Not many shows have survived 50 seasons, but something special about this show has kept it running for over 20 years. Over the many seasons, specific moments and parts of the show have stuck out to fans. Of course, the first season set the tone for the next 49 seasons. The first season was truly about “surviving” in the wilderness of Malaysia, but the next seasons truly evolved the game.
Another key moment in the history of Survivor was the introduction of idols and advantages. In season 11, the well-liked and helpful Immunity Idol was first made known. The Immunity Idol blocks out any votes cast against someone during Tribal Council, but must be played before votes are read. Many have successfully and unsuccessfully played an idol, making it a complete game changer. Rick Devens (Season 39 and Season 50) found four immunity idols in his first season, a record.
During Survivor’s long run, new twists, themed seasons, and recurring players have come back and been introduced throughout the entire franchise. Specifically, this season of Survivor is centered around the concept of “In the Hands of the Fans.”
This meant that during the 49th season of Survivor, viewers were allowed to vote on the aspects of the 50th season. They were allowed to vote on whether or not the players should be given rice, immunity idols, and flint. Also, some famous fans of the show have features or make an appearance. Some of the celebrities that are mentioned or featured on Survivor 50 are Billie Eilish with her Billie Eilish Boomerang Idol, Jimmy Fallon with his twist to come, Mr. Beast, in collaboration with his gameshow, Beast Games, and Zac Brown, who came on the show to sing and spearfish for the contestants.
Evangeline Cain comments on this and says, “It’s fun to see the game progress, but I’m a little confused by all these celebrities.” Evangeline is not the only one who is confused by how many twists and celebrity appearances there are. Many fans online are disillusioned with the new game and are saying that Survivor has “jumped the shark”. Although many are not in favor of the new elements, they still love the classic theme of surviving to win a million dollars.
As the season progresses, enemies and alliances have been created. We see the renewal of an old Survivor rivalry between Ozzy Lusth and Benjamin “Coach” Wade from their feuds in Survivor: South Pacific, 27 seasons earlier. We also see some old alliances being rekindled, such as Christian Hubicki and Mike White, writer of White Lotus, from their friendship in Survivor: David vs. Goliath. Many, including myself, love these rivalries and alliances because it makes the game feel more personal.
Isabella Hoffman agrees, saying, “The connection between the players is strong this season, and I love watching it because I have watched it since I was very young.” Isabella’s love for the game just shows how many fans it has had over all those years, culminating all the way to season 50.
Survivor is an amazing show for those people who love competition, gamesmanship and a lot of drama. Check out this season every Wednesday at 8 p.m. on CBS to see who will outwit, outplay and outlast!
