across young people, I try to educate them. Because losing your hearing is not something you want to go through.
Holmes: Can you take the Cochlear Implant into the game?
Poersch: Yes. I talked to the doctor that’s going to be seeing us before the challenges. And we’ve worked out a thing for me in case I have water challenges or anything like that. These are running off of disposable batteries, and then I have a little container that takes the moisture out of my processor at night. I take them off at night and stick them in there. Otherwise I wouldn’t be able to play.
Holmes: There was a deaf contestant in “Amazon.”
Poersch: I can’t read lips. So, the only way I can understand people is to hear them.
Holmes: Are you going to let your tribemates know?
Poersch: Yes, I have to. It’s so hot I’m going to have to wear my hair in a ponytail. They’re going to see this. Before challenges, they just came up with this rubber sleeve, so it can be submerged completely in the water. So, I have to put that on. And really, it’s just too hard to hide so I might as well tell them.
Holmes: Are there any issues when many people talk at the same time?
Poersch: Yes, it’s difficult for me to hear.

Holmes: As far as the game goes, do you have any issues lying?
Poersch: I’m ready to lie. My mom said to me, “You’re going to have to lie and stuff, just don’t be nasty about it. Don’t be a nasty person.” I know I’ll have to lie, that’s not my nature. But, I want to win that million dollars. It’s lying, but really it’s gameplay. When you play poker you don’t show your hand. It’s going to be tough because people build relationships. Sometimes you have to destroy relationships to win the game. Hopefully those people will realize it’s just a game. If somebody did it to me, I would say, “It’s just a game. You got me.”

Holmes: Do the kids know about mom’s big adventure?
Poersch: They do. My older son is excited, he said, “Whatever you do, don’t let anyone beat you down.”
Holmes: What show does he think you’re going on that allows beatdowns?
Poersch: (Laughs) Verbally.
Holmes: That does happen.
Poersch: He knows me, I’m kindhearted. So, I have to make sure I have that tough skin. I was bullied as a young person. You grew up in St. Louis.
Holmes: Oh, I was definitely bullied in St. Louis.
Poersch: If you’re different than anyone else, then people made fun of you. But, I’ve always stood up for myself. I see myself being tough out there. Whether or not that happens, we’ll have to wait and see.

Holmes: Any first impressions of these folks?
Poersch: They all look like they’re probably nice. There’s one person I’m not too sure about. I don’t think I’d get along with her, but she’s a lot younger than me. So, we wouldn’t have a whole lot in common. I’ve been trying to guess what they do for a living. There might be someone who might be in the military. Just the way he carries himself. There was one guy who laid on the table and took up the entire table so nobody could sit at it. I hope he’s not on my tribe. There are some eccentric people, and those are the kinds I love. I love people who are different. The cast seems a little young. That seems a little intimidating. Hopefully they won’t do a lot of asking ages. I’m not going to lie about it.
Holmes: Doesn’t seem worth it.
Poersch: Right.
Holmes: Some lies are worth it.
Poersch: Exactly. But then I’d have to lie about how old my kids are. It’d be too much to keep track of. If I say my kid is thirty and I’ve already said I’m forty, they’ll be like. “What?!”
Holmes: I was a preteen mom.
Poersch: (Laughs) I had him when I was ten! The problem with all these young kids is that I am kind of bossy.
Holmes: That doesn’t play well.
Poersch: Yeah, and I do like things done a certain way.
Holmes: Can you pull back on that?
Poersch: I’m will probably pull back because that’s the kind of stuff that will get me voted out.

Holmes: Any experience roughing it?
Poersch: Not really. I camped when I was a little kid. But, as a young adult we camped in a tent and I’d only do it for one night because I wanted to take a shower. But, my husband and I hike.  We hike two or three weekends a month. We don’t overnight hike. I’ve hiked the six tallest peaks in Southern California. We’re trying to train for Mount Whitney. We wanted to do that this summer, but I’m here instead.

Holmes: Any worries about sun, lack of food, lack of sleep?
Poersch: It’s going to be mental. I’m not sure how I’ll do with the lack of food other than to deal with it. I looked over the list of things we can eat. Hopefully we’ll have enough coconuts and bananas. I really don’t eat a lot anyway. I’m a little freaked out over the water situation. My granddaughter told me, “You know grandma, you can eat termites.”
Holmes: She’s not wrong.
Poersch: (Laughs) She’s not. But where in the world did she learn that?
Holmes: I’d be proud of her.
Poersch: I am.
Holmes: Have you been practicing making fire?
Poersch: I can totally make fire with flint. It took me maybe two and a half weeks to finally make fire. I made it the day before I left.

Holmes: If you could align with any past Survivor, who would it be?
Poersch: You want to align with the winners because they got to the end, but then you don’t want a winner because you want to win. So, you want a second-place person…oh gosh…I wouldn’t mind aligning with Mike Skupin because I think I can beat him. And I can’t stand people who ride coattails. Like Sandra? I don’t care who you vote out as long as it isn’t me? I hated that. It drove me insane. I know she won twice, but I hated that gameplay. Although…I think if I was out there I’d think, “I don’t care who they vote out as long as it isn’t me.” (Laughs)
Holmes: (Laughs) Hypocrite!
Poersch: (Laughs) And I hate that gameplay!
Holmes: A winning strategy isn’t necessarily a noble strategy.
Poersch: Right.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it’ll be?
Poersch: I have no guesses. I’m one of those people that doesn’t think about what a twist might be. I don’t try to figure out the end of a book. I know there’s going to be a twist…it’s season thirty.
Holmes: Maybe…who knows?
Poersch: Maybe there is no twist. Maybe it’s old school “Survivor.”

Holmes: You have a husband at home.
Poersch: I have a husband.
Holmes: Does that take flirting off the table?
Poersch: Flirting is totally not a part of my game at all. I’ve never been a flirt at any part of my life. I’ve been married for 23 years. And, we’re completely happily married. I couldn’t ask for a better husband.
Holmes: Um…he doesn’t watch “Survivor,” so I’d argue that you could ask for a slightly better husband.
Poersch: (Laughs) That’s true. He’ll start watching. But he gets up at four in the morning to go to work, so he doesn’t watch a lot of nighttime TV. But he’ll definitely watch now.
Holmes: He’d better.

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ No Collar Nina – “Sometimes You Have to Destroy Relationships to Win”

‘Survivor’ Blue Collar Lindsey – “Get Ready to See Me Being Annoyed by People”

February 13, 2015

'Survivor: Worlds Apart' (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

[xfinity-record-button id=”7116600190773202112″ program_type=”series”]

Name: Lindsey Cascaddan
Age: 24
Current Residence: College Park, Florida
Occupation: Hairdresser

Gordon Holmes: Your hobbies include “anything artistic.” What does that entail?
Lindsey Cascaddan: Painting, drawing, sewing, music…anything. I can get creative with fitness. I love to cook.
Holmes: You have a ton of tattoos. I assume people always want to talk about them.
Cascaddan: (Laughs) Yeah, it’s definitely in your face, so it’s easy to get caught up in them and talk about them.
Holmes: In this case it is literally in your face.
Cascaddan: Literally. I have a face tattoo, and it’s normally people’s first question. I think it’s a statement piece for me. I put a lot of work into my art and who I am and what I do. And I think to finally get my face tattooed, it was meant to be in your face. And I love it. It makes people question me, and I love that. I like to keep people wondering. I’d say I’m the most judged person here, maybe. I think that works to my benefit in real life and in this game.
Holmes:  How does this work to your advantage out here?
Cascaddan: My angle is really kind of easy and smart for me. It’s set up by my look and my job. I’m a single mom and I’m a hairstylist. It’s easy to let people assume that I’m quirky and ditzy and young and I make wild choices. And I’m “dumb enough to get my face tattooed.”
Holmes: So that sentiment is something you’ve experienced?
Cascaddan: Yeah, of course. In this game, it’s going to work to my advantage because people won’t see anything coming. They probably won’t put it past me to make dumb choices or do crazy things. And, I’m going to let them think that.
Holmes: Does a face tattoo hurt?
Cascaddan: A lot of my tattoos hurt really bad. The face tattoo didn’t hurt.
Holmes: I only have the one, but I think I’ve heard that the closer to the bone…
Cascaddan: No, it’s closer to nerves.
Holmes: They’re addictive.
Cascaddan: There’s a law in tattooing that says nobody has only one. I tell people I have one.
Holmes: One big one.
Cascaddan: All over me. There was a point up in my hairline that made my eye water. But there aren’t a lot of nerves there.
Holmes: I’m pinching around my face and I guess it doesn’t feel too nerve-y.
Cascaddan: Right.
Holmes: Cause I’m going to get a face tattoo when we’re done.
Cascaddan: (Laughs)

Holmes: It says your favorite sport is dating.
Cascaddan: (Laughs)
Holmes: Is there a National Dating League I haven’t heard of?
Cascaddan: (Laughs) I could probably coach that league. I’ve been known to love dating, love boys. I love a person’s energy when they start dating and they put all their best assets out there. I think it is kind of a sport. It’s this wild game we play as humans. We now have reality shows about it. And partnering, this game is about partnering. Creating trust and then breaking that trust. Finding these crazy roles…it’s a game, it’s a sport.
Holmes: And how do you keep score?
Cascaddan: (Laughs) Don’t ask!
Holmes:  Fair enough, this is a family site.
Cascaddan: Right.

NOTE: At this point a handler told us we were being too loud.

Holmes: Keep it down, troublemaker.
Cascaddan: Sorry, my voice is so loud.
Holmes: You’re going to be away from your daughter for quite a bit. How hard is that going to be?
Cascaddan: Being away from her is tough. It’s been tough. I’ve never been away from her. I am a single mom. I’m relying on my mom who is the most amazing human being ever. It’s hard to be away from someone who is like a limb to you. And I think I depend on her as much as she depends on me. She’s my favorite hobby, she’s my full-time job. She’s everything to me.

Holmes: Judging by your pet peeves, I have a feeling you might be annoyed by some of things you’re about to experience on “Survivor.”
Cascaddan: Yeah, I think the audience had better get ready to see me being annoyed by people. Maybe I won’t be as in your face as some of the players that have been on the show. Even though I look loud and have a loud voice, I love privacy. Even though there is no privacy in this game, there can be if you let there be. I try not to bore people with my kid stories. I’ll need a personal bubble.

Holmes: How do you feel about lying within the game?
Cascaddan: I think if any person in the real world tells me that lying is not a pet peeve of theirs, then that would be a huge red flag. Is lying going to happen? Yeah, it’s “Survivor.” They should just call the show “Lies.” Will I lie? Yeah.

Holmes: How about flirting?
Cascaddan: I think any man that I’ve ever come in contact with would be lying if he said I don’t use that to my advantage. And, it’s not something that I even do flamboyantly. I think every girl or guy that is attractive, that does play into your life. Of course that’ll play into my game.

Holmes: Any experience in the outdoors?
Cascaddan: I’d like to say I have experience, but I don’t think I’ll say that in a couple of weeks. (Laughs) I’m really tough-minded. And more than having experience, I think that’ll get me far.

Holmes: Are you a “Survivor” fan?
Cascaddan: I’m a huge fan. It was our family show growing up until around season sixteen. But then I was partying and having my own life. When I became a mom again I became a huge fan again. Now, I’ve caught up on all the seasons I’ve missed.
Holmes: Is that an advantage?
Cascaddan: Yeah, you know what to look for. You know about idols, you know about twists, you know about challenges. You know if you’re going to Tribal and they say “This person is going home, but we’re going to tell them it’s you,” then it’s probably you.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it is?
Cascaddan: Stop, there’s going to be a twist. When I saw there were eighteen of us I thought they’d add two returning players. Then I thought Redemption Island, but that’s not really a twist anymore  because they’ve done it so many times. I hope it’s snacks.
Holmes: Like “Survivor: Buffet.”
Cascaddan: (Laughs) That’d be awesome.
Holmes: “Survivor: Hammocks and Snacks.” That’s actually what it is. I’m not supposed to tell you that.
Cascaddan: (Laughs) Yes!

Holmes: If two returning players joined you, who would you most like to see?
Cascaddan: John Cochran and Ozzy…only because we have another guy who reminds me of Ozzy and I think they’d get into this huge fight…throwing clams at each other.
Holmes: You just want to see people fight.
Cascaddan: Yeah!
Holmes: Who would you least like to see?
Cascaddan: Parvati. I don’t want to see her. And I don’t want to see anyone from season twenty eight.

Holmes: How do you do without food?
Cascaddan: My boyfriend keeps snacks in his car and I am literally a nightmare…a human being’s worst nightmare when I’m hungry. I think that’s going to be really fun to watch on TV for other people.
Holmes: When my girlfriend doesn’t eat…it’s like she’s not a person anymore.
Cascaddan: You know the shark in “Finding Nemo”? When he smells blood and his eyes go back? We have a joke in our family that that’s me when I’m hungry. I’m bubbly and I’m fun, and then I get hungry and I’m the devil.
Holmes: What about excessive sun?
Cascaddan: I am pretty fair, I’m sure that won’t be comfortable. But I think lack of sleep and lack of food is going to be the worst.
Holmes: What about paranoia?
Cascaddan: I am probably going to follow people into the forest. I’m not sure how I’m going to handle it.

Holmes: What are your first impressions of this cast?
Cascaddan: I think there are a couple of people who look interesting. There are definitely people who are going to bug me. I can just tell by the things that they do. And then, a lot of them I would like to work with. They look like hard workers, they look like people who are going to put up a fight. And I love the fight. I’m ready.

Holmes: What’re you going to do with the million bucks when you win it?
Cascaddan: When, not if?
Holmes: I’ve got confidence in you. When.
Cascaddan: (Laughs) I’m going to invest every penny and go back to work like I never won it.
Holmes: Fiscal responsibility. Love it.

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ Blue Collar Lindsey – “Get Ready to See Me Being Annoyed by People”

‘Survivor’ White Collar So – “The First Person I Noticed Was Max Dawson”

February 12, 2015

"Survivor: Worlds Apart" (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

[xfinity-record-button id=”7116600190773202112″ program_type=”series”]

Name: So Kim
Age: 31
Current Residence: Long Beach, California
Occupation: Retail Buyer

Gordon Holmes: You said that you’ve had a very challenging year. What has been so challenging?
So Kim: I turned 30…
Holmes: Oh…you poor thing.
Kim: (Laughs) No…but listen. There’s a lot more that comes with it. I got a divorce, I resigned from my job to go on this adventure.
Holmes: You’re no longer a Macy’s buying director.
Kim: Correct. I’m no longer at Macy’s. I’ll always have a job there if I want. But, I’ve always been a careerist my entire life. I’m a Capricorn, we’re dedicated, we’re steadfast, we get what we want. We’re ambitious. But, I feel like I’ve let my life pass me by. To give all of that up, and then to get here, “Survivor” has been a huge dream of mine, and then to get sent back? This year cannot possibly get any worse.
Holmes: To be clear, you were out here for season twenty nine.
Kim: I was out here before.
Holmes: You were a part of a Blood vs. Water team.
Kim: Yeah, I was out here with my sister and she had a medical emergency.
Holmes: I hope everything turned out alright.
Kim: She’s fine now. But, unfortunately we couldn’t play together.
Holmes: What was it like to be so close and then to not get to play? You didn’t know if they’d ever bring you back.
Kim: It was heartbreaking. My sister and I, it was really an opportunity for us to grow closer and to forge a better relationship. And, I wanted it for her. I’m the “Survivor” fan and she got more involved in the process throughout. And she eventually wanted it for herself. But I’m very grateful to be here.
Holmes: So, after a very tumultuous year…here you are.
Kim: And I’m here to win. I’m holding nothing back. I think I have everything it takes to win. I think with my personality…I can work with a lot of different types. I’m stronger, and more mentally tough than I’ve ever been. I’m ready to play.
Holmes: With all you’ve been through, when Jeff Probst hands you that big check…
Kim: (Laughs) Yeah, it’s going to have been worth it.

Holmes: Your bio says you have about 100 pet peeves…dishonesty, narcissism, losing, complacency…you’re going to see most of them on “Survivor.”
Kim: Yeah, I know.
Holmes: Are you good at keeping things internally, or are you going to blow up on someone who has a “princess attitude”?
Kim: The one thing that I can’t fathom is the hunger and the sleepiness. I like to think that I am good with people. I have to know you really well to get on your case about it. Everything I do or say I try to do with a smile. I’ve been boxing a lot. It’s taught me that you can’t do things out of anger, you have to be patient. You have to set up your shot. Like Ali said, you’ve got to float like a butterfly and sting like a bee. I think I also know how to take things in stride. Aggressive females get a target on their back. I’m smart enough to bypass that.

Holmes: Any issues with lying?
Kim: We’re playing “Survivor.” You can’t get to the end without lying. Anybody who has a problem lying is going to get voted out. I’m not looking at it as lying, so much as I’m going to change my mind. That happens naturally. I’m hoping not to use constrictive words such as “I promise,” it’s more like “I’ll consider.”
Holmes: So, no swearing on your family.
Kim: Right. But, we’ll see. I’m going to try as hard as possible to not completely break promises. But, circumstances will change. People have to learn to be flexible. I’m going to protect myself and put myself in the position to win. It’s a business trip.
Holmes: This isn’t kindergarten.
Kim: Yeah!

Holmes: You’re recently single. Is flirting going to be a part of your game?
Kim: (Laughs) For sure. I’ll pull all of the cards out. Whatever I need. And it’s not even flirting, it’s…anyone that knows me will say that I’m very inquisitive. I’m curious and ask a lot of questions. I don’t mean to even be a flirt. But people think I’m a flirt because I ask personal questions. I cross the line way too much. I’ve gone through a lot, I’ve had hardships, and I’m very open to share the things I’ve gone through. There was a time in my life that I was so insecure and you think, “Oh my God, I’m so weird because I have these insecurities.” But really so many people have these same issues. And the more you share it, the more open people are. And I am single. I want to fall in love. I’m a romantic at heart.
Holmes: Win “Survivor,” fall in love, we’re gonna turn this year around.
Kim: (Laughs)
Holmes: And does it bother you that I’m asking all the questions?
Kim: No.
Holmes: Good, cause that’s my job.

Holmes: Do you have any experience roughing it?
Kim: I do. And people probably look at me and think I’m high-maintenance, but I’m actually a total tomboy. I think some girls are worried about not showering and not brushing your teeth. I couldn’t care less. I’m worried about being hungry because I love eating, I’m going to go into sugar withdrawal for sure. I eat tons of candy and tons of junk food.
Holmes: I’m a monster when I don’t eat.
Kim: You know the Snickers commercial where they turn into a diva? That’s me.

Holmes: How long have you been a “Survivor” fan?
Kim: For years. Probably since season twelve.
Holmes: Your answer to the “which player am I like” question…
Kim: I don’t want to compare myself. I could follow someone’s else path or I could create my own. To me, that’s what I’m about. I’m not about following. Maybe that’s an ego thing, but there aren’t a lot of memorable women and there’s probably a reason for that because women get out here and they play the submissive role and they get scared and they censor themselves. They want to hide under the biggest (expletive deleted) guy. You can get far doing that or you can play your own game and have a strategy. It’s tricky, if women play the same game as men they’re perceived as bitchy or aggressive.
Holmes: Unfortunately, that’s more of a society thing than a “Survivor” thing.
Kim: So, how do you play a strong game but still be perceived as a strong, fun, female? It’s tough.
Holmes: It’s almost like you’d have to keep reminding people that it’s fun and business and not personal. Kinda like Tony.
Kim: Yeah.
Holmes: OK, where I was going with this is; if you could align with any player, who would it be?
Kim: I really like smart people. I think you’ve got to align yourself with smart people and people who think they are smart but are really dumb. I relate to Tony. He’s paranoid as (expletive deleted) and I’m paranoid too. But all the measures he was taking with the spy shack, and planning ahead…that’s how I think. I think he’d be a good person to play with, but he took it too seriously. It’s fun. The spy shack is fun. So, he forgot to inject the humor in there. I also love Sandra because she says whatever the (expletive deleted) she wants and never lies about who she is.

Holmes: What do you think of this cast?
Kim: The first person I noticed was Max Dawson. He’s a big reality person. That’s his job to know about reality shows. He blogs about it. He probably knows more about “Survivor” than any other contestant out here. So, I’d love to align with him and make some big moves together. And I think he’s cocky enough that he’s going to hang himself.
Holmes: Who else?
Kim: I think that everyone is out here to play. Everyone is journaling, everyone is taking this very seriously. There’s this surfer dude. He’s like half Malcolm/half Ozzy. He seems really charming, really nice. There’s a woman who I call “identity crisis” because one day she comes out looking like a professor, the next she comes out wearing tie-dye and a neon headband. Right off the bat, she’s someone I wouldn’t want to work with. She seems bossy. I think the females…I can’t get a good sense of. I feel better about working with the males. I’d like to be in a final four with three males and then flip them on their ass.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it’ll be?
Kim: I’m already thinking it’s three tribes of six. Or, there are two people meeting us. I think there’s something weird going on with ages. There are clearly age buckets. There are six people in their twenties, six people in their thirties, and six people in their forties and above. I don’t think it’s Brains vs. Brawn vs. Beauty. That doesn’t seem to work out with this group.
Holmes: They asked me to be in the None of the Above tribe…
Kim: Aww…
Holmes: Aww….
Kim: That’s too bad. Or, you could be in all of the above.
Holmes: That’s right!
Kim: That’s the one I want to be in.

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ White Collar So – “The First Person I Noticed Was Max Dawson”

‘Survivor’ No Collar Hali – People “Think I’m a Sweet, Pretty Southern Girl”

February 11, 2015

'Survivor: Worlds Apart' (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

Name: Hali Ford
Age: 25
Current Residence: San Francisco, California
Occupation: Law Student

Gordon Holmes: Tell me about your inspiration Clara S. Foltz.
Hali Ford: She’s the first female public defender. She made it legal for a woman to become a lawyer in California. She fought for that. And, she has more balls than most men.
Holmes: Is that something you share with her?
Ford: Oh yeah, passion has gotten me everything I have.

Holmes: You’re trained in jiu jitsu…
Ford: I ride motorcycles, I surf, I…walk.
Holmes: (Laughs) I eat lightning, I crap thunder, I walk.
Ford: (Laughs)
Holmes: You are clearly someone who should not be messed with.
Ford: You should steer clear.

Holmes: What are your first impressions of Nicaragua?
Ford: It’s a lot drier than I thought which is excellent. I don’t want it to rain. But, it’s killing me because all I’ve done is watch that surf. I’ve been drooling over it. But I’m ready to tear this land up and eat anything that crawls.
Holmes: Your intention is to build some kind of rudimentary surf board?
Ford: That’d be great, but I’d imagine I need to conserve my energy. So, I probably won’t.

Holmes: Pet peeves…wastes of time and resources…
Ford: Yes.
Holmes: Mediocrity…apathy…
Ford: Yes.
Holmes: You might run into some of that in the next 39 days.
Ford: And they’re going to get the boot.
Holmes: That’s the plan?
Ford: The boot.
Holmes: Someone gets in your way…
Ford: The boot…unless we need some stragglers for numbers. We’ll drag them along and feed them. But, they’ll be the outcasts.

Holmes: Are you a “Survivor” fan.
Ford: Yes, I am.
Holmes: For how long?
Ford: I started watching the show when I was nine. Then I took a reprieve and then I came back in in my twenties.
Holmes: You make me feel old.
Ford: (Laughs) One of the girls here started watching when she was three.
Holmes: How do you know that?
Ford: Cause she told me.
Holmes: How were you talking?
Ford: Not one of the girls on the show. One of the crew.
Holmes: Oh…that was almost scandalous.

Holmes: How do you feel about lying?
Ford: I anticipate I will have to. If I don’t need to, I won’t. It’s part of the game.
Holmes: Do you consider yourself a good liar?
Ford: I’m a notoriously good liar. There’s this game we play back home called, “Mafia” and nobody will play it with me because you have to lie. I win every time.
Holmes: How does Mafia work?

Ford: You’re assigned an identity. Usually two people are the Mafia, everyone else is a townsperson. There’s also a detective and an angel. There’s a narrator that says, “Town go to sleep.” And everyone goes to sleep. The Mafia wakes up, they make eye contact, then they point to someone to kill. When everyone wakes up, you talk to try to figure out who the Mafia is. The Mafia just has to lie and put it off on other people. I win every time.

Holmes: You’re an attractive young woman.
Ford: Thank you.
Holmes: Flirting is a tool people use to get ahead. Is that something you can see yourself doing?
Ford: Yeah. It’ll be part of my strategy if it needs to be. I’d rather keep this straight business. But, flirting may become my business.

Holmes: Any experience living in the outdoors?
Ford: Oh yeah. I hiked for two weeks in the Bolivian Andes. That was pretty rough. But, in general I’ve been growing up basically in the woods in Tennessee. Camping out every summer, summer camp…I also lived in Kauai and practically lived outside the whole year.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it’ll be?
Ford: Maybe they’re bring back Redemption Island. I wouldn’t be surprised. I don’t know.
Holmes: Do you think that’s an environment you’d do well in?
Ford: Oh yeah, I’m used to being the underdog. If I get voted out I’d love to be redeemed back on.  But, I’m not trying to jinx myself.
Holmes: Too late.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Ford: Because I’m weird.
Holmes: Yeah, you’re so weird.
Ford: (Laughs) Because it looks like I’m one thing, but I’m many different surprising things.
Holmes: What do people think you are?
Ford: Well, at first they probably think I’m a sweet, pretty southern girl. Then they hear that I’m a lawyer and they think, “Oh, this girl is a bitch.” And then they get to know me and they think, “This girl is a laid-back dude.”
Holmes: Hali Ford, laid-back dude.
Ford: (Laughs) Yeah.

Holmes: You gave the worst answer for “which ‘Survivor’ are you like.” You said Parvati…
Ford: Wait, I want to give another answer; Natalie.
Holmes: From Samoa?
Ford: No, from Fans vs. Favorites.
Holmes: Oh, Natalie Bolton. I like her because she embraced the bad-guy role.
Ford: I’m not saying I’m going to be a bad guy, but I liked the way she played.
Holmes: Alright, well I’d like to know which past Survivor you’d like to align with.
Ford: I’d like to align with Malcolm. He’s a solid dude, trustworthy, and someone that I’d like on a personal level. That’s what I’d want. I have my eye on someone like that already.
Holmes: Who’s that?
Ford: It’s the tall blonde dude. He’s really tall and muscular. He’s more quiet and stoic.

Holmes: What do you think of the rest of the cast?
Ford: We have a lot of personality on this cast. We have some snakes and some charmers. A lot of fun-loving people I think.
Holmes: Anyone else you’re thinking of working with?
Ford: The tall, blonde guy is my number one. There’s also a shorter, blonde haired girl who’s a lot of fun. She has a tree tattoo under her arm. I like her.
Holmes: Anyone you think is going to be trouble?
Ford: Well, there’s this guy with slicked-back black hair. He just looks like trouble. Mr. Casanova. I’m also watching…if my money wasn’t on me, it’d be on this blonde older lady. She’s not old, she’s a beautiful middle-aged woman.
Holmes: What is it about her that sticks out?
Ford: She’s older, so she’s wiser. But she also has cool vibes. She’s going to be able to get in with the young people. And she’s smart, I can see it in her eyes.

Holmes: Alright, let’s talk about how well you deal with some things you’re going to experience in the next few days. Sun and heat?
Ford: Get in the ocean, put on sunscreen.
Holmes: Starvation?
Ford: I will catch some animals and eat them.
Holmes: Piece of cake.
Ford: I’m going to build fish traps. Crabs will be a staple. I know how to set snares even though we can’t eat the monkeys, which was a major let down.
Holmes: You were excited to eat some monkeys “Temple of Doom” style?
Ford: There’s a lot of meat on them.
Holmes: Ugh…
Ford:  I spent a lot of time on my monkey snares.
Holmes: All that time wasted on monkey recipes.
Ford: Yeah!
Holmes: But what are you like when you don’t eat? Normally I’m a jerk. But when I don’t eat that goes to a higher level.
Ford: I’m the same way. I’m going to have to keep an eye on that.
Holmes: How do you deal with people you don’t trust?
Ford: I’m going to get as close to them as I can. I want them to love me.
Holmes: What about paranoia?
Ford: You have a plan. Plans soothe me. As soon as I see a problem I’m going to strategize around it.

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ No Collar Hali – People “Think I’m a Sweet, Pretty Southern Girl”

‘Survivor’ Blue Collar Mike – “I’ll Be the Biggest Liar You’ve Ever Seen”

February 10, 2015

"Survivor: Worlds Apart" (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

Name: Mike Holloway
Age: 38
Current Residence: North Richland Hills, Texas
Occupation: Oil Driller

Gordon Holmes: It says in your bio that one of your hobbies is picking up the ladies.
Mike Holloway: (Laughs)
Holmes: Is that going to be a part of your game?
Holloway: Yeah, I don’t really think that too many of the girls this season are that attractive. Hopefully they’ll be attracted to me, because if they are I will definitely be able to use that. I’m  a flirter by nature, so anything that I can use to gain confidence on this show, I will use. And with the ladies, hopefully it’ll be my looks. I don’t know if I’m that good looking of an individual.
Holmes: Oh, c’mon.
Holloway: (Laughs) Some girls think so. So if some of these girls think that, I’ll definitely use it against them.
Holmes: Is there anyone at home that’s going to be upset if they turn on CBS and see you flirting?
Holloway: No, I’m single. I haven’t had a girlfriend in a long time just because I’ve been really focused on my career and obtaining some goals. And realistically, no girl has ever been able to keep up with me. I’m kind of a mover and a shaker. I like to be going quite a bit. There aren’t a lot of girls that like to do that.

Holmes: You aren’t attracted to any of the women on this season, but what are your overall impressions of the group?
Holloway: I like the cast as a whole. I think there are a couple of guys who when the show is over we’ll probably be great friends. And the same with some of the girls too…well…maybe not after they hear this…
Holmes: Nobody reads this.
Holloway: (Laughs)
Holmes: And if they do you’ll have to do some backpedaling.
Holloway: I’ll do some serious backpedaling. Let me say, there are some cute girls. But, the type of girl I’m attracted to is not really here.
Holmes: That’s some decent backpedaling.
Holloway: (Laughs)
Holmes: What kind of woman are you attracted to?
Holloway: Obviously I’ve never been one that’s dated for personality.
Holmes: (Laughs) That’s so overrated.
Holloway: (Laughs) Personality is definitely overrated. If a buddy comes over and says he has a girl with a great personality, run. That’s horrible to say. My mom will be very mad that I said that. I’m normally attracted to really good-looking girls. What is a good-looking girl? When you know it when you see it. It’s like when you walk into a store and you’re looking for a certain pair of pants. And you see it and you say, “There’s my pants!” It’s the same way with me and girls. It’s not one shape or size, blonde, brunette, red, blue eyes, green eyes, it doesn’t matter.  There is one girl here that is extremely attractive.
Holmes: Whoa…back it up.
Holloway: Well, I think she’s way too young for me.

Holmes: Are you a “Survivor” fan?
Holloway: Big fan, ever since season two. A good friend of mine came into my house and was like, “Hey, did you see ‘Survivor’?!” And I said, “You mean the show with the naked guy on it?”
Holmes: (Laughs)
Holloway: (Laughs) And he said, “No, that was last season. There’s this guy on there, and he’s from Texas, and he brought this huge Texas flag.” And so, I watched that season. There’s Colby Donaldson, and if you’re from Texas you know the bond and comradery that Texans share. We’re very proud of our state. So, that was the hook that got me involved, but the game won me over.
Holmes: Do you think it’s a benefit to know the show or could the precedents lead you in the wrong direction?
Holloway: I think it’s a huge benefit. A long time ago I was doing this acting stuff. Nothing for LA, just fun stuff. And this guy who was coaching me came in with this 400-page book. And he asked me to act out the first page. And I’m like, “What do you mean, the preface?” And he did. So I fumbled through it. And he’s like, “That was horrible. Now go home, read the book, and next week you’re going to act out the preface again.” That’s the same as “Survivor.” All of these 26 seasons that I’ve watched have been a study guide for what mistakes not to make.

Holmes: If you could align with any former Survivor, who would it be?
Holloway: Candice. Because…number one, she’s beautiful to look at. And, I know she’s married. So Candice, if you read this, I’m not hitting on you. John, please don’t find me and beat me up. Number two, cause she’s smart. Number three, she has great strategy. And number four, she’s a challenge beast. I would align with her until six and then I would cut her throat.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it’ll be?
Holloway: Well, I think Jeff might’ve let the cat out of the bag a little bit that there’s not going to be a twist. He said, “There’s always a twist, but sometimes the twist is that there’s not a twist and we let your mind mess with you.” I think this might be Young vs. Old II. I’d love for there to be some major twist. That brings excitement to the game.
Holmes: You can’t trust that Jeff Probst.
Holloway: C’mon, that guy right there…I have three man crushes.
Holmes: Alright, let’s hear them.
Holloway: Brett Favre, Jeff Probst, and Bear Grylls. I want to spend seven days in the wild with Bear Grylls roughing it. Besides this, that would be my second most desired experience.

Holmes: Are you comfortable lying?
Holloway: Not in my real life. In this game, yes. I checked Mike Holloway at the door. I will not play this game the way I am in real life. If I play this game the way I am in real life I’ll be voted out first. My mom taught me to pull out chairs for girls, you open doors for girls, if you see someone struggling, lend a helping hand. In this game, that is viewed as weakness. If I am honest Mike or loyal Mike like I am back home, I’ll be gone first.
Holmes: So harder Mike?
Holloway: I think that’s accurate. I will be 100% manipulative all the time to everyone. Not about personal stuff, bonds, friendship, but strategic gameplay. I’ll be the biggest liar you’ve ever seen.
Holmes: It’s one thing to say you’re going to lie to seventeen people you’ve never met. But, it’s another to do it to people you’re depending on.
Holloway: The psychologist asked me the same thing. I think it will be tough for me, but the thing I told my mom and my brother before I left was, “You guys are my family. I’m doing this for our family.” Those people on the show are strangers. They will become friends, and some might become family, but they are not who I am playing this game for.

Holmes: You’re a Texas guy.
Holloway: All the way, baby.
Holmes: Safe to say you have experience roughing it?
Holloway:  For sure. Me and my cousin, we do survivalist training sometimes. We’ll build a shelter. I know how to rub two sticks together to get a fire. It just takes a little will power and patience. I love it. Being by a campfire. Smelling like smoke all night long. I love adventure.

Holmes:Your bio delves into some really personal things; not having a father growing up, being molested as a child…
Holloway: You don’t have to speak soft when you say those things. Those were tragedies that I went through as a child that I think could have molded me into being a horrible person or depressed all the time. But luckily, I had great family members that have taught me how to be a man. Taught me how to deal with those situations. To be honest with you, at age fifteen I became a Christian. That was a massive weight lifted from my chest. Growing up without a dad, you don’t understand the love bond between men. You don’t understand the love bond between a man and a younger man that is teaching them how to grow up. Becoming a Christian and having my pastor who is Don Couch mentor me to be a man… What it is to be responsible. What it is to stand up for what is right. Not to idly let things happen, but to be a voice for the voiceless. Being molested was rough, and it’s something that is with me. But, instead of being a hindrance or a crutch, I look at it as a strength now. I am able to reach out to those people who aren’t able to voice what happened to them and move past it. And, if somehow I’m able to help heal a young man or a young woman who has gone through the same things as I have, then that is not only my obligation, but it is my duty as a human to help someone else out.
Holmes: To turn such a negative into a positive is very inspiring.
Holloway: Well, like I said, it boils down to the Lord and great friends and family who loved me when I was unlovable. When I was a teenage boy with ADHD and hyperactivity. When I was running the streets and being crazy. It took those special people in my life to put their arm around me and say, “Hey man, let me show you a different way.”

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ Blue Collar Mike – “I’ll Be the Biggest Liar You’ve Ever Seen”

‘Survivor’ White Collar Carolyn – “I’m Used to Being the Boss”

February 9, 2015

"Survivor: Worlds Apart" (CBS)

NOTE: XFINITY.com is the place to be for all of your “Survivor: Worlds Apart” scoop! I delved deep into the Nicaraguan wilderness on a mission to bring you all kinds of stuff including behind-the-scenes tidbits, pre-game interviews with the cast, insights from “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, a look at the first Tribal Council, and much more. I’ll be cranking out this goodness daily in the weeks leading up to the premiere, so be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates on all of this season’s “Survivor” fun.

Name: Carolyn Rivera
Age: 52
Current Residence: Tampa, Florida
Occupation: Corporate Executive

Gordon Holmes: What does it mean to be a Vice President of Learning and Development?
Caroyln Rivera: I am responsible for training for all of the associates in the financial institution.
Holmes: How many people report to you?
Rivera: Forty four.
Holmes: Obviously you are a leader. You do that everyday. Is that something you’re going to pursue out here or is that something you’re going to avoid?
Rivera: I’m going to be a behind-the-scenes leader. Most leaders get voted off pretty quickly. I’m going to take a backseat role. I’m going to be the leader, but people aren’t going to feel like I’m the leader.
Holmes: Is it going to be tough to suppress some of your instincts?
Rivera: It will. I think that’s going to be the toughest thing for me. I’m used to being the boss. So, I’m going to embrace the confessionals very deeply. (Laughs)

Holmes: You’re a karaoke singer?
Rivera: I am.
Holmes: What’s your signature jam?
Rivera: “I Will Survive.”
Holmes: A little on the nose.
Rivera: (Laughs) My go-to song.
Holmes: And if you get in trouble here, you can wow them with a  little tale of how at first you were afraid, you were petrified.
Rivera: Yeah, I’ll break it out. (Laughs)

Holmes: Seeing as you have a very prominent and I’m assuming lucrative career, are you less financially driven than some of the other players?
Rivera: I’m financially driven, but the adventure is just as important.

Holmes: Are you a fan of the show?
Rivera: I am. I’ve been watching it since season one.
Holmes: That’s what I like to hear. Is that an advantage?
Rivera: I think it’s an advantage. You see how other people have played. You see what strategies haven’t worked so well. I don’t believe I’ll be shouting that from the rooftops. But, you take the learnings from each and every game and use them to your advantage.

Holmes: You hate being lied to…
Rivera: Which is a problem in this game.
Holmes: Yes, it is.
Rivera: In this game you have to tell white lies and do things you might not normally do. But, it’s a strategy, it’s a game. The difference is how you do it. It’s what gets you votes at the end.
Holmes: Are you comfortable lying?
Rivera: I’m not really that good of a liar. So, I’m going to have to work on that.
Holmes: But you’re not opposed to lying out here.
Rivera: If I have to I have to. I probably won’t be swearing on my kids lives though.
Holmes: So there is a line?
Rivera: Yes, there is.

Holmes: Flirting is a big part of this game. Is anyone back home going to be upset if you’re flirting out here?
Rivera: I’m pretty sure my husband knows I flirt anyway.
Holmes: So that’s on the table?
Rivera: I don’t think that’s the strategy I’m going to go for. I’ll be friendly, but I’m too old to be wooing people.
Holmes: You never know.
Rivera: (Laughs)

Holmes: Any experience in the outdoors?
Rivera: Yeah, I’ve gone camping, I’ve done whitewater rafting. I’m an outdoorsy kinda gal.
Holmes: Anything as extreme as starving yourself for 39 days?
Rivera: No. But I don’t eat that much. My family would say I normally starve myself. Food is not that important to me.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it’ll be?
Rivera: This is season thirty, there’s going to be a big twist.
Holmes: Any guesses?
Rivera: I think it’s going to start out with three tribes. I don’t know why I think that. There’s way more old people on this season than normal.
Holmes: What does that mean?
Rivera: I don’t know. It’s never happened. That’s a twist.
Holmes: What’re your first impressions of this cast?
Rivera: I think there are four people who haven’t started playing the game yet. They’re late to the party. There are one or two people who are heavy into starting. And, when you start looking at people and you see facial expressions, you know who you want to team up with.
Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Rivera: I think I’ve got what it takes. I’m a New Yorker, and we’re good TV.
Holmes: That’s true.
Rivera: (Laughs) I’m outgoing, I’m outspoken. I think I was cast because of that.

Holmes: If you could align with any past Survivor, who would it be?
Rivera: It’s interesting you should ask that, because with “Boston” Rob, you can see his evolution over the four times that he’s played. The first time he wasn’t successful, and by the fourth time he won the whole thing. That’s why I’d align with “Boston” Rob.  I saw him throughout the years change his strategy, that’s what I’m going to do.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to mention some things, you tell me how well you deal with them.
Rivera: OK.
Holmes: Excessive sun and heat?
Rivera: Love it. I moved to Florida from New York because of the sun and heat.
Holmes: Starvation?
Rivera: Not a problem.
Holmes: People you don’t get along with?
Rivera: I’m going to have to keep my mouth shut which is not what I normally do. That’s going to be a challenge.
Holmes: Paranoia?
Rivera: In order to be successful in this game you have to be paranoid. Every single day. You have to think what the next person is thinking before they think it. That’s the fun of the game.
Holmes: How well do you relate to younger people?
Rivera: I think I relate well to all kinds of people. I’ve got three younger kids. Probably the ages that are on this show. So, I’ll be the fun parent.

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

Tags:, , ,
Posted in General, RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ White Collar Carolyn – “I’m Used to Being the Boss”

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »