Chris: You know what? It’s kind of an excited fear. I’m not fearful of dying or anything, but, what’s next? It’s like a rollercoaster ride. I’m excited to just get started and get going.
Wigler: Who are you hoping you’re playing against, in terms of personalities? What’s an ideal situation for you?
Chris: I’d say this: I’ve always fit in with the in crowd and the out crowd. What I mean by that is if I was using high school terms, there’s the jock and cheerleader popular crowd, and then there’s the off-the-radar nerdy band group type. I’ve always had a little bit of both of that in me. I think I’d try to wow the in crowd a little bit with being good in challenges or whatever, but I’ll show lots of attention toward the people who might not be the “in” type of people. I think I’ll gain some loyalty or trust there, as far as you can have in this game.
Wigler: How long have you been a Survivor fan?
Chris: Since day one. I’ve never missed an episode. I’ve watched the [seasons] multiple times now. I’ve been trying to get on the show, off and on, for years. Years go by and you try out, then you don’t try out, and it’s always this thing: “I know I can be good at Survivor if I can just get on there.” You try every so often, and finally, with a little bit of luck, you get noticed by the right person and get the chance. But this has been in the making for 15 years.
Wigler: You list a medicine pouch given to you by an Indian chief as one of the items you’d bring out to the island. What’s the story there?
Chris: I was accepted into … if you don’t know who Gerry Spence is, he’s like the Michael Jordan of trial lawyers. He has the only school pretty much on the Earth that teaches trial lawyer skills. You have to get accepted into it, and I was lucky enough to be accepted into it last summer. He’s a very spiritual guy. He has [his school] out on a ranch in Wyoming in the middle of nowhere, and it lasts for about three and a half weeks. It’s a pretty substantial obligation. You go up and stay at a ranch in this barn with a bunch of trial lawyers, and you work on these skills. He’s very tied into the Native Americans, like the Shoshone Indians. He’s very spiritual in that way. So at the end, at this graduation ceremony, a real medicine man from the Shoshone tribe, one of their tribal leaders, blesses these medicine pouches. Gerry Spence gives them to you and puts them around your neck. It was crazy. There were all these eagles flying around… it was wild. But it’s a very important piece to me. I learned a lot about who I am at this trial lawyer college, more than being a lawyer. I worked through a bunch of personal issues. You get to know yourself. So I carry it with me to trial. I keep it in my pocket. It brings me luck.
Wigler: You won’t have the physical pouch with you, but what about that experience are you carrying with you into the game?
Chris: The whole methodology is this: if you don’t know yourself, and you can’t internalize what you’re feeling in a moment, then it’s really difficult for you to understand other people — like a jury during trial, or in the case of Survivor, these other contestants. I’m very in tune now with what I’m feeling and how I’m feeling it, and what other people are feeling, more importantly. It’s given me this weird sort of “Spidey-Sense.” I’m sensitive to how people are thinking and what they’re feeling in the moment.
Adam Klein: You’re not going to come out on location and win the first challenge? Gordon Holmes: Nope, I get to do all this over the phone. And that challenge thing isn’t a big deal, it’s only like eight in a row. It’s not that impressive. Klein: (Laughs) Aww…c’mon. Holmes: You just got right on my good side and we’re only twenty seconds into this. Klein: I read everything that you put out. Holmes: You’re already my favorite. This speaks very well of your social game.
Holmes: As a super fan, I’m assuming you have no problem lying. Klein: No problem at all. Holmes: What about flirting? Klein: (Laughs) I knew you were going to ask that! I was upset that you didn’t go to location last time so you could ask Joe Del Campo that question. Holmes: (Laughs) It’s my job to get a baseline for how everyone thinks they’re going to play. I used to only ask the flirting question to the pretty young people, but that made me feel horrible. Everyone can flirt. I ask everyone now. Stop dodging the question, Adam! Klein: (Laughs) I think I’m more likely to be the guy who is the flirtee rather than the flirter. If someone thinks they control me based on that, that’s going to be good for my game. Holmes: How well do you deal with hunger, extreme temperatures, lack of sleep? Klein: I actually am fine with hunger. I sometimes don’t eat until dinner. My mom’s not happy about it. Sleep deprivation will be tough. And extreme temperatures will be the worst. I get a little cranky and ornery when it’s hot. I’m going to have to put on my happy face. Holmes: How about paranoia? Klein: I think it’s going to be a little fun for me. This is what I signed on for. “Survivor” is a 24/7 game and I’m prepared for it.
Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it’ll be? Klein: I’ve been racking my brain for months. At first I thought…they were asking a lot of questions at casting about my political history. Working for the Obama campaign…but then I found out I’m on the red tribe, so that doesn’t really make sense. I think we’ll start at twenty, with two tribes. Then at eighteen go to three tribes. I know they liked how the tribe switch-ups worked during “Second Chances.”
Holmes: If you could align with any past player, who would it be? Klein: Probably Yau-Man (Chan). I love that guy. I feel like Denise (Stapley) is a strong ally that I could talk to and work through the game like she did with Malcolm (Freberg).
Sunday: I’m feeling … excited. And anxious. Probably all those things rolled into one. I’m nervous, but I just want to get going.
Wigler: What pushed you to pursue Survivor?
Sunday: Okay, well, I’ve been watching from the beginning with my family. Six or seven years ago, I said something like, “I can do this!” And my boys were like, “Yeah right, mom! There’s no way you could survive a day.” Right after, I was like, “Hm. You know, I should think about doing this, just to prove them wrong.” Then, about four years ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was totally hard, but I got through it. I said to myself, “I survived cancer. I got through that. I can survive Survivor.”
Wigler: I can’t imagine how difficult that must have been.
Sunday: The hardest part for me was having kids, and having to tell them, and trying to keep a… I won’t say a happy face, because they knew how hard it was, but I didn’t want them to think I was falling apart at the seams every single day. I wanted them to see that no matter what happens, you can get through it. And actually, a year before that, my husband almost died. He had emergency open-heart surgery. So it was like, “Okay, guys, here we go again. Dad’s okay, and I’m going to be okay.” I figured that I just turned 45. I’m going to go for what I want to do. I made it through cancer, and I’m going to make it through this. So, I don’t know. I think I can do this. It just sounds exciting to me, it’ll prove to my boys that I can do it, and it’ll be a big accomplishment for me.
Wigler: Is it going to be hard to be away from home for the next few weeks?
Sunday: It’s going to be hard. I’m missing my daughter’s softball season and my son’s baseball season. I’m missing my older son’s college graduation. But, like I told them, it’s going to seem long while I’m gone, but the minute that I’m home, it’ll be fine. It’ll seem like it was a blink of time. I just want to prove to them that I can do this — and I want to win the money. (Laughs.) If I win the money, then this will be really worth it.
Wigler: You also mention that you want to deceive people “within the context of the game.” Is it going to be difficult to reconcile that with your faith?
Sunday: Yes, it will be. It will be. I feel like I can play the game. I know that I’m going to have to be deceptive, but I feel like I’m going to do my best to do it in a way where I’m not going to have to totally backstab somebody. But it is a little bit of an internal struggle. For me, though, I know that it’s how you have to play Survivor. So I’m not going to be cutthroat, but I know I’m going to have to deceive people. That’s just what happens when you play the game. I know it’ll be a moral dilemma for me at some point down the line — probably a few different points — but what I talked about with my kids and husband is that I need to keep my emotions out of it.
Wigler: Who are the ideal people for you to play Survivor with, in order for your game to be the best it can be?
Sunday: Oh, Josh! That’s a tough question. I think I want to play with a few alpha males, that I can… not hide behind, but get in an alliance with, and go into the merge with so they’re a bigger target than myself. I also feel like I can have good alliances with the younger players, because I work with young people, and I tend to connect with them well. I don’t want to overplay the mom role, but I do think the mom role can help me, especially with some of the younger players. I think I can get their trust, kinda be there for them, and pull them in. I’m a bossy person, so I have to keep that in check, and try to get them to follow me without me thinking that I’m telling them what to do.
Wigler: Do you have any theories about any twists you’ll be facing once you’re out there?
Sunday: I think they could throw in some kind of an Exile Island, because they haven’t done that in a little bit. I’ve thought about what that would look like, if I ended up out there all by myself.
Holmes: “Survivor” can be a game of deception. Are you comfortable lying? Bradshaw: Ooo…it’s not my strong suit. But, I can shut up when I have to. Holmes: So lying by omission? Bradshaw: To either shut up or ask a question. I’ll deflect with a question because most people like to talk.
Holmes: How well do you deal with people lying to you? Bradshaw: Oh, if someone lies to me in the game I’ll keep it in the memory bank, get what I need to get from you, then be done with you. If you have no value to me, then “bye.” Holmes: What about lack of food? Bradshaw: I’m fine with that, but if I’m hungry and thirsty…my bonquisha comes out and I get a little agitated. Holmes: Your what? Bradshaw: My bonquisha. My little bit extra.
Holmes: Have you seen any of the other players yet? Bradshaw: Yeah. Holmes: What do you think? Bradshaw: There’s one girl, she’s really country. She always wears tights. She looks like she’s barefooted. And she brought a guitar last time. She looks like she’s super sweet. I can’t wait to talk to her. There’s the Asian chick with the red hair. It’s pretty cool, she seems like a cool person. And there are a couple of weird people. I’m like, “Dang, I hope you’re not on my tribe.”
Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it could be? Bradshaw: They always come up with something crazy. But, I’ll handle it. Holmes: That’s right.
Holmes: If you could align with any past player, who would it be and why? Bradshaw: I would love to have been the force that brought Kelley Wentworth and Jeremy (Collins) together. I watched that season two more times over and I realized that Kelley was in the bottom because a vote went wrong. It wasn’t really anything that she did. It didn’t have to go that way. I thought her and Jeremy were really strong players. I think they would’ve done well together. I like how both of them played. Jeremy had a level head and Kelley kept finding ways to make things happen. Those are two characteristics you need. You need someone to figure out how to make a move, someone to think ahead, and then you have me in the middle… Holmes: Handling it. Bradshaw: (Laughs) That’s right!
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I was kind of on the fence but I think Michaela is my favorite after that interview.
Wigler: This is off to a good start. Let’s get into it. I was going to ask how you got involved in this — you’re a young guy at 18 years old — but it sounds like you’re a Survivor super-fan. If you’re listening to podcasts, you must really like Survivor.
Will: Yes. Yup. Definitely.
Wigler: What’s your history with the show?
Will: I actually got into it kind of late. You know, I am kind of young. I got into it around season 22, but then I got really attached to it around season 25 — Malcolm Freberg and the Philippines. I started listening to podcasts around then, and then I went back and watched almost every season. That’s where I got a deep love for Survivor. It went from there.
Wigler: And how did you get on the show? Did you apply?
Will: I applied. I applied only one time, because I’m 18. But I applied and waited a few months … it took about four or five months to hear back, and the next thing I know, I’m on a plane to LA for finals week. I was on a mission trip in Haiti and I was driving on a mountain about 6,000 or 7,000 feet in the air, and I get a phone call — a restricted phone call — and it was Survivor. I don’t even know how I got service up there, but it was amazing.
Wigler: Which players do you admire, in terms of their gameplay? I know you mentioned you like Randy — is that just as a character, or as a player as well?
Will: No, that’s more as a character. Strategically, I really love Malcom. And I enjoyed Spencer in his second season. I didn’t like him in his first season. I think in Survivor, you need to be social, and he developed nicely in Cambodia to the social gameplay. That’s what I want to lean into. It’s a lot like Jeremy in the sense that I want to be the type of person everyone’s going to. I hate to use such a recent reference — I’d love to go back [to earlier seasons] — but I’m looking at the kingpin type. Even though it’s different to see an 18-year-old as a kingpin, I want people to be able to come to me.
Wigler: How do you establish that situation? How do you make yourself the magnetic person that people want to come up and talk to?
Will: I think being a kid makes me seem a little less threatening and easier to approach. I think that, along with my overall personality, will help me build relationships with these people. Trust is a rare commodity in the game. If you have trust in somebody, you’re going to want to go to them and tell them everything you know … or at least most of the things you know. That’s what I’m hoping for. I’m hoping to build relationships with people so they trust me and tell me what they know.
Wigler: And what are you going to do with their trust, once they give it to you?
Will: That depends. If I can use them, keep them around for a little while longer… and if not? I get rid of them.
Wigler: Have you thought about twists? Any hunches about what Survivor is going to throw at you this season?
Will: It seems like there are a lot of young people out here. I’m thinking maybe an age twist. I’ve also heard rumors that there are 20 people out here, not 18, so I’m thinking maybe four tribes divided by age, or two tribes divided by age. But I’m thinking it could be an age thing.
Wigler: What types of people are you looking for, in terms of partnerships?
Will: It’s very fluid. I want to be adaptable once I’m out there. I see myself either with people my age, or around my age — 20, 19, something like that — or people who are mothers and fathers, a little bit older, so I can play the son role out there.
Wigler: What’s the plan with idols? Are you looking as soon as you’re out there?
Will: I don’t want to be too aggressive. Just look at the whole Tai thing that happened recently. But I do want to be active in looking for them. I want to get the lay of the land and look for anything that’s out of place or may stick out. I definitely want to be looking, but I won’t be too aggressive. I don’t want anyone thinking of me in that way.
Holmes: “Survivor” tends to have some deceit in it. Do you have any problems lying? Huang: White lies? No. Holmes: What about flirting? Is that a tool at your disposal? Huang: Absolutely, that’s how I get things done sometimes. Holmes: Did you and your husband have a talk beforehand about that? Huang: Uh…(Laughs) no. Holmes: (Laughs) Too late now. Huang: (Laughs) He can get mad at me after.
Holmes: How well do you deal with being lied to? Huang: If it’s a strategy I can respect…it wouldn’t be so bad. I know this is a game and I have to deal with it. Holmes: How about hunger? Huang: I’m pretty good at it, I’m a competitor. I’m an IFBB (International Federation of Bodybuidling and Fitness) pro. So, a lot of time I have to cut out food. I think that will be one of my strengths. Holmes: Lack of sleep? Huang: I manage a business, I have four kids, I have a husband, I really don’t get much sleep. Holmes: Gordon, what is this “sleep” you’re talking about? Huang: Yeah, exactly. (Laughs) I can function.
Holmes: Have you seen any of the other players yet? Huang: Only a few of them. Holmes: Any early thoughts? Huang: Right now they’re all being kind and smiling. We’ll see how long that lasts. Holmes: Usually not long.
Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it could be? Huang: That the weakest link will win. Holmes: Do you consider yourself the weakest link? Huang: It depends on how I play it. I could be the shy girl, the introvert…I play many roles in life. Holmes: With your IBFF background, I can’t see you as the introvert. Huang: I’ve been surrounded by different people my whole life. I managed a company that has over 200 employees with different personalities. I’m also a competitor so I’m around young girls and older girls and a lot of men. I also deal with my children and their teams as a soccer mom. So, my life really entails a lot of different personalities that I need to portray. I think that will be a benefit for me in the game.
Holmes: If you could align with any former player, who would it be? Huang: I kind of like the way Cydney (Gillon) has been playing this season. She’s been quiet, low-key, but she’s getting respect from people. I think soon she’ll be able to play more of her cards.
Hannah: I mean, I’m so excited. I’ve been a fan of Survivor since I was 14, and I’m 24 now. I wrote my Common App college essay about how I wanted to be on Survivor. That’s what I used to apply to all of my colleges. So I’m pumped. This has been like ten years. It’s exciting to me. I said I wanted to do something when I was 14 years old, and now I’m doing it. I think that’s how most people should live their lives. Unless they’re like a pedophile or something.
Wigler: Good call.
Hannah: I’m also terrified, of course. I feel like I’ve been feeling so many different things that I almost feel weirdly calm about it. I was sitting in my hotel room earlier, watching Grey’s Anatomy, eating my eggs, and being like: “Let’s do this.” I just feel so many things. I mean, I gave them my phone the other day. What if I forget how to spell a word? I don’t have Google! It’s such a weird withdrawal from your life. So it’s a mix of excitement and terror. I’m of course terrified. I’m not a super camper. I’ve never been in the army. I’m not a firefighter. I’m not like, “Yeah! I’m ready for the elements!” It’s more like, “Okay, I’m scared, but I’m ready to lean into it.” And I love the show.
Wigler: You have to be the first disciple of Professor Max Dawson to make it onto Survivor. What’s that going to look like?
Hannah: Well, it’s not something I’m going to tell other people. As a super fan… if I encounter another super fan, maybe I’ll tell them that I’ve been a fan since I was 14, and maybe I’ll tell them I wrote my college essay about it. But having taken a college class? That’s not something I want to tell a lot of people. But it’s funny. When I took Dawson’s class, I got so into it. Dawson really liked me because he liked anyone who’s obsessed with Survivor like he is. In his class, he would hide hidden immunity idols around campus, and he would tweet out clues, and I couldn’t figure out the clues one time, so my friend and I broke into a teacher’s house. I learned how to illegally pick a lock for his class. That’s when Dawson told me he knew that I was going to be on the show — because I was willing to break into a TA’s living quarters and try to illegally open a lock, because I couldn’t figure out the clue. (Laughs.) But yeah, it’s crazy. The first disciple. We’ll have to see. I hope I do better than he did!
Wigler: In your bio, you said you want to be the female Cochran. So are you going to ask Probst to call you Shapiro on day one?
Hannah: See, I feel like… I wish I could. But because he’s already done that, I feel like I can’t. Everyone will be like, “Who does this person think she is?” Those first couple of weeks, that’s when I’m going to have the biggest target on my back, since I’m not this Adonis with giant muscles for the team. I think I have to lay low in the very early stages. But I do love Cochran. I met him at the end of casting, and it was really cool.
Gordon Holmes: Alright, let’s get into this… Paul Wachter: Take your time man, they’ve got me locked in a (expletive deleted) cell. Holmes: Your pet peeves are whiners, Republicans, and slackers. I’d wager you’re going to see at least two of those things when you’re out there. Wachter: Roger that. Holmes: Are you worried about ending up on a tribe with those kinds of people? Wachter: Nah, Republicans tend to be a little God squad, so that freaks me out a little bit. But, in general I can work my way through. My big concern is that we don’t get a bunch of lay downs. I came out here to test myself. I’ve watched the show since it’s onset and I want to see if I’m as good as I think I am. I’m from New York and we don’t have a lot of stoners and surfboards. We don’t (expletive deleted) around. I want to go against people who want to play. Holmes: Alliances move so fast these days. If you end up working with someone like that, will you be able to tolerate that or will they have to go? Wachter: Tolerate…I tolerate it every day. It depends how close we get. I’m going to be the first guy out or I’m going to win. Once I get rolling, the game is over. I’m going to win.
Holmes: I like to get a baseline for how people think they’re going to play out there. Do you have any issues lying? Wachter: None. I’m here to play the game. Not a single issue. Win or go home. Holmes: What about flirting? Wachter: It might take some of that. Holmes: Have you discussed this with the woman in your life? Wachter: (Laughs) My old lady is cool with it. You’ve got to be very careful with it. When you’re 52 years old, flirting can come across as (expletive deleted) creepy. You don’t want to be creepy. But, I seem to be able to do it on stage with a wide variety of ages. Holmes: What is your natural reaction to be lied to? Wachter: Revenge. It’s to spin it against them. Holmes: How do you deal with hunger? Wachter: I’ve been practicing for six months on hunger. I think I’ll do very well. Holmes: Lack of sleep? Wachter: Again, it sucks but I’ve been working on it. I live in the Florida Keys. So, I have my own little islands I can practice on. Holmes: So heat probably isn’t an issue? Wachter: Oh yeah. LA sucks, it’s (expletive deleted) cold here. Holmes: How about paranoia? Does that get to you? Wachter: I don’t have any problem with it at all. I’m a well-rounded guy. I’ve gone through a lot, I’ve seen a lot. My maturity will keep my paranoia to a minimum. If anyone gets paranoid we want to kick them to the side. And see, I said, “We.” I’m already aligned with you. Holmes: We’re going to tear this game up. Wachter: Roger that.
Holmes: Have you seen any of the other players yet? Wachter: Well, they keep us locked up in our little cells and they don’t let us meet anybody. I haven’t physically seen anybody. But, I am really hoping they don’t (expletive deleted) it up. I hope they pick the strongest people so we don’t get any kooks. And I’m not worried about a crazy kook, I’m worried about a lay down. People who want to go home and see their mom. I want to win against the best.
Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it could be? Wachter: This season they lost that kid because he got really sick. They had to fly him out of there. I didn’t realize how much that affected the game. They went, “Oh (expletive deleted), we’ve got to put these people together.” Because they’ve got this all planned out way in advance. So, a twist…I’m a little paranoid… Holmes: I thought you didn’t get paranoid. Wachter: Not paranoid. (Laughs) But that they’ll have some goofy theme. I hope they don’t. But if they do, I have to go with it.
Holmes: If you could align with any past “Survivor” player, who would it be? Wachter: It would be Andrew Savage. He’s the guy that I think can win the game. () That’s a perfect example for a guy like me. They voted him out over stupid (expletive deleted). Just kids doing dumb stuff. You have to let a guy like that slide a little longer. He got smoked and it never should’ve happened. That’s the guy I’d align with. And, he’s an (expletive deleted) lawyer.
Ken: I’m good, brother. I’m feeling amazing, man. I’m excited. I’m anxious. I’m ready to get the [expletive] out of here.
Wigler: Of course! How did this whole adventure begin for you?
Ken: It started for me… (Sighs.) I’ve been a fan of the show for years. I got an interesting little bit of contact from [the Survivor casting department] years ago, and I did everything in my power to be on the show. But it was at a point in my life where I was invested in a couple of things down in Hawaii. I had given my word to a group of young boys, that I would always be there for them when they needed me. It happened to be in the middle of football season when I was the head coach for the team. So I couldn’t leave. That’s how it happened. About a year ago, for really weird circumstances, I had to come back to the mainland. Now that I’m here, some of the things I had to pass up while I was down in Hawaii, I was in pursuit of again. So this is all about three or four years in the making.
Wigler: Long time.
Ken: Long time. Talk about being anxious — really, it’s about time. (Laughs.) Definitely about time.
Wigler: What brought you out to Hawaii?
Ken: Twenty-six years in the midwest. I never knew anything different than the plains. I was supposed to be on a three month work vacation, and that turned into five and a half years.
Wigler: And what brought you back to the mainland?
Ken: I found out that I have a daughter. A four and a half year-old daughter. It’s one of those things I always said: I’ll never leave the islands, unless it’s for another tropical place, like Thailand, or maybe Big Sur or Santa Cruz — somewhere I can surf and also be in the mountains. Now I’m back to the middle of the U.S., about as far away from the ocean as you can get. But I realized something more important than surfing, more important than the ocean, and more important than the fun I was having with the jungle bachelor life, the Tarzan life: what it’s like to be a dad. My whole world revolves around her now.
Wigler: What can you tell me about her?
Ken: Oh, man. (Laughs.) It’s a really strange thing, having missed that first four and a half years. You think to yourself, “Okay, how much of this child is actually like me?” But everyone who meets us… even in the beginning, before I had a chance to really impact her or influence her in anyway. Everyone we met was like, “This is you. I remember you when you were a kid, and this is a little girl version of you.” Everyone calls her my mini-me. Our personalities, our looks, the way we smile, the way we laugh, our energy, everything. She’s just… she’s my mini-me! Whether I’m going for a hike, or I’m going to the movies, or I’m going to the park to read a book, or whatever — she’s the person I want along with me. She’s my daughter, my best friend, my soul mate, everything all rolled into one. For a guy who never thought he would have kids or go down that route, it’s the most amazing thing that’s ever happened.
Wigler: What’s your comfort level with the lying and the head games?
Ken: Man, I was a snake growing up. Like I told you, I was the little one, so I was in constant survival mode. If we were playing cards, or we were playing Monopoly, or we were playing a game… you had to do what you had to do to win. You couldn’t get your ass whooped all the time and constantly get beat by your older brothers. So I had to figure out how to get creative. What can I do here to possibly shift or bend something in my favor and not feel bad about it afterwards? Afterwards, when you’re sitting with all the money on the Monopoly table, and you go outside and you’re shooting baskets and you’re like, “By the way, here’s how I got all of that.” You do what you have to do to win a game, and if you have a competitive mind and a competitive edge like I do… I hate to lose. I mean, even with my daughter at times. We’ll play Tic Tac Toe, and I wonder if I should let her win on this one… but I’ve already let her win twice! And, nope, not going to let her win this one. (Laughs.)
Wigler: You were an island bachelor, as you said. I’ve done some googling. I know you’ve dabbled in the modeling…
Ken: A little bit.
Wigler: So are you going to break out the flirt card, or what?
Ken: Man, I’ve been a flirt my entire life. But I’ve always been a gentleman, too. There’s a line, though: there’s the guy who flirts with the malicious intent to try to sway women, and then there’s the guy who flirts because it’s just his true nature. I can’t stop it. It’s like a tic. The flirting is definitely there, and if that benefits me? So be it.
Wigler: So be it. Alright, Ken, that’s all I have. You sound like you’re feeling pretty confident about this whole thing.
Ken: Man… I’m ready. I’ve been through some s— in life. A near-death experience at a young age on the football field, that nearly took me, and a couple of other things on the islands… you’re pinned under some fifteen foot waves and you think in that moment that this might be the one you don’t come up from. That, on top of numerous other economic and mental and emotional battles that I’ve been through? This is a cake walk.
Holmes: You refer to yourself as “unconventional.” Now, does that refer to how you go about your job or your everyday life? Lewis: I think it’s all of me. I don’t think I’ve traveled a path that many people have traveled. I was pregnant my first year in law school. And I managed to have two children, move multiple times, get married, and go to law school in six years. That’s something not that many people have accomplished. I’ve been like that my whole life. I grew up on a dairy farm, now I’m a lawyer. I’m 37 now and I’ve done so much in such short period of time. So, I’m very unconventional. Holmes: And after all that you won “Survivor.” Lewis: Yes! (Laughs) It’s one more thing that’s unconventional. I’ve struggled my entire life to get where I am and this will be a great opportunity to show what I’ve learned.
Holmes: Do you have any problems being deceitful? Lewis: I don’t have problems lying. I’m very good at choosing what I should say and when I should say it. That really comes with my job. I have to know how to deal with defendants. I have to know how to deal with witnesses. I have to know how to deal with judges. So, you’re always having to choose how you speak to those individuals. I’ve learned how to deal with different personalities in different ways. Holmes: Are you comfortable flirting to get ahead? Lewis: I don’t necessarily want to flirt, but I’ve said, “If pretty gets me in the door, my brain will help me stay there.” If someone wants to give me five more minutes because they think I’m pretty or are interested in me because I’m a female? That’s fine. But I’m not going to use that as my sole way of getting there.
Holmes: Have you seen any of the other contestants yet? Lewis: I’ve seen maybe two here. I don’t know if any of the people I saw before made it. Holmes: Any early thoughts on them? Lewis: One of them smiled at me in the elevator. That was nice.
Holmes: If there is a twist to this season, what do you think it could be? Lewis: Gordon, there’s always a twist. I think it’s Exile Island again.
Holmes: If you could align with any past player, who would it be? Lewis: I’d say Joe (Anglim). He was so good at getting food and he was likable. I think he’d take the pressure off of me because they’d be gunning for him. But, he’s also very trustworthy and would keep me fed.
_________________
Quote:
Originally posted by bowdown
Is someone doing a draft?
I don't think so. Maybe the good sis Gee will surprise us.
Taylor: Dude, not too much. Just chilling, talking to you guys.
Wigler: Alright! So, who are you? Who is Taylor Stocker? Tell the world!
Taylor: Okay! Taylor Stocker is super chill. He’s a guy you’re going to want to get a beer with. Pretty funny, exciting. Like if I see a tree, some people look at that as just a boring tree. I look at that as a jungle gym, and it’s like, “I’m going to climb that tree. I’m going to go do that.” (Laughs.) I look at things in a different way. Most of the time, that’s positive. But I do have times where if I’m really tired, if I’m hangry, then I’m just a d—.
Wigler: Oh, Taylor. I hope you’re prepared to be really hangry in a few days.
Taylor: Oh, dude. (Laughs.) I’ve been thinking about that the whole time. I’ve been pretty chill this whole time, but right now, I just had a big sandwich and a soda. I’m good. So I’m thinking ten days from now, with hardly any food in my belly and no sleep, how am I’m going to be reacting around these people? Probably pretty short-fused sometimes, and really up and down. If I’ve just ate, I’ll probably be really happy and really hyper. And then it’ll just totally crash, and I’ll be like, “You suck man! Go get firewood, damn it!”
Wigler: Hopefully you’re going to accomplish great things here. Why do you think you’ll do well out on Survivor?
Taylor: Oh, man. I’m a pretty likable person. Pretty energetic. Once that competition begins and Jeff says “go,” I want to be the fastest one out there and the strongest one out there. I’m going to bust my ass, dude. I’m also here just to have a good time, so I’m a good spirit to have around. Very similar to how Tai is a great spirit to have around, or Woo was a fun person to have around. You’d be so surprised how far that can take you. People just look at that and go, “You know what? I like this guy. I’d have a hard time voting him out.” That’s my biggest strategy right there.
Wigler: How do you feel about the lying and scheming that traditionally comes with Survivor?
Taylor: Oh, dude, I have no moral code. I compare myself to Woo, but with zero honor. (Laughs.) I don’t know if that’s a good thing or not, but it is what it is!
Wigler: Have you thought about what twists they might throw at you this season?
Taylor: Yeah. I’m excited to see how idols come into play, of course. In the past, they’ve been switching that up. Before, they were just kind of hidden and easy to get — or not easy to get, but easy to hide. Now, you have to get one in a challenge, or be really really sneaky. If someone sees you doing that, you’re busted. It puts a whole new spin on things. Who knows what they’re going to do with that.
Wigler: If you had your pick, what type of person would be ideal for you in the game?
Taylor: Definitely likeminded people, my kind of snowboard culture people. A little bit more relaxed, kind of the Woo types who are extremely loyal. But when it comes down to it, I want those people to be more loyal than I am. But they’re going to think that I’m just as equally loyal as them. Those are the best types of people that I’ll blend with.
Wigler: You also say you haven’t thought about the money. Is that true?
Taylor: (Pauses.) Yeah. I try not to get so wrapped up in it. There’s things that I want to do with my life, but really, those things, if I put my mind to it, I could do them without a million bucks. Like, me and my brother want to open up a brewery, or do something as badass with that type of money. That’s how I’m treating it. I’m here more for the experience and hopefully getting to that point where I can say I’m the Sole Survivor, and what a huge accomplishment that is. I imagine putting that down on my resumé and just going like, “Take that, world! I just went out there and kicked ass and this is what I got from it!”
Zeke: It’s a little surreal to be talking to you, because your voice has been such a constant presence in my life over the past few months. I heard you on Know-It-Alls, Evolution of Strategy, and now the Wiggle Room, so I’m stoked to be talking to you.
Wigler: That’s fun. I’m sorry to take up so much of your time.
Zeke: Don’t apologize. It’s all great things.
Wigler: How are you feeling?
Zeke: Dude, how many times in your life do your dreams come true? I’m feeling amazing right now. I’m so excited to get out there.
Wigler: What’s your history with Survivor? You listen to the podcasts and purchased an audiobook about strategy, so I assume you’re a fan.
Zeke: I am. I actually started watching six years ago — I mean, I watched the first season, but whatever — but I started watching six years ago with my brother, who is also a big fan. We watched everything in one summer. That was after Heroes vs Villains. I’ve been a big fan ever since. I listen to RHAP. I played a game of Survivor in the park here in New York, called Survivor Brooklyn. Now I’m doing the real deal.
Wigler: Did you learn anything from Survivor Brooklyn that you’re bringing into the real thing?
Zeke: The biggest thing I learned is… I learned that you’re getting voted out when you’re having conversations with people, and all they do is smile and nod at you. When no one is willing to engage with you or run scenarios with you. When they’re just quickly saying yes and nodding at you? You’re done.
Wigler: Let’s stay on the misery. How do you think you’re going to do in terms of the survival and physical aspect of the game?
Zeke: Dude, I just dropped, like, 30 pounds of fat and put on 10 pounds of muscle. I am in wicked good shape. I still don’t think I’ll do great in physical challenges, but I won’t suck. I feel really confident about that. And I’m really good with flint. I can make fire pretty quickly. My father, actually, owns a ranch out in Oklahoma, so I know a lot about knot tying and building things and woodsmany elements.
Wigler: And when people look at you, are they going to expect that from you?
Zeke: Oh, no way. Not a chance. And frankly, if I don’t need to show off that side of me? If the big guys want to go off and build a shelter and feel macho? I won’t stop them. I’m not going to try to show off my outdoor capabilities.
Wigler: What impressions do you have of the other players you’re seeing around you today, if you’re seeing any at all?
Zeke: I’ve seen a couple of people. There appear to be a couple of skateboarder, surfer dudes who are here to enjoy the experience, and that’s great. I’m actually not seeing a ton of big guys. I thought there would be a ton of huge dudes, and I’m not seeing a lot of them. That makes me feel a little more confident about the challenges and stuff. And I think the less jock-ish the person is, the more likely I’ll be able to get along with them. Physical players tend to value other physical players, which I’m not going to be.
Wigler: You talked about undercover cops a minute ago, and you list Tony Vlachos as the player you’re most like. What is it about Tony that appeals to you?
Zeke: I think there’s an attitude with Tony, right? He’s playing the game. He’s having so much fun. He’s playing free. He’s not playing self-consciously or restrained. I think that’s how you win. If you’re willing to take risks that are necessary to advance you, if you’re not playing safe. And also… look, this is my only shot to play Survivor, Josh. I want to go pull off some hijinks! I’ve got some ideas about some fake immunity idol shenanigans that I want to play…
Wigler: Tell me!
Zeke: Oh, I don’t know if I want to call my shot…
Wigler: Call it! It’s time capsule time, Zeke!
Zeke: Alright, fine! (Laughs.) So, there’s two things. One, if I find an idol, I want to make a fake idol and go take whoever’s my closest alliance mate and bring them to the tree, make them dig around so they find it — so that we’re working with the same information, and so we don’t have to split votes when we don’t have to split votes. The second thing is, if there’s ever a person that I want to put a target on, I’m going to hide an idol in their bag and discover it. I feel like we’re going to Fiji, and we have to honor Yau-Man and the first-ever fake immunity idol.
Wigler: Any thoughts about twists that might get thrown your way?
Zeke: I think after Second Chances, we’re going to see some similar twists from there. It wouldn’t surprise me at all if idols are at challenges. It wouldn’t surprise me if we start in four tribes of five and then get shaken up a lot. I think if your working theory of voting blocs is that they’re a result of all the swaps, and you’re looking to move the game toward voting blocs, then they’re going to switch us up a bunch.
Wigler: You’re okay with that? Adjusting to fluid tribal and social dynamics?
Zeke: Totally. I make friends easily. I’m ready to go.
Wigler: Sounds like it! You sound confident.
Zeke: It’s a couple of things. One, I’m a magnificent manipulator. I’m a tremendous liar. Even though these are well-known facts about me, people tend to like me and trust me. It’s going to help me go far in the game. But ultimately, Wigler, I don’t think anyone’s going to wake up every day and have as much fun and play with as much passion as I am, because I am so grateful to be getting to play, I am so honored to be a part of this cast, and I’m going to give it my damndest.
Holmes: You’re a TV writer. Where have we seen your work? Wright: The sexiest credit I have is “Family Guy.” But, right now I’m developing an animated series with Rhys Darby, he played Murray on “Flight of the Conchords.” Holmes: It’s like you’re following in John Cochran’s footsteps…backwards. Wright: Yeah, it’s a reverse Cochran. The show is folding in on itself.
Holmes: You mentioned that you have trouble fitting in, but based on the past 45 seconds, I feel like we’re already best friends. Wright: (Laughs) Sure, I can fake it for a phone call. Holmes: That hurts. Wright: (Laughs) Sorry. I hope I can fake it for 39 days. I have a lot of anxiety. I’m a very nervous guy. Social situations aren’t my favorite, which is the stupidest thing you can say for someone who’s about to play the hardest social game in the world. But, I’m very good at solving puzzles, so I can contribute in that way. I’m good at using humor to endear myself to other people. People tell me I’m likable, but I never believe them. Holmes: You’re doing well so far. Wright: Well, thank you. (Laughs)
Holmes: You mention that having OCD is a factor. How are you going to adapt to one of the most chaotic environments imaginable? Wright: I could not be more concerned. The aqua dumping is my biggest concern. You do your business and then you wait ten seconds and walk away. Why do I need to know that?! Germs are disgusting to me. I don’t know if they give you any hand sanitizer. Probably not. Holmes: I’ve been to some tribe camps in my day and I’ve never seen bottles of hand sanitizer lying around. Wright: That’s going to be a problem. I don’t like being touched to begin with and now I’m going to be touched by people with poop on their hands. Holmes: (Laughs) Wait, why do you have to wait ten seconds? Wright: I think you’re supposed to let it float away. Holmes: Can’t you wave it away with the water? Wright: I’m about to find out. Holmes: I’ll interview you when this is all over, be sure to let me know. Wright: (Laughs) I’ll give you all the tips.
Holmes: Do you have any issues lying? Wright: Oh no. I wouldn’t want to play the game “Survivor” if I had an issue lying. Holmes: How about flirting? Wright: I don’t think I can flirt. I don’t have that muscle. I’m really good at solving puzzles, but the one puzzle I can’t solve is “How to get a girlfriend.” I’m 42 years old, like what the (expletive deleted).
Holmes: If you find out someone is lying to you, is that something you can compartmentalize or will you fly off the handle? Wright: I hope I wouldn’t lose it. If someone I thought I could trust lies to me, that is going to be an issue. But confrontations are one of the biggest ways to get yourself voted out of the game. So, I’ll have to roll with it. I think it’s important to find one person to trust. That goes a long way. Holmes: Does hunger bother you? Wright: I don’t eat a lot of food as it is. But this past month I’ve eaten whatever I want, which is something I don’t usually do, and I’ve put on six pounds. Holmes: How do you deal with paranoia? Wright: I don’t. (Laughs) If you have any tips I want to hear them. I’m the most paranoid person in the world. When I play chess, there’s this phenomenon where you see ghosts on the board. You see things that aren’t happening.
Holmes: What are your thoughts on the other players so far? Wright: I haven’t seen everyone yet, but I saw this one guy get off the elevator and he’s going to be the new Russell Hantz. This guy is a bruiser. And I think he’s going to be on my tribe so I’m already afraid of him.
Holmes: If there is a twist, any guesses as to what it could be? Wright: I think the theme is young vs. old…which they’ve done before. Maybe Millennials vs. Generation X or something.
Holmes: If you could align with any past player, who would it be? Wright: John Cochran. I think we could relate to each other, we could trust each other. Like a brain-trust. I’d lump in Stephen Fishbach and Bob Crowley too. I think Bob had a really good moral center. He lied, but he wasn’t a (expletive deleted) about it. Holmes: This is the true Brains tribe you are describing. Wright: It really is.
Bret: Oh, yeah. I have that same feeling I had before basic training. You don’t know what to expect. I’m assuming I won’t be doing sit-ups and pushups and getting screamed all day long, so that’s good.
Wigler: Honestly, you never know.
Bret: (Laughs.) It’s the same anxiety I had before going into the police academy. It’s just not knowing what to expect. Everything’s new. Everything’s different. But it’s cool. I’m trying to enjoy the experience.
Wigler: You’re a police sergeant from Massachusetts…
Bret: Yeah, from Boston. I work for the city of Boston.
Wigler: Awesome, Boston cop. How does that serve you coming into a game like Survivor?
Bret: I think it gives me a huge edge, but I’ll say this: it doesn’t give you an edge to tell anyone you’re a police officer, because police officers — with the exception of Tony, who didn’t tell anyone until the end — it does not give you an edge. Police officers haven’t done well historically on Survivor if they tell people. I tell people that I’ve been watching since the first season… well, actually, I missed the first one, but I have since watched it. I started with the second season and became totally hooked. But I see these girls saying: “I’m a police officer! I’m going to tell everyone!” And I just go, “Mmm, mistake! Mistake.” What’s going to help me is that I’m good at reading people. I’ve been lied to so many times in my 18 years of being a police officer. People don’t realize the tics and the little things they give off that I’ve seen so many times. When you’re a new cop, people lie to you all the time. You just go, “Oh, okay.” And then you learn: “S—, he was lying to me.” I’ve been lied to so many times that I can kind of tell when someone’s lying to me. I have something of a sixth sense when I’m dealing with people. Every day I’m working with the public. I’m working with different kinds of people. I see the similarities and differences that all people bring, so that’s going to help me. And I have an amazing way with people. Ever since I was a kid, people have taken to me. I don’t know what it is. I don’t know if it’s my face, I don’t know if it’s my sunny disposition, but people always seem to like me and want to be my friend. I think that’s going to help me, too.
Wigler: You get along with a lot of different types of people, then?
Bret: I get along with all different types of people. Yes I do. Yes I do.
Wigler: But we’re going to keep the police thing under the hat. How are we doing that? Are you a construction worker?
Bret: Well, I went down that route for a minute. I was going to say that I’m in carpet and linoleum. You see, if I’m in a bar in Boston, people will ask me what I do for work. The last thing you say is you’re a cop, because you don’t know if this person’s father was locked up, and you don’t want to end up with a bottle of beer on your head. So I always say I’m in carpet and linoleum. Then people think its boring and they don’t ask another question, and they move on. But my fear with that is being out there and constructing things, people expect a lot from you. So I’m getting away from that.
Wigler: And what are you leaning toward instead?
Bret: Funeral director.
Wigler: Oh, wow.
Bret: Well, I do work part-time for one of the oldest funeral homes in Boston. I’m also in the honor guard. I’m actually the sergeant in charge of the honor guard of the city of Boston Police Department. We do a lot of funerals for retired police officers and active officers who were killed. I know that business in and out, and I work part time for a couple of funeral homes in Boston. Not only do I know it well, I also know it’s a subject people don’t want to talk a lot about. When they learn that I work in a funeral home, they might ask some questions, but then they’ll get skeeved out and they’ll move on. So I think that’s a better way to go. But I am nervous about it. I don’t like lying to people, so I’m nervous about this and worried that I’ll screw it up. But I think I have a better chance if people don’t know that I’m a police officer.
Wigler: So you’re used to being lied to you, but you’re not good at lying?
Bret: (Cracks up.) I know! I know. It sounds crazy. But when you’re out in a situation that’s going to be as intimate as this one’s going to be, you kind of want to be up front with people. But in the same respect, it’s a game, and everyone’s going to be lying to each other. So I guess I have to be a little easier on myself.
Wigler: Have you seen any of the people you’re up against, just wandering the hallways?
Bret: I see some people I recognize from when we did our week in LA. This one kid, man. I wish I could pick him out. He looks like an NFL player to me. There’s another woman who looks like a mother, like a very sweet person. And then there are the people who won’t look you in the eye, and those are the people I don’t trust. We’re all here, we’re all human beings, we’re all on a TV show, but we’re all human beings. When I see people who can look me in the eye and smile, those are the people I think I can work with. I know that they’re probably good people and I can trust them.
Wigler: And that’s the goal? Working with good people?
Bret: Or people who I think are good people. I mean, who the hell knows really, right? But I’m going to use my gut to try and figure out who they are. If I can look them in the eye and they can look me in the eye back, then maybe we can get somewhere in this game.
Holmes: You’re heading into a high-stress situation, but I’d imagine disarming a gunman would also be a high-stress situation. What happened there? LaBelle: They were trying to subdue a guy. They were yelling that they couldn’t get his left hand. So, I immediately shot my hand under his left hand and he had a loaded Glock 40. The reason I knew it was a Glock right away even though it was under his clothing is because I carry a Glock. I know what it feels like. So, I just held onto it while they were trying to subdue the guy. I had a death grip on the gun and he’s trying to rip my fingers off of the gun so he can get to it. We eventually got it. There’s no easy way to do it. People will fight you like you’ve never been fought before. It took seven to eight guys to get this guy in handcuffs before it was all done. Holmes: That is literally better than every story I have. LaBelle: (Laughs) Holmes: My friend Jim is a cop and he talks about helping people and arresting people and I’m like, “Looks like Colby isn’t going to get enough Hall of Fame votes this year.” LaBelle: (Laughs) It’s embarrassing getting that award. And I didn’t want to get the award because I didn’t do anything that any other cop wouldn’t have done. For whatever reason, they gave it to me. Plenty of other cops would have done it. My friends told me, “There’s plenty of (expletive deleted) you’re going to do that you’re never going to get credit for, so take the award.”
Holmes: Are you comfortable lying in the game of “Survivor”? LaBelle: Yes, and you just summed it up; it’s a game. I am comfortable lying in the game and I’m assuming I’m going to be lied to many times. And I think most of the time I’ll be able to tell when I’m being lied to because I get lied to everyday at work. Not one person ever tells me the truth. Holmes: How well do you deal with being lied to? LaBelle: You know, when you’re a new police officer you’re shocked when someone lies to you. Like in life, you take people at their word. You’d be mad about it. I’m so used to it now, I don’t even care. When people lie to you all the time…stuff that bothered you as a young cop doesn’t bother you. You don’t take things personally. You don’t treat people differently. The guy might be the biggest scumbag, but you’ve locked him up 20 times so it’s like, “Hey Joe, buddy! Get in the back of the car.” Holmes: Some police officers have hidden their occupations while playing the game. Will you? LaBelle: I absolutely am going to do that. I’ve been watching this show since the inception. I got hooked on the second season and I went back and watched the first. And 90% of the people who say they are cops do not make it very far. So, I’m going to be like Tony (Vlachos). I think it hurts you, but I don’t know why. Holmes: What is your occupation going to be? LaBelle: A funeral director. Holmes: Who washes dishes. LaBelle: (Laughs) Exactly.
Holmes: Any thoughts on the cast so far? LaBelle: There’s a dude here who looks like an NFL player. I know you’ve already talked to him. He wears the nicest clothing. This guy is successful at something. And there are a couple of people who might be crazy. Everyone so far…you see each other, you smile. It seems like people I can work with.
Holmes: If there is twist this season, what do you think it could be? LaBelle: I’ve seen eight or nine people so far. I think we’re going to be one tribe and there’s going to be another tribe and it’s going to be a “Fans vs. Favorites” kind of thing. I’m a fan, I’ve been trying out for a long time. I hope it’s more than that though.
Holmes: If you could align with any past player, who would it be? LaBelle: Great question…Earl (Cole)…wait Yau-Man (Chan). They were just really cool players and I liked them. I liked how they were loyal to each other and were from opposite ends of the world.
Wigler: Tell me a bit about yourself. You moved to Nashville recently…
Figgy: I’m originally from Indianapolis, and I moved to Nashville about two years ago.
Wigler: For music?
Figgy: Oh, god, no. I do not sing. I do fun karaoke that’s pretty bad, but I definitely don’t sing. And really, it’s god awful karaoke. (Laughs.) I got out of a breakup and went through a lot of hardship — some bullying back home. It was constantly following me. I had all of my jobs [lined up] how I wanted, and I was happy with work in a way, but I wasn’t fully happy with my life. So I just quit everything and moved to Nashville with fifty dollars in my pocket. My sister lived there, so I picked that as my place. It was only four and a half hours south. I’ve been there ever since, and I’ve been pretty much living the dream as much as I can.
Wigler: And here you are again, about to embark on another big change. Is this as scary of a leap?
Figgy: It’s definitely a scary leap, but I’m very adventurous and spontaneous, and I’m up for a good adventure. This is going to be amazing, I already know it. I’ve just been prepping mentally for it. Having moved to completely new surroundings in Nashville two years ago, without any friends and with only my sister who’s four years older than me, we weren’t really hanging out. I had to force myself to go out there and make friends, and forge some alliances in life. If anything, it’s only prepped me for the point I’m at now, where I’m going to have to form alliances and make connections with people and read them and further myself, which I do every day in life.
Wigler: So you’re confident in your social game.
Figgy: Oh, for sure. I’m definitely a social butterfly. Back in Nashville, I’m the spotlight center of attention whenever I go out and whenever I’m with friends. I’m super outgoing. I have a huge heart for people. I love getting to know people. I love hearing their stories. With what this game’s become, it’s not just all physical and all that. It’s more about building relationships with people and building alliances and trying to keep them and get people on your side.
Wigler: You’re a bartender. How does that serve you going into Survivor?
Figgy: I’m constantly being social and talking to people and getting to know them and really hearing them out and building relationships. When you’re bartending, you want to create a regular base, or you want to get people in and out. If they’re a-holes, you just want their money. You do whatever you have to do to get [their] money and constantly hustle. That aspect of bartending, whether it’s building a regular base with families that come in, like the husband and wife who frequent my bar, or if it’s two guys that are from a bachelor party and I have to flirt with them to get them the f— out, I do whatever I have to do to make money and I’m constantly hustling. I’m definitely going to apply that to the game.
Wigler: When asked about the three things you could bring to the island, your last item is “a blanket. I don’t consider that to be a survival item… I could use a tribe member for that.” So…
Figgy: (Laughs.) Oh, man. That bio was hard to fill out. I didn’t know what to put! But yeah, I can cuddle up to whoever I need to. I don’t need a blanket.
Wigler: Does that apply at all to how you’re planning to play the game?
Figgy: I think you can say it applies to how I’ll approach the game. I tend to be flirty, but I’ve been telling people when I’m talking to them about how I want to do my strategy, I won’t know until I get there. I don’t know if they’ll bring back the all girls versus all boys, or if they’ll split us up into four teams ethnically… I have no idea what they’re going to do. It’s hard to think about how I’m going to play my game, if I’m going to come in as a flirt or if I’m going to try to get all the girls onto one side, or how I’m going to do it. But I can definitely see myself flirting to get by.
Wigler: You describe yourself as a leader. So we shouldn’t expect to see you playing a passive role?
Figgy: Yeah. I want to be the active role, female-wise. I feel like guys always, in my eyes anyways in the seasons I’ve been watching and studying, guys most of the time do want to take the leadership role. So I’m one of those people who will be passive about that, but I’ll be aggressive when certain stuff needs to get done. I’ve always been a leader when it comes to group projects work, anything like that. Being a leader is something I’m very passionate about. I love leading people in life. But when it comes to [Survivor], if somebody else wants to take the reins? It’s not necessarily something I’m going to be seeking, but if I need to get people moving and to help out, I’m not going to do it in an aggressive way.
Wigler: Is that going to be a hard speed for you to resist?
Figgy: I think it will be a little bit hard for me to resist, because I feel like… I don’t know. I can see someone doing something really stupid, and f—ing the bottom of our shelter up, and me wanting to be like, “Hey! That shouldn’t be like that!” Then all of the sudden it’s going to look like I’m aggressive. I think it’s going to be a little bit hard to resist being a little bit of a leader, when someone around me is doing something wrong or if something can be done in a certain way a little bit better.
Wigler: How are you feeling about the scheming and backstabbing that comes with the game?
Figgy: So… I can do some white lying? (Laughs.) I don’t want to play like a Russell. I don’t want to play like old school Jonny Fairplay. I’m not that type of liar by any means. It’s more strategic lying. Before I came out here, I was watching Micronesia, and at some point Parvati, who had her original alliance with James and Ozzy, she straight up told James to his face that she was going to take the girls to the end because she made a new alliance with them. So it’s more me being open with stuff, and people not catching it, but it would be a lie if people knew about it — if that makes sense. It’s more passive lying, but not to where I’m not going to be able to sleep at night because of it.
Wigler: What’s the final word? Are we feeling good? Confident?
Figgy: I feel super confident. When I walk in the hallway and I see some of these people, whether I’ve seen them before in casting or whether I haven’t, I try to smile and wave and feel these people out. We’re about to be stuck on a plane for over ten hours to wherever we’re heading, and we can’t talk, so I’m really excited to just get in there and start learning about these people, and to start studying them.
Wigler: Are you picking up on anything from the cast you’ve seen so far?
Figgy: There are some people I can pick up on. I’ve seen two people total from my casting, and one person I remember from back in the day when we were in casting and still didn’t know anything. I was purposely flirting and putting myself out there to see what the reaction would be, and it was all good. So I’m hoping for the best with things like that. Hopefully I’ll see more familiar faces, but if not, I’ll keep on doing my thing like I’ve been doing, and hope for the best.
Justin: I’m excited, man. I’m super stoked here. I’m waiting around and ready to get shipped out.
Wigler: How did you get involved with Survivor?
Justin: I used to watch the show with my aunt when I was a kid. She’s super obsessed with the show. I’m always outside, I’m an active person. I surf, skate, do all of that fun stuff. She’s Spanish — we’re Peruvian, my family — and she was like (impersonating his aunt): “Oh! You should go and do the show!” So I tried, I auditioned, and I made it. So I’m super blessed.
Wigler: You’re a physically active guy. Is that aspect of the show, the physicality of it, one of the big draws for you?
Justin: I would definitely say yes. Watching the challenges, I’ve always been intrigued. Dude, I’m a very competitive person as it is. If you want the numbers of my friends, I’ll give them to you, because they’ll definitely agree with me. (Laughs.) They get pissed, because I hate losing.
Wigler: Well, this is a game where even the winner loses sometimes. How are you going to handle that? Let’s say your tribe loses a challenge. Are you losing your temper, or can you keep your cool?
Justin: In all honesty, I’ll probably just start to cry. (Laughs.) No, man. There’s always someone better and stronger and faster than you. There are a million people in this world who are ten times better than me at anything. You have to just go with the flow. And some challenges, you can’t win them all, otherwise I’m going to get a huge target on my back and the next thing I know, I’m out.
Wigler: You say the contestants you’re most like are Russell and Woo. Those two cannot be further apart in my mind in terms of gameplay, so talk me through how this works.
Justin: Woo, because he’s a very laid back dude. He’s kind of like Bruce Lee. Bruce Lee is one of my inspirations. He’s go-with-the-flow, see what happens and mold yourself to what comes to you. And Russell Hantz, he’s more of a guy who goes out there and he’ll do what he has to do: “I gotta find these idols, I gotta be strategic, I gotta work hard, I can’t take no s— from nobody. I gotta do what I gotta do.” I would say I’m a mixture of both. It’s like I’m schizophrenic. (Laughs.) I’m ready to work hard and bust my ass to do what I need to do to a certain point, but you also need to know — and Russell didn’t have this — when to Woo out, when to just chill out and Woo down.
Wigler: Following the Russell thing further, are you planning on going out there and being aggressive in looking for idols?
Justin: I’m always going to have an eye out, looking for idols. If Russell Hantz can find two or three in one season, then I have to try and find four or five. You can’t be noticed. You can’t be like Tai and get caught midway through. I’m going to go out there focused, looking for idols when I need to look for idols, when I have the opportunity, and also learn how to play the game and mold with people so I can have a good alliance and go further in the game — not just because of idols, but because people want to take me along.
Wigler: And who are you hoping to work with? What kinds of people are you hoping to see out there?
Justin: Honestly, everyone would say people who are trustworthy and loyal, because that makes life easy. But I want to see hardworking people. People who don’t want to give up. “Oh, I lost, so I’m just going to give up, and that’s it.” I don’t like that. I don’t like people who sit back, relax, and wait for things to be handed to them. You have to go out there and you have to make things happen for you. You can’t sit on your ass.
Wigler: You describe yourself as “a flirtatious, outgoing, good looking guy.” Are we going to see the flirt card come out?
Justin: Oh, for sure. (Big laugh.) There’s some chicks here I’ll definitely flirt with, and dudes too. I don’t mind.
Wigler: Have you seen any of the other players yet? I know you’re on lockdown and can’t speak to them yet, but…
Justin: I’ve seen two chicks, who are definitely good looking. There’s this one huge blond dude who looks like the Hulk. He’s definitely an attractive dude; the first time I saw him, he had an iPhone watch and a suit, so who wouldn’t want to be with that guy? (Laughs.) But I’m into girls, so, make sure to write that down. ()
Wigler: Overall, feeling confident?
Justin: I’m just super excited. I feel so blessed from the universe to get this opportunity to go and experience something that not really anyone gets to experience. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for me, so I’m feeling super confident and super ready to go. I’m looking forward to being myself and seeing how far I can go.
Wigler: Are you good with this, win or lose? As long as you have a good experience out there, are you happy?
Justin: I’m definitely going to be happy with the experience, but there is no lose. I won. I already won. If you want to write that down somewhere and sign it, I promise you, it’s going to happen.
Rachel: I’m doing very well! I’m feeling excited. It feels like I’ve waited a while for this.
Wigler: I’m sure. How did you get involved with the show?
Rachel: I applied, geez, almost three years ago. They called and asked if my dad would be on the show, because he’s a super fan. He’s seen every episode. So I asked my dad, but he said, “No, I have knee problems.” He’s eventually going to need surgery. I told [casting] and said sorry, and didn’t think I would hear from Survivor again. I thought that was my chance at this, out the door. And then they just recently called me a couple of months ago and asked me to come back in. I was like, “Wow!”
Wigler: I’m looking through your bio, and under contestant you are most like, you list Amber because you’re “going to meet my twin flame out on Survivor and live happily ever after.” Is that real? Is this the season of romance?
Rachel: I’m so cheesey, aren’t I? I’m just hoping… because that was my favorite season ever, when Amber met Rob. That’s what really launched Survivor for me. I guess I’m a hopeless romantic. However, I have no idea who’s going to be out there.
Wigler: But your heart is open.
Rachel: My heart is open. Yes, very.
Wigler: Are you a big fan of the show?
Rachel: Yes! I am a big fan of the show, and all of reality TV. I like seeing people being themselves.
Wigler: And what is it about Survivor specifically that speaks out to you?
Rachel: Well, aside from the million dollar prize, it’s putting people in an element where they have nothing, and pitting them against different personalities, attempting to survive every day. I know they backstab, and that’s what a lot of people think they have to do — lie, cheat, do all of those things. However, I might attempt a different approach, even if it’s a harder approach, and see how far I can go with integrity, maybe — make it a little different.
Wigler: I was going to ask you about the deception and lying that often comes with Survivor, and it sounds like you want to avoid all of that.
Rachel: Yeah, I’d like to see how far I can go with integrity, or maybe just being careful with the words I say in order to not lock into anything — so that I’m not fully locked into anything and I can keep my integrity that way, for as long as I can and for as many people as I can, I hope until the end.
Wigler: Who would be the best type of person to be out here with you? Someone you would like to play the game with?
Rachel: I would love somebody who is completely transparent. Someone I can trust, because I can see right through them and I can see their loyalties and commitment. If I ask them a question, I know whether they’re telling the truth or not. Hopefully someone who tells the truth all of the time, and is completely transparent to me. Does that make sense?
Wigler: Absolutely. You also say in your bio that you’ve been strategizing against peers and adults since you were six years old in chess. How will that help your game, that kind of mentality?
Rachel: I think my mind is just already set and already programmed to think so many steps ahead and think about so many different [options]. If this move is made, these are going to be my steps until the end of the game. If this move is played, these are my steps for as far as I can see, hopefully until the end of the game. I attempt to think about every single outcome, and from that outcome, all of the following outcomes, and all of those outcomes. And it just goes far and wide and spread out. Does that make sense? My brain is just like a spider-web.
Wigler: Are you worried about the survival aspect — sleeping out in the jungle, being hungry?
Rachel: Yes, I am. What I will appreciate is that I attempt to eat organic daily, and it’s a little bit difficult at times. So I do appreciate that I’ll be eating very organically out here. (Laughs.) I should take that in. I’m accomplishing my wish for that. However, the longest I’ve ever gone without food is a day and a half, and I did break down. However, I had a spiritual experience afterwards.
Wigler: Whoa! Tell me more!
Rachel: Well, I did this leadership conference. It was a $5000 women’s leadership with 122 women, and I was told we were going to be given gourmet food. So when they gave me no notice that I was going to be camping by myself, and not given any food for a day-plus, that was unexpected. So I attempted to be tough, and to show everyone that I’m tough, but there was a moment where I let myself cry and break down and feel rather pitiful and lonely. And when I did let go, instead of try to look good — when I let myself be vulnerable — I had a spiritual experience where I felt my sisters were around me, and I felt it was going to be okay, and I could have gone a lot longer. I had a sister who had a butterfly on her arm, and the other one had a hummingbird. The spiritual experience I had was that a butterfly came and swirled around me while I was crying, and then a hummingbird came and batted its wings and was eye level with me and stared at me, and then it flew away. To me, that was a supernatural experience. I felt like my sisters were around. It felt like a sign: “You can do this.”
Wigler: Do you have any guesses at what’s coming your way, in terms of twists in the game?
Rachel: I tried to do a little bit of research online to attempt to see what the experts and fans are saying. I read something about a super idol that looks like a yin and yang, that can be put together, and separately if you only have one half of the idol, it works as a normal idol. You would have to play it before the votes are actually read. However, if you put it together with another player’s idol, then you can play it after the votes are read — which means if I have one half of the idol and my nemesis on another alliance has the other half, it may force us or compel us to cross-align. I think that would be an interesting and brilliant twist.
Wigler: And you could see yourself doing that? Switching up alliances to work with an adversary in the right scenario?
Rachel: I’m willing to make bold moves all around. There’s nothing I’m not willing to do.
Gordon Holmes: There was a sign outside of your hometown that said “Home of Chris Hammons.” What is the sign going to say outside of the “Survivor” location once you’re done with it? Chris Hammons: (Laughs) You know what? I don’t know. “Chris Hammons Was Here,” maybe. That’s about it. That’s a good question. You stumped me, I’ve never been stumped before. Holmes: Don’t worry, the rest are softballs. Hammons: (Laughs) Holmes: You have 39 days to figure it out. Hammons: After 39 days I should have a good one. Holmes: I’ll bring it up during the exit interview. Hammons: I’ll have a good one for you then.
Holmes: Do you have any issues lying in the game? Hammons: (Laughs) No, I honestly don’t. Especially in a game like this. It’s fair. Playing by the rules is lying. Holmes: How well do you deal with being lied to? Hammons: I think I deal with it pretty well. I get lied to every day. My clients lie to me every damn day. Lawyers on the other side lie to me every day. My staff lies to me every day. If you understand that you’re being lied to, I don’t know why you’d be caught off guard.
Holmes: Will flirting be a part of your game? Hammons: If it gets me further I’ll do anything. Flirting will be fine, but I’m a married man. I’ll keep it to a limit. But, if somebody happens to like big, giant country boys, then fine. I’ll flirt with he or she. I don’t care. Holmes: There’s a type for everybody, Chris. Have you and your wife discussed this possibility? Hammons: We did. She just laughs at me. I said, “You know, you like me. There are a lot of women out there that like me. There might be some of them out there.” She just laughs at me. She puts up with that.
Holmes: Any early thoughts on the other players? Hammons: One of the guys was from my finals and I like him. You get these weird looks, we’re not allowed to talk to each other. I like him, although he might be a little bit of a wild card. He might put himself out there a little too much. He probably talks too much.
Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it could be? Hammons: I feel like they’re going to go back to a more traditional game. They’ve tried all these twists like that super idol. It doesn’t seem like it’s going to go anywhere. So, maybe they’re going to hide the idol in a different way.
Holmes: If you could align with any past player, who would it be? Hammons: I’d align with Russell Hantz. He gets you to the end, and then he loses. I’d just hang onto him, get to the end, then let him lose.
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Quote:
Originally posted by Drama
Before this season starts we need to take a moment of silence for the iconic and underrated season that was Gabon.
Icon Kenny
Icon Sugar
And the most iconic of all crystal who delivered the best tribal speech/read to randy. Ugh this was such a good season with a tragic winner.
Definitely one of my top 5. It has to have one of the bests casts in reality TV history.
I can't wait for Corinne's cast assessment on RHAP.
Ciandre: Ah, just a little bit. (Laughs.) I’m really excited, but not at the “freaking” level just yet. I’m not feeling [too stressed] yet, as far as emotions. I have kids, but I’m not feeling the whole “oh, I miss my kids” thing just yet. I’m more excited to get started. All of the waiting — hurry up and wait, hurry up and wait — I’m just ready to get started.
Wigler: I have your bio in front of me. You say you love watching reality TV shows. I assume you’re a big fan of Survivor, then?
Ciandre: Super, super Survivor fan. I’ve been watching this since the very first one in 2000. I absolutely remember it, because my daughter was very little at the time. She was just born. I remember thinking: “What in the world is going on? These people, they’re on an island, they’re starving, they’re eating rats… this is pretty cool!” I’ve been sucked into this game since it started.
Wigler: And when did you make the leap from someone who’s watching the show to someone who wants to be on the show?
Ciandre: The second season. I’ve been applying since the second season.
Wigler: Wow!
Ciandre: I’ve applied 15 times, yes. (Laughs.)
Wigler: Continuously? Or did you ever take breaks?
Ciandre: I took some breaks. At a certain point I would go, “Oh, this is stupid. I don’t know why I keep trying. I keep submitting all of these tapes, and these people don’t want me.” But I always got this pull whenever I watched the show. I would just go, “Okay, fine, I’ll apply again.” (Laughs.) So I just kept doing it!
Wigler: Shifting to the game, you’ve watched the show from the very beginning, so you’ve seen all kinds of successful people on Survivor. What are you thinking about how you plan on playing the game?
Ciandre: I want to take it just a little bit easy in the beginning. I know it’s the ones who come out hard-hitting in the beginning who automatically get the target. It never fails. Every single season, you see someone coming out as a dictator with their rules about how to build the shelter or how to do this, and they become a target. It’s in my nature to do that. I have kids, so it’s easy for me to get into that role. But I need to take it a little easy. I want to play the middle. I’m not going to be laying completely down. But I don’t want to be at the top or the front. I’m going to take it easy in the beginning. But once you start getting to know people, and once you start reading people, then you can really start playing the game and be a little bit aggressive and make some decisions on some things.
Wigler: What types of people do you want to play against? Who’s a good, ideal person for you to play Survivor with?
Ciandre: First, someone who wants to play the game. I don’t want to be on a tribe with someone who wants to take it easy and keep going and be a yes person. I need someone with an opinion. If you give an opinion, we can strategize. I don’t want someone who just agrees to everything. As long as the person is open and willing to try and take risks, then I think we’ll have a good shot.
Wigler: Are you worried at all about the survival aspect?
Ciandre: Not really. The only thing is being cold. You would think that me being from Buffalo, cold isn’t an issue. But I’ve been in California now for almost five years, so I don’t know what cold is anymore. (Laughs.) I had the heat on in my room last night. I hate being cold. That’s the only thing. You’re going to see me shivering somewhere on the show, trying to keep myself warm.
Wigler: But other than that, it sounds like you’re excited.
Ciandre: Oh yeah! And nervous! (Laughs.) Super nervous. I think this whole month leading up to right now, I was super nervous and super stressed. I’ve had loss of appetite, change in appetite, not eating… the nerves kill you. I’m still feeling all of those things. Nerves, excitement, disbelief. I applied fifteen times, and now, oh my goodness. This is happening.
Wigler: So the moral of the story for people who have been applying forever, is to keep applying. Sometimes, it actually works out.
Ciandre: Absolutely. Yes. Always push for your dreams. You never know what could happen.
Gordon Holmes: Why’d you make the big move to Tennessee? Jessica Figueroa: Honestly, I got out of a huge breakup a couple of years ago and I wanted to live in a new city…my sister lived there. Holmes: How’s it working out for you? Figueroa: I love it. There’s always places to go and people to meet. It’s always fun and always happening. Holmes: Bartending seems like a good skill to have when you go on “Survivor.” You meet a ton of different people, you have to know how to make them happy. Figueroa: Oh for sure, bartending you’re making connections non-stop, whether you’re making a regular base or you’re trying to get them in and out of there quickly.
Holmes: You mentioned leading your tribe which isn’t always the best strategy. Figueroa: (Laughs) Well, I have a couple of different strategies in my mind. I’ve always been a leader in life. But, I want to sit back and see all the roles of the people on the tribe. I’m looking forward to seeing where I fit in.
Holmes: Do you have any problems lying in the game? Figueroa: I can tell a couple of white lies. I don’t lie a lot in my real life. I have a huge heart. I’ll snake my way around lying. I’ll do some backstabbing. Holmes: Some honest backstabbing. Figueroa: (Laughs) Yes. Holmes: How about flirting? Figueroa: For sure. In my life I’ve been handed a lot based on my looks. Holmes: Me too, Jessica. Figueroa: (Laughs) But, I’m more than a pretty face and I’m looking forward to showing that. Holmes: Is there anyone at home who will be annoyed if they see you flirting? Figueroa: Not at all. 100% single. Holmes: And ready to mingle. Figueroa: (Laughs)
Holmes: How well do you deal with being lied to? Figueroa: I’ll turn that situation around real quick and make them regret lying to me. Holmes: How about hunger? Figueroa: I can deal with it, for sure. I went to Haiti and had to deal with not eating all the time. I’m good with it. Holmes: Lack of sleep? Figueroa: I can deal with it. I have long nights at work where I’ve gotten home at five and had to work a double the next day.
Holmes: Any early thoughts on the other players? Figueroa: Not really, I saw some of them at casting. I’ve been flirting, batting my eyes. We’ll see how it goes.
Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it could be? Figueroa: We’re at Season 33. It’s been a long time since there’s been an all-girl tribe. Maybe Redemption Island or Exile Island. The season that’s going on right now is Brawns/Brains/Beauty, so I don’t think they’d do that.
Lucy: Nervous and excited. More nervous about leaving everything behind, and who’s going to take care of my kids.
Wigler: Uh oh. Who’s babysitting?
Lucy: Two babysitters and a husband and some family.
Wigler: Sounds like a capable bunch.
Lucy: Yeah, well, they’re not the mom. (Laughs.)
Wigler: Tell me more about your thoughts on plotting and scheming, and what you’re planning on doing once you get out there.
Lucy: For me, I’m hoping that as long as my strategy is respected and I’m not doing anything that won’t hurt too many feelings, but that they’ll be smart moves people can respect and say, “I get it. You did that because you’re playing a game. You’re not playing a game because you’re evil and you’re a liar and you’re a bee eye tea sea haitch.”
Wigler: Do you have a strategy coming into this, then?
Lucy: Generally, I’m going with who I normally am. People can see me as outgoing and, again, like a machine. But really, in the beginning of any type of atmosphere I’m in, I’m pretty quiet and I just like to sit back and observe. I’m probably more of an introvert than an extrovert. I like to see what’s going on with everybody and examine what the strengths and weaknesses of people are — and from there, see how I can benefit from or add to different situations.
Wigler: Have you given any thoughts to twists? Any themes they might throw at you?
Lucy: Right now, the people that I see, and I haven’t seen that many… I see a bunch of blondes. (Laughs.) I see a couple of Asians, and I’m not used to that. Usually there’s the one token Asian, and I’m surprised that there are two of us — so far, cause I haven’t seen anybody yet. But I’ve wondered if this is a race thing, an ethnicity thing? I think a lot of times there’s this cattiness: “You’re Asian? I’m Asian, too! I’m going to do better than you!” So I don’t know!
Wigler: So you don’t think that’s a good thing, necessarily?
Lucy: It could and it couldn’t be. Us Asians, we grow up pretty competitive. That’s the way I grew up. Right now, I’m like, “No, you’re not going to be the last Asian standing. It’s going to be me!”
Mari: It hasn’t quite hit. I imagine it’s going to hit me once I land. I’m not sure yet. I’ll let you know!
Wigler: How did you get involved with Survivor in the first place? Are you a fan of the show?
Mari: I have friends who were just on The Amazing Race this past season, Joslyn and Erin. I work with them, and they came back and asked how I’d feel about Survivor. This entire past year, all I did was complain about not being able to get off the grid. It’s been six years since I’ve basically been on the Internet. The last time I was able to go off the grid for a couple of months and travel around and backpack by myself was six years ago. So I kept wondering how I could get off the grid and unplug, and Survivor just fell on my lap. It feels like someone’s looking out for me: “Hey, you asked for it! Now take it.”
Wigler: How does one become a professional video gamer?
Mari: By accident! It happened by accident. I had played video games my whole life, but I never thought it was going to be a career. You get together with a bunch of your friends and you say, hey, what do we want to do? What do we want a bunch of free stuff of? The common denominator was video games. We were already making videos online and we would play video games anyway, so we were like, “Why aren’t we doing something with this?” So we created our channel, and it blew up.
Wigler: I can think of one other professional video gamer who has played Survivor before: Ken Hoang from Survivor Gabon. Have you consulted with him at all?
Mari: No, I haven’t.
Wigler: He’s someone you can compare notes with when this is all done.
Mari: Well, it’s interesting. I’m going into this like it’s an RPG. I’m playing this character on the island that I’m controlling from the outside, and that character’s going to do what she needs to do when she needs to do it.
Wigler: What kind of games do you play?
Mari: I like action-adventure games, and open-world games that I can get lost in. But I’ll play anything from an FPS to a MMO.
Wigler: You found out about the opportunity to play Survivor through Erin and Joslyn. Were you a fan beforehand?
Mari: I have always known that Survivor existed, but I am a very new fan. The good thing for me is that I’m very good at binge-watching shows.
Wigler: How many seasons have you seen now?
Mari: Close to ten. I started with the most recent episodes, and then I started jumping around.
Wigler: And you reference some of the older seasons in your bio, citing Yul Kwon, who played 20 seasons ago…
Mari: Yul Kwon is definitely an old-schooler, but his gameplay was ridiculous. It was to the point that nobody could catch up with that guy.
Wigler: As a professional gamer, what are your takeaways from studying the game of Survivor in the amount of time you’ve had to look at it?
Mari: I think me playing video games all of the time makes me, in some ways, emotionally detached from what gameplay is. So often, I’ve seen people getting too emotional or too attached to people, or too attached to what you would see in real life, and what would or wouldn’t be appropriate in real life. What I can bring — what I absolutely bring — is detaching myself from what real life is and what gameplay is. There’s one reason you go into this game, and that’s to win. What you need to do to win is play as hard as you possibly can, without emotion, going into it. Now, we’re all human, and that’s very difficult, especially because you’re spending so much time with these people we’ve never met. By no means am I not compassionate, or sociopathic in any way, but I understand that there’s a fine line between true friendship and gameplay. And gameplay is fun. There’s no part of me when I’m playing games with friends where I’m like, “Oh, maybe I shouldn’t shoot this guy in the head. I might feel bad ten minutes from now.” No. The object is to win. That’s the objective.
Wigler: Who is the worst possible person you could see out there? What’s the worst possible type of player for you to go against?
Mari: Worst type of player or worst type of person? Because I absolutely understand that I’m going to encounter people that I don’t like. I’m selective with people I associate myself with in real life. I know there are going to be alphas. I’m very, very much excited to play a beta that baits an alpha into reacting. I’m trying to figure out how to word it. It’s a brilliant thing that Brooklyn 99 did in a recent episode. One of the characters, Boyle, is a beta, but he makes an alpha do work for him. I’m going to try to play that going into it. By no means do I want to play an alpha.
Wigler: I think you might be the first person in Survivor history to implement “The Boyle Strategy.”
Mari: It’s brilliant! (Laughs.) As soon as he laid it out, I was like, “That’s brilliant.” It’s an excellent way to play as a snake in the grass.
Wigler: How do you think people are going to view you? When you get out there, what kind of impression do you think people will have of you, and how accurate will it be?
Mari: I think the first impression they’ll get of me is tough and aggressive, and I can be, so I’m going to have to be very careful not to be. I think I’m going to play up being a helpful ditz to the people I’ll be playing with — but again, it’s an RPG character. I’ll have to have two faces.
Gordon Holmes: It says in your bio that you watch a lot of reality shows. Any titles in particular? Ciandre “CeCe” Taylor: “Survivor,” “The Amazing Race,” those are the two biggest ones I watch…”Dancing with the Stars.” Holmes: You got the important one in there. Taylor: (Laughs) Yup.
Holmes: “Survivor” is often a game that features deception. Do you have any issues with lying? Taylor: Not at all. I do it for a living. I’m a claims adjuster and I talk to attorneys all day. Sometimes I have to bend the truth a little bit. Holmes: Well, it’s not like attorneys are always truthful. Taylor: Exactly. (Laughs) Holmes: Are you comfortable flirting to get ahead? Taylor: If it happens, it happens, but I’m not going to say it’s a tool of mine. I’m not normally a flirtatious, sexy person. That’s not really me. Holmes: If the CBS cameras catch you flirting, is there anyone back home that’s going to be upset? Taylor: Not at all. There’s no one special in my life right now. Holmes: Aww… (Laughs) Taylor: I know!
Holmes: Let’s discuss some things you might experience out there. How well do you deal with people lying to you? Taylor: I can deal with it. People lie, it’s life. You can try to be honest, but it happens. I lie to my kids sometimes to protect them from something. Holmes: How about hunger? Taylor: I…I’m OK with it. I do a spiritual fast from time to time with my church. My biggest issue is probably dealing with the cold. Holmes: How about sleep deprivation? Taylor: I’m sleep deprived right now. (Laughs) I’ve been running on little energy for a while now. Holmes: This is going to be like a vacation for you. Taylor: (Laughs) I know. Holmes: How about paranoia? Taylor: I’m not a paranoid person. I think I’m a little over dramatic. But not paranoid.
Holmes: If you could align with any past player, who would it be? Taylor: “Boston” Rob (Mariano) he is the greatest. He’s such a people person. He knows how to read them and bring them in. It’s kind of scary. He has a little cult. I don’t want to be cult-like, but he’s a master manipulator. I love him, I think he’s the best player of all time.