As the highly-anticipated premiere of “Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans” approaches, more and more fans are speculating how the show will change as it enters its latest “era.”
For the last five years, “Survivor” has shaken up its stalwart 39-day format with the introduction of the so-called “New Era.” Defined by its 26-day game, three-tribe format, newbie casts and copious amounts of twists and advantages, the “New Era” has received mixed reviews from viewers.
Many “New Era” dissenters have called on the hit reality competition series to return to its old ways, reviving key gaming aspects like themed seasons, casts featuring iconic returning players and a stripped down version of the series with fewer advantages, including “Survivor: The Amazon” fan favorite Rob Cesternino, who argued that Season 51 will serve as a real make-or-break moment for the series to engage in some powerful fan service to keep viewers tuning in after a slew of nearly indistinguishable seasons.
While “Survivor” has been renewed for Seasons 51 and 52 at CBS, little has been revealed in terms of how the upcoming installments will differ from their “New Era” predecessors.
That being said, longtime host and executive producer Jeff Probst did address the series’ future in a new interview with Vanity Fair, finally answering the question: “Where should [‘Survivor’] 51 go?”
Probst Says ‘Survivor’ Will Take ‘Tiny Steps’ Toward Change in ‘51’
CBSSpeaking to Vanity Fair’s David Canfield in the weeks after filming wrapped on Season 50 last summer, Probst was already deep into the casting process for Season 51, reportedly speaking with dozens of hopeful future castaways a day.
Despite anticipation for the newest “era” of “Survivor,” Probst informed Canfield that the upcoming installment – projected to make its CBS debut this Fall – is “probably not gonna be something dramatically different.”
“Tiny steps,” he added, confirming that while “Survivor 51” might not see the series return to “Borneo” roots, it will mark a slight shift away from the features that defined the “New Era.”
One thing that will definitely stay the same as the series enters its 50s, however, is that Probst will continue to sit at its helm as host, executive producer and showrunner.
Probst Addresses Fears That He Will – One Day – Be Replaced
The confirmation that Probst is committed to seeing “Survivor” through as long as humanly possible follows after rumor mills speculated that Season 50 may mark the longtime host’s swan song. Regardless of these claims, however, Probst’s longevity and continued passion for the franchise is well documented.
Even “Survivor 50” contestant Mike White, who’s been Probst’s close personal friend for years, told Vanity Fair, “It definitely feels like if Jeff was exhaustible, it would have happened already.”
“I would have run that show into the ground like 15 years ago,” added the “White Lotus” creator and “David vs. Goliath” finalist. “I’m so in awe of his ability to refresh himself.”
Regardless, the longtime host still worries that the network – or the fans – will eventually tire of his presence.
“My fear is that somebody goes, ‘Why don’t we get somebody new and fresh and get rid of Probst?’” he revealed.
The concern only compounded this summer after Jonathan LaPaglia – who had served as the host of “Australian Survivor” for 10 years – was sacked, only to be replaced by former series champion David Genat.
Network 10While JLP’s firing rocked the global “Survivor” fandom, Season 50 castaway Cirie Fields assuaged fears that the same fate could befall Probst.
“That could never happen here,” said the soon-to-be five-time player, who similarly competed on “Survivor: Australia vs. the World” under LaPaglia’s watchful eye. “There is no ‘Survivor’ without Jeff. When Jeff is done, ‘Survivor’ is done.”
The statement has been echoed by countless former castaways over the years, including “Survivor: Millennials vs. Gen X” and “Survivor: Game Changers” alum Zeke Smith, who told VF, “‘Survivor’ is Jeff, and Jeff is ‘Survivor.’”
Probst Thinks ‘Survivor’ Can – And Will – Continue Without Him
CBSProbst, upon hearing the messages of support from players like White, Fields and Smith, told VF, “I’m flattered about that. If you like ‘Survivor,’ then on some level you also like a part of me. I put my soul into this. My blood is all over that show. Every idea I ever have goes into the show.”
When it comes to beliefs that the show won’t survive without him as host, however, Probst doesn’t buy it.
“I don’t think it’s true – and I’m not being self-deprecating. The show would be fun and it would be different [without me],” he concluded.
My husband and I are 72 years old and have watched EVERY episode of “Survivor” since its inception, many, more than once! I would bet its fan base is older rather than younger in years which couldn’t hurt the advertisers financially. In our opinion, Jeff Probst is CRUCIAL to Survivor; he’s tough (which is essential) but in a semi-sympathetic way and makes excellent commentary (especially during challenges) which I’m sure are unscripted. We probably wouldn’t stop watching “Survivor” if there was a new host but we’d sure miss Jeff!
I’ve never missed one episode of Survivor since season 1. I can’t see it without Jeff!! He’s is Survivor!!
I agree Jeff makes Survivor but wish he would change up his dialogue!! Hearing him say the EXACT same phrases at EVERY point of every show (with a few exceptions for tribal counsel) has gotten monotonous. “The tribe has spoken” is the catch phrase of course & must keep that but not the rest. Also – where are the cast members with fun character? A few hidden shoes this season was mischievous & fun but that’s the first one in several seasons. I miss Rupert & his mischievous smile!
Please go back to the earlier ways the show was done. Different countries, 39 days, themed seasons. It’s what made Survivor Survivor! I’m tired of Fiji. China was one of the most beautiful places they’ve filmed at. Australia was one of the more interesting seasons. Pearl Islands was well…fun! Rupert the tie died pirate. Sandra the shoe thief. Bring back fun people, not sappy story wannabes.
I totally agree!
Survivor fan since Season 1
Can you finally leave Fiji? The last five seasons have nothing distinguishing between them. The “new era” is vanilla, teetering on boring, besides Jeff, completely without charisma. The new players look like they take showers everyday, have access to different and much more clothing. When do they build their own shelter? This isn’t surviving, it’s thriving in Fiji.
Please bring back the elements that stress and test the survivors. More auctions and more villianish-drama.
I’m a loyal watcher from the very first episode and have rewatched all every show. The stand outs are clear China, Africa, Pirates! More surviving and less thriving!
Agree completely!
I am 73. I’m an avid Survivor fan. I’ve watched the show from its inception, never missing an episode. Without Jeff Probst at the helm there would be no Survivor. He knows the show, inside and out. He can never be replaced. I am looking forward to the coming season. Jeff Probst “You rock!!”
I’m 71 and have watched ALL episodes. If Jeff isn’t there, I won’t be watching! Jeff is the greatest host for Survivor!!
They will never find a better host than Jeff. Jonathan LaPaglia is NOT Jeff, watching him is like watching paint dry, and he has about as much personality as the paint.
Omg no wayJLP is awesome, jeff is great to & survivor will go on without him come the day, jonathon would be a great replacement, if you want survivor to continue & i do forever it will happen 💖
If Jeff goes I go ..No longer the Same 😭😭😭
JLP is Australian Survivor’s host with the most. He was superb. I LOVE Survivor and Jeff Probst. Rewatching as much of the old pre New Era seasons as I can get in, before Season 50 begins, just to catch up on all the returnees. Very excited!!
CBS is a disaster in the making; thus, I worry about Probst being a Survivor, either by circumstance or personal decision. Probst is indeed wrong to think Survivor and he are separable. They are not. I have watched since day 1 when my older sister suggested this new show would be an interesting anthropological study in real time. Seems so very long ago and yet Jeff Probst has remained a constant through it all. So no, Survivor without Probst is no longer Survivor. So now I just have to struggle with my commitment to boycotting CBS-