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‘Survivor’ Malcolm: “I’m Still Snarky, and Talking Trash, and My Ego Is Somewhere in the Stratosphere”

March 6, 2017

Malcolm Freberg (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Malcolm Freberg
Age: 29
Hometown: Hermosa Beach, CA
Previously Played On:
“Survivor: Philippines” – Finished 4th and Jury Member
“Survivor: Caramoan” – Finished 9th & Jury Member
Best Known For: Asking a bro to, “Hold up.” Then using two idols to eliminate Phillip Sheppard.

Gordon Holmes: You know the deal, everything you say here stays here until next winter.
Malcolm Freberg: Right.
Holmes: I only share information with people I’m rooting for.
Freberg: (Laughs)
Holmes: (Whispers) Malcolm’s targeting you.
Freberg: Right, everything stays here except for the sexual innuendos.
Holmes: My wife…she described this trip as “Gordon’s going to see his boyfriend.”
Freberg: (Laughs) And that’s how I got my third case of syphilis.

Freberg: Hey, I’m mad at you.
Holmes: Why?
Freberg: The Power Rankings have me freaking out because I talked a lot of (expletive deleted) about Brad in the Power Rankings.
Holmes: You think he can read?
Freberg: Well, we know he can’t count.
Holmes: I think of it this way; the Power Rankings gave you an unfair advantage. You’re in the trenches, you really have to study the game.
Freberg: You could say that being on “Survivor” twice, being on one of the worst tribes ever, being on the bottom of Stealth R Us, these things would battle harden me. They’d prepare me for “Survivor: Game Changers.” When people ask me what really prepared for this, I say the Power Rankings.
Holmes: I’ve got bad news for you, you’re not the only Power Ranker out here. You’ve got Ciera, you’ve got Andrea…
Freberg: Oh yeah! You’ve got a lot of…ugh…
Holmes: You’re screwed.
Freberg: It’s true.
Holmes: The playing field is even. Which is good, you’ve got to earn this million.
Freberg: Instead of just having it handed to me…which I was hoping for.
Holmes: Instead of Sia storming the stage to write you a check for taking care of a chicken.
Freberg: I tell you, I’m going to be the biggest animal advocate this season. (Laughs) I’ll take the sure hundred grand.
Holmes: Sia is the new Sprint.

Holmes: What’ve you been up to since we saw you on Caramoan?
Freberg: Working, I’ve been working in editorial for the last couple of years. I’m a managing editor for a start-up pop-culture website. And honestly, it plays a big role here. I haven’t worked in an office since college. It hurt my soul to do it. And when you can deal with managing creatives, you can deal with any egos on the planet.
Holmes: That’s very true.
Freberg: I think that will help out here. Living in the same place, a couple of relationship came and went. But, from that you learn a little emotional maturity that wasn’t there the first time around. It’s been four years and a lot of stuff has happened.

Holmes: Your bio says your hair is two inches longer. How is that going to help you?
Freberg: Did I write that?
Holmes: Yeah, I circled it. Seemed important.
Freberg: I write such nonsense that I can’t remember everything. It keeps the flies off of your back like the tail of a warthog. (Sings) When I was a young wart hog.
Holmes: This is a pretty bad interview.
Freberg: (Laughs) No, I got it cut before I came out because my mom said I had split ends. So, it looks good. It’ll flow very gracefully.

Holmes: Let’s see here…you also claim to be more mature. I do not believe you.
Freberg: To be honest, this is weird, almost a fifth of my life has gone by. It’s been four years… so closer to a sixth. A lot of stuff goes by. I was talking to Probst about this and I said I feel like an older, more mature guy. I’m still snarky, and talking trash, and my ego is somewhere in the stratosphere.
Holmes: Obviously.
Freberg: From an emotional intelligence standpoint, I’ve been through some relationships that didn’t work out. This time around when you talk about people you want to model your game after, I want to incorporate a little Penner and Denise from the Philippines. Like Penner with Lisa Whelchel and Denise with everybody. I want to make more human connections this time.

Holmes: You’re no longer with So?
Freberg: Right, it ended three months ago. We’re on good terms now.
Holmes: Sorry to hear that, and that’s great that it ended on a positive note. However, she was a member of the “Worlds Apart” Dirty 30.
Freberg: A couple of the clowns from the Dirty 30 are here. And I know them due to my relationship. I don’t approve of any of their hashtags or shenanigans. But, they’re here and you have to deal with them. But Hali and gargantuan Sierra, I don’t really know what to expect from them. Hali is wandering around the beach, she’s giving me Brenda vibes from Caramoan. Just wandering aimlessly in her own little world. And Sierra…she’s a literal big flirt. I don’t 100% know how they’re going to play it this time. I have to keep them at arm’s reach because I don’t know what they’re going to do inside the game.

Holmes: What do you make of all this “Game Changers” business?
Freberg: I used to work at a bar called Game Changers. It was three months and my boss was a drug addict and evil. So, I had flashbacks, but I was excited once I calmed down.
Holmes: Was this a sports bar?
Freberg: Yeah, and they’d have murals of various icons. And all the dishes had names like the Jerome Burger Bettis or something. Terrible puns. But yeah, I’ll take it.
Holmes: How are you a game changer? How did you change the game, Malcolm Freberg?
Freberg: (Laughs) I hope you ask everybody this question.
Holmes: Don’t you worry.
Freberg: Cause I’m shaking my head at some of these people. “Tall Sierra, how did you change the game?” I think I’ve earned it.
Holmes: Handsome challenge studs have played before, Malcolm.
Freberg: Yeah, but my short answer is; Probst new favorite term is “Live Tribal Councils.”
Holmes: Meaning the vote hasn’t been decided yet.
Freberg: Meaning everyone is trying to figure it out in the moment. I think I can take the lion’s share of credit on that one. Throwing out idols at Tribal, I did that multiple times. And since then, once a season someone tries to pull something that I think I influenced. I think I’m the generator of live Tribal Councils. And that didn’t exist until I had some half-cocked idea to start waving idols around. Now it’s a mainstay.

Holmes: When I heard that subhead I looked around…
Freberg: Yeah, not everyone fits that description.
Holmes: But I wondered if maybe he thought these were people who were going to change their personal games.
Freberg: Oh…I imagine that’s the interpretation some people are going to have to go for. Because I can’t see Hali Ford saying she changed the game.
Holmes: She did jump all in with the naming of the Merica tribe.
Freberg: I take it back. That’s wonderful.
Holmes: She should have named it after her mother.
Freberg: That’s the hardest thing. When people find out you’re going back, they say, “Will you name the tribe after me?” Everybody wants me to do it. And I have like eighteen suitors for this thing.
Holmes: The name is always something like, “Oh, it’s the Fijian word for harmony.”
Freberg: I was going to go with “The Noble Warriors.”
Holmes: I want something like “The Thunder Fire All-Stars.”
Freberg: (Laughs)
Holmes: I just want to hear Probst say it.
Freberg: “Team Lightning Force Voltron.”
Holmes: I wonder if I bring it to all of you today, someone will remember it twenty days from now.
Freberg: “Holmes wanted it.”
Holmes: Anywho, back to the point of this, are you going to change your game?
Freberg: You have to if you’re 0 and 2. I think if you asked me right after the first times I played, I would’ve been defensive about people saying I was more social than strategic. I would’ve been defensive that my big moves were not always at the best time. But once you’ve had more distance and you’re more self-aware, you realize that I’m not the cold-hearted…I think I told you I was going to be like Brian Heidik.
Holmes: Oh yeah, before “Survivor: Philippines” you were telling me how you were going to be the biggest villain ever. And I was like…get outta here…you’re adorable.
Freberg: (Laughs) And that’s just not how it works out here. You can’t fake anything. You’re going to end up being who you are. Brad’s going to end up being Brad…unfortunately. So, now knowing that I’m a dominant social player who has a creative mind for strategy, rather than a dominant strategic player, I know that making a big flashy move at the wrong time isn’t the best strategy to play the game. That self-awareness has to be applied or we’re going to be commiserating on the phone about this. And you won’t break your string of not picking the winner, because you know who you have to pick.
Holmes: Everyone I pick to win “Survivor” loses. I can’t do that to you again.
Freberg: We’re going to do this together.
Holmes: I can’t have this on my conscience. You’re my favorite human being on this planet…and I’m a married man
Freberg: Let the record show that we’re spooning right now. We’re going to break this together. Or…you’re not going to pick me and I’m going to win and I’m going to laugh at you so hard. You’re not even going to get an exit interview. I’m just going to laugh for ten minutes.
Holmes: I hate your dumb face.
Freberg: (Laughs)

Holmes: Alright, what do you think of this cast?
Freberg: A lot of strong players, which is good for me. Camouflage…meat shields is Jeremy’s term for it…which is clever. There are a lot of people who fit the definition of “Bro.” And you remember the Three Amigos, I can bro-down when I need to. If I can get a lot of meat shields, it works well for me. It’s fun to have JT and Ozzy around. A couple of old legends.
Holmes: You don’t get as much credit for this as someone like Cochran, but you’re a “Survivor” geek. You know your stuff. So, to be out here with those guys has got to be cool.
Freberg: Oh yeah. These are the guys I grew up watching. I used to love JT. I never loved Ozzy, but I loved JT. And so you see people and you get excited. But, you see someone like Cirie, who you also liked as a strategist, and you remember what she wanted to do in “Heroes vs. Villains” where she wanted to get rid of targets early. I loved watching you on my TV, but you might be an early target for me.
Holmes: Who else are some early targets?
Freberg: Cirie and normal-sized Ciera.
Holmes: Classic Ciera.
Freberg: Yes, Ciera Classic. I loved watching her on TV. She swings for the fences. But when I see someone who’s like me and knowing that I wouldn’t want to play with me. So, she’s a target.

Holmes: Anyone you’re excited to align with?
Freberg: Caleb might be a fun one. He looks like a big old puppy dog. He’s only played for nine days, he’s never been to a Tribal Council. Of everyone out here he’s got the least experience. JT…he’s a good ol’ boy from the south. He’s every guy I went to high school with. And weirdly, if Brad Culpepper doesn’t hold my Power Rankings against me, he’s an ex-football guy and I’m an ex-football guy. I grew up with guys like that. I know how to make them happy. He could be my Phillip this year. Like with Stealth R Us…ow…hurts my heart to talk about it….
Holmes: What was your nickname again?
Freberg: I don’t talk about it. I’ve literally cauterized that part of my brain so I don’t think about. But, if I could get into that position with Brad, I’d do it. I know how to play a guy like that.

Holmes: You’ve played with Andrea before…
Freberg: Yeah, I voted for her a couple of times. She sat on my idol and got me booted. And it’s funny because outside of this we’re friendly. Inside of this we’re very mistrusting of each other. I tried to get her out many times in Caramoan. And she’s aware of my scheming. I’d imagine her alert is high.

Holmes: You were in the same position as Michaela and Zeke. They’re playing before anyone has had a chance to see their season. How do you handle them?
Freberg: That could be an easy early bond for me. Zeke looks like a little English villain and Michaela is really cute, really athletic. I have no idea what they did, so it’s a little bit of arm’s reach. But, if they’re wandering around and they don’t know who to go to, that could be a connection. “I’ve done exactly what you’re doing.” It’s a very easy way to start a conversation.

Holmes: We’ve got four people from Kaoh Rong.
Freberg: I know…it’s a little cringey in my book. There’s a couple of Brains, Aubry and Tai worked together. But, everyone knows to keep an eye on it. Nobody here is a dummy. In this case it’s a blessing because nobody is going to let them get away with it. I’m not going to sweat about it as much as you are in this heat.
Holmes: Joke is on you, smart guy. I can edit that little comment right out.

Holmes: Are you a part of any pre-season alliances? Is anyone dumb enough to hitch their wagon to you?
Freberg: (Laughs) It was very quiet. I didn’t reach out to anybody. I got a lot of messages, but I kept them at arm’s reach. When I was on Caramoan, I wasn’t contacted because nobody knew who I was beforehand. I was out of it. But I knew what happened afterwards. Here, I was expecting it to be like Caramoan with people calling at all hours, and from what I understand it didn’t happen. I’m hoping I’m not outside the loop.
Holmes: If you don’t know who the mark at the table is…it’s you.
Freberg: (Laughs) Exactly. That could be the situation. But, I’m hard to get rid of early. My reputation is likable, useful, rational.
Holmes: Well, that’s your reputation to your face.
Freberg: Exactly. That’s what I tell myself in the mirror every morning when I do my daily affirmation. So, I have to hope that if everyone is talking, I can float long enough to figure out what’s going on.

Holmes: People are always winking and smiling in the pre-game. Are you doing any of that?
Freberg: You have to. If you’re not doing that, you’re throwing the wrong signals. Poor Aubry, who I hope I like out there. I like Cochran a lot and she’s like Lady Cochran. She has resting bitch face. She sits there, she colors her coloring book, and she snarls at it. Not intentionally. But she is snarling.
Holmes: Extreme coloring.
Freberg: Just grinding that crayon into the paper. If you’re not smiling and winking then you’re setting yourself up for trouble because everyone else is doing it. But you have to find a balance so you’re not doing it too much.
Holmes: Who’s doing it too much?
Freberg: As you’d expect, Brad is the loudest person in pre-game. He’s yelling about his bags at the airport. Classic temper tantrum from Brad. Nobody else is talking like Brad is talking. Who knows what’s going through his head. I just assume his skull is three times the density of everyone else’s.

Holmes: I’ve been doing this for a long time. I think the highlight of my career as a
“Survivor” journalist was when you, Cochran and I were at Comic Con and the reporter from TMZ called Cochran…
Freberg: Colton! (Laughs)
Holmes: Has he given you any advice?
Freberg: Not advice, so much. I talk to Cochran, I talk to Denise. It’s not game advice so much as trying to be very positive.
Holmes: Denise is a sex therapist, is that why you’re calling her?
Freberg: No, I’m fine there. I can give you her number though.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you a reason someone might use to get rid of you. I need you to counter it.
Freberg: Got it.
Holmes: Malcolm has got some challenge skills. Let’s bounce him before he makes a run for it after the merge.
Freberg: Did you watch the end of Philippines? The ball was supposed to stay still for half an hour and two minutes into it it was a hundred feet above my head.
Holmes: Didn’t you get a second chance in that one?
Freberg: Yeah, and I lasted about thirty seconds.
Holmes: Oh, now who needs the sex therapist?
Freberg: (Laughs) Well played. But when it comes to the individual immunity challenges, I’m not Joe, I’m not Ozzy. I can’t stand in one place for a while. I’m not going to win the carnival games. I’m not that good. And I plan on Keyser Soze this thing. Maybe come up with a little limp early on.

Holmes: Malcolm’s way too crafty. He pulled that business with the two idols. Can’t trust him, let’s send him home now.
Freberg: I did pull a thing with two idols. But remember, I gave away my idols to save my alliance. I’ve gone all the way to the end with someone. I’ve rode and died…that doesn’t sound right.
Holmes: Rode and dode.
Freberg: I’ve rode and dode with the Three Amigos until I crashed and burned. When I have an idol, you’re going to be aided by that.

Holmes: Malcolm’s good at finding idols. I don’t want to worry about that. Let’s get rid of him.
Freberg: If that happens…there’s no defense for that. I’ve even thought if I do find it early, I’ll act really panicked like I can’t find it. If I’m not looking for it, they’ll assume I found it.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what could it be?
Freberg: I hate twists.
Holmes: Too bad. That’s not the game you signed up to play.
Freberg: Just have immunity idols. Swaps are always a problem. After a swap, I’m easy pickings. But, these days you have to count on it. Please no Redemption Island. I’m OK with Exile Island. Redemption Island, those aren’t the games I’m good at. They have to match for girls and guys, so it’s not speed or strength. I can do puzzles, but balancing and cards and holding a ball between your toes…I’m never going to win.

Holmes: I’ll give you a twist, you tell me if it’s awesome or awful. Hidden immunity idols?
Freberg: Awesome.
Holmes: Redemption Island?
Freberg: Awful.
Holmes: Exile Island?
Freberg: Awesome.
Holmes: Medallion of Power?
Freberg: Awful. (Laughs)
Holmes: Extra vote?
Freberg: Awesome because it never works out and makes me laugh.
Holmes: If you got it, would you just burn it?
Freberg: I wouldn’t burn it. I’ve thought about this. I think it’s better use is as leverage.
Holmes: Steal a vote?
Freberg: Awful.
Holmes: Eliminate a juror?
Freberg: Awesome. I loved that. I thought that was a fun twist.

Holmes: Alright, I have in my hand a deck of cards…
Freberg: It’s all games with you.
Holmes: It’s just gimmicks. I don’t have the energy to ask anything insightful.
Freberg: You just want to go run your challenge.
Holmes: You win eight challenges in a row, then you come talk to me.
Freberg: (Laughs)
Holmes: OK, I have seventeen cards in my hand. Everyone is in here except for you, Michaela, and Zeke. I left them out because we don’t know anything about them. I’ll hand you three cards at random. You tell me who you vote out first, who you work with and eventually eliminate, and who you take to the end.

Round One: Sierra, Caleb, and Ozzy
Freberg: We’ll get rid of Yeti Sierra. It’ll make me feel more confident because I won’t feel so short. Ozzy…align with him as a meat shield. And I’ll take Caleb to the end because how can you vote for a guy whose picture looks like that.

Round Two: Andrea, Ciera, and Sandra
Freberg: You get rid of normal-sized Ciera first because she’s too much like me. Sandra can come to the middle, but you can’t let her get too far because she’s going to win. Andrea to the end because I can outtalk Andrea. I won’t say that about everyone out here, but I can outtalk Andrea.

Round Three: Troyzan, Cirie, and Tai
Freberg: This is a good game. You’ve gotta go, Cirie out first. She’s a problem. Tai is my alliance. Even though I’d love to play with Tai and do a Penner/Lisa Whelchel situation because he’s so emotionally turbulent. And Troyzan at the end because I can’t see the jury awarding a man who amended his name for “Survivor.”
Holmes: Your final argument could be, “This guy takes pictures of women in bikinis for a living. He’s won enough.”
Freberg: He’s won life.

Round Four: Sarah, Brad, and Debbie
Freberg: I think Sarah first. She looks scared. Her eyes are always moving quickly, she doesn’t seem sure of herself. Everyone else I have a read on. Debbie…I’d team up with Debbie. I can play with Lady Coach. Brad to the end. His demeanor plus NFL money…he can’t win.

Round Five: Jeff, Tony, and Aubry
Freberg: I get rid of Jeff first. He was so all over the place last time. I’d like to play with Jeff, but with these cards… Aubry can’t go to the end again. We’ll align. I’m an inner-nerd and she’s 100% nerd. And Tony is a little scary, if I get to the end and it comes down to me and him, I’m more well-spoken.

Holmes: Alright, two left. Work with one and boot the other.

Round Six: Hali and JT
Freberg: Hali to the end because JT’s has got that charm.

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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‘Survivor’ Ciera: “Day One I’m Going Zero to Sixty and I’m Staying at Sixty the Whole Way Through”

March 3, 2017

Ciera Eastin (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Ciera Eastin
Age: 27
Hometown: Salem, OR
Previously Played On:
“Survivor: Blood vs. Water” – Finished 5th and Jury Member
“Survivor: Second Chance” – Finished 10th  and Jury Member
Best Known For: Voting out someone. I don’t remember who.

Gordon Holmes: We’ve been out here together three times in four years.
Ciera Eastin: That’s a lot.
Holmes: Is that an advantage or a disadvantage?
Eastin: The game is really fresh in my mind and coming off a season like “Second Chance” that was so fast paced…I think it gives me an advantage. I think I’m a little ahead of the curve. I’m ready for anything. “Second Chances” went from two tribes to three tribe to two tribes to voting blocs…I think I’m the most prepared.

Holmes: You have a reputation as someone who won’t just sit back and let things happen. You’re always swinging. Is that something you can play into or do you have to hold back?
Eastin: This time I have to switch it up a little bit. I really want to learn from both seasons. And I think one thing I’ve learned is if you’re on the bottom you have to fight and fight and fight. That Ciera will never change. I’ll create my own destiny. What will change is I want to cater more…I tend to get too emotionally invested in one character or one way of thinking, and then I close doors. So, when that way of thinking is gone, like Kass, I was close with Kass. When she was voted out I looked around and all of these doors were closed. I hadn’t been working on those relationships. So, this time I want to make sure I’m spread all over. So, Ciera is everywhere. You’ll still see the same Ciera, I’m here to win. I’d rather go home first then end up in third.
Holmes: Ciera, just win the thing.
Eastin: I know!
Holmes: Quit (expletive deleted) around.
Eastin: (Laughs) I’m really focused this time!

Holmes: What’s your take on this whole Game Changers thing?
Eastin: I feel like it’s a season for me. I look at some of these people and I don’t see how they fit in as a game changer. I kind of embody that. I adapt. And I feel like this season the game is going to be constantly changing. The pressure is on and everyone wants to live up to that title. Who’s the ultimate game changer?
Holmes: “Second Chance” was big move after big move. And I don’t think everyone who made it to “Second Chance” was an all-star. I don’t think everyone here is an all-star. There’s got to be something about, “I’m lucky to have this chance. If I don’t swing for the fences I’m not going to get another one.” Is that something you can play against? They’re zigging so I need to zag?
Eastin: I think one of my strengths is reading people. And you’re right, there are people here who have something to prove. I think it’s navigating through it. It’s knowing when you want someone close to you and when they’re a liability. I’m not threatened by anyone out here. I don’t think anyone is a bigger player than I am. I’m so confident.
Holmes: You seem very zen.
Eastin: It’s the calm before the storm. I know we’re getting close, so I’m really reeling it in and getting ready to explode. Day one I’m going zero to sixty and I’m staying at sixty the whole way through.

Holmes: What are your thoughts on this cast?
Eastin: Besides “Blood vs. Water” this is my favorite cast.
Holmes: Well, you’re biased because your favorite player was on that season.
Eastin: (Laughs) That’s right. My favorite player. But this cast is amazing. Such a variety…all the winners…people I’ve never seen play, the two random players we haven’t seen. I have no preconceived ideas of how they’re going to play. The legends like Ozzy and Sandra? And then people I’ve played with like Jeff Varner and Brad Culpepper. Last time I was looking around and Vytas was the only person. But now I’m looking around like, “Damn all these winners and Ozzy and Cirie!”

Holmes: Is there anyone you’re looking forward to working with?
Eastin: I really like Tai. He is…
Holmes: Adorable?
Eastin: He is adorable. But I also think he’s malleable. I can use that to my advantage. I’d like to sit with him in the end because I can say, “Hey, I brought this guy here and he played a role for me. I was the caller of the shots.” When you’re aligned with an Ozzy or a Malcolm it’s hard for me to be like, “No, it was really me. Believe me.” With Tai it’s easier to believe. I love Andrea. But, I’m trying not to get too…girly. I got in with Kass and was linked with her and Katie Collins in my first season…I don’t want it to be like Ciera and Andrea. But, I do really like her.

Holmes: Any early targets?
Eastin: I would love to see someone like Tony go early. Maybe even Caleb. Somebody big. I want to start the season with a big message. Like, Tony won one season, but big deal. We’re all big players and you don’t have an advantage over all of us. Everyone is here to play so you’d better up your game. I don’t want to get rid of a Cirie or like an Aubry. Well, kind of…I don’t want to send a message of, “Let’s send the weaker people home,” because I fit into the weaker category. But, I’d like to see someone big go home first.

Holmes: You mentioned the new players. How do you deal with Michaela and Zeke?
Eastin: They need to go home really early. They say it’s better the devil you do know than the devil you don’t know. And I’m kind of going off of that. We saw on “Heroes vs. Villains” when Russell Hantz came in and nobody knew how he played. He was a great actor. He got to say, “I don’t know why I’m a villain.”
Holmes: That is a terrible Russell Hantz.
Eastin: (Laughs)
Holmes: It’s more like “I don’t know whyyyy I’m a villain.”
Eastin: That’s better. But they could pull the same thing. “I was America’s sweetheart, I was really true to my alliance.” So, I’d rather get rid of them.

Holmes: A fifth of this cast is from Kaoh Rong. How do you play that?
Eastin: I know Caleb and Tai are close. Aubry and Tai went to the end together. It’s not a relationship like me and Varner where we didn’t really meet until our finale. These are people who spent time together. The only reason it doesn’t scare me is I think people who play with first-time players are a little naïve to the game. I think they’re going to come in thinking they can fool us. No, we’re second and third time players. We know this is fast-paced, so buckle up. I think they’re at a disadvantage with those relationships. They’re going to be early targets.

Holmes: You and Brad Culpepper were on the same tribe in “Blood vs. Water.” What’s your relationship like now?
Eastin: I hope I can work with Brad. I really do. I’m so iffy on him. I’m not sure if he’s going to want to work with me.

Note: At this point, a CBS representative and Jeff Varner walk by.

Holmes: Let’s hold up.
Eastin: Yeah, I definitely don’t want him hearing what I have to say.
Holmes: He does have pretty eyes though.
Eastin: Oh…he’s just handsome in general.
Holmes: I interviewed him in Cambodia and didn’t notice. I never thought I’d be flirting with Jeff Varner.
Eastin: (Laughs) You end up doing the craziest things out here.
Holmes: OK, back to Culpepper.
Eastin: We worked really well together on our tribe. We got along fine. The only reason he went home was because of that Caleb vote. And that wasn’t by my means. I’d love to work with him. I think he’d be great to work with. Not only does he have (expletive deleted) tons of money, he’s also not the smartest guy and he can rub people the wrong way. But, I have to feel it out because I haven’t talked to him in a long time.

Holmes: Alright, let’s make sure you’re ready for this game. I’m going to give you a reason someone might use to get rid of you. I’d like you to counter it. I’d hate for you to get caught by surprise.
Eastin: I appreciate that.
Holmes: Can’t trust Ciera. She voted out the woman that brought her into this world. Let’s get rid of her ASAP.
Eastin: That was dedication to my alliance. At that time my mom was on Redemption Island and I was part of a five-person alliance. I wanted to show that alliance how loyal I really was. I don’t think that was me being disloyal. And my mom knew she was going home. And she loves me no matter what, so don’t worry about us.

Holmes: Ciera is fearless. She could’ve hung out for a few more days, but she chose to pull rocks rather than coast. I want someone that’s going to follow my lead.
Eastin: I love that argument. I am like that. But, I want to play that way with you. I want me and you…you’re my person. I’ll fight tooth and nail to get us to the end. We’ll be the final three. And you pick the third person.
Holmes: So generous.
Eastin: But, I’ll make sure we get there.

Holmes: I don’t want to go to Tribal early and Ciera is not the strongest challenge competitor.
Eastin: I love that one. And that’s the one that worries me. But, I want you to know that if you can help me out early on, you’re going to be a big target after the merge. Everybody is going to be looking at you and trying to get you out. I can protect you. You take care of me now, I’ll take care of you later.

Holmes: There’s always talk of pre-season alliances in returnee seasons. Are you talking to anyone?
Eastin: I’ve definitely talked to a bunch of people. I really tried to stay away from, “Me and you to the end,” or “I don’t like so-and-so.” It’s been very generic. “I’m excited to see you.” I think Andrea is the one I’ve talked to the most, and I think she thinks we’ll work together. But, I’m not tied to any one decision.
Holmes: Have you heard of anyone else?
Eastin: Just the obvious ones like Tai and Caleb. Tai was just at Caleb’s wedding. Tony and Sarah are close. But nothing I’m not used to. And honestly, pre-gaming doesn’t get you far. You could be on different tribes.

Holmes: Is anyone trying to communicate during this pre-game lockdown?
Eastin: Troyzan is a total talker. And Brad Culpepper, his first season, the guy couldn’t keep his mouth shut. But, this time he’s being really good. I can see improvement in his game in that aspect. He’s very self-aware. I’m impressed. I smile at people when they smile at me. I don’t want to give anyone a reason to think I’m with someone.

Eastin: Are we going to play “Align or Malign”?
Holmes: Kinda. I hold in my hand a deck of cards. In this deck are your seventeen opponents. Michaela and Zeke have been left out because we don’t know anything about them. I’ll hand you three cards at random. You tell me who you’ll vote out first, who you’ll align with and eventually eliminate, and who you’ll take to the end. It’s basically next-level “Align or Malign.”
Eastin: Sweet! I like it better. Way to step up your game.
Holmes: The game evolves and so do I…and my gimmicks.
Eastin: (Laughs)

Round One: Tai, JT, and Hali
Eastin: First out is JT. I don’t want to make a Stephen Fishbach mistake. I don’t want to take the good guy to the end. He can charm a jury. He’s a good old country guy. And he’s already won. But, I think the jury will give someone a million dollars twice. Look at Sandra. I’ll align with Hali. I don’t want to take her to the end. She’s a sweet, likable girl. We’re competing for the same spot. She has a lot to prove because nobody remembers her. I’ll take Tai to the end because I can manipulate him and call his shots. And I think I’m a better speaker than him. I’d kill him. Murder him.
Holmes: So violent.
Eastin: Yes.

Round Two: Brad, Caleb, and Ozzy
Eastin: Caleb early. I want him gone early. I played with a “Big Brother” guy and he actually won “Big Brother.” And, I want to make a big statement early. Ozzy I’ll work with. He doesn’t seem socially savvy. I think he plays an old-school loyalty game and I like that in someone I’m aligning with. And I’ll take Brad to the end. Nobody wants to give someone who’s rich a million dollars. And he’s cocky and rubs people the wrong way.

Round Three: Sandra, Sarah, and Troyzan
Eastin: Sandra early. She can win for a third time. She has a personality that people don’t think she’s playing. She’ll go wherever the tide is going, so I can’t rely on her. She’d throw me under the bus. I’ll align with Sarah. I don’t know much about her. I’ll take Troyzan to the end for the same reason as Brad. He plays the opposite role. He has a lot of money. He’s not the sharpest tool in the shed.

Round Four: Debbie, Jeff, and Sierra
Eastin: Debbie goes first. She reminds me of Monica Culpepper in the sense that she’s not very socially in it…if that makes sense. And, she’ll be someone that somebody wants to float to the end rather than myself. She needs to go. I’d align with Sierra…I love Sierra. I don’t want to sit next to her. And there can’t be two Sierras for too long. And then, I’ll take Varner to the end…out of these. But, he scares me. But, these are the cards I have.
Holmes: You have to play the cards you’re dealt, Ciera. In “Survivor” and in life.
Eastin: Thanks, Dad.

Round Five: Malcolm, Tony, and Aubry
Eastin: This is a hard one. Oh shoot…I’ll get rid of Tony first because I want to make an early statement and he’s kind of crazy and obnoxious. I’d align with Aubry, but coming off a season where she made it to the end says a lot for her. I don’t want to sit next to her. And I guess I’ll take Malcolm to the end…even though I wouldn’t want to. We play such opposite roles. So, I might have a shot in that regard.

Holmes: OK, we have two left so give me an old-school align or malign.

Round Six: Andrea and Cirie
Eastin: I malign Cirie. She’s too old-school for me. They don’t like the strategy talk. They like to shut it down. I don’t work that way. And I’ll align with Andrea because our brains work the same and we like the same people. And, I think I can trust her.

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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‘Survivor’ Caleb: “I Feel Like I’m the Most Loyal Player on this Season”

March 2, 2017

Caleb Reynolds (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Caleb Reynolds
Age: 28
Hometown: Hopkinsville, KY
Previously Played On:
“Survivor: Kaoh Rong” – Medically Evacuated
Best Known For: The first person to play a second time who didn’t attend Tribal Council his first time.

Gordon Holmes: I understand you’re now a married man. Congratulations.
Caleb Reynolds: Thank you. I married my best friend.
Holmes: Does it feel different?
Reynolds: We walked a straight line. We didn’t live together, even when we were engaged. We waited until marriage. About eight months before we got married we made the commitment to not have sex until we got married. We committed that to one another. Those things are different. I get to sleep at the house and I get to cuddle with her. I get to spend all night with her. We get to have the intimate moments with each other and not have to worry about that sin in the back of my mind. Or my mom yelling at us or her mom yelling at us. That’s pretty much the big difference.
Holmes: I got married last August and…
Reynolds: Nice!
Holmes: Thank you. But I assumed it would just be kind of like super dating. This is the person I date forever. But, it’s very different. Every decision I make takes two people into account.
Reynolds: Yeah. The big difference is I have never put anyone on my bank account. When I put my wife on it…wow…she has access to everything.
Holmes: Yeah, I own a house in Delaware that I’ve been trying to sell, and now she owns a house in Delaware. You’ve got this partner in everything. It’s awesome.
Reynolds: Yeah, now it’s two of you talking through everything. Heck, I can’t even buy cologne without her feedback. Or like buying a car, I’m the one saying yes, she’s the one saying no.
Holmes: Is she the one winning?
Reynolds: Yes! I don’t think I’ve grasped that just tell her she’s right stuff. Everyone tells me, “Just tell her she’s right.” That “Happy wife, happy life,” stuff. I just have a hard time being like that.
Holmes: Like “Survivor,” you need to pick your battles.

Holmes: I’ve been coming here since “Survivor: Gabon” and we run a lot of challenges. For my money, digging is the most exhausting thing. I think that’s because you don’t know where it ends. If I’m running to a post, I know how much I’ll have to push to get there. Is there any fear of pushing yourself too hard again?
Reynolds: Yeah, I guess in the back of my mind a little. In a way, that’s a good quality. That’s just me. When I’m out here I want to be myself. I just want to win. I think everyone does. There’s going to be come a point in time where I realize I can kill myself. I almost lost my life that time because I wanted to push that hard. But, in the heat of the moment you don’t think. I think the big thing from me is separating reward challenges from immunity.

Holmes: What was your first impression when Jeff told you the theme was Game Changers?
Reynolds: Oh man, I thought to myself, “Why am I that? What have I done?” Many of these people, they know why. The winners, they know why. People who made big moves, they know why. I was just nice to everybody. I treated everyone with respect. I worked around camp and I busted my butt in challenges. We had interviews with Jeff and he explained it as, “There’s only been one of me on this show in the history of ‘Survivor.’” He said, “We’ve never had someone go out leaving it all at the challenge. And you did that at every challenge. That’s why you’re a game changer.” So, I just accept it.

Holmes: What are your thoughts on this cast?
Reynolds: We’ve got some great winners. We’ve got one or two winners who I don’t think should have gotten the title. And we’ve got a few people who I think should have gotten it.
Holmes: Who shouldn’t have won?
Reynolds: I think Sandra. In “Heroes vs. Villains” when she was playing with Russell Hantz and “Boston” Rob, it should’ve been Russell Hantz. She floated through, she may have done something here or there. She didn’t win any challenges, but the jury was so bitter. They were so mad at Russell that they gave it to her. And I know Russell Hantz, so I want to ask her, “What makes you a game changer?”
Holmes: Did Russell give you any advice?
Reynolds: He just reached out to me and said he liked my character. He told me some people that he thinks I can trust. The ones that he’s played with that stabbed people in the back. He gave me his opinions on each one of them. He loves Tai and thinks we should stay close even though people are going to want to separate us. But he didn’t give me any gameplay advice. I haven’t watched “Survivor” from way back. So, the people he spoke to me about, I said, “I don’t know anything about them,” and he gave me some tips. But heck, I wish I had more info.

Holmes: Anyone you’re hoping to work with?
Reynolds: Maybe Sarah, she’s a really strong girl. She was faithful to the people she gave her word to like Tony. She kept that on her badge, that means something to her. When she says, “I swear on my badge,” she meant it. And of course Tony didn’t. You can’t play this game alone and if you play with all the guys it’s going to get picked up really quick. As far as the guys, possibly Ozzy or Malcolm. They’re strong, physical players like me. I think two or three strong competitors can go a long way. Heck, I might make an alliance called “The Athletes” at the merge and win them all.
Holmes: I’ve always said the one thing “Big Brother” does better than “Survivor” is the naming of alliances.
Reynolds: I might pull one of those up this season.
Holmes: The Bomb Squad.
Reynolds: That’s right! All of us pretty much made it to the end except for Devin because he couldn’t keep his mouth shut.
Holmes: Anyone else you want to work with?
Reynolds: Cirie, she might be the best strategic player to ever play this game. So, with that being said, I’m not the biggest strategic player. But, I bring some cards to the table. I think we could get together. I’ve heard she likes me. She likes that I’m a veteran. I think I’ll reach out to her and let her be the strategic mind.

Holmes: You’re one of four Kaoh Rong people out here. Does that work to your advantage? Does it put a target on your back?
Reynolds: Tai’s my buddy and everyone knows that. He was at my wedding. I went out so early with the heat stroke that not a lot of people realize what I’m capable of. And I think that unknown is better than what is known about a lot of these people. Everyone that’s playing right now they’ve shown their cards, they’ve stabbed people in the back. I think I have one of the smaller targets.

Holmes: We don’t know anything about Michaela and Zeke. How do you approach them?
Reynolds: Neither one of them looks physical. Which for me kind of scares me because that’s needed at the beginning of the game. Yeah, you’ve got to set up your pawns right, but all of that is unnecessary if you’re not winning challenges. So, if they’re not bringing much to the challenges, they may get picked off early.

Holmes: There’s always talk of pre-game alliances in returnee seasons. Have you done any of that?
Reynolds: As far as calling people…a couple of people have reached out to me. And I just said, “Sounds good.” I didn’t get to play much last time and the last thing I want to do is jump the gun and align with people I don’t know.
Holmes: Who reached out to you?
Reynolds: Am I supposed to say?
Holmes: Nobody’s going to see this until January, so it won’t hurt your game.
Reynolds: Sandra, go figure. Andrea…and Sierra Dawn. They all heard we were playing again. And I’ll say this, they didn’t pre-game with me. Sandra did. But the thing they said was, “If you got the call, let’s chat.” That’s the last time I heard from any of them. But, I was really surprised. I figured a lot of people would. I feel like I’m the most loyal player on this season.

Holmes: You’re under lockdown, but people smile and wink at each other. Have you been doing any of that?
Reynolds: Oh man…Brad Culpepper winked at me. Troyzan did a little thumbs up thing. I think that’s it. I winked back and gave a thumbs up back. I play the game. But I don’t know any of these people. Well, Tai. Of course I wink at Tai. We do everything.

Holmes: Alright, I came up with some reasons people might use to get rid of you. I’d like you to defend yourself.
Reynolds: Oh, OK.
Holmes: Caleb almost died in Kaoh Rong. He’s going to have a lot of people’s sympathy if he gets to the end.
Reynolds: I’m definitely not going to get sympathy. I did that to myself. I pushed myself harder than anyone there. I think as far as challenges, you don’t want to get rid of me early. I’ll get you to the merge.

Holmes: There are four people from Kaoh Rong here. There’s no way they’re not working together. Let’s trim their numbers and get rid of Caleb.
Reynolds: Two of those people were in the end of the game. And if you don’t think they can get there again, you’re mistaken. Tai stabbed his own alliance in the back more than once. He’s a flip flopper, you can’t trust him. And Aubry, she’s probably one of the smartest people here. And Debbie, you’ve got a fruit loop there. You’re not going to find anyone that’s more loyal and as physically fit as me.

Holmes: Caleb is a challenge machine. I don’t want him to go on a winning streak after the merge.
Reynolds: Getting to the merge is the first thing you’ve gotta do. Why would you get rid of the person you need the most this early? If you have to get rid of me at the merge, I understand. But right now I’m an asset. And it’s true, I am a challenge beast, but you also have Malcolm, Ozzy, JT, Troyzan and others. Ozzy has won five out of six. Go after him first. I’m not even that big of a threat. Last time I was in a challenge I ended up under IVs.
Holmes: You probably never had to defend yourself in Kaoh Rong because you never went to a Tribal.
Reynolds: No. Not once.

Holmes: Any guesses for possible twists?
Reynolds: Um…heck man…you never know. They may throw in Redemption Island. There may be three tribes, two tribes…they may have a final two, they may have a final four. In “Big Brother” they throw in something different every year. It could be anything. I’d like a loved one visit with a lot of people.
Holmes: More than one loved one per person?
Reynolds: No, with more people left in the game. That gives me a better shot at seeing my wife.
Holmes: She’d love Fiji.
Reynolds: She would!

Holmes: Alright, I have a deck of cards featuring your opponents. Well, everyone except Zeke and Michaela because we don’t know them yet. I’ll hand you three at random. You tell me who gets voted out first, who you’ll work with but eventually eliminate, and who you’ll take to the end.

Round One: Ciera, Ozzy, and Troyzan
Reynolds: I’ll work with Troyzan he’s kind of a cool guy. He seems down to Earth. And, he’s a strong guy. And I don’t think people would think we would work together. Ciera, I’ll vote her out because I don’t know her and because she’s a girl. The last thing I want is an all-girl alliance. And on this cast there are quite a few who have tried to start one. Ozzy to the end. Let’s he and I win every single immunity challenge.
Holmes: How do you beat him at the end?
Reynolds: Because I set up the alliance.

Round Two: JT, Sandra, and Debbie
Reynolds: Sandra, I want to vote her out. Watching her season, she’s just kind of rude. She’s just a mean person. She threw Russell’s hat in the fire. That’s someone’s personal property. That’s too far. I’ll go to the end with Debbie. She’s an easy beat when we get there. Her standing next to me with her trying to tell the jury why she should win, I don’t think it’ll hold a candle to why I should win. And I’ll work with JT. He’s a country boy, I’d think two country boys can stick together. And he’s a good physical challenger.

Round Three: Brad, Jeff, and Sarah
Reynolds: I’ll send Varner home. I don’t have a reason, a big reason. I didn’t watch his season. I don’t know him. But, I know he didn’t make the merge either time. Maybe he doesn’t bring a lot to camp and doesn’t bring much to challenges. I’ll take Sarah to the end. I know she’s loyal. She’s a police officer, so I can benefit from that with me being a veteran. We both wore uniforms. We have something in common. I’ll work with Brad. He’s another strong guy. He works at camp. And I know he’s cool with veterans. I’ll show him a little southern hospitality and win his heart over.

Round Four: Andrea, Malcolm, and Cirie
Reynolds: I’ll work with Malcolm because he’s like me. He’s a likable guy, he has a great personality, he’s funny. I think he and I will click well. He’s a strong physical player. I’d get him to a certain point, but he’d be a tough person to beat. I’ll take Cirie to the end. She’ll be hard to beat. She’s the best strategic person we have. She’s likable. And if you win her heart, she’ll be loyal to a fault. You can hide under her wing while she’s putting all the pieces down. She’ll protect you. And I’ll vote out Andrea because she’s gotta go. The times I’ve watched her, she seems like a snake in the grass. I think it’s her way or the highway. She’s always attracted to the good-looking guys. She’ll snuggle with them and try to win them over, and if you don’t buy into that, you’ve gotta go.

Round Five: Tai, Hali, and Aubry
Reynolds: I’ll take Tai to the end. He’s just a good soul. He deserves to be there. He fought his way last time, he started working on day one. And we were talking about voting him out on day three. It doesn’t matter if the palm tree is a thousand feet tall, he’ll get to the top to get you coconuts. And I think he’ll be loyal to me. Our personal connection trumps everyone else out here. I’ll work with Aubry. We’ve played before and going in, maybe I could have that advantage over everyone else. She was pretty much loyal to the people she was loyal to. She’s the type that guns for strategic players first. I don’t think she’d see me as a threat. I’ll vote out Hali because she’s sort of in the ballpark of Andrea. She’s down with all-girl alliances. She’s down to go against the guys.

Holmes: We’ve got two left. Work with one and boot the other.

Round Six: Tony and Sierra
Reynolds: Oh man…these are tough ones. I’ll work with Tony, he needs a safehouse. He’s got a big target on his back. I believe that he’s going to be looking for a home. I think he’ll try to stay as close as he can to those people. I’ll vote out Sierra because I see her with the all-girl stuff. I hear her saying, “Yeah, girl” and staring at the girls. On Instagram I see her at the reality events and I know she’s friends with everyone. I know this is a game, but a relationship outside of the game makes it hard to cut someone’s neck.

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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‘Survivor’ Sarah: “I Got So Much Grief for Not Playing a Vicious Game”

March 1, 2017

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Sarah Lacina
Age: 32
Hometown: Marion, Iowa
Previously Played On:
“Survivor: Cagayan” – Finished 11th and Jury Member
Best Known For: Figuring out that Tony was a police officer before they had ever spoken.

Gordon Holmes: One thing I noticed about your bio is you’re like, “I’m going to lie my face off!”
Sarah Lacina: (Laughs)
Holmes: How does that differ from your game in Cagayan?
Lacina: When you enter the game of “Survivor” you know that you have to lie. Some people can get away with not, the lucky few where everything goes their way, but the majority of people will have to lie. Going in and not having played before, I thought I could go in and do whatever. But then when I thought that I’m representing police officers, I didn’t want to give anyone a bad name. I felt like Tony was going to uphold the profession too, so I really don’t want to be the bad cop out of this. All of that played a factor and look where it got me. So, now I realize that in order to win, I may have to lie. And I’m definitely OK with that.
Holmes: One of the things that stuck with me was how you felt when Tony lied on his badge. If someone said, “Do you swear on your badge?” would you lie?
Lacina: Absolutely. When I got back home and people saw it air everyone was like, “What’s wrong with you? Who cares?” I really saw that I got so much grief for not playing a vicious game. So, I feel like I’ve been freed to play however I have to play.
Holmes: My wife doesn’t watch “Survivor.” She doesn’t like the lying.
Lacina: Oh, I hate lying.
Holmes: As do I.
Lacina: As a police officer, people lie to me every single day. And it gets old. It’s disrespectful. When I have a picture of you committing a crime and you say, “That’s not me.” Do you really think I’m stupid? You’re insulting me. That’s clearly you, I’m not an idiot. That’s why I can’t stand lying.
Holmes: Well, what I was getting to was we played poker with her parents and she totally bluffed out her dad.
Lacina: Yeah, this is all just a big game of poker.

Holmes: What was your reaction when Jeff told you this season was about game changers?
Lacina: When we arrived I saw these big names here. And then here’s me. (Laughs) So, when Jeff told us that I thought, “How do I fit in as a game changer?” I think other people are wondering that about me too. But, I know how I played. And people that didn’t play with me didn’t get to see how I played. I actually had my hand in everything until I went out. That’s why I went out. So, when he says game changers, I think that people don’t know what I can do. But, the right people know what I can do and that’s why I was brought back. People are going to look foolish if they think someone’s not a game changer. The people who know everything brought them back for a reason. I may not know why, but if you think they’re just a filler…I don’t think that’s the case.

Holmes: Is there anyone you’re looking forward to working with?
Lacina: The generic answer is; I’m willing to work with anyone. But, that’s the truth. Even people you don’t like. And I wouldn’t say I dislike people. You get vibes from people. And that’s what I hate from the pre-gaming is that I have a real serious face. I think that people think I’m intimidating or abrasive, and that’s not me at all. I love to joke and laugh. I hope people don’t get an impression of me too soon. I wouldn’t mind working with JT. He seems loyal. Caleb, I watched him on “Big Brother.” Very loyal for all 90-some days he was in the house. I’m not opposed to working with Tony. Tony knows this game like the back of his hand. I’d be open to that.
Holmes: What’s your relationship like Tony like now?
Lacina: In real life, he’s like Uncle Tony and I’m Aunt Sarah. As far as “Survivor,” your guess is as good as mine. And I really mean that in all honesty. People are tight with other people, I don’t do a lot of the social media. Tony’s the only person I know as a person. So, I don’t know how that will come into play.

Holmes: Is there anyone you’re wary of at this point?
Lacina: Sandra…she doesn’t come off as super friendly. But, I probably don’t either, so I’m not going to hold that against her. She’s won twice, she’s doing something right. Cirie…she’s not really good at anything. This is her fourth time playing. What is she doing right? Those two I’m keeping an eye on.

Holmes: You’re playing with seventeen people you’ve seen and two you haven’t. What is your approach with Zeke and Michaela?
Lacina: The only thing you can do is watch them and their body language. Michaela seems like a J’Tia. I watched J’Tia in pre-game and I watched Michaela in pre-game and they act the same. I really think just by watching Michaela…she’s not going to fit in very well. I could be wrong. She’s just laying everywhere, she doesn’t sit up. And I see Zeke being like a Michael Snow.
Holmes: You famously in your last pre-game looked at Tony and said, “That dude’s a cop.”
Lacina: I’ve been a cop for ten years, even when you’re not working you’re still a cop. I’ve arrested people off duty. You’re always paying attention to who’s doing what. I could tell you whose toenails are painted what color. And body language is a big tell for how people behave. I can really figure people out pretty quickly.
Holmes: Don’t look down. What color are my toenails?
Lacina: (Laughs) You don’t have any toenail polish on.
Holmes: Wow, you’re good.

Holmes: You’re on lockdown, but that doesn’t stop people from winking and smiling. Who’s doing that?
Lacina: JT is extremely social. Brad Culpepper is extremely social. You know, I wouldn’t mind working with Brad, but he might have too many irons in the fire. You can do too much. You see Debbie, Caleb, Aubry, and Tai sticking together. I think not on purpose, but you’re drawn to the people you know. And then there are people like Sandra who keep to themselves.
Holmes: You mentioned the foursome from Kaoh Rong. How do you deal with them?
Lacina: Caleb and Tai are tight. Caleb just got married and Tai was at his wedding. Aubry and Tai went to the end together. Debbie was working with them too. You’d be foolish to not work with the people you know. That’s like when people ask if I’ll work with Tony. Do I want to? No. May I have to? Yes. But again, it’s a comfort thing. I know him outside of the game. That doesn’t mean I’ll trust him inside the game. It’s human nature. You’re drawn to things you’re familiar with.

Holmes: There’s always talk of pre-game alliances in returnee seasons. Are you participating in any? Have you heard rumors of any?
Lacina: No. I only know Tony. And even if he said, “It’s me and you to the end” I wouldn’t believe him.
Holmes: Even if Tony said, “Water is wet.”
Lacina: (Laughs) Right? He’s the last person you’d want to have a pre-game alliance with. You can’t even have an in-game alliance with that guy. But yeah, it makes me scared that I could be in trouble for not being popular outside of the game. Like Sierra? She travels with that Dirty 30 crew and they know everyone. Malcolm used to date one of their cast members. Hali’s in that mix too. They all live out there together. And I want to see fair game, but I know that’s impossible.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you a reason someone might use to get rid of you. I’d like you to counter that argument.
Lacina: OK.
Holmes: Sarah is too good at challenges. I watched her destroy a puzzle. Remember when she was like, “Why am I on the brawn tribe?”
Lacina: (Laughs)
Holmes: I don’t want her cruising after the merge. Let’s get her tonight.
Lacina: Look, I got lucky on a puzzle. Did you see me lose the challenges where I didn’t figure it out? And right now we need to win challenges, we don’t want to go to Tribal Council. So, at this point, I understand your fear, but there are tons of other people who are good at puzzles. Ozzy won five out of six challenges after the merge.

Holmes: Sarah became a swing vote. I don’t want a swing vote. I want someone’s who’s on my side.
Lacina: I was a swing vote, but I stuck with my crew. I was completely loyal. Never once did you see me lie, cheat, steal nothing. I’ll swear to you on my badge.
Holmes: Hilarious.

Holmes: Sarah’s a cop. It’s a pretty noble profession. I don’t want to have to face her at a final Tribal.
Lacina: Being a cop doesn’t have anything to do with how you’re going to do. We have a two-time winner. My job doesn’t set me apart. You have Tai who loves animals.
Holmes: In Nicaragua on day two they wanted to get rid of Kelly Bruno because she had one leg.
Lacina: Oh yeah. Did she wear pants in the pre-game so they wouldn’t know?
Holmes: Yes, I was out there.
Lacina: So, they didn’t know?
Holmes: Some people who were perceptive like you figured it out.
Lacina: Wow, so some people are thinking that far ahead. That’s too early. That’s why I tell people, now is not the time. You don’t want to vote out strong players early on.

Holmes: Any guesses for twists?
Lacina: Oh (expletive deleted). I haven’t been thinking of that. I really don’t want Exile Island or Redemption Island. I don’t want to see a (expletive deleted) super idol. Well, unless I get it. (Laughs)
Holmes: Oh, now you’re into it.
Lacina: Yes.
Holmes: Give me the super, duper idol.

Holmes: Alright, I have a deck of cards that features your seventeen opponents. Michaela and Zeke have been left out because we don’t know anything about them. I’ll hand you three cards at random. You tell me who you’ll vote out first, who you’ll work with and eventually eliminate, and who you’ll take to the end.
Lacina: This is like (expletive deleted), marry, kill?
Holmes: Yes. If we have time we can play that next.
Lacina: (Laughs)

Round One: Brad, Jeff, and Caleb
Lacina: Jeff out first. I wouldn’t normally, but out of these three. I want to work with Caleb because he’s super loyal. He’s an army veteran. He seems like a nice guy. I’ll take Brad to the end because he already has a bunch of money and he’s abrasive.

Round Two: Troyzan, Debbie, and Sandra
Lacina: Sandra out first. She’s won twice. Hmmm…I’ll work with Debbie. She reminds me of Trish and we get along great. I think we’ll click. I’ll take Troy to the end because I think I can beat him in the end. This is fun. Is it fun to play with other people?
Holmes: It is. I know how I’d play, but it helps me get a feel for how you’ll play.

Round Three: Hali, Sierra, and Malcolm
Lacina: I’m going to vote out Malcolm. He’s good at challenges, he’s popular with the other two. I want to work with Hali. I think she’ll listen to whatever I tell her. And I’ll take Sierra to the end because she’s probably easier to beat than Hali.

Round Four: Ozzy, Aubry, and Tai
Lacina: Man, you’re giving me hard ones.
Holmes: Random.
Lacina: Alright, vote out Tai. Tai made it to the end. He’s likable. He needs to go. Work with Aubry, she’s super smart and I think we would complement each other very well. I’ll take Ozzy to the end. This is his fourth time and I don’t think he has the social game.

Round Five: Andrea, Cirie, and Tony
Lacina: (Expletive deleted). Jeez Louise, this is like the worst three. Cirie is out first. I don’t think we’re going to get along. I want to get along with everybody, but the reality of it is I think we won’t get along. Work with Tony, it’d be fun. We’d have a good time. I’ll take Andrea to the end because other than a social game I don’t think she has a ton to offer.

Holmes: We’ve got two left. Work with one and boot the other.

Round Six: JT and Ciera
Lacina: Work with JT and vote out Ciera. Again, I think me and JT are going to be like brother and sister. We seem really similar. And Ciera…she seems dramatic to me. The last season she was crying about, “I just need someone to play the game.” Well, you weren’t in the numbers. Stop crying. That’s “Survivor.”

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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‘Survivor’ Tai: “I’m Not the Flip-Flop Guy. If You Worked with Jason and Scot, You’d Want to Flip on Them Too”

February 28, 2017

Tai Trang (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Tai Trang
Age: 52
Hometown: San Francisco
Previously Played On:
“Survivor: Kaoh Rong” – 2nd Runner-up
Best Known For: Being rewarded for befriending a chicken by singing star Sia.

Gordon Holmes: You seemed very conflicted with lying and backstabbing in Kaoh Rong. Have you come to terms with that?
Tai Trang: When I went to the shady side it made sense to me. I was playing the game. People say I shouldn’t have gone there because I’m a nice guy.
Holmes: I’m not saying whether you should or you shouldn’t. There isn’t a right or wrong way to do this. But when you did lie, you seemed uncomfortable.
Trang: I was uncomfortable. I go back and forth. Eventually I followed the way I felt instinctively and I went to the light. So, coming into this game, I’m going to play the way I am. That’s easy for me to do. I think who I am appeals to a lot of people. I’m understated, I’m nice. People like being around nice people. But then again, it’s a game and I need to be a little more focused on that. I think I lost focus toward the end of Kaoh Rong. How am I going to own my game? I didn’t do a good job of that last time.

Holmes: You turned on Scot and Jason in Kaoh Rong and it worked out for you then. However, everyone here saw that. How do you turn that to your advantage?
Trang: I’m going to have a conversation with everybody. I think they might say, “He’s a nice guy, but he’ll turn on you.” I need these people to understand that we’re all players. They’re all strategy players. I have to let people know that I went to the dark side. I need them to feel like I’m going to be a nice guy and play a straight forward game. But, if the opportunity comes and I need to do something to advance my game…for a reason…I’ll need a reason…but, I’ll do it. Some people think I flip-flopped around, but everything I did made sense to me. I just wasn’t able to explain myself well. I need to own it.

Holmes: Jeff told you guys that the theme is Game Changers. What was your reaction when he said that?
Trang: (Laughs) I said, “Really? How am I a game changer?” Seriously! Am I bringing out the softer side of “Survivor”? Because I think about our place on this Earth? Maybe he’s referring to I’m a little guy and I’m able to take a stand and follow my heart. I’m not afraid to make moves. But “Game Changer” is a really big term! I’m looking at everybody, and I’m a fan, and I don’t remember any of these people. I know them by their name. I know Cirie, Tony, Sarah…I don’t know who Sierra Dawn is…the tall Sierra. I remember Ozzy and Malcolm, they’re great players. But, I guess we all changed the game somehow. (Laughs) It is really scary.

Holmes: Is there anyone you’re hoping to work with?
Trang: Just looking around pre-game, Cirie seems to be really open. I know she’s really nice. Something about Michaela and the cop Sarah, JT…they all seem like sweet people. It’s tough for me to want to partner with someone like Tony. I don’t think we even speak the same language. I don’t want to repeat what happened with Scot and Jason. I don’t want someone to dictate to me how we’re going to play. Him and Sandra, there’s the same energy about them.

Holmes: You’re here with two players you’ve never seen play before. Does that worry you, does that make you want to work with them?
Trang: Michaela and Zeke…I like their energy. It doesn’t worry me. Maybe it’s naïve of me. But, I’m approaching the whole game…I don’t remember how everyone played, so I’m a blank slate, except for a couple of people. The new people, I’m basing it around what I’ve seen with them, and I would play with them. We’re not talking, but I am extending myself. You can feel who’s open and who’s not.
Holmes: Are you smiling at them? Giving them the double guns?
Trang: (Laughs) No no no. Aubry and Debbie, we went through the game before. I’m completely open. And Caleb, we definitely want to work together. It’s not a secret. Everybody assumes that. I promised his new wife. (Laughs)
Holmes: You’ve got three other people from Kaoh Rong here. Is that a positive or a negative?
Trang: I think it could be a positive thing. We didn’t do any pre-game alliance…other than with Caleb. Aubry, I talked to her last week, I said, “Hey, we’re playing again.” And she said, “Yeah, we’ll see how things fall.” We left it at that. I think people think we’ll be playing together. But, it’s a brand new game. It’s hard to promise things and then not break those promises. I even told Caleb, “If it’s between you and I, don’t get mad.” We both agree on that.
Holmes: But his wife can get mad.
Trang: (Laughs) Yes.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to give you a reason someone might use to get rid of you. I’d like you to counter that argument.
Trang: OK.
Holmes: Like I said before; Tai turned on Scot and Jason. I don’t trust him.
Trang: I’m not the flip-flop guy. If you worked with Jason and Scot, you’d want to flip on them too. They were a two-headed monster I had to take out.

Holmes: Tai is good at challenges. He’s not the biggest guy, but he held his own after merge.
Trang: (Laughs) Oh, c’mon. Everyone here is good at challenges. I’m small. I got so lucky during the challenges. I was good at the beginning, but at the end I was depleted.

Holmes: Tai is a guy that will become best friends with your dinner.
Trang: (Laughs)
Holmes: I don’t want to hang out with chicken. I want to eat chicken.
Trang: But I will get you something better. Don’t you want to eat fish instead of chicken? We had so much food in Kaoh Rong. We had a lot of clams, mango, nobody wanted chicken. You have pets right? You don’t eat them.
Holmes: That’s true. I don’t eat dogs or cats.
Trang: When you call a chicken and he comes to you and spends time with you, that’s a pet. But, if people want to eat chicken, I’ll kill the chicken. I’ll cook the chicken. I make a really good Chinese chicken.
Holmes: Which pop star do you think will interrupt the “Game Changers” finale?
Trang: (Laughs) I don’t know. I didn’t even know who Sia was!

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it will be?
Trang: There’s definitely a twist. I like the idea of Redemption Island. A second life. The super idol didn’t get played last time, but it was in the game. It was fun to have that. Maybe a twist with no idol?

Holmes: Alright, I hold in my hand a deck of cards that features your opponents, except for Michaela and Zeke who we don’t know yet. I’ll give you three cards at random. You tell me who gets voted out first, who you work with but eventually eliminate, and who you take to the end.
Trang: No Zeke and Michaela?
Holmes: Right, I didn’t think we’d be able to talk about them specifically. But then during my first interview, I asked someone what they thought of the new players and they said, “Oh well Zeke is like this and Michaela is like that.”
Trang: Yeah, Jeff told us their names.
Holmes: I didn’t know that. I thought that person was psychic.
Trang: (Laughs) I think Zeke is gay. And Jeff Varner is gay. Wouldn’t it be sweet to have a gay alliance?
Holmes: The first ever gay-lliance! I love it.
Trang: (Laughs) Gay-lliance! Jeff Varner talked to me about it. I have talked to him about us working together. Is Malcolm gay? He sounds so gay to me.
Holmes: I don’t think so. I know he’s been in relationships with females.
Trang: Oh, OK. He’s not, but the way he carries himself is very sweet.

Round One: Cirie, Andrea, and Brad
Trang: I’m going to vote out Andrea because I think she could be dangerous. I don’t remember much about her, it’s my instinct just seeing her around. And she’s not going to be great in challenges. I’ll work with Cirie because she’s very calm. I think she can work with a lot of people. And I’ll keep Brad because he’s going to piss off a lot of people. He’s a loudmouth.

Round Two: Caleb, JT, and Malcolm
Trang: I’m voting out Malcolm. He’s going to be really good in challenges and all the girls are going to like him. He’s good socially. I’ll work with JT. He’s good in challenges and he seems straightforward. I’ll take my bromance to the end. Not just because I promised his wife. I think it’d be really sweet if we went to the end together.

Round Three: Debbie, Sandra, and Hali
Trang: Sandra is out first. She’s annoying. I don’t think she’ll be good with challenges. She won’t carry me. And she’s won already. I’ll work with Hali. I don’t know anything about her, but she seems like she’d be my equal partner. I can talk to her. She’s small, we’re the same size. And I’ll take Debbie to the end. I think she’s going…she’s going to lose it. She’s going to piss off a lot of people. She tells people what to do.

Round Four: Ozzy, Troyzan, and Aubry
Trang: I’m taking Ozzy out. He’s a threat. I’ll work with Aubry, I’m not taking her to the end though. She can out talk me. I’ll take Troyzan to the end. He’s big, but he’s a little too out there. I can explain myself better. I think people are more drawn to me than him.

Round Five: Ciera, Tony, and Jeff
Trang: I’m taking Tony out. Same reason as Ozzy, they’re big threats. I’ll work with Ciera, I think she’ll be loyal. It’s just my sense. I know she voted out her mom. And I’ll take Jeff to the end, I’d like to see two gay guys sitting there. And Jeff is such a loner, people aren’t going to warm up to him.

Holmes: Alright, we’ve got two left. Work with one and vote out the other.

Round Six: Sarah and Sierra
Trang: I’ll vote out Sierra because she seems more simple. Other people can use her. And I’ll work with Sarah. But, I have to look out for her because she’s a cop. She’s good at observing. But, I like her energy.

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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‘Survivor’ Cirie: “I’m a Game Changer for a Type of Person Who Didn’t Have the Self Esteem to Come Out Here”

February 27, 2017

Cirie Fields (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Cirie Fields
Age: 45
Hometown: Norwalk, CT
Previously Played On:
“Survivor: Panama” – Finished 4th and Jury member
“Survivor: Micronesia” – Finished 3rd and Jury member
“Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains” – Finished 17th
Best Known For: Convincing Erik Reichenbach to give up his immunity idol.

Gordon Holmes: You’re looking great!
Cirie Fields: Why, thank you.
Holmes: It says in your bio that you’re more physically fit, less emotional, less aggressive.
Fields: Yeah, that got me a little bit of trouble. (Laughs)
Holmes: I remember people in “Heroes vs. Villains” being very afraid of you.
Fields: I know! Isn’t that crazy? I’m just a flower. (Laughs)
Holmes: Just a delicate breeze blowing through camp.
Fields: (Laughs)
Holmes: Feel free to use that in the game.
Fields: Oh sure. They couldn’t see the forest for the trees. That’s why we have a two-time winner. Everybody’s after the least, well I’m not going to say least, but a less threatening player than some of the other people.

Holmes: You’re a very good player. But, a lot of people are good players. Why do you think you get singled out?
Fields: I think it’s because I am relatable. I’m old enough to be considered somewhat of an authority. But, I’m young and cool enough to still blend in with the younger people. That makes me a liability. I can go either way. If the young people ain’t feeling me, I can go hang out with the older crowd. And usually, not everybody, but usually people like me.
Holmes: Do you think part of it was that it was a “Heroes” tribe and a lot of people were really into being called heroes?
Fields: I think that may have played a part. Everybody wants to be hero and take out the threat Cirie. Why I’m such a threat is beyond me. You have winners there. I’m hoping that nobody wants to be the hero this time and take out Cirie. Bastards.

Holmes: Two days ago, Jeff Probst said to you, “Game Changers.” What was your impression when you heard that?
Fields: My first impression was kind of like “Heroes.” I’m not a hero. And I didn’t initially feel like a game changer. It took me some time to go and think about it.
Holmes: What’d you come up with?
Fields: I think of a game changer like, someone who found an idol without a clue. Someone who uses two idols on everyone but themselves. You know? I thought of it like major move kinda deals. Even though Erik was a major move, I didn’t think of it as a game changer. And then when I sat and thought of it, maybe I am a game changer. But, maybe I’m a game changer for a type of person who didn’t have the self esteem to come out here. Who cares what people are going to say, if you don’t try you’re not going to get anything.
Holmes: The way I’d look at it is; would someone like John Cochran have had the guts to come out and play without you?
Fields: That’s what I’m saying! It’s not the most glamorous thing, but I wear it proudly. That first time, I challenged myself. I was like any other fan thinking, “Are they going to bring us out some cots and sandwiches after they get what they need for the episode? Then they’ll haul us in a van out to a hotel.”
Holmes: That’s not what happens?
Fields: I think on the sixth day I was thinking, “They’re serious now. What the hell did I do?” And at that point two people were gone. I said, “OK, they can roll me out.”
Holmes: Remember Taj from Tocantins?
Fields: Yes.
Holmes: She told me that she was expecting craft services with fully catered meals.
Fields: I’ve watched since Richard Hatch, and because it’s on TV, I thought they can’t just leave you out there. (Laughs)
Holmes: They certainly can.

Holmes: What do you think of this cast?
Fields: I see some faces I recognize; I see some faces I don’t recognize. I see some, what I would consider veterans. I’m good with them as long as they’re good with me. I don’t feel the same I vibe I felt with “Heroes vs. Villains.”
Holmes: How so?
Fields: There’s this cartoon where two guys are stranded on a desert island. They’re cool, everything’s cool. Like Ponderosa everything is cool. Then on day three they look at each other and one looks like a steak and the other looks like a hotdog. (Laughs) That’s how I felt in “Heroes vs. Villains.”
Holmes: Like a hotdog?
Fields: Exactly. And I was like, “Don’t they see those steaks over there?”

Holmes: Is there anyone you’re looking forward to working with?
Fields: I’d like to work with Tai and Caleb, (expletive deleted) the whole Kaoh Rong four. We can be a Kaoh Rong five as far as I’m concerned. I like Caleb. I thought Aubry killed it on her season. I’d love to be the fifth Kaoh Rong and bring Michaela in as the sixth. I like Troyzan. I don’t mind Brad Culpepper.
Holmes: That’s a ringing endorsement. I don’t mind him.
Fields: (Laughs) You know, I’m open. I’m an equal opportunity employer.

Holmes: Any early targets?
Fields: There are some people I’m worried are wary of me. I feel like JT and Ozzy may, because we have history, may feel like I’m coming for them. It’s probably going to take blood to convince them that that’s not what I’m doing here. I’m a little worried about Sandra too because I have vocalized my opinion on her deserving or not deserving a second win. I was out there with her. And even though I went out early, we played a good amount of challenges that she sat out. I guess the ultimate goal is to make it to the end, so if you do that you should win. However, I’m a game player. I want to have something to say. I won because I did this, this, and this. But, if you want to win because you’re not Russell or Parvati, then I guess a win is a win. I’ve said that. I’m sure she heard it. Little Puerto Rican princess might be holding a grudge there. I get the hotdog vibe from her.

Holmes: You are the first-ever female four-time player.
Fields: I am!
Holmes: That’s something.
Fields: That is. I just have to make it count. I realized there are a handful of people who’ve done that…and when I thought about doing this again, my mind was in so many different places that I honestly didn’t think that I was the only woman to play four times. Even to think about the players it sounds crazy. It just escaped me. Damn!
Holmes: Do you worry that might put a target on your back?
Fields: (Expletive deleted). I hope not.
Holmes: I didn’t before now, Gordon!
Fields: What’re you doing to me? I really didn’t think about that until right now. But, I know they all know it. Bastards.

Holmes: You don’t know anything about Zeke or Michaela. How do you handle that in the game?
Fields: You’d be crazy not to have some questions. Like, what happened? Why didn’t you win? Are you a Russell Jr.? However, you kind of get a feel. Unless I’m completely off, I don’t get that I’ll-burn-your-socks-while-you-sleep vibe from them. Part of it is what you know, and part of it is you have to go with your gut. I’m not getting a hotdog vibe from them yet.
Holmes: I’m trying to figure out the alternate of that. They don’t view me as a hotdog, they view me as a dinner companion.
Fields: Exactly! I’m getting a bowling buddy vibe from them.

Holmes: Alright, pretend we’re on the same beach and I’m trying to get rid of you.
Fields: Bastard!
Holmes: I am. I’d like you to counter the arguments I try to use.
Fields: OK.
Holmes: Cirie is too smart, too savvy. If she got to the final three she would’ve beaten Amanda and Parvati. Let’s get rid of her now.
Fields: I was never on the Brain tribe. You’ve got two Brains here. Aubry made it to the end. I’m smarter than Aubry? I don’t even have good grammar. There are people here who are way more dangerous than me. Look at Aubry. She’s smart, she’s good at challenges. You watch like I watch, she’s way more of a threat than me. The people that I played with? The people I was true to? They won the game.

Holmes: Cirie isn’t the strongest challenge competitor. Let’s get rid of her now.
Fields: I’m not the strongest, but I’m not the weakest. Look around. There’s a two-time winner that’s weaker than I am. She won twice by being right under the radar while y’all are focusing on me.

Holmes: Cirie’s had three chances already.
Fields: I’m not the only person who’s had three chances. Didn’t JT win? Why are you looking at me? You’re going to let there be another two-time winner? A three-time winner? You can always get rid of me down the line.

Holmes: There’s always talk of pre-season alliances in returnee seasons. Are you a part of any? Have you heard any rumors?
Fields: I haven’t heard of any. I’m out of the loop. I went to “The Price Is Right” recently. I talked to Aras on Facetime and Shane wanted me to do his radio show. Other than that, I don’t really stay in contact with people…to my detriment. If there is one, they’re being more discreet than they’ve been in the past. I can’t pick it up. I did see Ozzy and Sierra at “The Price Is Right.” They were getting cozy together. They were like the presenters, the models. But outside of that, in Micronesia they had all kinds of plans I heard after the fact. And you saw how that turned out.

Holmes: You’re not allowed to talk because you’re in lockdown. But, people smile and wink. Is anyone smiling and winking at you?
Fields: You’re overly sensitive because you’re ready to play. Everyone is sitting next to someone. It isn’t overtly obvious. Maybe the people are smarter now. Or, it’s not happening. Everybody smiles at me. There are a few that don’t smile at me like Andrea. I don’t think she’s feeling me. I get the hotdog vibe from her. Oh, and Sarah…she’s giving me that look too. Other people are just now starting to come around. Varner and Debbie, they’ve softened towards me.

Holmes: Any guesses for twists?
Fields: I have no clue. Maybe Exile Island again…I hope it’s that. Maybe old vs. young? I don’t know. I never do.

Holmes: Alright, your opponents are in this deck of cards. Well, except for Michaela and Zeke because we don’t know them yet. I’ll hand you three cards at random. You tell me who’s out first, who you’ll work with and eventually eliminate, and who you’ll take to the end.

Round One: Ozzy, JT, and Tai
Fields: Oh…I like this. I’ll vote out JT because he came for me and he might think I’m coming for him even though I’m not. I’ll align with Ozzy because people would never expect it. They’d expect us to go against each other. I’ll take Tai to the end because I think I can outsmart them.

At this point, a CBS representative and Tai walk by.

Holmes: Let’s let these guys pass. I don’t want them to hear our strategies.
Fields: Are they saying something about me?
Holmes: You’re safe from Tai because he doesn’t eat hotdogs.
Fields: (Laughs) I don’t want him to think I’m a pickle.

Round Two: Troyzan, Sierra, and Jeff
Fields: I’ll vote out Sierra because I don’t know what Ozzy told her about me. I’ll align with Troyzan because he might be trustworthy. He seems to have that vibe. I’ll take Jeff to the end because I think he’s going to annoy people.

Round Three: Tony, Andrea, and Ciera
Fields: I’ll vote out Andrea. She sees me as a hotdog. I’ll align with Tony. I’ll hit him with we’re both from Jersey City. I’ll take Ciera to the end because I think I can beat her in front of the jury.

Round Four: Brad, Caleb, and Sarah
Fields: Ew…I’ll vote out Sarah. She’s looking at me like I’ve had enough chances. I’ll align with Caleb. I think he’ll be true to me. And I’ll take Brad to the end because he’s going to get on people’s nerves.

Round Five: Malcolm, Hali, and Aubry
Fields: Goodbye, Malcolm. Malcolm’s gotta go. He’s giving me the hotdog vibe, too. He’s not going to feel me. He’s into his self a lot. People who are fit like that view me as a charity case. If it came to a vote, I’d be an easy pick for him. Hali, she seems sweet and innocent. I would align with Aubry. I need numbers. And I don’t see much division with the Kaoh Rong four. And I would take Hali to the end. I think I could outtalk her. I could get the mother-with-kids sympathy vote.

Holmes: We’ve got two left. Vote out one and align with the other. I think I know which way this is going.

Round Six: Sandra and Debbie
Fields: Three times? Sandra, I’m not going to let you slide under the radar. That’s my job. And Debbie’s good at challenges and she is annoying. And if we lose, I think her aggressiveness and refusal to change her votes might be detrimental to her and beneficial to me.

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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Posted in RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ Cirie: “I’m a Game Changer for a Type of Person Who Didn’t Have the Self Esteem to Come Out Here”

‘Survivor’ Zeke: “Three of My Top Five Players Are Here in Cirie, Sandra, and Tony”

February 24, 2017

Zeke Smith (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Zeke Smith
Age: 28
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Previously Played On
“Survivor: Millennials vs. Gen X” – Finished 9th and Jury Member
Best Known For: Having the greatest cast introduction video ever.

Note: This interview took place before “Survivor Millennials vs. Gen-X” aired.

Gordon Holmes: You’re here for a reason…and I don’t want to know this reason.
Zeke Smith: (Laughs) Right.
Holmes: I’m going to take a walk, and you tell this recorder why you’re here. Then, I’ll hear it next January.
Smith: You’re not going to get me in trouble, are you?
Holmes: Wouldn’t dream of it.
Smith: OK.

Holmes walks away, puts his fingers in his ears, and says “Lalalalalala.”

Smith: OK, Gordon. I’m here because I orchestrated a lot of blindsides. I started on a tribe that wanted nothing to do with me. I found people who wanted to work with me. I slit a lot of throats and I was the first person to ever force rocks at ten. I got people that I had blindsided just votes before to stick their hands into a bag of rocks for me. Isn’t that pretty (expletive deleted) cool?

Holmes: You were just out here. How long did you have to go home?
Smith: I got two weeks back in New York. And to be honest, they could have just left me on a beach with protein bars and clean water and I would’ve perfectly happy to stay here in Fiji. I love “Survivor.” I’m a huge fan. To get to play it once is a dream. To get to be a part of that epic back-to-back experience…that only a handful of people have gotten to do is a pretty big honor. I appreciate the significance of that.

Holmes: I’ve been doing this since Gabon. I interviewed Russell when he went back-to-back. I interviewed Malcolm when he went back-to-back. They both said that physically and mentally it might have been too much.
Smith: Physically I feel like I’m in good shape. I may not be in quite as good shape as I was when I left the first time. I don’t think that’s going to have too much of an effect on my game. I think it’s the mental fatigue, “Survivor” is a constant state of stress. It’s 39 days of mental stress. I had two weeks where I said, “I don’t want to see you. I don’t want to talk to you. I don’t want to have to cater to the needs of other people.” I’m feeling pretty excited. A lot of “Survivor” is riding the adrenaline wave. I’d say if there’s an element that worries me, it’s the mental fatigue.
Holmes: Russell and Malcolm came back alone. They could say anything they wanted about their previous performances. You don’t have that luxury with Michaela here. Without getting too spoilery, what your relationship with her like?
Smith: We weren’t super close in the game. We didn’t play with each other a whole lot. So, I think our relationship brings more of a target than it’s worth. I think anyone is an option. I want to work with anyone who wants to work with me. But I don’t think there’s any special relationship between Michaela and I that I’m we’re going to try to work in a swap or merge situation. For me, if Michaela goes home early? That’s better for me. It’s interesting in that everyone has shared a season with one other person. It’s sort of like a “Blood vs. Water” season where people whose loved ones go early tend to get farther in the game. I sort of see that as my relationship with Michaela.

Holmes: Alright, I’m going to tell you why I’m going to vote you out of this game. I’d like you to defend against it.
Smith: Certainly.
Holmes: I don’t know how Zeke plays this game. He’s an unknown quantity. Let’s just get rid of him now.
Smith: Look, I’m a goofy guy who tells a lot of R-rated jokes. That might be the reason why I was brought back. It’s not like everyone here is an actual game changer. And look, are you really telling me that I’m more dangerous than someone like Tony? Someone like Sandra? Someone like Cirie? And look, I’m in such a desperate situation. Everyone else knows each other. Everyone else has probably talked to each other. I don’t have anything. I’m looking for buddies. I’ll be more loyal because I have more of a need to be loyal than anyone else out here.

Holmes: For them to bring Zeke back so quickly…he had to do something big. I don’t want to worry about this guy making a big play.
Smith: Who here hasn’t made a big play? Well, maybe with the exception of Caleb who hasn’t been to Tribal Council. You’ve got Ciera, who I’m assuming is being upgraded to Eastin since there are two Sierras/Cieras this season. She voted out her mom. She was in the thick of the chaos of the merge of “Second Chance.” You’ve got Varner. Who knows what the (expletive deleted) he’s going to do. There are a lot of people who are known to be dangerous. And I think it’s better to take care of them.

Holmes: You’re good at this. But what are some of these R-rated jokes?
Smith: They’ll happen. I’ve been told to keep it down. They just arise.
Holmes: This is print, I can (expletive deleted) all of them out.
Smith: OK, I’ll turn it up for you.

Holmes: What’ve you learned from your first go around that you’ll apply this time?
Smith: I’m a student of the game and I play aggressively. When I was debriefing with some people from my season, they said I should try to play a little more subtly. But, does anything about me look subtle?
Holmes: I do like the shirt.
Smith: Thank you. But that’s not going to change. What I want to do in this game is I need to find advantages. I need idols, I need extra votes. I need to get my hands on some of that.

Holmes: What are your thoughts on this cast?
Smith: I’m so awe-struck to be here with some of these people. My first season was “Cook Islands,” so to be here with Ozzy…even though I don’t think super highly of him as a strategist…to be here with a “Survivor” legend? It’s amazing. Three of my top five players are here in Cirie, Sandra, and Tony. I think that’s pretty incredible. Two people are playing for the fourth time, six people are playing for the third time. Caleb has never been to Tribal Council before. It’s a really mixed bag. And a lot of people…I was trying to watch game tape when I was home, and I thought, “Should I watch ‘Worlds Apart’ and see what Hali and Sierra are up to?” There’s not a lot of game tape on these people. They might present some dangers. You have two smart women in a game of smart women. They’re going to want to prove that they belong out here. A lot of these untested players are going to want to show something early.
Holmes: I’m not a game changer? Screw you, watch me change this game.
Smith: Well, Jeff Probst came to talk to us yesterday and was like, “You all are game changers.” And I think there were a lot of people who were like, “I am a game changer.” And a lot of people who were like, “I’m a game changer? Well, if Jeff says I am, I’ve got to live up to it.” Those are the people who are going to make trouble early.
Holmes: You can’t trust that Probst as far as you can throw him.
Smith: I don’t know, those dimples are pretty charming.
Holmes: They should make some kind of molds of them. And when you’re having a bad day you can just rub them and feel better.
Smith: I tell you, when you get your torch snuffed, he looks you dead in the eyes. It’s a pretty epic moment.

Holmes: Is there anyone you’re hoping to work with?
Smith: Yeah, I’d love to play with Cirie. I’m a crazy ball of energy that wants to make a big move even when it’s not smart. I think Cirie is very calm, cool, and collected. I think she’d balance me out. I also think Cirie would be a great shield. Who’s more dangerous than the guy we know nothing about? Cirie. She can win it. Also, I’d love to play with one of my heroes. Aubry is someone I’m looking to play with. I think we play the game similarly. I like the symbiotic relationship she had with Cydney. That’s sort of how I like to play. JT is someone I’d like to play with, but his last taste of “Survivor” is getting embarrassed by Russell. So, you have to wonder how excited he’d be to play with me. I’d have to convince him I’m more of a Stephen.

Holmes: Do you have any early targets?
Smith: Varner makes me really nervous. There’s this anxiety about him. You saw it in “Second Chance.” He was running around wanting to play over wanting to make good relationships. I don’t think you can trust him. And the rumors are he’s pre-game chatting with everyone. I like the idea of keeping around people like Tony and Sandra and Cirie. They’re dangerous, but you have a read on them. People like Varner and Hali you’ve only ever seen these little snippets of them.

Holmes: Speaking of pre-game, that happens in any returnee season. Have you been talking to anyone?
Smith: I don’t know anybody. Well, I know Michaela obviously. We texted a little, but nothing more than that. It’s interesting, I’m a big fan and I know everyone is chatting. But, Michaela is not a big fan. Michaela, I don’t think knows about the pre-game stuff.
Holmes: Have you heard any rumors?
Smith: You just hear Varner talking to everybody.

Holmes: You guys are in lockdown now. You’re not allowed to talk, but people smile and wink. Are you doing any of that?
Smith: Before 33 everybody was smiling and winking because you’re all strangers. But here, nobody is doing anything. There are people who will sit together, and you notice that Malcolm and Ozzy always sit together. But a lot of people here have the poker face on. I try to smile at people just to seem non-threatening. But, for the most part it’s locked down. Brad Culpepper talks a lot. He will talk to everybody. I think he’s been segregated to the back of the sitting area because if you sit next to him, he’ll talk to you. Right now I’m reading his favorite book.
Holmes: Which is?
Smith: “Lonesome Dove.” So, I know that much. And Tai is very chatty also.

Holmes: When everybody is zigging, you stand out by zagging. I think that helped Michele last season. I’m talking to you and you seem likable, non-threatening in this season of big threats. Do you think they’ll work to your advantage?
Smith: Yeah. It’s an all-star season. Everyone is here to play. I’m trying to present to everyone that I’m a fun guy to play with. I’m not Russell, I’m just trying to fit in with everyone else. You look at Sandra and Cirie, they’re trying to fit in at Ponderosa.
Holmes: Sure you’re capable of making big moves, but as far as anyone knows, you’re good-time Zeke.
Smith: Yeah, I’m the fun guy with the mustache and the crazy shirts.

Holmes: We’ve got four Kaoh Rongers here. What’s your take on that?
Smith: I think I can see myself playing with the four of them. I think they’ll want to play with me because there’s a target on them. I think they might want to scoop me right up.

Holmes: If there is a twist other than Game Changin’, what do you think it will be?
Smith: I don’t think there’s going to be one twist. I think there are going to be a million twists. There’s going to be something with the idols. There’s going to be some kind of other advantages. It wouldn’t surprise me if we had four tribes of five. Which I think is great. I thrive when the game is chaotic. There’s also this pastime of speculating what’s going to happen next. And the thing is, you’re always wrong. You learn to trust your overlords and what they throw at you.

Holmes: I’m going to give you a twist, you tell me if it’s awesome or awful. Hidden immunity idols?
Smith: Awesome!
Holmes: Redemption Island?
Smith: Awful.
Holmes: Exile Island?
Smith: Awesome.
Holmes: Medallion of Power?
Smith: Awful.
Holmes: Extra votes?
Smith: Awesome.
Holmes: Steal a vote?
Smith: Awesome.
Holmes: Eliminate a juror?
Smith: Awful for the same reason as Redemption Island in that it takes away one of the basic tenants of the game, right?
Holmes: Right, you have to pay for your sins in the end.
Smith: Yeah. I think screwing with the votes? Sure. But you have to deal with everyone you voted out.

Holmes: Alright, I have another game.
Smith: Are these “Survivor” playing cards?
Holmes: Yes.
Smith: Do you have one for me?
Holmes: No, I didn’t think we were even allowed to discuss you, but I’m told Probst introduced you to everyone yesterday.
Smith: Yes, he did.
Holmes: OK, your opponents (except for Michaela) are on these cards. I’ll hand you three at random. You tell me who you’ll vote out first, who you’ll work with and eventually eliminate, and who you’ll take to the end.

Round One: Cirie, Tony, and Caleb
Smith: Tony is first out. He’s too dangerous and he doesn’t want to play with me. Tony likes to be the top dog in charge. He wants to play with people who are loyal. I’ll align with Cirie for reasons previously stated. And, I’ll take Caleb to the end.
Holmes: How do you beat him?
Smith: He’s not going to do anything. Whoever wins this season is going to have to have a resume. Caleb might vote with people, but he’s not going to have gallons of blood on his hands.
Holmes: Michele just won without a ton of blood on her hands.
Smith: Yeah, but you can’t account for the wrong person winning.
Holmes: The wrong person never wins. She was the right person to that jury.
Smith: No, no. Not in my view.
Holmes: They don’t say vote for the most strategic, they say vote.
Smith: I’d never want to win the way Michele won. To me the Michele win is similar to the Sandra win where there’s a heavy amount of gender bias. Guys don’t want to vote for the woman who outplayed them, they want to vote for the woman who was nicer to them. I think there’s a gender element there.

Round Two: Tai, Debbie, and Troyzan
Smith: Tai is first out. He’s a little unpredictable. He’s the most likely to flip. I’d align with Debbie. They’re the two craziest people on this season, so I have to align with one of them. Debbie’s very smart. I think the only thing with her is we’re going to get to a point where she wants to be top dog. And I’ll take Troyzan to the end because nobody is going to want to give this (expletive deleted) the money. Troyzan doesn’t wear a shirt at Ponderosa. Ozzy wears a shirt and Troyzan doesn’t.

Round Three: Sandra, Sierra, and Aubry
Smith: OK…interesting. I’m going to do something you wouldn’t predict. Sierra is out first because I don’t know enough about her. She’s also someone who won’t be driving strategy, but she’ll be a good pick-up. She’s not going to make moves independently. Align with Aubry, because I like the way she thinks. And I’ll take Sandra to the end and say, “I dare you to give her the money again. That’s how confident I am in the way I played.”

Round Four: Brad, Ozzy, and Sarah
Smith: I think Sarah’s out first because she’s on the top of the list of people who need to prove why they belong here. I think she’s going to want to stir things up early. I align with Ozzy. He’s going to feed me. I like to eat. Ozzy’s not good at the strategic element, but I can help guide him. And I’ll take Brad to the end for the same reason you take Troyzan. He’s also a non-shirt wearer.
Holmes: You’re like me. There are shirt situations and non-shirt situations.
Smith: Yeah, if I’m eating dinner? Put a shirt on.

Round Five: Jeff, Andrea, and JT
Smith: Varner goes first. He’s unpredictable. He’s playing to prove something and not playing smart. I’d love to align with JT. I think we’d have a fun duo. I’ll take Andrea to the win. She’s smart, she plays hard, there might be a chance that she beats me, but she’s the only card left.
Holmes: That’s part of the game. You play the cards you’re dealt.

Round Six: Malcolm, Hali, and Ciera
Smith: I take Ciera out first. She makes big moves. And, she almost exclusively plays with women. And not being a woman, I’m not going to be on the top of her list. I play with Malcolm. He’s a good shield. I can play in his shadow. And I take Hali to the end. I think she’s someone who’s going to try to make moves and none of them are going to be effective. My resume will be superior.

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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Posted in RealityTV, survivor, TV News | Comments Off on ‘Survivor’ Zeke: “Three of My Top Five Players Are Here in Cirie, Sandra, and Tony”

‘Survivor’ Sandra: “If I Can Get to Day 4, I’ll Be There at Day 39”

February 23, 2017

Sandra Diaz-Twine (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Sandra Diaz-Twine
Age: 41
Hometown: Fayetteville, N.C.
Previously Played On:
“Survivor: Pearl Islands” – Winner
“Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains” – Winner
Best Known For: Being “Survivor’s” only two-time winner, burning hats.

Gordon Holmes: I remember the first time a winner was brought back in “Survivor: All-Stars,” and I said to myself, “There is no way a jury will ever let someone win twice.”
Sandra Diaz-Twine: Thank God that they did. That’s why I want to vote off JT and Tony so I can be the only two-time winner ever. There can’t be another king or queen. The queen stays the queen.

Holmes: It’s odd to me to have you back now. Because this isn’t really an All-Star season, and in my book, you’re the top of the list. You bring Sandra back when you mean business.
Diaz-Twine: Well, thank you.
Holmes: Is it weird to be back?
Diaz-Twine: It is, because when they told me it was “Game Changers” I looked around…and for instance…Hali Ford? I didn’t even know who that was. How is she a game changer? Sarah? How is she a game changer? Sierra Thomas? I don’t know the history of these two new players, which I don’t like not knowing what they’re all about. I don’t think it’s fair. We’re all an open book, people know our games and our strategies. And now we have two people…we don’t know anything about them. But, I’m scratching my head when there are people here who aren’t game changers and we have other people who could fill those shoes.

Holmes: In “Heroes vs. Villains” you had to play with an unknown quantity in Russell Hantz. How do you approach Michaela and Zeke when you get out there?
Diaz-Twine: I think these two players are not going to go far, just because of the fear that they might become another Russell. We don’t know what it is about them that makes them game changers. And I don’t think anyone is going to let them go too far in the game. They have to go home immediately.

Holmes: If someone didn’t watch “Survivor,” how would you describe how you’ve changed the game?
Diaz-Twine: I think my game has always been simple, “As long as it’s not me, I don’t care who goes home.” It’s pretty basic. People make it more than it is. It’s simple. Self-preservation is number one. My alliance is to myself and my family. Other people, they go off on, “I’ve got to do this, I’ve got to do that.” As long as it’s not you, vote out whoever has to get voted off. If you’re in a bad spot, be glad that you’re still there. Be positive, and then tomorrow you can change things up.

Holmes: As the game’s only two-time winner, is there any concern that a loss could harm your legacy?
Diaz-Twine: I’m not worried about my legacy. If I can make it through the first Tribal Council, even if my tribe wins immunity, I’ve completed my first mission which is to not be voted out first. If I can get to day 4, I’ll be there at day 39. No doubt in my mind.

Holmes: Alright, let’s get you ready to survive day three.
Diaz-Twine: OK.
Holmes: I’m going to give you an argument that someone could use to get rid of you. I’d like you to counter it.
Diaz-Twine: Alright.
Holmes: Sandra’s a two-time champ. I don’t want her being a three-time champ at my expense.
Diaz-Twine: I won’t be a three-time champ. Who here would give me another million dollars? I’m the perfect person to sit next to because you don’t have to worry about how many votes I’m going to get. You only have to worry about the other person in the final three.
Holmes: Russell Hantz took Sandra to the end for the exact same reason and all he ended up with was another runner-up medal.
Diaz-Twine: That’s (expletive deleted). Russell had to take me to the final three because I told him, “If you don’t take me to the final three, I’ll vote for Jerri.” Then he started to do the math in his head. Jerri was going to have Coach’s vote, Rupert’s vote, my vote, and Colby’s vote. He had already lost. He didn’t have a choice. See, people don’t know the things I say to put myself in those situations. I told Russell, if you can take me to the merge, I’ll give you my million-dollar vote. That’s all I had to say. Courtney went home and I stayed. Then when it was time for me to go home and he was being an (expletive deleted) about it, he was saying, “I don’t know if it should be you or Jerri.” I told him if he got rid of me, I’d vote for Jerri and he just freaking lost.

Holmes: Sandra isn’t the strongest in challenges. Let’s get rid of her now and we won’t have to worry about her after the merge when she can blend in.
Diaz-Twine: There are so many people on “Survivor” who have never won a challenge. I want to be with the alpha males. Those guys, everybody loves them when they’re on a tribe. Once we get to the merge they want to take out the strongest of the alpha males. The weak outnumber the strong. That’s why I’m going to pledge my loyalty to that person. You take care of me in the beginning, and I’ll take care of you in the end. I don’t care who I’m sitting with in the end. I don’t care if it’s two alpha males. Ozzy’s playing for the fourth time. He knows what it’s like to be an alpha male and then get voted off. Malcolm, three times. Now we’ve got Troyzan and Culpepper. Those are the only four I think are alphas. JT’s not an alpha, Tony’s not an alpha. Those are the four. If I can just get in the ear of two of them and tell them, “You take care of me, I’ll take care of you.” They have to take care of me first, but when push comes to shove I won’t betray them.

Holmes: There are four people here from Kaoh Rong. What are your thoughts on that?
Diaz-Twine: Every time there’s a returning season…Amber won “All-Stars” because there were five players from “Australia.” Parvati won “Micronesia” and there were three from “Cook Islands.” In “Caramoan” Cochran won and there were three from “South Pacific.” Dawn went to the final three with him. And in “Second Chance” there were three people from “Cagayan” and Spencer and Tasha got to final three. If we don’t split up these four people, two of them will be in the final three.

Holmes: What do you think of this cast?
Diaz-Twine: Nobody here scares me. Either they’re going to send me home first because of who I am, or I’m going to get to the end and take them out one-by-one.
Holmes: Aside from the alpha males, is there anyone else you’re looking forward to working with?
Diaz-Twine: Definitely the alphas, although I’m worried about Malcolm. When I was doing my research, I was talking (expletive deleted) about him a couple of years ago. I didn’t even remember it. I said he wasn’t all that. I hope he didn’t do his homework. Culpepper, I want to work with him. I think players who are my age understand me more. Troyzan…if I can get my foot in the door, I think I could be solid with these guys. And they can kill it at the challenges and not worry about me. I can be their eyes and ears. I like Debbie. I don’t think her and Aubry are on speaking terms. We can pit Debbie against Aubry.
Holmes: Any early targets?
Diaz-Twine: Cirie, I want her gone. She was talking (expletive deleted) about me…which was the same thing I was doing to Malcolm. She was saying I didn’t deserve to win the first time, much less the second. She needs to go home, I don’t even know why she’s here. Why do they compare her to me all the time? We’re not the same. I don’t think we’ll be on the same tribe. Aubry’s a target too. She did really, really good last year. She’s got to go home. But, it all depends on who’s on my tribe. I’m guessing there will be two from Kaoh Rong on each tribe. Aubry can go home first. Tai, after we throw him in a tree and he can get us some bananas, he can go home too. He’s a blabbermouth. You need to give him as a little information as possible.

Holmes: With returnee season, there’s always talk of pre-season alliances. Are you a part of any?
Diaz-Twine: No, but those four just got off their season! There’s no way they don’t talk.
Holmes: You’re not allowed to talk because you’re in lockdown. But, people smile and wink. Have you been doing any of that? Have you caught anyone doing it?
Diaz-Twine: I think for the most part, everyone smiles and winks and tries to get a nod. But, if anyone is together, just my suspicion…yeah, Tony got rid of Sarah. But years have come and gone. They had to have talked. Same for Ozzy and Cirie, Cirie voted him out. You build friendships over the years, but there’s got to be a thing where, “I’ve got to get her before she gets me.” The paranoia is there. Like JT and Cirie, Ozzy and Cirie, Debbie and Aubry.
Holmes: What’s your relationship with JT like?
Diaz-Twine: I can’t forgive and I can’t forget because at the end of the day, he gave Russell the immunity idol to get rid of Parvati or Sandra. He didn’t give me a chance. So, if anything, he has to mend fences. I thought, I don’t care when I go home as long as Russell goes first. That’s all I wanted and look what happened.

Holmes: If there are any twists, any guesses as to what they could be?
Diaz-Twine: I don’t know, but that’s why we need to go after Kaoh Rong first. If there’s a Tribal swap after the second Tribal Council and those people are together? It has to happen and it has to happen fast.

Holmes: Alright, I’ll give you a twist. You tell me if it’s awesome or awful. Hidden immunity idols.
Diaz-Twine: Awesome.
Holmes: Redemption Island?
Diaz-Twine: Awful.
Holmes: Exile Island?
Diaz-Twine: Awful.
Holmes: The Medallion of Power?
Diaz-Twine: Awesome!
Holmes: (Silence)
Diaz-Twine: What?
Holmes: Sorry. Extra votes?
Diaz-Twine: Awesome.
Holmes: Stealing a vote?
Diaz-Twine: Awesome.
Holmes: Eliminating a juror?
Diaz-Twine: Awesome.

Holmes: Alright, I have a deck of cards with your opponents in it. Everyone is there except for Michaela and Zeke because we don’t know them. I’ll hand you three at random. You tell me who you’re voting out first, who you’re working with but eventually eliminating, and who you’ll take to the end.

Round One: Caleb, Debbie, and Andrea
Diaz-Twine: Let’s vote out Debbie first because we need Caleb to be the strong physical male. I’ll align with Andrea because she knows what it’s like to be voted off. She’ll be an asset. And I’ll take Caleb to the end, because he’s an alpha male. I didn’t like any of those cards.
Holmes: We don’t always like the cards life deals us, Sandra.
Diaz-Twine: I know.

Round Two: Sarah, Ozzy, and JT
Diaz-Twine: I’m voting Sarah out. She’s friends with Russell…and so is Caleb. They’ve got to go. They called him for advice, so I don’t give two (expletive deleted) about them. JT I would align with. We’re both winners, he’ll look out for me, I’ll look out for him. But, I want to be the only two-time winner, so eventually he’d have to be voted off. And Ozzy is my ideal final three.
Holmes: Can you beat him?
Diaz-Twine: No, but I just want to be there on day 39.

Round Three: Tai, Jeff, and Cirie
Diaz-Twine: Cirie is first out. I can’t stand Cirie. Tai…I would align with. I think he’s naïve to the game. He has a good heart. I could work with him. He could feed me. But Jeff deserves to go to the end because he’s funny.

Round Four: Malcolm, Hali, and Troyzan
Diaz-Twine: (Expletive deleted). Hali can get voted off. We don’t know too much about her. She really shouldn’t be here anyways. Malcolm and Troyzan…these are my guys. I want final three with one of these guys or even both. I want to be with alpha males. But I think Malcolm deserves it more. He’s put a lot of work into the game. I’ll take him to the end.

Round Five: Aubry, Brad, and Ciera.
Diaz-Twine: Aubry can go home and you know why. Ciera I could work with. She’s a wild card, if she doesn’t like something, she won’t put up with it. So we could work together briefly. People hold it against her because she voted out her mom, so they feel she’s not trustworthy. Brad’s one of my alpha males. Take him to the end.

Holmes: We’ve got two left. Work with one and eliminate the other.

Round Six: Tony and Sierra
Diaz-Twine: Tony’s gotta go. I want to be the only two-time winner. I’ll work with Sierra. I actually like this chick. I like her build, her physique. I think she’s a strong female. I don’t have no problems with her.

Diaz-Twine: Do you think I can win this thing?
Holmes: Like I said, I never thought anyone would win twice.
Diaz-Twine: If I can get to the end with the right jury.
Holmes: I’d never count you out.
Diaz-Twine: You think I’ve got skills?
Holmes: If I were playing, I could make a case for keeping you around. There’s a very devil-you-know kind of air about you.
Diaz-Twine: I wanna do some new things though. I want to find an idol, then make my own fake idol. A really nice one. Then wrap that (expletive deleted) up with the rules. I don’t know if I could keep a straight face if someone played it. Or, if someone’s going home and I hate them, I’m not even going to whisper. I’m going to be talking (expletive deleted) while I’m voting. “(Expletive deleted), you! You’re going home and I’m not.” Or, “I’m not going home, and this idol is the reason I’m not going home. I hate you both equally. I don’t know which of you to vote for. So…eenie, meenie, minny mo…” They’ll be freaking out. Maybe they’ll change their votes. What do you think?
Holmes: I’ve always thought, what do you do when you’re out of options? Do you try one of these outside-of-the-box moves or regret not trying.
Diaz-Twine: If I had an idol, I’d walk over to Jeff and if they’re smirking and laughing, then I know they didn’t vote for me and they want me to use the idol. But if they’re looking at me like, “Oh (expletive deleted),” then I know I need to use it. If I see Tony over in the woods looking for an idol, I’m going to say, “Hey! Tony has a clue!” He might and he might not.
Holmes: You’re amazing.
Diaz-Twine: People think I’m a dummy and I’m not. I’m here to defend my title. I’m here to get to day 39 and show them that the queen stays the queen. I hope JT listens to me this time. I don’t think my game is a nasty game. It’s about self-preservation.
Holmes: Well, you might burn a hat or two…
Diaz-Twine: Well, Russell was a (expletive deleted) (expletive deleted).

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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A Sneak Peek at the First ‘Survivor: Game Changers’ Immunity Challenge

February 23, 2017

“Survivor: Game Changers” (XFINITY)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

No visit to “Survivor” would be complete without three things; a sunburn in the part of my hair, bug bites in places where I didn’t know I had places, and an exhibition immunity challenge that both sides take a little too seriously.

For those of you who are new to my little adventures, it’s important to know that “Survivor” employs a team of young, fit, tan, buff production assistants affectionately known as “The Dream Team.” Their main job is to hang out on a tropical island and practice the challenges. This is done to make sure everything is fair, relatively safe, and entertaining.

Just so we’re clear; these people are professional challenge performers.

So, whenever we show up for a junket, Challenge Producer John Kirhoffer invites us to square off against his team of athletic cyborgs in a friendly contest. However, not unlike when Apollo Creed battled Ivan Drago in “Rocky IV,” we all take this exhibition very seriously.

The Dream Team takes it seriously because they don’t want to be shown up by a bunch of out-of-shape computer jockeys. And I take it seriously because after being blown out in my first-ever challenge in Gabon, Africa I’ve managed to put together an eight-challenge winning streak.

And I brag about that streak… a lot.

Quick Aside: Yes, I know it’s poor form to brag and it’s even less poor form (lesser form?) to brag about something as silly as a winning streak in a series of exhibition contests. But…you know…I have poor form.

Another Quick Aside: There were too many press members to have a straight-up press vs. Dream Team match-up. So, to honor the then-upcoming Summer Olympics, we decided on a Team Canada vs. Team USA battle. On one side, we had the good folks from “Entertainment Tonight Canada” and on the other we had myself, Parade Magazine’s Josh Wigler, Entertainment Weekly’s Dalton Ross, “Scorpion” star and “Survivor” super fan Scott Porter, and members of CBS’s publicity team. Dream Team members would fill in the empty slots on both sides.

The Challenge
Two teams of seven people will sprint across the beach and retrieve a boat. They’ll push the boat into the water, then paddle it to platform and retrieve a set of keys.

From there, they’ll abandon the boat and return to the beach by climbing over a series of obstacles.

Once they’re back at the beach, they’ll have to dig up two bags of puzzle pieces.

Once both bags have been retrieved, one member of the team will have to open a series of locks with the ring of keys. When all of the locks have been opened, the final bag of puzzle pieces can be removed from a chest.

Finally, the last two members of the team will have to complete a ship steering wheel puzzle. The puzzle is in three sections; an outer ring, the spokes of the wheel, and the handles of the wheel.

The first tribe to complete the wheel, mount it on a spindle, and then raise their tribe’s flag will win immunity. Err…bragging rights.

Note: Due to some tide issues, this challenge is a little bit different than the one the actual Game Changers will compete in. They’ll have to dock the boat at one point and then send a single swimmer out to retrieve the keys.

Another Note: This challenge is very similar to the opening challenge in “Survivor: Blood vs. Water.” You know, the one where Gervase almost passed out and yet still managed to scream “Don’t let that fool you!” when it was over.

The Dilemma
OK, my goal in all of this (aside from continuing my precious winning streak) is to learn what it’s like to be in a Survivor’s shoes. I’ve run plenty of obstacle courses in past challenges, so I decided against the first leg. And, the unlocking portion just seemed like a thankless position. You can’t win the challenge, but you can certainly lose it. So, I decided that I was going to tackle the puzzle. I’d done puzzles in the past, but I’d never done just the puzzle. The final outcome would all be on my shoulders.

Pre-Game Prep
Josh Wigler decided to be my puzzle partner. We figured between his having recently watched every season of “Survivor” for his acclaimed “Rob Has a Podcast: Evolution of Strategy” series and me actually having been in attendance for the original running of this challenge that we’d have an edge over the other team.

We were wrong.

We remembered that the puzzle pieces that went around the circle were kind of like jigsaw pieces, but other than that we were stumped. So much for being “Survivor” experts.

“Survivors, Ready? Go!”
For the first time in my challenge career, that phrase didn’t apply to me. Jeff Probst said the magic words and our team sprinted off to the boat while I just stood there and watched. It was terrible. All Josh and I could do was hum our psych-up songs to ourselves. (Josh’s being “Crossroads” by Bone Thugs N Harmony and mine being Shinsuke Nakamura’s NXT theme music.)

What was worse was, once they paddled off into the distance, we had no way of knowing how well they were doing. From the best I could tell, it was close but we were slightly behind. Our Canadian opponents were able to maintain that lead through the digging portion.

I did my best not to panic. I might not have remembered the intricacies of the puzzle from “Blood vs. Water,” but I certainly remembered that these kinds of challenges always come down to the puzzle. Always.

I managed to maintain my confidence up until the point that the Canadian team flew through the lock unlocking section.

To make a bad situation worse, our lock unlocker (CBS legend Robert Winsor) was having some serious problems. Probst delighted in giving Bob a hard time as he tried key after key. He only stopped his tirade to announce that Team Canada had completed the first part of the three-stage puzzle.

Oh man.

An observer would later tell me that while I kept cheering Bob on, I looked like I was going to vomit.

Fortunately, Bob eventually figured it out. Josh and I attacked the first bag like a couple of men possessed. We completed the outer ring in no time…or so I thought.

I was trying to dig into the second bag when Josh suggested that we calm down and make sure the pieces in the ring were lined up correctly. You see, if the holes are in the wrong place, the handles won’t fit in and we’d have to start over.

I knew we were way behind. I hadn’t heard Probst call out an update in a while. It’s possible he was talking, but I had zoned him out. For all I knew we were seconds away from losing. But, I begrudgingly agreed with Josh. And he was right. One of our pieces was actually in backwards. We would have been dead in the water if we had continued.

We tore into the second bag and were greeted by pieces of spokes, all in different sizes. I started furiously screwing them all together, paying no attention to what their final length should be. Once again, Josh was the voice of reason. He urged me to slow down and think about it.

I took a second, looked at the pile, and realized there were an even number of male and female components.

I said, “Line up the male pieces from smallest to biggest.” We did.

Then I said, “Line up the female pieces from biggest to smallest.” We did.

From there it was obvious that the smallest male piece went with the largest female piece and so on down the line. When we were finished we had eight perfectly even spokes.

As we screwed them into the hub, we heard Jeff announce, “There’s no way Team Canada is going to catch Team America now.”

Without a hint of sarcasm in my voice, I responded, “Seriously?”

Quick Aside: A member of the challenge crew told me that the lining-up-of-the-spoke-pieces method could conceivably make the puzzle too easy in the future. I broke a puzzle!

With our spokes in place and our holes properly aligned, the eight handles were easily put in place. We attached the wheel to the spindle and gave it a mighty spin to bring home a win for Team USA.

Photo Courtesy of “ET Canada”

And, in the ensuing victory celebration, Dalton Ross was sure to yell out, “Don’t let that fool you!”

The Aftermath
It wasn’t until after all of the hugs and high fives that I started to appreciate the unique perspective my silly little streak has given me. I want to win anytime I compete in anything, but the streak adds a real sense of urgency. Maybe it isn’t as intense as the urgency someone feels when they know they’re one Tribal away from elimination, but it’s urgency nonetheless.

And yeah, it’s poor form to brag about an eight-challenge winning streak becoming a nine-challenge winning streak. But like I said, I have poor form.

Terrible, terrible form.

Photo Courtesy of “ET Canada”

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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‘Survivor’ Troyzan: “This Has Been My Dream to Play and to Win Since the Day I Saw the First Episode”

February 22, 2017

Troy “Troyzan” Robertson (CBS)

QUICK NOTE: The good folks at XFINITY sent me deep into the Fijian wilderness to bring you an exclusive look at “Survivor: Game Changers.” While I was there I conducted interviews with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst and the entire 20-person cast. I also captured exclusive photos and other behind-the-scenes tidbits. So, be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for up-to-the-minute updates.

Name: Troy “Troyzan” Robertson
Age:  54
Hometown: Miami, FL
Previously Played On:
“Survivor: One World” – Finished 8th and Jury Member
Best Known For: The only player to own the island he was competing on.

Gordon Holmes: You’re a swimsuit photographer, correct?
Troy “Troyzan” Robertson: Yes, but that’s not all I do.
Holmes: And you’re going to take me on one of these shoots, correct?
Robertson: (Laughs) Of course! When I win I’m not sure if I’ll stop working.
Holmes: That’s not a job I would ever retire from.
Robertson: (Laughs) Yeah, I can take you on one.

Holmes: You’re famous for saying, “This is my island.”
Robertson: Yes.
Holmes: What are you going to do with two islands when this is all over?
Robertson: (Laughs) I know!
Holmes: Don’t get me wrong, it’s lovely.
Robertson: I’m going to change it to “These.” “These are my islands!” That could be the game changer right there.
Holmes: Speaking of game changing, how did you change the game?
Robertson: I changed it, not in one particular way. I didn’t do some special thing like make a great idol. I think it was overall. I’m a scraper. When my back was against a wall, I wasn’t going to just lay down like the girls thought I was going to. “It’s just a game, Troyzan. We’re going to vote you out next, so just take it like a man. You be a good boy.” Are you serious? There’s no way I’m doing that. I’ll go 1000% to win. In my mind, I’m winning everything from this moment on. I’ll find an idol. I’ll pretend that I found an idol. I’ll stir the pot. I’ll do whatever possible. That’s why when I yelled in that challenge, “This is my island. Do not (expletive deleted) with me. You can’t beat me.” I was trying to send a signal to their heads. And maybe put it into their heads that I’m so disliked now, maybe they should take me to the end. But, I was playing with a bunch of kooks who didn’t know the game.

Holmes: What’ve you been up to since “One World”?
Robertson: Just traveling, photographing around the world. Doing some stuff with Sports Illustrated swimsuit, but I do travel photography. Some boring stuff too that pays the bills. I still live on ten acres south of Miami in the middle of nowhere. My marmosets have all passed away since I played last time.
Holmes: I’m sorry to hear that.
Robertson: Well, they only live fifteen to twenty years. I have one dog, Taylor, he’s like my son. Still unmarried. I just travel too much to settle down. I’m to the point now where I’m 54 and I’m like, “Am I really going to get married?”
Holmes: Never too late. I was 39.
Robertson: If it comes, it comes. And I don’t mind dating.

Holmes: In your bio you mention that you wish you had done a better job of calling out top dogs. Take me back to “One World,” what was that in reference to?
Robertson: In general, I had my core group, people I thought I trusted. Then you had people who would say rumors or someone that was like, on an opposite alliance. I thought, “I don’t like them. I’m not even going to deal with them.” That was stupid. I should’ve confronted my enemies to make sure that they’re on the page that I’m hearing them on instead of taking it for granted. Kim or Chelsea or whoever is saying, “This person is saying this thing about you.” I didn’t even confront them. Like Mike, everyone was saying he was talking about me. Why didn’t I just walk up to him and say, “Mike, what’s your story, bro? Why do you have a problem with me?” I just didn’t do that.
Holmes: Aside from confronting people, are you going to do anything differently this time around?
Robertson: I like the way I played last time. Last time I made a good alliance right away. But people who have played many times know that’s key off the bat. But, I think I have a big advantage because there are a lot bigger targets than me this time.

Holmes: Speaking of which, what do you think of this cast?
Robertson: Amazing. I’ve been close to playing the last four years.
Holmes: I’ve heard your name come up a bunch of times.
Robertson: I was cast on “Fans vs. Favorites.” And then it didn’t work out. I was called to play on “Blood vs. Water” with my brother Todd. I was a week away from going. I’d sent my clothes in, and I’m like “Dude, we’re going.” But then they said someone else from my cast was cast. I think it was Kat. It was too many. Then last year I’m sitting in the audience for “Second Chance” getting ready to go and they’re like, “Sorry Troy, you’re getting on the loser bus.” (Laughs) If I could’ve picked a season, I would’ve picked this season.
Holmes: Because of Fiji or because of the cast?
Robertson: Because of this cast. I don’t care about the island.
Holmes: Who are you hoping to work with?
Robertson: I think the majority of the people are going to target the winners. But, those winners are going to be nervous as (expletive deleted). And everybody needs somebody. That somebody in the beginning. If I get approached by any of the winners, I’ll be into it. It’ll be fun to play with Ozzy and Malcolm. That new Michaela girl, I don’t know her game. She comes across as kind of OK. It’s hard to read someone when they just smile at you. I like Sierra Thomas because I don’t think people are going to look at her like she’s some threat. Brad Culpepper, Ozzy, Malcolm, those guys are all big shields. Just like Jeremy did last year.
Holmes: You played with Monica Culpepper. Do you and Brad have any kind of relationship?
Robertson: We played, but we never played together. We were never on the same tribe. Brad’s an intense guy. That could be a possibility. But, people are smart in this game. They’re going to wonder if there’s a connection. Like the four from last year. If people aren’t looking at them as a group, then they’re stupid. They are solid and just finished their season. They’re going to act like they’re not tight, but if I was coming out of my season, I wouldn’t care if we didn’t get along. I’d work with those people.
Holmes: So are they automatic targets or do you try to get in with them?
Robertson: Someone’s going to say we have to split them up and get down to one or two of them.
Holmes: Any other early targets?
Robertson: Well, Tony. Just the way he played…what he said…how he can lie so easily, finding idols, making spy shacks. He’s going to do everything in his power to fool you. And you look at his season, and what he did with Sarah? He could do that anyone.

Holmes: I’ve come up with some excuses people might use to try to get rid of you. I’d like you to counter them.
Robertson: Sure.
Holmes: So, Troyzan was really good in challenges in “One World.” Let’s get rid of him before he goes on a run after the merge.
Robertson: I’d go up to people and say, “I’m not sure what you’ve heard, but you’re telling me that I’m going to beat Ozzy and Malcolm? I’m the oldest guy here.”

Holmes: Troyzan had a whole alliance of women trying to take him out, but he was scrappy and fought the whole time. I don’t want someone around with that kind of resilience.
Robertson: Listen, being scrappy…don’t you think I would do that for you? I’d do it for us. Look in my eyes right now and I’ll tell you the truth. I’m 100% here for the adventure. I want to get to the end, but try me out. Show me how we’re going to vote together. I’ll show you.

Holmes: Troyzan is really emotional with his “This is my island!” Can’t trust him. Is he going to be cool when we need him to be cool?
Robertson: You want to base my personality on ten minutes of one episode? I’ll tell you, watch from the beginning to that part, I was a trustworthy guy, I stuck with my alliance. Crazy emotional? Watch me for the next few days.

Holmes: Any time there are returning players there’s talk of pre-season alliances. Are you a part of any?
Robertson: Not really. The thing is, and I’ve heard it from so many past players, the best thing to do if someone calls or texts you, is to say, “Congratulations, I can’t wait to see you out there.” Some people out here are going to get caught. If you’re talking to five people, where do I sit in that? I’ve met some people at different events. Past that, I think it’s a positive that I’ve met them. But, this is “Survivor” and I can’t think we’re best buddies due to just meeting each other. When it comes to “Survivor,” people’s characters change. In real life they try to show you their best self. But on the show, after a few days of starving, their true characters come out.

Holmes: You’re in lockdown now. You’re not allowed to talk to the other players, but people smile and wink and whatnot.
Robertson: Oh yeah, I do that. I smile at everybody, but I do that normally. Is it better to have a straight game face? This is a social game. In football, you can have a I’m-going-to-kick-your-ass face.
Holmes: Have you caught anyone else interacting?
Robertson: Some people you see. Not a ton, though. It’s been pretty quiet. Caleb and Tai sat down together. But they just ate their food, they didn’t do anything. Although, I feel like people are trying to put out their best personality. Even Tony, he wants to be looked at as a non-threat. So, he does little goofy stuff.

Holmes: You’re about to play with seventeen devils you know, and two you don’t. How do you approach Zeke and Michaela?
Robertson: It’s tough. This has been my dream to play and to win since the day I saw the first episode. Whatever that is, I want to do it. When I saw Richard Hatch running around naked, all I wanted to do was have Jeff call me the sole Survivor. The thing about those two is; they’re just two extra people. Thank you very much, you were part of my season. You helped me to win. I have no knowledge of what they’re going to do. Not knowing someone? That’s tough. You’re playing football and some new guy comes off the bench? What’s he going to do? Obviously they’ve done something big to come back. It makes me nervous.

Holmes: Any twist predictions?
Robertson: (Laughs) It’s beyond me. It’s the 34th season. I don’t know if they’ve ever started out with four tribes.
Holmes: They have.
Robertson: Oh yeah. There’s always a twist with an idol. Weird powers. I’m always thinking they’re going to come up with a way to help a certain group of people. Here’s the immunity beast idol. Or it’s like a pick-‘em thing. The ones who don’t get picked, you’re immune for two Tribals. Something crazy. I know these guys, they’re going to throw some serious (expletive deleted) at us.

Holmes: Alright, I’ll give you a twist. You tell me if it’s awesome or awful. We’ll start with hidden immunity idols.
Robertson: Awesome.
Holmes: Redemption Island?
Robertson: Awful.
Holmes: Exile Island?
Robertson: Awful.
Holmes: Medallion of Power?
Robertson: Awful.
Holmes: Extra vote?
Robertson: Awesome.
Holmes: Steal a vote?
Robertson: Awful.
Holmes: Eliminate a juror?
Robertson: (Laughs) I think that’s awesome. I’m in the final three and I say, “That son of a bitch there…you’re out of here!”

Holmes: Alright, I’ve got a deck of cards with your competition in it. Everyone except for Michaela and Zeke because we don’t know how they play. I’ll give you three at random. You tell me who you’ll vote out first, who you’ll align with and eventually eliminate, and who you’ll take to the end.

Round One: Tai, Ciera, and Debbie.
Robertson: First out is Ciera, she scares the crap out of me. She tells good lies. I’ll align with Tai. I think in the beginning he’s going to think I’m trustworthy. We have the nature thing, close to Earth, Mark the chicken, I love that stuff. I’d take Debbie to the end. I think I have a better speech prepared than she does. And the immunities I’d win.

Round Two: Caleb, Malcolm, and Cirie
Robertson: Caleb out first. I don’t think he’s played “Survivor” long enough. Golly, this is a tough one. I would align with Cirie. I can’t beat her at final three. And Malcolm, I’d beat him by saying, “We’re very similar with how we played. But, I’m 25 years older than that guy. And nobody loves this game more or plays it harder.”

Round Three: Ozzy, Tony, and Brad
Robertson: Tony’s out first. (Laughs) He just makes me nervous. He’s like a Russell Hantz. He’s a question mark. I’d align with Brad. He is obviously a bigger target than me. He’s intense. People are going to be like, “What are we going to do with Brad?” And I’ll take Ozzy to the end for the same reason as Malcolm. And he’s been here four times.

Round Four: Sarah, Andrea, and Sandra.
Robertson: I would vote Andrea out first. She’s a crafty little devil. Watching her “Fans vs. Favorites” season, she seemed paranoid. She’s good socially. I think she could stir up some stuff. Sandra I would align with because she’s going to be a huge target. She has to play with somebody. It’d be easy to control her because if she makes a move out of the ordinary, she’ll be gone. And I’ll take Sarah to the end. I think if I’m sitting with her, I don’t think she would have strategized enough and I don’t think she’s as likable as me.

Round Five: Aubry, JT, and Jeff
Robertson: I’d vote out Aubry. Super smart. Too smart. Great at puzzles, great socially. Probably should have won. I’m looking at a winner. I would work with Jeff. It’s his third time playing. He wants to redeem himself. He’s going to look for someone who’s not an alpha male. We’re older guys. I think he wants to make a merge finally. I’d take JT because he’s won. He’s likable, but he didn’t do what I did to get here.

Holmes: Two left, vote out one and work with the other.
Robertson: I’ll vote out Hali and work with Sierra. When Sierra was strategic, I don’t think she did enough to win.

Don’t miss the two-hour season premiere of “Survivor: Game Changers,” Wednesday March 8, 2017 at 8 p.m. ET.

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

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