Posts Tagged ‘parvati shallow’

‘Survivor’ Summer Book Club – ‘Survivor: Cook Islands’ Episode 3

June 12, 2013

EP03Some quick reminders/orders of business, etc.

First, if you don’t want to know who wins “Survivor: Cook Islands,” this isn’t the place for you. There WILL be spoilers. Go watch “Survivor: The Amazon” instead.

Second, speaking of “Survivor: The Amazon,” Mr. Rob Cesternino is very generously offering his “Survivor: The Amazon – Unauthorized DVD Commentary” at an exclusive DISCOUNTED RATE for Summer Book Club members.

Third, our friends at True Dork Times are once again getting in on the fun with stats, awards, and more.

And finally, this whole Book Club thing is kind of a work in progress. If you have ideas on how to improve the proceedings, please let me know.

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‘Survivor’ Summer Book Club – ‘Survivor: Cook Islands’ Episode 2

June 5, 2013

EP02Some quick reminders/orders of business, etc.

First, if you don’t want to know who wins “Survivor: Cook Islands,” this isn’t the place for you. There WILL be spoilers. Go watch “Survivor: The Amazon” instead.

Second, speaking of “Survivor: The Amazon,” Mr. Rob Cesternino is very generously offering his “Survivor: The Amazon – Unauthorized DVD Commentary” at an exclusive DISCOUNTED RATE for Summer Book Club members.

Third, our friends at True Dork Times are once again getting in on the fun with stats, awards, and more.

Fourth, Max Zambrano will be hosting a “Survivor” Summer Book Club Spreecast this Friday at 8:30pm ET.

And finally, this whole Book Club thing is kind of a work in progress. If you have ideas on how to improve the proceedings, please let me know.

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‘Survivor’ Summer Book Club – ‘Survivor: Cook Islands’ Episode 1

May 29, 2013

EP01Let’s hit on a couple of things before we jump into this…

First of all, I think it’s pretty safe to assume that anyone willing to participate in something this nerdy is well aware of how “Survivor: Cook Islands” turned out. If you’re looking to avoid spoilers on a TV series that happened seven years ago, this might not be the place for you.

Second, “Survivor: The Amazon” came in a very close second place to Cook Islands in our re-watch poll. If you’d like to tackle that season by yourself, Mr. Rob Cesternino is very generously offering his “Survivor: The Amazon – Unauthorized DVD Commentary” at an exclusive DISCOUNTED RATE for Summer Book Club members.

Third, our friends at True Dork Times are once again getting in on the fun with stats, awards, and more.

And finally, this whole Book Club thing is kind of a work in progress. If you have ideas on how to improve the proceedings, please let me know.

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‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame 2012 Ballot – Parvati Shallow

November 29, 2012

2010 'Survivor' Hall of Fame Inductee Parvati Shallow (CBS)

The “Survivor” Hall of Fame is proud to have 2010 inductee Parvati Shallow as a member of the Executive Voting Committee. As a member of this exclusive committee, Parvati (along with Host Jeff Probst, Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, and other “Survivor” luminaries) has accepted an awesome responsibility. The committee’s votes will make up 50% of the final tally for entry into the prestigious Class of 2012. The other 50% will come from “Survivor” fans like you.

Note: Polls closed November 30, 2012 at 5 pm ET. Be sure to come back Monday, December 10, 2012 to meet the first member of the Class of 2012.

Set Your DVR to Record “Survivor: Philippines”

Parvati Shallow’s 2012 Hall of Fame Ballot

Amanda Kimmel – (“Survivor: China,” “Survivor: Fans vs. Favorites,” and “Survivor: Heroes vs. Villians”): My partner in crime in “Survivor: Micronesia.” Amanda is smart, knows how to work the social angle, and is a challenge dominator. Although she didn’t win, the girl made it to back-to-back finals in China and Micronesia and went on to give me a run for my money in “Heroes vs. Villains.” She deserves a spot in the Hall of Fame.

Jerri Manthey – (“Survivor: The Australian Outback,” “Survivor: All-Stars,” and “Survivor: Heroes vs. Villians”): The original black widow, Jerri became notorious as the bad girl of “Survivor” after Australia aired. She was also one of the few returning contestants to adapt her gameplay. In “Heroes vs. Villians”, she played a cool-headed game, excelled at challenges, and stayed true to her alliance.

Ethan Zohn – (“Survivor: Africa” and “Survivor: All-Stars”): He’s probably the only guy to ever win “Survivor” by playing nice. Since winning Africa he’s devoted his life to developing his charity, Grassroot Soccer and is a Hall of Famer in my book.

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter @gordonholmes

Vote for the ‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame Class of 2012

November 12, 2012

UPDATE: Voting for the “Survivor Hall of Fame has ended. Be sure to come back Monday, December 10, 2012 to meet the first member of the Class of 2012!

It’s time for the second most important vote you’ll cast this month. It’s time for the “Survivor” community to come together to honor their best and brightest. It’s time once again for the “Survivor” Hall of Fame…

THE VOTING PROCESS: Fifty percent of the vote will be based on the ballots of the “Survivor” Hall of Fame Executive Voting Committee. This panel consists of “Survivor” luminaries such as Host and Producer Jeff Probst, Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, members of the “Survivor” press corps, and XFINITY TV’s “Survivor” Guy Gordon Holmes. We’ve also invited all current members of the “Survivor” Hall of Fame to join the Executive Voting Committee. The other fifty percent will come from fans like you.

Check Out Some of Our Executive Ballots…

Any Questions? Drop me a line on Twitter @gordonholmes

‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame Post Mortem

December 23, 2011

The “Survivor” off season is finally upon us. While for most people that means an extra hour free on Wednesday nights, for me it means a break from Power Rankings, episode recaps, and exit interviews. I hardly know what to do with myself.

(That’s totally not true, I’m going to get to work rescuing Princess Zelda.)

What multiplies that workload is when it’s “Survivor” Hall of Fame time. On top of the previously mentioned work you’ve got coordinating executive committee votes, managing the vote tabulation team, creating art, updating the Web site, and about a dozen other things.

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‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame Inductee – Tom Westman

December 16, 2011
Tom Westman (CBS)

Tom Westman (CBS)

Fifty percent of the voting for the ‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame was based on the ballots of the Executive Voting Committee. This blue-ribbon panel consists of “Survivor” luminaries such as Host and Executive Producer Jeff Probst, Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, Executive Producer David Burris, Producer Jesse Jensen, the “Survivor” Hall of Fame Class of 2010, members of the “Survivor” press corps, and XFINITY TV’s “Survivor” Guy Gordon Holmes.

The other fifty percent came from “Survivor” fans like you.

The “Survivor” Hall of Fame is proud to announce that “Survivor: Palau” Champion Tom Westman will join Cirie Fields and Ozzy Lusth in the Class of 2011.

We had a chance to speak with the newly crowned Hall of Famer to get his thoughts on his induction…

How does it feel to be honored by a vote made up of your “Survivor” peers, the ‘Survivor’ production crew, the press, and the fans?
Tom Westman: Truly honored to have even been chosen as an inductee to the “Survivor” Hall of Fame.  I have a lot of respect for some of the stand-out players in the game, and it is great to be considered in their company.  I am proud to be a part of a production that has continued to set the bar for quality and entertainment in the reality TV world.  One of the greatest compliments I have received came from a camera person who was not able to speak to us during the game, but connected once the final Tribal Council wrapped.  He said that after 10 seasons, and 160 players, he had not seen anyone enjoy the experience more than me.  I recognized how unique the situation was, and appreciated every moment.  The game is exceptional on so many levels, and it is why I continue to be hooked on it today.

My experience with fans of the show has always been a pleasure.  Every aspect of participating on “Survivor” has been positive. It has let me get to know some wonderful people.  Many fans point out that it is one of the few shows that they watch as a family.  This is true in my home as well.

What’ve you been up to since we last saw you on the show?
Westman: I retired from the FDNY in 2005 and entered the corporate world as a sales rep selling group benefits to corporations.  It was a radical change in life style, but one that I have enjoyed.

What are your thoughts on “Survivor: South Pacific”?
Westman: I have been watching the current season, and feel it is one of the better ones.  Interesting characters, great challenges, and plenty of drama.

What the Executive Voting Committee said about Tom…

“He was respected by his entire tribe who recognized his leadership abilities. Tom was a challenge dominator. His physical strength ensured several tribe and individual immunity victories, and he maintained integrity and loyalty to his alliance.” – Sandra Diaz-Twine – Winner of “Survivor: Pearl Islands” and “Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains” and 2010 “Survivor” Hall of Fame Inductee

“He’s an all-around great player; physically, socially, and strategically. Everyone loved Tom because he truly is a great guy and a fierce competitor.” – Winner of “Survivor: Redemption Island” and 2010 “Survivor” Hall of Fame Inductee

“Tom is the Bruce Willis of ‘Survivor’—only more handsome and courageous. The New York City firefighter’s leadership, strength, indomitability, and integrity earned him the admiration of his fans and fellow Palau competitors, who gave him a million dollars—and top billing.” – Drusilla Moorhouse – E! Online

“Until Boston Rob on ‘Redemption Island,’ Tom had the most dominating season in ‘Survivor’ history in Palau when you factor in physical, social, and strategic gameplay. He led his tribe to an undefeated ass-whupping of the Ulong tribe, then coasted post-merge to the win. How the hell was he not in the original Hall of Fame class? Who’s voting on these things anyway?” – Dalton Ross – Entertainment Weekly

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

‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame Inductee – Ozzy Lusth

December 14, 2011
Ozzy Lusth (CBS)

Ozzy Lusth (CBS)

Fifty percent of the voting for the ‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame was based on the ballots of the Executive Voting Committee. This blue-ribbon panel consists of “Survivor” luminaries such as Host and Executive Producer Jeff Probst, Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, Executive Producer David Burris, Producer Jesse Jensen, the “Survivor” Hall of Fame Class of 2010, members of the “Survivor” press corps, and XFINITY TV’s “Survivor” Guy Gordon Holmes.

The other fifty percent came from “Survivor” fans like you.

The “Survivor” Hall of Fame is proud to announce that Ozzy Lusth will join Cirie Fields in the Class of 2011. Ozzy received the most executive committee votes out of any nominee.

We had a chance to speak with the newly crowned Hall of Famer to get his thoughts on his induction…

How does it feel to be honored by a vote made up of your “Survivor” peers, the ‘Survivor’ production crew, the press, and the fans?
Ozzy Lusth: Well, it feels like I just woke up from a dream where I could fly, shoot energy balls, become invisible, talk to water creatures, control the weather, and brew a damn good beer; hey at least I can actually do one of them! Seriously, THANKS!!! To all the people that watched me live a dream, it’s been a great journey! I hope to continue to inspire people to follow their hearts and imaginations.

What the Executive Voting Committee said about Ozzy…

“The most physical player to ever play this game is Ozzy. You have to give him credit for that. He is the number one most physical player to ever play the game by far.” – Russell Hantz – 2010 “Survivor” Hall of Fame Inductee

“Genetically bred to play the game from a physical perspective, we now must add to his list of accomplishments a heightened understanding of his own strengths and weaknesses, that is self-awareness — which led directly to the brash, risky, and well-considered strategic moves of this season.” – David Burris – “Survivor” Executive Producer

“Probably the most accomplished performer in challenges we have ever seen on the show. He is a power house both in and out of the water but also has a calm, focused way about him that keeps his mind clear to also dominate in the problem-solving and puzzle elements of the challenges. – Jesse Jensen – “Survivor” Producer

“The blissed-out beach bum deserves a spot in the record books for schooling his competitors in challenges and making tree monkeys seem clumsy.” – Drusilla Moorhouse – E! Online

“If anyone was ever born to be left to his own devices on an island, it’s Ozzy. The guy is the absolute epitome of the living off the land conceit that “Survivor” is all about.” – Dalton Ross – Entertainment Weekly

Be sure to check back Friday to meet the final member of the “Survivor” Hall of Fame Class of 2011.

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

‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame Inductee – Cirie Fields

December 12, 2011
Cirie Fields (CBS)

Cirie Fields (CBS)

Fifty percent of the voting for the ‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame was based on the ballots of the Executive Voting Committee. This blue-ribbon panel consists of “Survivor” luminaries such as Host and Executive Producer Jeff Probst, Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer, Executive Producer David Burris, Producer Jesse Jensen, the “Survivor” Hall of Fame Class of 2010, members of the “Survivor” press corps, and XFINITY TV’s “Survivor” Guy Gordon Holmes.

The other fifty percent came from “Survivor” fans like you.

Who are the other inductees? Visit the ‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame to find out!

The “Survivor” Hall of Fame is proud to induct Cirie Fields into the Class of 2011. Cirie received the most fan votes out of any nominee.

We had a chance to speak with the newly crowned Hall of Famer to get her thoughts on this honor…

How does it feel to be honored by a vote made up of your “Survivor” peers, the ‘Survivor’ production crew, the press, and the fans?
Cirie:
Being a fan of the show since the days of Richard Hatch, when I was first chosen to be on “Survivor” I was in total disbelief. To think that of the hundreds of thousands of people who apply I was the one selected. The whole experience was surreal. But now to be voted into the Hall of Fame is more than unbelievable. My whole “Survivor” experience was amazing, the places I got to see, to be able to play the game that I enjoy and more importantly, to meet the greatest people ever, both on the show and behind the scenes. Everyone was so gracious and inviting, making my entire experience the adventure of a lifetime and for that I’m truly grateful. But now, to be selected by the fans, the crew and the press is more than I can fathom. I have been humbled by the entire experience and coming from the “girl on the couch” who thought she could play this game I am so very grateful to everyone. This was the opportunity of a lifetime for me and the friends and fans will be in my heart always. Thanks to everyone.

What’ve you been up to since we last saw you?
Cirie:
Right after “Heroes vs. Villains” I went to Japan with other “Survivor” alumni to support the troops. I also auditioned for a role on a talk show. Just being considered for something like that boggles my mind and eases the pain of not getting it. Since then I’ve been working and spending time with my wonderful family and watching my three boys grow into three handsome young men (where did the time go?). Now I’ve thrusted myself into furthering my career as an operating room nurse coordinator.

Are you enjoying “Survivor: South Pacific”?
Cirie:
Well, I can’t help but envy the notion of Redemption Island, and watching a player like Cochran who’s really bright, hilariously funny, and physically inept. I can see myself in him so I was really rooting for him. Ozzy, what can I say? He’s still amazing, I think after the show wraps up he’ll probably stay another few weeks just for the hell of it and who’s better suited? Brandon leaves me questioning my own faith and his sanity at times. I see Coach in a different light now. He has transformed from the quirky Dragon Slayer to a savvy ruler and tribesman slayer. You go, boy! I love all the new challenges, but, I always love them from the couch and not so much on the beach as a participant. Great season! I can’t wait to see who will be the sole survivor.

What the fans said about Cirie…

“One of the best players to never win, easy.” – Christian

“One of the best strategic players ever.”– Hawk_941

“Biggest transformation any contestant has ever had.” – Jonathan

“Cirie has an almost magical ability to just tell people something and make them believe it, no matter how ludicrous.” – James

“The perfect combination of personality and strategy. She should have won in Panama and Fans vs. Favs.” – Brian D.

What the Executive Voting Committee said about Cirie…
“Her asset is her disarming smile and her ability to make you forget that she is your opponent. She also deserves a spot in the Hall of Fame because she epitomizes the person who got up off the couch to live their adventure and that’s what the show is all about.” – Jeff Probst – “Survivor” Executive Producer and Host

“She played a great strategic and social game all three times. She is super smart and definitely someone that is a threat every time. Cirie is someone you would want in your alliance and not outside of it.” – “Boston” Rob Mariano – Winner of “Survivor: Redemption Island” and 2010 “Survivor” Hall of Fame Inductee

“What’s incredible about Cirie is how far she came from when she first started on “Exile Island.” The woman was afraid of the outdoors for crissakes! But she evolved into a stone cold killer who would have won “Fans vs. Favorites” had there not been so many injuries to other players (causing producers to abort the original final-three plan).” – Dalton Ross – Entertainment Weekly

Be sure to check back Wednesday and Friday to see the rest of the members of the “Survivor” Hall of Fame Class of 2011.

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

‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame Ballot – XFINITY TV’s Gordon Holmes

December 12, 2011

Gordon Holmes (XFINITY TV)

Gordon Holmes (XFINITY TV)

As the Senior Chairman of the Executive Voting Committee, Gordon Holmes has an awesome responsibility. His vote (along with Host Jeff Probst, Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer and other “Survivor” luminaries) will make up 50% of the final tally for entry into the prestigious ‘Survivor’ Hall of Fame. The other 50% came from “Survivor” fans like you.

Note: Fan voting for the “Survivor” Hall of Fame Class of 2011 has closed.

Gordon Holmes is an Assistant Managing Producer at Comcast and the lead “Survivor” know-it-all for XFINITY TV. He’s been hooked on “Survivor” from the moment he first saw Jeff Probst kick sixteen strangers off a boat and into the sea back in May of 2000. Gordon has visited the set of “Survivor” on three separate occasions (“Gabon,” “Nicaragua,” and “South Pacific”) and boasts a respectable 2-1 immunity challenge record. His biggest regret in life is not purchasing the Medallion of Power when it was available on eBay.

Gordon Holmes’s 2011 “Survivor” Hall of Fame Ballot

Why has “Survivor” survived?

My theory? It’s because it follows the same template the circus does…there’s something for everybody. If you don’t like the jugglers or the clowns, maybe you’ll like the lion tamer or the acrobats.

“Survivor” is the same way. If you’re not interested in challenge machines or exotic locales, maybe you’ll like the hot people in skimpy swimwear or the strategists.

That’s probably why some people get frustrated with Hall of Fame voting. We didn’t say vote for the most charismatic player or the best challenge performer or the best schemer. We just said vote for who you think is worthy.

Here’s who I think is worthy…

Rob Cesternino – (“Survivor: The Amazon” and “Survivor: All Stars”): Rob Cesternino was one of my picks for “Survivor” Mount Rushmore back in 2008 and he will stay on my ballot until he is a member of the “Survivor” Hall of Fame. I credit Rob with changing what had become a very boring game. Before Rob played, Survivors would stick with their alliances after the merge. It led to some very boring episodes while we waited for the lower-numbered tribe to be eliminated. Rob’s strategy of whittling down your alliance to stay off of the chopping block revolutionized the way the game is played. Sadly, the last two seasons have reverted back to the stick-to-your-tribe ways. We need to get a new Cesternino in there.

Jon “Jonny Fairplay” Dalton – (“Survivor: Pearl Islands” and “Survivor: Fans vs. Favorites”): I’ll put Fairplay in the same boat with Cesternino. They both changed the game and will stay on my ballot until they’re inducted. Jonny Fairplay changed the game with his infamous “Grandmother” lie. Not only did it set the precedent that you couldn’t believe anything people said about their lives back home (and Jim Rice had some fun with that this season.) But, it also removed the ceiling (floor?) for what is considered an unforgivable lie. Think about it; the public didn’t bat an eyelash when Russell Hantz said he was a fireman during Katrina who’d lost his dog.

Rudy Boesch – (“Survivor: Borneo” and “Survivor: All Stars”): Now that I’ve voted for the “Survivor” innovators who aren’t in the Hall, I’m ready to move on to the “Survivor” icons. First on that list for me is Mr. Rudy Boesch. The former Navy SEAL was one of reality TV’s first characters back before the idea of a real person being a character on a reality show even existed. His bizarre, heartwarming relationship with Richard Hatch helped turn the show into a ratings juggernaut and his face (along with Hatch, Rupert Boneham, and Jerri Manthey) is one of the first many think of when they hear the word “Survivor.” That, and he’s in the “Survivor” slot machine, which is awesome.

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