Survivor: Philippines - Season Finale and Reunion Show Blog Party

Why oh why do they schedule a three-hour show to air after football on a Sunday evening? ARGH! As I type this up to post, the football game in question is in overtime and 60 Minutes has yet to air. They had already delayed the start of the finale here, scheduling it to start at 8:30pm ET. 

Anyway ... as to tonight's show, I don't think I'd mind if any of the final four won. For me, each comes with their own merits. Skupin, horribly burned in his first shot at the show, would be on the top of the world if he won. Lisa has grown tremendously since Blair days and honestly seems like a very nice person. Malcolm is just darn good, as is Denise. My personal favorite for the win would be Denise. How about you?

Once the show starts, I'll update this post with major events. However, the real fun is always in the comments area. Come join in!

Okay, the game just ended. It's 7:52pm ET here. Expect Survivor (and me!) to start at about 8:55pm ET ... and end near midnight. Sigh.

After a shortened 60 Minutes and an Obama speech from Newtown, we're on at 8:56pm ET. Did I call it or what?

Recap blah-blah-blah. Now it's time for the Reward Challenge -- race through obstacles, collect bags, solve dragon puzzle. Winning the challenge gives the winner an advantage in the final Immunity Challenge. Malcolm wins!

Fallen comrade walk time. Ritual, of course.

Immunity Challenge time. Balancing a ball on a wooden "pole" made up of wooden pieces added to make it longer as time goes on. Malcolm's advantage is that he can have a second shot if he drops the ball. He does drop it first and resets.

Malcolm is OUT! Even with the advantage, this wasn't a challenge made for him! Argh ... now DENISE is out! Lisa is out. SKUPIN WINS IMMUNITY!

The tally: Malcolm, Denise, Malcolm, Malcolm. Aw, the kid is gone! He played a very good and honorable game. Well, as honorable as Survivor can be.

Jury time --
Denise is proud to be there and built alliances, workhorse, valuable in challenges, made moves. Survived every single TC. Outwitted, outplayed and outlasted.
Lisa - we did it in different ways. Strategy wasn't pretty, run, fall down, get up, played own game. Brother told her to trust her gut.
Skupin - Returning player not expected to progress, did things with fire because his back was against the wall, respected core of the game, love the game.

Jury:
Artis -- Cannot congratulate them as they had holier than thou actions. Karma is a bitch.

Carter -- Good job, Lisa. Good job, Skupin. Skupin, when did you know I was going home. Skupin says so likeable, friendships in the game sometimes have to be separated.

Pete -- Lisa, hiding behind not voting for people when she knew they were going home. She said she didn't know. Denise said going tribe to tribe, etc. Worked with fractures in the tribes.

RC -- Wanted Lisa out because she was sneaky and sweet, proud of her. Skupin said he thought Penner was going home, not her.

Malcolm -- Denise, stop appeasing everyone. Why do you deserve it more? No appeasing! There is value playing social game, playing the game although it may come across as appeasing. 

Jeff -- Bitterness. Three kinds of people -- make things happen, watch, clueless. Skupin said he makes things happen. His name came up so much. Lisa -- didn't float? Her Malcolm blindside moves. 

Abi -- All about her, most unlikeable, heart broken. Asks why she should vote for Lisa. Lisa said loyal until things disintegrated. Michael, outwit, outplay, outlast. Denise apologizes if she was truly traumatized.

Penner -- Congratulations! Denise -- I'm confused. You've shown the world you're a bitch. Skupin -- Your name hasn't been written down as much as you say. Lisa -- Friend, close ... share? He says she was a television star. Exposes her. Two have been ridden in, yoked like oxen ... 

RC - Lisa
Penner - Denise
Carter - Skupin

Well, it won't be unanimous this time!

Onto live in Hollywood!

Moment of silence for the victims in Newtown.

The votes:
Lisa
Denise
Skoopin (Carter's vote)
Denise
Denise
Denise

DENISE HAS WON SURVIVOR: PHILIPPINES!!!

Closest vote ever on the 100K favorite, Lisa and Malcolm in the running. Lisa won!

Next season -- fans and favorites again. 

Survivor: Philippines - 12/12/12 Episode Blog Party

I hear there's a big concert going on somewhere, so I don't know how busy our little party will be here. Ah, who am I kidding? I'm recording the concert and, had I been able to get tickets, I would have abandoned you for the evening! But, as I'm not a wealthy person with disposable income to spend frivolously on rock concerts with outrageous ticket prices ... no way could I go. But I'll have fun here nonetheless.

As the show airs, I'll update this entry with the major events. However, as always, the real fun will be in the comments. Come join us!

They've figured out that Abi really doesn't have an idol.

Rewards have them racing up and over a slide into the ocean, retrieving bags of rings, then tossing them for the win. Winner will choose two people to join them for a pizza party on a whale shark watching cruise. Skupin wins! He decides to take Malcolm (because he chose Skupin's son last week) and Lisa. Abi is all upset that she wasn't chosen. @@

Malcolm makes a final deal with Lisa and Skupin. But Lisa may have other thoughts.

Uh-oh. Denise has fang marks on her neck and a possible allergic reaction.

Immunity Challenge time! They have to use planks to cross a rope bridge, collecting pieces of a maze along the way, then assemble the maze. Malcolm wins Immunity!

Denise, although she thinks they'll vote out Abi, asked Malcolm for his hidden idol. No go. Lisa is seriously pushing for a Denise vote. It's Tribal Council time! Abi's mouth is doing its thing.

The tally -- Denise, Abi, Abi, ABI. YES! Abi is history!

Survivor: Philippines - December 5 Episode Blog Party

Survivor fans ready? Tonight's episode is the "loved ones" episode. These can sometimes be very interesting. I, once again, am wishing that Abi will go far away. I'm still shocked that she actually won Immunity last week. If she does that for a second week in a row, my head will explode. Yep, it definitely will explode. 

As usual, although I'll update this entry with the major happenings as they air, the real party is in the comments area. Come join us! Beverages and snacks welcomed. We provide the comfy chairs.

The Reward Challenge has them paired up with a loved one. Surprise, surprise. They have to toss a muddy bag to their loved one, loved one tries to knock down five targets with said bag. Winner gets loved one to spend night back at camp.

Malcolm and his brother win Reward! Malcolm gets to pick one more person and he chose Lisa because she's been having so many problems. He gets to choose another, he goes for Skupin.

What? No Denise? I'm shocked!

Ohh ... Lisa's brother is trying to work the betray Malcolm move. Will she go for it?

Immunity Challenge time! Over water, they must race across balance beams, assemble poles, drop a flag.

Malcolm wins Immunity! So much for the plans to oust him this week.

Abi is still hanging with her lie about having a hidden idol. It's likely she or Carter will be voted out. Abi doesn't play her fake idol.

Tally: Carter, Abi, Carter, Carter, Carter ... ACK! Carter is voted out instead of Abi! Sure, going against her in the end is more of a sure win, but ...! 

Survivor: Philippines - November 28 Episode Blog Party

Yep, yep, yep. It's time for this week's Survivor blog party! Tonight's episode includes the auction which is always entertaining. But, of course, I'm more interested in seeing Little Miss Abi do herself in. I so hope she implodes tonight! How about you?

As always, as the show airs, I'll update this entry with the major events. However, the real fun is ALWAYS in the comments area! Come join us!

Lifeguard Laurie advises me that the latest blog pool standings are:

Abi-Maria : Chrob61, meb, SueGee
Denise : Buzzmaam, Karen in CA
Jonathan : Brian, JonMD1267, Tammy G
Lisa : Gaylos, Nana in the NW, Terry in TX
Michael : Donna in FL, Lars
Malcolm : Dewan, Margo

Jury
RC (Roberta) : ChicMc, PDX Granny, Sharon S
Jeff : DKNYNC, Jennasmom
Artis : Delee, MLCarter : Deb, Pam M in NJ, Syd
Pete : Becky, Rbennie

For the auction, each castaway got $500. Denise spent all of her money right away on pancakes and bacon. They can't share food, same rules as always. Abi claims she's going home soon, so she'll keep her money. Carter traded his baked potato for rice and beans for the tribe. Abi spent all 300 on "an advantage in the game."

Her advantage is that she can go directly to the final round of the upcoming Immunity Challenge and have a one in three shot at winning it. But, after all, it's Abi. Can she win a challenge even with that head start? She's decided to pretend that she has an idol. She wants to latch onto Malcolm.

The Immunity Challenge has them tied to ropes going through a course. A twist is that Jeff will ask a question. If they get it wrong, 5% of their body weight is added to them. Abi lied and said her note was two parts, hinting that the second unread part has to do with the hidden idol. It's Carter, Penner and Abi in the final round.

Abi won Immunity. I guess pigs can fly after all.

The general consensus is that they will vote for Penner. Lisa is in personal turmoil over the decision. Penner tries to turn the vote to Denise.

The tally: Denise, Denise, Penner, Penner, Denise, Penner, Penner.

Penner is gonzo. He makes a rather elaborate unusual exit, whistling with a curtain call.

Good. I'd rather Denise stay. I really wanted Abi to go!   

Survivor: Philippines - November 21 Episode Blog Party

Come one, come all! It's the Thanksgiving Eve Survivor show blog party! As the show airs here, I'll update this entry with any major happenings. But, as always, the real fun is in the comments area. Come join the party!

Reward Challenge -- Divided into teams, getting drums face up while the other team is turning them over. The reward is a spa visit followed by a feast. Red - Abi, Carter, Malcolm and Pete. Yellow - Penner, Lisa, Skupin and Denise. Eep. Skupin flipped the wrong drum. Red wins.

Abi gloats and alienates. She also says she will cook no more, but they can cook for her. Malcolm, Skupin, Denise and Lisa make a final four pact.

Immunity Challenge time -- In rounds -- obstacle course getting a buoy to their post. Five make it through. Malcolm, Penner, Denise, Skupin and Carter moving on. Three moving on to the next round. Skupin, Carter and Denise are in the final round. Carter wins immunity!

Tribal goes against dear Abi. Too bad, so sad. She plays her idol. Malcolm doesn't play his.

Abi, Abi, Abi, Pete, Malcolm, Pete, Malcolm, Pete.

Buh-bye, Pete. You should have stayed away from Abi! 

Survivor: Philippines - November 14 Episode Blog Party

Okay, not only did I catch up watching the last two weeks of the show online, but I have the Zoetawny graphic for this season! Again, my thanks to all for the kind words, good wishes and even donations! It's all very appreciated.

As the show airs here, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. However, as always, the real fun is in the comments area. Come join us!

The reward challenge has them, divided into two teams, going through a sloppy course looking for balls, then shooting hoops. Heh. Abi wasn't picked and has no chance of reward. The winning team will bring school supplies and toys to a village while the villagers give them a feast. Penner exposed bags of balls for his team and put them in the lead. Penner, Denise, Malcolm and Carter win reward!

Immunity challenge time! Balancing a large paddle, rolling balls down it and trying to get six balls to stick in the six indented spots. Mike Skupin wins immunity!

The tally at tribal council -- Artis, Penner, Artis, Penner, Penner, Penner, Artis, Artis, Artis.

Artis is gone, Penner remains! They got Skupin and Lisa to flip!

Survivor: Philippines - October 24 Episode Blog Party

Survivor fans ready? The show is about to start here on the East Coast. Nope, no World Series watching for me! It's Survivor, then Criminal Minds. Perfect in my book. 

From the promos, it sounds like Penner and Skupin might be in a bit of trouble tonight. Hopefully that keeps any target off my new favorite player Denise. I'm not all that keen on Penner back for a third time. Mike Skupin, on the other hand, was so long ago in his one previous season and his injuries (the burns) were horrifying. He definitely deserves a shot this season.

As the show airs here, I'll update this entry with the major news. But, as always, the real action is in the comments area. Hopefully the ballgame won't steal many of our party people!

Almost right into the reward challenge -- pushing a large wicker ball through a goal while the other tribe tries to stop you. Reward is a visit to a dry hut with sandwiches, soup and more. Said wicker ball is huge and the field is mud. It's kind of like mud wrestling! This is done with teams of three. With the first group, they're stalemating. They have to score three and it's well over an hour stuck with the first group.

It's over. In a deal worked out, Kalabaw gives all their rice to Tandang and wins reward. Now, Skupin had eaten most of Tandang's rice and they do need it. But Artis (for one) doesn't seem pleased with the deal at all.

Aw, they got their letters from home at the hut. But they're soon hungry once again.

Immunity challenge time -- launching balls out to field, others catch. Each catch worth a point, five points is the winning tribe. Abi is sitting out AGAIN.

Tandang wins immunity with newbie on the tribe Malcolm being their hero.

Jeff wants to go for Penner. The other alternative is Katie. Thankfully, although Denise is new in the tribe, they're liking her.

Lots of blindside talk at the Tribal Council. The tally -- Katie, Penner, Katie, Katie. Bye-bye, Katie. Overall, a wiser decision than Jonathan. After all, he can do quasi-well in challenges. She's pretty much worthless. Then comes Carter in that tribe -- the kid seems stoned all the time and I know he can't be.

Survivor: Philippines - October 17 Episode Blog Party

Okay, the Matsing tribe is down to two members -- Denise and Malcolm. However are they going to stay in the game? I'm really liking Denise and I'm liking Malcolm much more than I thought I would. Hopefully, whoever is in the medic call promos will go. I'm rather surprised it's a woman, but I'm not figuring which woman it is from the promos. We'll find out soon!

As the show airs here on the East Coast, I'll update this post with the major happenings. As always, the real fun is in the comments area. Come join us! We have snacks and beverages!

Malcolm has the idol. He and Denise were searching together for it.

"Malcolm, Denise ... you can drop your buffs." Yep, they're being separated -- Malcolm to Tandang, Denise to Kalabaw.

Reward has them balancing an idol in hand while trying to knock the idol from opponent's hand. First tribe to five points wins a huge breakfast platter. Tandang wins reward!

Both Denise and Malcolm seem to be welcomed on their new tribes. Pete told Malcolm he has the idol. Of course, Malcolm didn't volunteer the information regarding his own idol. On Kalabaw, the women want Denise in their women alliiance.

Uh-oh. Dana is really sick. Medical says it's not a life-threatening situation and leave the decision whether to stay in the game or not up to her. She decides ... to leave.

Immunity Challenge time! Race through obstacles, untie knots, chop ropes, puzzle pieces. You know ... the typical. Abi sits out AGAIN. She admits she's only participated in two challenges. Tandang wins by mere seconds. Jeff has been harping all challenge not only about Abi sitting out again and Katie blowing the first part of the challenge for Kalabaw.

Aha! Jeff talked Denise into joining with him, Penner and Carter. She seems to be safe. The guys want to target either Katie or Dawson. Dawson is dropping hints about Jeff being a pro baseball player.

The tally: Denise, Dawson, Dawson, Dawson, Dawson. 

No great loss, I say. Oh my. She practically molests Jeff on the way out. 

Survivor: Philippines - October 10 Episode Blog Party

Survivor fans ready? I'm kind of wondering how the alpha male bonding between Jeff Kent and Penner is going to go. I can't really see them together in the long run like Richard Hatch and Rudy, can you?

As the show airs here on the East Coast, I'll update this entry with the major happenings. However, as always, the real action is in the comments. Come join in, the pool is fine!

Espionage! Pete set up RC by putting the clue to the idol sticking out of her bag. Chaos ensues. Jeff, Penner and Carter formed an alliance on their tribe. The women know something's up.

Immunity challenge time! Carrying pots of rice on bamboo through an obstacle course, then smashing all six pots. First tribe finishing gets steak and spices. Second gets vegetables, salt and pepper and a pot. Both of the full tribes sit out their women. So it's all men against Malcolm, Denise and Russell.

Tandang won 1st place. Kalabaw won second. Sigh. Matsing loses once again despite a valiant effort. Kalabaw decided to trade their food for a tarp. 

Tribal Council time. No backstabbing this time. Jeff tried to pit them against each other but the worst they could say about Denise is that she's fantastic. 

The tally: Russell, Malcolm, Russell.

He was my pool pick, but that's fine with me. I think Denise is fantastic!

Huh. Russell thinks he was blindsided when he was the weakest link in almost all the challenges. @@

Survivor: Philippines - October 3rd Episode Blog Party

Will Lisa, the former child TV star, finally gain her footing in her tribe? Will the "veterans" be targeted? Will Penner's tribe realize the idol indeed was the decorative doohickey on their rice bin?

Ah, burning questions indeed.

As the show airs here on the East Coast, I'll update this post with the major happenings. However, as always, the real fun is reacting to the show in the comments section. Come join in on the fun!

Well, Lisa is teaming up with Pete and Abi against Mike (or so it seems). Jeff figured out that the decorative doohickey on the rice bin was the idol and that Penner probably has it. Matsing has lost their raft.

Immunity Challenge time. Diving for puzzle wheels, solving the puzzle. Reward is a fishing kit and canoe. Second place, a smaller fishing kit. Kalabaw wins first, Tandang second. Matsing has to go to Tribal Council once again. It's mostly due to Russell being inept.

Penner figured out Jeff is leery of him, admitted he had the idol and wants to work with him. Jeff only gave him a four-finger handshake, not a manly one. @@

Abi, of all people, found the hidden idol in their camp. She told her buddy Pete.

TC - Angie voted Russell and vice versa. No surprises there! The tally -- Angie, Russell, Angie, Angie. Oh my. I figured Russell would be the goner.

Survivor: Philippines - Jeff Kent Wants Penner Gone

I know blog reader Petals isn't going to like this, but I have to agree with Jeff Kent. He wants Penner out first from his tribe. His reasoning? This is Jonathan Penner's third attempt at a win! While he was medically evacuated the last time, that's not the story of his first shot on the show. In that season, he was voted out.

Kent's reasoning is solid. Not only has Penner had the chance before and it would be nice for a new castaway to win, but they don't really need Penner. He helped them set up the camp and there honestly isn't much else he can help them with at this point. It's not like Penner is a challenge winning hero or anything. We know Penner has the idol, Kent merely suspects it. If they can blindside him, all the less of a chance of it being used. 

 

As long as they don't throw a challenge in order to take him down, I'm for them getting Penner gone. How about you?

Survivor: Philippines - Sept. 26 Episode Blog Party

Well, last week they did seem to get the most foolish person off the island. I mean, c'mon ... what kind of strategy is it to tell everyone to vote you off unless you're Dr. Will on Big Brother? Hopefully, this week my blog pool dude, Russell, will improve his social game some. If not, I fear he won't last long.

A non-related note: If you want in on The Amazing Race blog pool, please stop by this post and get your name added in!

The show will be starting in a few minutes here. As it airs, I'll update this post with the major events. However, as always, the real fun is in the comments area. Come join in cahoots with us!

Survivor fans ready?

The blog pool picks are as follows:

By tribes:
Kalabaw
Carter : Deb, Pam M in NJ, Syd
Dana : Auntie Leigh, Joey
Dawson : Brent McKee, lynn 1, Zoetawny
Jeff : DKNYNC, Jennasmom
Jonathan : Brian, JonMD1267, Tammy G
Katie : Glenn, Merrilee
Matsing
Angie : Donna in Alabama, Monty924
Denise : Buzzmaam, Karen in CA
Malcolm : Dewan, Margo
Roxy : Dusty, Lifeguard Laurie
Russell : Jackie, Petals
Zane : Ed in Ohio, Russ in CA, Sharon VOTED OUT
Tandang
Abi-Maria : Chrob61, meb, SueGee
Artis : Delee, ML
Lisa : Gaylos, Nana in the NW, Terry in TX
Michael : Donna in FL, Lars
Pete : Becky, Rbennie
RC (Roberta) : ChicMc, PDX Granny, Sharon S

*********************************** 

RC found the idol clue and Abi caught her, so they're "in it" together.

Penner found the idol in his camp.

Lisa feels alienated.

Immunity Challenge time, reward included -- blankets, pillow and tarp for first. Tarp for second. Tribal Council for third. They're dragging heavy sleds of puzzle pieces across a dirt field. Three puzzles.

Tandang wins first place, Kalabaw second. Matsing to Tribal Council ... again.

Angie is targeted because she's been cuddling Malcolm. Roxy is trouble. So, who will go home?

The vote tally: Roxy, Angie, Roxy, Roxy ... is OUT! Her mouth did her in. 

Survivor: Philippines - Season Premiere Blog Party

The show is about to start here on the East Coast. As it airs, I'll update this post with any major events. But, as with every blog party, the real fun is in the comments area. I hope to see you there!

The finalized random picks for the blog pool are:

By tribes:
Kalabaw
Carter : Deb, Pam M in NJ, Syd
Dana : Auntie Leigh, Joey
Dawson : Brent McKee, lynn 1, Zoetawny
Jeff : DKNYNC, Jennasmom
Jonathan : Brian, JonMD1267, Tammy G
Katie : Glenn, Merrilee
Matsing
Angie : Donna in Alabama, Monty924
Denise : Buzzmaam, Karen in CA
Malcolm : Dewan, Margo
Roxy : Dusty, Lifeguard Laurie
Russell : Jackie, Petals
Zane : Ed in Ohio, Russ in CA, Sharon
Tandang
Abi-Maria : Chrob61, meb, SueGee
Artis : Delee, ML
Lisa : Gaylos, Nana in the NW, Terry in TX
Michael : Donna in FL, Lars
Pete : Becky, Rbennie
RC (Roberta) : ChicMc, PDX Granny, Sharon S

Thank you, Lifeguard Laurie! Survivor fans ready?

***************** 

Hidden immunity idols are in play this season. They get to scramble at sea for supplies including chickens. Jeff Kent already hurt his knee in the scramble. The red tribe, Kalabaw, even lost their chickens they snagged.

Matsing (blue) built fire within 45 minutes of landing at their camp.

Jeff Kent, whose knee is still hurt, already is leading his fellow Kalabaw to get rid of Jonathan because he's a repeat player.

On Tandang, RC is getting on with Lisa (not THAT way)! No one seems to recognize Lisa except Skupin, who hasn't said anything. RC makes an alliance with Abi, Pete and Skupin.

Ah, Dawson recognizes Jeff Kent. She tucks that knowledge away for when it's needed.

Mike Skupin tells Lisa he recognizes her. He likes her. She doesn't want it revealed unless someone else recognizes her.

Zane is lining up the gals in his corner. then the men -- Russell and Malcolm. Meanwhile, Malcolm and Denise (the sex therapist) seem to have their own little alliance.

Skupin is already getting himself all banged up!

Penner found a clue to a hidden idol. Russell, not searching like Penner was, accidentally found a clue. Zane saw Russell find the clue. He thinks Russell has the idol and wants him out first.

Immunity Challenge -- First two tribes to win get Immunity and Reward. Race to get paddles, boat out for puzzle pieces, then a puzzle to be solved. Kalabaw wins first place -- Immunity and a fire-making kit. Tandang -- Immunity and a flint. Matsing goes to Tribal Council.

Zane throws himself under the bus in a weird scheme that they'll get Russell out instead. I'm not really understanding. Russell has turned off most of his tribe with his leading while insisting he's not a leader.

Tribal Council time. They're not pleased with Russell being a dictator. Zane votes Russell and vice versa. The votes: Zane, Russ, Zane, Zane, Zane. His plan didn't work and my blog pool dude Russell lives to play another comp!   

Survivor: Philippines - Jeff Probst's Cast Assessment (Video)

I watched this after I posted my thoughts. Some of them coincide with Jeff's. Remember, the premiere is tonight leading into the Big Brother season finale!

Survivor: Philippines - Blog Pool Picks

Lifeguard Laurie has come up with the random picks for the blog pool. This is an image file, so you can click on it to get a larger image --

Survivor: Philippines - The New Castaways, Part Three

Alright! We've gone through the familiar faces, the Matsing and Tandang tribes, so now it's the Kalabaw tribe. Kalabaw has familiar faces Jonathan Penner and Jeff Kent in it, everyone else is a newbie. Survivorfans ready?

Dana Lambert - Age 32, current residing in Winston-Salem, NC but she's originally an Arkansas gal. We have yet another superfan here, but this one's a bit different. She seems to be doing it as much as for her life resume as she is for a win. She's a cosmetologist who thinks she's most like Boston Rob in her game approach. Y'know, I kind of like her. At this glance stage I have to say I don't think she'll win, but I could be wrong. Again, she's another one who looks much younger than her actual age. I can just see her being a Southern belle now! :-)

Carter Williams is 24 years old, a track coach and a fairly recent college grad who's been concentrating on getting on the show. He currently resides in Shawnee, KS. Huh. He's a runner, but lists surfing as a hobby. I didn't realize surfing was a big thing in Kansas, did you? He seems to be at least a quasi-superfan and says he'll play challenges with the heart of Ozzy, but has more of a personality of Eric Reichenbach or Fabio. He seems very likable, but I'm getting a laid-back vibe from his video. I'm not sure how well that will do for a win. His tree-climbing skills may not a win make.

   
Katie Hanson is a 22 year old college senior from Newark, Delaware. She's studying criminal justice and plans to be a state trooper. (You go, girl!) She's also a pageant girl having been Miss Delaware 2011 and in the national Miss USA pageant. Oh my. She thinks she's most like Danni Boatwright. She's one I'm of two minds about. I think, with her passion for police work, she might very well be a strong competitor. But then, I see that one of her reasons for wanting to win (other than the money) is to meet a hot guy ... well, that's not so good in my book. We'll see.
 

 

Sara Dawson, called Dawson for some reason, is a 28-year-old insurance salesperson currently living in Silver Springs, MD but hailing from Georgia. She thinks her gameplay will be a mix of Sugar and Sandra. Hmm. Yet another huge fan of the show, she plans to concentrate on her social game. She does seem to have a likable personality, but also comes across as a bit fake to me. I can't really get a take on her. I think I'll have to say that how she'll do will remain a mystery until she does it.

Keep in mind that if you want to be in the blog pool, you need to reply before 3 PM ET (noon PT) to this post or email to lifeguardlaurie@gmail.com

Survivor: Philippines - Blog Pool OPEN

Lifeguard Laurie will be running the blog pool once again this season. (Yay, Laurie ... you ROCK!) If you want in on the pool -- remember, the winner gets bragging rights until the next season -- please respond to this post. I apologize for the short notice, but we need your name in by 12 PM ET or 3 PM PT tomorrow (Wednesday). You can also email lifeguardlaurie@gmail.com

Who wants to go swimming?

Survivor: Philippines - The New Castaways, Part Two

The season premiere is Wednesday, 8 PM ET/PT, leading into the season finale of Big Brother. I've already posted about the familiar faces on the show and the Matsing Tribe. Tonight I'm taking a look at the Tandang Tribe. Two of the familiar faces are on this tribe -- Lisa Whelchel and Mike Skupin.

Abi-Maria Gomes is 32 years old, presently living in Los Angeles, but hailing from Brazil. She claims to be a business student. I don't know. When watching her video, she came across as much younger. Although I admire her moving here and earning her citizenship, I'm not quite getting how she feels being on the show will change the world for the better. She seems a bit narcissistic in the video, too. She might just annoy me.

 

Artis Silvester, age 53, is a government IT guy currently living in Terry Town, LA. He beat stage 4 cancer and, as he says, he's a survivor playing Survivor. He thinks he's a combination of Rupert, James and Rudy. Well, that's different. The man doesn't look 53! I love in his bio that one of the reasons he's playing is because he's sick of yelling at the television when the castaways do stupid things. I think I'm going to like him.

 

Pete Yurkowski, age 24, is from Holmdel, NJ. Hey, I know where that is! (No, it's not near me -- it's further south). He has his engineering degree, yet he's a model. I do like that he's not into the Jersey Shore persona. Those who don't live here tend to get a skewed version of the state. He seems pretty full of himself and plans to be a Russell. Not a Good Russell, mind you. Sigh. Hopefully he has a better social game. I'm curious whether others might immediately tag his as a threat or not.

RC (Roberta) Saint-Amour, age 27, from NYC is an investment banker. She has swum the English Channel, worked several years as a lifeguard. And, though she's from the city, she thinks she just might win this thing. Here we have another show super fan, having watched every season. I like that she says she's an original and no other previous castaway is like her. I like her. Hopefully that won't change when I see her in action.

Tomorrow, I check out the Kalabaw tribe!

Survivor: Philippines -- The New Castaways, Part One

I already covered the familiar faces on this season's cast. Now it's time to take a look at some of the new faces coming aboard. 

First up are members of the Matsing Tribe (which include the previously discussed familiar face Russell Swan):

Zane Knight is a tire repair dude currently living in Danville, VA. Country and tattooed, he's obviously no high fashion recruit for the show. I'm not quite sure what to make of a man who has a pet peeve about ice cream sprinkles. He's 28 years old and married, loving his wife and Jesus. He wants to be on the show so he can afford to buy his own tow truck. Lofty dreams indeed. I'm wondering how he'll fare in the sun. He's more pale than I am! He claims he'll be most like Brandon. Sigh. I'm guessing Hantz not the Brandon Quinton from Survivor: Africa. Eww.

 

 

Roxy Morris, age 28, is a seminary student residing in Brooklyn, NY. While her online bio definitely touts religion, she isn't coming across as some very religious folks do in her video clip. She comes across quite secular and I'd bet she's spot on with her statement that she would assimilate well. She's an Army Chaplain and seems not only personable, but physically fit as well. Uh-oh. She also likes Brandon. Oh my gosh, what is wrong with people? The guy was a flake! I feel that Roxy will have a good social game, but I can't see her being overly conniving. While nice guys win now and then (Ethan comes to mind), the schemers usually win more often.

Malcolm Freburg is a 24-year old bartender living in Hermosa Beach, CA. While his video claims all the Dartmouth greatness, he's a bartender like so many reality show contestants we've seen in the past. I'm sure he didn't study "mixology" there. While he comes across way too cocky in his video, there's actually something about him I like. He's definitely a student of the game -- like Ian on BB14, he grew up watching it and wanting to be on the show. I like that he enjoys the strategic part. It looks like he'll have no problems in the physical arena. He believes he'll play a bit like Russell (Hantz). Oh my. I only hope he has a better social game. He's certainly better eye candy than Hantz!

Denise Stapley is a 41-year-old sex therapist. Well, that's something new and different for a career on the show, eh? She currently lives in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. On the surface, she should do well. She's into triathlons and such. As a therapist (sex or otherwise), she should know how to build a decent social game. She thinks she'll be most like Stephenie ... a good thing, I say. All that said, there's something about her which turned me a bit off in her video. I can't put my finger on it, though. Maybe it's the fast talking; maybe it's the therapist peeking through. I reserve judgment on her. 

Angie Layton, age 20, currently lives in Provo, UT. 20? She's a CHILD! She's a model, go figure. Oh, and if you watch the video, she mentions she "said yes to Survivor." Can we say recruit? She is very pretty as she should be having been Miss Utah Teen and runner-up for Miss Teen USA. She thinks she'll be considered a "dumb blond" and compares herself to Fabio. One of her reasons for being on the show, other than to win, is to "meet some hotties." I just don't know about this one.

That's it for the Matsing Tribe. Tomorrow evening, I'll post about the Tandang Tribe, Tuesday evening the Kalabaw Tribe members. On Wednesday, the season premiere leads into the finale of Big Brother 14.     

Survivor: Philippines -- The Familiar Faces

Three returning players - Russell, Jonathan and Mike

You know me. I'm generally not a fan of returning players on reality competition shows. I'm just not. That said, I really don't mind these three players returning. All were medically removed during their own seasons and I don't mind them getting a chance to try again.

Good Russell -- Remember that? There were two Russells in his season and we had to differentiate between them. One was Hantz, Evil Russell. The other was this Russell, Good Russell Swan. Until dehydration got the best of him, I enjoyed his gameplay. He came across as a decent guy and was good in challenges. While Hantz and his various relatives have gone on to unduly inundate our television screens, this is the first we've heard of Swan since his season. I'm definitely interested in seeing how well he can do. He's 45 years old now and still full of muscles.

Jonathan Penner -- This is actually a third shot for him. He was on Cook Islands, finishing sixth. Then he was on Fans vs. Favorites/Micronesia in 2008. It was in the latter season he was hauled away with an infection in a wound on his knee. I'm not as keen on him getting another shot at this as he's already been on two seasons. But, the dude can be entertaining, witty and is intelligent. Thus, I'll allow him to return this season. Yeah, you know it's all up to me. Right? He's 50 now, no spring chicken.

Mike Skupin -- Now, there's a blast from the past! It was eleven years ago in the Australian Outback when Mike passed out in the campfire suffering severe burns and smoke inhalation. It was only Day 17 at that time. He's someone who, without a doubt, deserves another shot at the game. He was also the one who speared a wild pig and drew outcry from so many folks. Nonetheless, I want to see what he does with his second shot at the game. He's 45 now and probably still bears the scars of his last attempt.

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And then we take the good, the bad and The Facts of Life ...

While I think Jo would be better at roughing it in the woods than Blair, we get Blair. She says that she's been a super fan of the show since its inception. I'm of two minds about her appearance as a castaway. It will be interesting to see a child actor grown up without an arrest record. But, then again, I'm already a bit leery about her being a bit too religious. Mind you, I have nothing against religious folks ... except when they constantly live and breathe religion on competition reality shows. We'll see. She's no school girl any more at 49 years old.

Jeff Kent, retired baseball player

Okay, I don't know him, not at all. I'm not a big team sports follower and only "know" players on local teams such as the Yankees or Mets. But I'm including Jeff Kent here as I'm sure somebody out there would consider him a "familiar face." He's retired, but only 44 years old. I would think that he'd be great at the challenges where they have to throw stuff or bat stuff!

Another thing I like about all five I've listed in this post -- they're not kids! It's great to see that people over 40 do exist.

I know we exist in the real world.

What do you think of these castaways? Like the ones coming back? Have you a clue who the baseball guy is?