It’s one of the longest running reality series and, with 34 seasons behind it, Survivor doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon. Contestants have come and gone, themes have changed and formats have been rehauled. But host and executive producer, Jeff Probst, has continued to run the show since it was launched in 2000. “There is something inside all of us that wonders how we would do if we were truly pushed to our limits,” says the presenter about his series’ lengthy lifespan. “Survivor offers a peek into a very complex game of social politics. And with a million-dollar prize for the winner, it’s a pretty appealing cocktail.”
The 35th season, titled Heroes vs. Healers vs. Hustlers, currently underway in the US, features 18 contestants split into three tribes who have to perform gruelling tasks for the prize money. The three groups are Levu (‘Heroes’ known for their courage), Soko (‘Healers’ known for their service and compassion) and Yawa (‘Hustlers’ who work hard). “I think for the role on Survivor you need to have some connection to emotion and empathy,” says Probst. Based on their allocation, each contestant must use the team’s respective psychological approach, win tasks and eventually inch towards the chance to be crowned the ‘Sole Survivor’.
The season is also touted to present viewers with brand new challenges, nothing like what we’ve seen before. For instance, the first episode will feature a task where contestants have to light a torch 15 feet above ground with bare minimum supplies. The winning team will receive a fire making kit, while the losers will have no access to warmth at camp. The blame eventually boils down to one under performer who will get voted off the island. It’s just one of the many sadistic ways the creators of the show plan to test the contestants’ skills.
If that wasn’t reason enough, Probst has promised there will be a tonne of drama with every episode and a thrilling finish to the season, adding that this season has been his personal favourite.
Season 35 of Survivor will soon air on AXN India.