Following the success of formats such as “The Golden Bachelor,” legendary host Jeff Probst has spoken about the possibility of a golden version of “Survivor” that would feature a cast of senior contestants. The long-time ‘Survivor’ host revealed his thoughts on the idea during an episode of his “On Fire with Jeff Probst” podcast, which might leave some fans disappointed.
Jeff Probst Doubts Golden ‘Survivor’ Season Could Work
Reality television producers and networks are constantly looking for ways to spice up their formats or reinvigorate older shows with new audiences. One recent success story has been “The Golden Bachelor” that first aired back in 2023 on ABC, a spin-off to the long-running series “The Bachelor.” In fact, it was so popular that the network followed it up with “The Golden Bachelorette” alongside a second season of the original spin-off.
It shouldn’t be a surprise, then, that fans of other similar shows are expressing interest in similar shows having their own senior adaptation. “Survivor” host and showrunner addressed the topic when asked about the possibility by a fan on his podcast.
65-year-old viewer Jim suggested the concept and Probst replied, “You know, I hear this idea from time to time. I’ve certainly heard it more since The Bachelor did it.”
However, he was quick to explain that he didn’t think it would be possible to make work due to the intense physical toll that “Survivor” takes on its competitors. You also need to overcast each season in case people drop out, which makes the process more difficult when limiting it to those of a certain age.
“Here’s the truth as I see it,” says Probst. “Based on the number of people over, let’s say 50, who apply and who we believe are interesting and compelling enough to be on the show and we believe can truly handle the intense physicality — I think if you just limited it to 50-and-over casting, it would be difficult to do two times per year. You’re looking at 40 people. I just don’t think it would work, personally.”
‘Survivor’ Needs Diversity To Work Effectively
Another issue for Probst is that this type of format would get rid of an aspect that makes “Survivor” so successful. Probst reveals that one of the things that works for the show is the way that such diverse figures in the cast are forced to interact and work with each other. “I would miss the layers of complexity that come with somebody like Rizo dealing with somebody like Nate,” explains Probst.
“I think that’s part of the fun. In the same way that I would miss it if one gender wasn’t on the show and we just did all women or all men. I think it’s that clash and the collaboration, the unexpected partnerships and learning about each other, that’s a big part of our format.”
Of course, Probst also made it clear that he doesn’t want to exclude seniors who might want to try out for the show and instead says they are more than welcome to take part right now. He finished his response saying, “Jim, this is my way of saying don’t wait on ‘Golden Survivor’. Apply now to be on this ‘Survivor.’”
That’s real bias, Jeff. Just the fact you have a group of 18 or 21 or however many individuals isgoing to give you much diversity. Have you been around that many older people? Older people are very opinionated; hard-headed say what they think, and don’t give a damn. Then you will also have a few who will be nonchalant, and will try to be a wannabe friend to everyone. You’ll still have a diverse population. Do you not think there are older gays? Older people of all races and cultures? Make some of the challenges less intense if you must; offer rice and mush to begin with. Whatever, but you are sadly mistaken if you don’t think this would be very popular with high ratings. My grandaughter is thinking i would be a really cool person to be on Survivor. As a teenager, she would really like to watch it and I’m sure many other would too.
I don’t think you would have to do several seasons with seniors but one would be a good one. As posted above you definitely have diversity. For example retired veterans, hospitality, corporate retires, and medical just to name a few. Let alone how people live in different areas of the country, how they were raised. Race has nothing to do with it, you have so many other areas.
What ages would be considered. There’s a big difference between a 50 year old senior and a 65 year old senior. What type of challenges would they be able to do without winding up in a hospital. I don’t think it would work!
I don’t think people should be underestimated because of their maturity! A lot of “seniors” are physically fit, mentally Sharp and can still kick ass! Waiting for my call!
I have watched this show forever. I for one, at the age of 68, would love to be on survivor. The extreme physical challenges would of course be a challenge however I would kick ass in fire making, outdoor survival, social game play, fishing etc. Being a senior gives me and any other mature person the advantage of knowledge, and the ability to play smarter. Come on Survivor, we all dare you to do a Golden Survivor!
IMO: What Jeff is missing are we are the ones that made the show famous…being loyal to it and always watching it with our kids and now our grandkids. Your insulting the ones that made you and the show a truely great show!!!
Uh, anybody remember Rudy?? not a young chicken. 1st season and all star season 8
We’ve seen a lot of muscular, buff individuals, but often don’t have as much real life experiences that some seniors would bring into the mix. There could even be an ‘old’ team of 3 on each tribe for competition versus 3 younger in separate races. I am certain that mixing this up a bit would add interest. Variety is appreciated. Take the risk!
Over 40
I know many over 40’s who are in better shape than 20 year olds. An 80 year old woman just finished an iron man. They are out there! I think many over 50 don’t apply because your odds are about the same as winning the lottery and they are usually some of the first voted off when there’s a young cast. Ageism… what if that was not a factor.
How did Cirie do in challenges….