Another season is around the corner I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday season. I’m sure that those who post here have done much more detective work than the snippets I have regarding statements made about the contestants or the game dynamics so feel free to post them as they will only assist in our quest to guess the end game players and this season’s winner.

Thank you to those who provided me with additional information so that I did not have to venture too far as contestant descriptions are quite valuable to me in any of my dime store psychologic analysis. However, I am not always given the complete descriptions so if there is more to add, I welcome those additions

I will start off with my usual request for forgiveness as I tend to prattle on and my appreciation goes out to anyone who is patient enough to plow through my lengthy posts. I look forward to hearing from anyone who wishes to contribute as your insights are valuable to me.

Themes

Fiji is this season’s destination and Jeff Probst had indicated that some thematic approaches would be cannibalism which more or less could be deemed as a theme in a more visual sense. However, one can’t forget the symbolism set forth during Chris’s win and the “spirit stone” We did ultimately see an original keeper of the stone become the sole survivor so I for one, never overlook a potential nugget like that.

He also mentions a season of “haves” and “have nots” which could certainly have consequences in how the game plays out with respect to how the contestants deal with this issue. Those who watch The Apprentice know the winning team lives in a lovely mansion while the losing team is sleeping outside in tents. Will those who “have” get lazy and smug and perhaps lose an important quality in winning this game? Will the “have nots” reach down out of desperation and drive to wipe the “smiles” off of the “haves” faces or will their resentment get the better of them psychologically? In the same token, we will see (ultimately) some “haves” feel a sense of compassion and cross some tribe borders out of a sense of empathy especially if they do not particularly like the way some of their fellow “haves” are behaving amidst their good fortune? It will certainly be an interesting dynamic in human nature.

Another “theme” he mentions as an “overall theme” is letting the players make almost every decision in terms of how the initial set up is established. Obviously, making decisions is central to any season of Survivor and who can forget the ramifications when the tribes made their own decisions on who they want on a tribe.

The Game

Initial Tribe Formation

From what has been indicated, we know that the game begins with only 19, rather than the original 20 and one person chooses the tribes. Leaving this type of decision in one person’s hands can leave us with all types of ramifications. I imagine there is some guideline as an alternating female/male situation or something of that sort. Regardless, people base their decisions on different criteria as we have seen in the past with the way Jake and Jan chose their tribes (for example) Picking those who appear strong or appear smart, etc. may not always have the outcome one desires. In other words, what you see ISN’T always what you get. It will be interesting to see if perhaps a tribe that visually appears “good on paper” ends up being a tribe full of strife with no ultimate victor.

Contestant Diversity

Again, a cast with more diversity in racial/cultural backgrounds has been established and it will again be interesting to see IF the same backgrounds will have an affect on alliances or not. Last season this was a forced issue by grouping the players in tribes made up of their own race/culture. This season, while we have again racial/cultural diversity, there are only two groups although they are filled with players that make up an array of various cultures/races.

The premise of last season ““will those of their own background stick together after they are broken up” does not appear a goal this time but we cannot overlook that it may be a factor. In ANY Survivor, similarities tend to create alliances, bonding, or friendships. This is just something that happens with people. You meet someone with a similar background (i.e. religion, race, geographics, gender, educational) and there is a connection. It will remain to be seen whether those of the same race/culture seek one another out or if that flies out the window in light of there being such a vast mix. One can’t help but wonder if Sean and Vecepia would have been bonded if there were perhaps four African Americans that season as opposed to two? Consequently, the issue was forced last season and while there were bondings based on background, many did not “keep” and new bondings were just as easily formed.

Being Exiled and the Hidden Idol

We now have two past seasons of utilizing Exile Island so I think we now have a good indicator of how long term players are edited if they are exiled. There is always room for an exception but it stands to reason that we know they may need to be featured but it is up to objective viewing to discern if this player’s promotion is merely showing the situation at hand OR building upon a longer term player or someone who is integral to the flow of the game.

If I am informed correctly, the clues to the HII are still located at the island but the actual idols are hidden at the camps. Someone can correct me on this if I am in error. This should be a fun twist and again, I would imagine the person who FINDS the idol will have an extra editing element while on HII especially since their quest for the HII will not be on EI. With this, there will now be two idols and either one or both (again someone can correct me) are actually played this season. The keepers of the HII in the last two seasons (Terry and Yul) were quite prominent on our screen; both found the idols and both were end game players but there were also differences in how they were edited as well; one being the winner and one not in terms of their relationship (so to speak) with the idol and how it was used as a vehicle for them to get further ahead. With the idol(s) actually and actively played this season, rest assured that the keeper of the idol and perhaps the person who benefits from it (and this is not mutually exclusive) will receive a certain care in their television showing. Obviously with the methodology of being able to use the idol before the votes are read but after the votes are cast will result in interesting game play but that is neither here nor there in terms of editing so to speak. That is a game play dynamic that will make for wonderful speculation; it is only interesting to me in terms of how they will edit someone who uses it and for which it will be successful or not.

I also believe we are in for some wonderful television with the hunt being similar to Guatemala. Those who visit EI and receive the clues will need to take care in their search with their tribe mates not far from them. Like Guatemala, we may see people work together to find the HII quicker. What happens then? The person with the clues may get assistance and that “helper” may be, in fact, the one to find it for them. We now have yet another potential conflict in the making and may be a fascinating situation.

Note also that with the formation back to two tribes there may not necessarily be an end game player with a big showing immediately. Last season with groups of four the editors were able to feature more contestants earlier on so we should not be surprised if someone receives a relatively benign first showing but then “breaks out of the gate” later on.

The Players

We have seen the editors catagorize different types of people and edit them in a certain fashion. Men and women on this show are edited quite differently with a strong male usually getting a very prominent and promising (sometimes misleading) edit. Consequently, many “strong” women do not receive this; they often are portrayed slightly negative (bossy). There has been criticism that the more successful women are sadly neglected in their edit which usually tells me to look for OTHER clues to their edit. “Characters” as we know, are often highly visible but without any real dimension. Villains are sometimes forced upon us as is the case with femme fatales and the like. Journey characters often appear quite transparent and quite often they do well enough for the audience to see them reach the end of that journey. Forced edits are normally not end game edits. This is not to say that end game players edits are not manipulated; they certainly are. However, the manipulation is subtle; it would have to be or else it would ruin the “surprise.” Manipulated scenes and conversations, unnecessary focus on something that should not be very important have all been utilized in the edit of an end game player.

Contestant Analysis

As we have learned, sometimes what Jeff does say about a contestant may be telling and sometimes it is misleading. Since I do this every season, these are the comments about past winners, which I like to note just to help encompass how Jeff discusses the characters.

Yul could absolutely win this game; I’d be delighted if he did; a super likeable guy” and“Yul is a player. You underestimate Yul, you'll be going home before he will... He studied the show. As somebody who wants to play this game and have a shot at winning he's studied the show”

"I'm not sure what he's (Aras) bringing. He's bringing a lot of talk. Does he know how to play Survivor? We'll find out. That's all I've got on Aras."

"Danni is someone that I think people are probably going to get behind. She's in great shape. She's tall and she's got a competition background"

"Tom is salt-of-the-earth guy. A father. A firefighter. There's no chance of this guy being a villain. You hope he lasts long enough in the game to be a hero. If he does last for a while, he's the kind of guy who could win it, because people are going to look at him and say, You know what, why not him? Everything about him is good."

"If Chris is everything he reports to be, he'll do just fine in the game, that's the question. Is he putting on a really this strong "I'll tackle anything bring it on, you can't beat me kind of guy? I don't know. I think he's one of the guys that could either emerge as really strong or fade fast" Also, a guy you know will play the game like Mariano; super exciting to us....." (Recall this is coming off from All Stars)

So, what about these contestants? I will add what I have seen and what I was informed. Again, please note that in any group situation, there tends to be gravitation of people based on certain criteria which we have seen time and time again. What is also interesting is that sometimes it doesn’t matter. Some of my commentary discusses that there may be automatic “bonds” in light of similar races/culture but as we have seen that doesn’t always necessarily happen because of personality differences but we can’t overlook that quite often there is a reaching out initially solely because of a similarity however, as days pass that initial connection may dissolve.

Jeff: I think we have some great characters this season. I'm very excited. I like watching the personalities emerge and see who steps up and who fades away. I've got my eye on a few people this season to see how they do. And I'm sure I'll be surprised by a few others that I don't see coming.

Whether this is carefully construed hype for a show that has lasted the duration, we shall see but Jeff appears to be very positive about a good portion of the players and I will back burner his mention of those who he may be surprised by

I do not have any information on any breakdown of the tribes. They apparently all work together en masse and this is important since as we saw with Palau, although there were two tribes, the original setting of one big group did create some immediate bonds that carried over.

We also know that typically speaking some first boot candidates are those who are overly bossy, those who appear weak or sick, the “oldest” (which is entirely dependent on how that person is contributing; one can be the oldest and be absolutely valuable to the tribe whether of a physical, leadership, paternal/maternal, maturity nature) those who are socially not integrating enough or those who may be directly responsible for the challenge loss. On a tribe that has more men then women, generally a woman will leave first (unless there is a male that is unbearable in some aspect) A tribe with more women than men, however, does not automatically result in a man going first as women do typically theorize they need physically fit men to win the challenges.

Sylvia (52-California-Architect-Asian-married) The oldest woman this season (and unfortunately in many cases the eldest woman is an early casualty)

Jeff said: “Sylvia is going to annoy some people. It too me 30 minutes for her to tell me if she could swim. Good Luck Sylvia”

It stands to reason that any “older” woman has odds against her on this show unless a driving force wants this woman to come along for the ride. Syliva, in her interview certainly came across as someone who has no problem bestowing her knowledge on others which may set off an early tone about her. For her to take 30 minutes to do what Jeff stated certainly does not bode well for her and common sense tells me she is probably an early casualty as well

Cassandra (42-California-Civil Engineering Manager-African American-married)

Jeff says: “Cassandra is going to have a nice visit; she’ll be voted out early. I think that will be enough for Cassandra”

Cassandra appeared to be a very amiable and likeable woman who also had the sense to question whether the “older” people may be voted out early. I think there are some other candidates that would go well before she does. Again, without knowing the actual tribe breakdown it is hard to judge how someone like Cassandra may fare. She has a racial connection with three men who may provide a buffer for her should there be, in fact, a connection of that kind. She, like other older woman may take on a “mother” role which may be of assistance as well. While it is easy to dredge up past Survivors and compare (as was done with her and Cerie) this is often problematic as people are different, the other contestants are different and the game dynamic is different. If Cassandra is as affable as she appeared to be, I don’t think she should have any early problems but keeping up in challenges is always something to be wary about. Should Cassandra become pivotal in daily life (mothering, camp work, etc.) any issues on her physical strength and/or endurance may be overlooked

Rita (38-Texas-Pageant work-Hispanic-not married/mother)

Jeff says: “Rita “I'm So Beautiful For My Age” is a fascinating woman. I think she should be a really good character on the show.” and “Can Rita win the game? No. Rita will not win the game.” and “Rita prides herself on being a single mom. She wears that as a badge of honor. She's also very aware of her looks.” and “Rita's pretty good, she's a good nurturer and that probably comes from being a mom. It's really interesting watching how the different roles play out. Every tribe needs a leader and every tribe needs a couple of followers. Every tribe could use some levity. And I think every tribe needs some nurturing. I felt that's what Rita provided. She was the compassionate one that would understand, would listen to an argument, would try to make you feel better after a loss. That can go a long way. It keeps you out of the way when people are looking for reasons to vote somebody out. Rita's nice, suddenly she's okay. I've learned over the seasons that anything you can do to not give them a reason to say yes to voting you out is a good thing to do.”

To be quite honest, I’m not sure Rita has what it takes to last the duration on this show nor do I necessarily believe others will take to her in that “mother” role despite Jeff’s suggestion otherwise. In her interview she came across as someone very self confident about her appearance and there was a touch of “something” that I don’t necessarily feel that some of the women will like about her. Could she ingratiate herself with the men? I would suggest that the majority of these men do not appear to be playing that way. While she is one of the “older” women (in Survivor, unfortunately, 38 is an older woman ) I don’t necessarily see her meshing completely with the other two “older” women should they be together. Lisi, who is closest to her in age appears worlds apart from Rita. The Hispanic connection she could potentially have with Edgardo, Lilliana and/or Alex is not something I would bank on since we ultimately don’t know who will be grouped together and frankly I am not sure that any of these three would connect with her regardless of their similar background (perhaps Edgardo). I would have to agree with Jeff that I do not see her as an end game player; I’ll go further that it would be surprising if she was a long term player although Jeff’s indication of “character” reference would allow me to believe we may see quite a show from her during the time she is there. While she seems that she will be personable enough and, as Jeff indicates, could fulfill a mother role, I’m not too confident on her longevity. Jeff’s usage of the words that he “thinks” and I “felt” may be just general speak on his part but they indicate to me that perhaps he never was able to solidly define her role on this show

Lisi (36-California-Customer Service/Musician-Caucasian-not married)

Jeff says “I think she could be a crowd favorite or very annoying or simply disappear and be an early vote off”

Quite a bit of double talk from Jeff and all we can construe from this is that however well she did he is either not willing to say or could never quite get a handle on the reaction of how her persona may be met. It’s a fine line that women with her type of personality walk especially on this show. Eccentric and/or sarcastic type personalities emanated by women are not usually met with the same response as a male unfortunately. “Funny” men are entertaining, “funny” women are obnoxious. While Lisi appears to be someone that the audience may enjoy watching, she may not be someone that will get the same reaction from those living with her. However, she may be someone who gets along quite well with some of these men and if situated with a majority, may be fine for awhile. Quite often “rougher” (my apologies as I am trying to speak as generally as possible and sometimes my descriptions enter stereotype territory to get a point across) women contestants mesh very well with their male tribe mates and we may see that from her.

Erica (27-Louisiana-Non profit fundraising-African American-not married)

Jeff says: Erica is a sleeper. Erica is an athlete also. I think she's a track star in her background and been in the military. She's a quiet force and she's not easily swayed which also comes up very early. I think in the first episode you get a chance to see that Erica has her own opinions and even though the tribe may be going left, if she feels it appropriate to go right she will which historically is not a great move and “She said something in casting that was a red flag; she talked about making the jury. I think Erica will be lucky to make the jury, nice person but doesn’t have the killer instinct to win this game”

Although Jeff’s comments are often misleading, it appears that Erica has a strong personality and is a strong female which may be fine should the tribe need to rid themselves of weaker people but she may then fall victim to that scenario we have seen quite often when a unyielding woman is thought to be that “bossy woman” type that we often seen get booted fairly early on (Debb, Jolanda, etc.) Unfortunately, strong men and strong women are not regarded the same in society and on Survivor which may hurt her. I’m sure with her background, she will have some feature of the hardship she endured. Alas, this means nothing in terms of Survivor and if on a tribe with strong minded men and women who are not very tolerant of a “strong” woman, she may be gone sooner rather than later. A lot depends on her presentation. We can’t overlook any “bonds” that may be made though should she be with others of her racial background. While this may sound not very “kosher” it can’t be discounted. Last season we saw that it both had an impact and also did not matter. Yul and Becky’s relationship had strong ties because of their culture whereas it did not matter to other individuals.

Stacy (27-Colorado-Advertising-Asian-not married)

Jeff says: “I just can’t get a read on her. I would say that’s not a good sign because if you can’t read somebody it’s hard to trust them. Stacy cannot win this game”

Stacy appeared to be quite vivacious with nothing adverse in her personality. Again younger women generally don’t do horrible on this show unless they are perceived as worthless. I don’t necessarily subscribe to Jeff’s opinion on not trusting someone you can’t quite read but again, it is all in the presentation which remains to be seen with Stacy. At this juncture, with nothing to go on, I can’t say that Stacy may not have “legs” this season but she is not one of the contestants that I have an early surface feeling that she will be our winner. However, not having a good “read” on her is not necessarily a negative thing and her first showing may give us a better feel for her.

Jessica (27-California-Fashion Stylist-Caucasian-not married)

Jeff says “People are going to like Jessica. She’s not a vixen; she’s just a nice person who will bring something to the tribe” and Jessica is the quintessential girl next door. I was pulling for Jessica because she had some family tragedy in her life and I think it's been a struggle at times. She's very likeable. Delightful smile, great personality and I think an underdog. I said before the show started Jessica was somebody who could win the game. I also said that about Boo. I thought Boo and Jessica both could win the game. Of course my track record is horrible.

Well I don’t know how horrible Jeff’s track record really is but be that as it may... Jeff appears very positive about Jessica. I try not to get caught up with Jeff’s thoughts on who could win this game but I certainly won’t discount them either. Jessica sounds like a very sweet girl which brings up the always interesting conundrum with sweet girls. They either last well into the game or they leave early. It is entirely dependent on the rest of her tribe’s makeup and how valuable she is physically at challenges and around camp and so forth. This hopefully will be made apparent to us fairly early. Her interview did present a seemingly sweet person which essentially means nothing. Likeability is a great asset in winning the game but it won’t provide longevity unless there are other factors. I find it interesting that Jeff states “I think an underdog” which had me curious (compare to Dre as noted below). The “underdog” description is an absolute. One is either an underdog or they are not. For Jeff to have to “think” she may be an underdog makes me question whether Jeff never had enough time to solidly decide this about her. Last season he was quite definite about “underdogs” which in retrospect makes sense since it played out well into the season. For him to only “think” she may be an underdog doesn’t sound she was there for any length of time for it to become a realization. Again, I may be reading too much into that though.

Lilliana (25-California-Loan Officer/former military-Hispanic-not married)

Jeff says “(Lilliana) is somebody I am betting people will keep around”

Not a whole lot from Jeff but she does have some aspects going for her. She is young, physically capable and with a military background would appear to be capable in this type of atmosphere. She does have a strong side it would appear but unlike Jeff’s description of Erica he does not delve into any aspect of her being inflexible. Like others with a common bond based on their race/culture, Lilliana, if with other contestants of her background, may have a buffer but until I know their breakdown that remains to be seen. Two contestants of Hispanic background, Edgardo and Alex are strong, capable men. Should she be with them, she may have an automatic insulation and I suggest she probably would be better received then Rita, the Hispanic female. There are often times that I have a decent feeling on someone with no rhyme or reason other than who they are up against and either the content or lack of content by Jeff. Lilliana may be a female to go a distance.

Michelle (23-Ohio-Student-Asian-not married)

Jeff says “I can’t tell if she is a dynamite package ready to explode or just a giggly school girl” and She's feisty and she's, I think, a little deceptive. When you see her and listen to her she has a way of talking that makes everything sound like a question. I think people might disregard her but she's a bit more of a player than I think people realize.”

Again, not knowing the breakdown of the tribes, it is hard to discern how another young lady will fare. However, Jeff’s description tends to make me think that there will be more of Michelle for us to see. What I find again interesting is the contrast of how Jeff uses the word “think” again. Note the difference that Jeff indicates he “thinks” Jessica is an underdog. He states of Michelle “I think, a little deceptive” There is potentially a big difference in both Jeff’s statements using “think.” As indicated under Jessica’s description, an “underdog” persona is an absolute; one is either an underdog or they are not. For Jeff to only think Jessica may be this makes me question that his thought process never got realized. Whereas, Jeff’s usage of the word “think” with respect to Michelle and deception is not an absolute; for Jeff to “think” Michelle may be deceptive may indicate that she would require more time for that thought process to be instilled. Again, this may only be overanalyzing on my part as I tend to do quite often. Generally speaking, my judgement on longevity is reserved at this time as young women rarely seem to fall in the middle. They either are quite successful or early casualties which again, is entirely dependent on who they are with and what they contribute. She did appear very fun and extremely energetic while on camera.

Gary (55-Minnesota-School Bus Driver/carpentry-Caucasian-married)

Jeff says: “Has kids the same age (as some of the contestants) which he thinks may be an advantage because he has a great relationship with his kids. Can he win the game? He’s a dark horse”

Unlike “older” women, unless an “older” male is unbearably bossy or unyielding, “older” men can do fairly well in this game. It was interesting to note that many of the other contestants were curious about him (mainly due to his appearance) Gary appears to be a very pleasant and down to earth man (as opposed to the BB’s and Willard’s we have seen) and while I agree with Jeff that while Gary may not be able to claim the title, I have no problem envisioning him to be a long term player. There does not appear to be any question that he will be an asset around camp (at challenges remains to be seen but many times this is forgiven) and he certainly appears to be one that will provide that “fatherly” figure that often times is needed for a tribe to function properly. Alas, at end game, physical abilities is often crucial but with the “final three” aspect we saw last season, it is not unheard of that someone like Gary could elicit the crown. At this juncture I have no reason to believe he can’t do well

Yau-Man (54-California-Computer Engineer-Asian-married)

Jeff says: “He’s a guy you can easily dismiss; you’re just too old. I’m pulling for Yau-Man (as a guy who is getting older). Can he win the game? Longshot.” and “Another guy who is one of my all time favorite survivors is Yau-Man who I think might be the oldest guy. He's from coincidentally Kota Kinabalu where we did the very first season in Borneo. He grew up on those islands. So he is really at home. This is a guy that knows how to open a coconut quickly, efficiently. I really do think that people are going to adore Yau-Man”

High praise from Jeff indeed and the glimpse of him no doubt showed him to appear as useful as he is attempting to be. Like Gary, an older man may have a rough time at the end game where a must needed individual immunity may be crucial but with the general makeup of all the individuals, he also may be a contestant that is needed and embraced. However, one can’t discount that if he (or Gary) bring the tribe down in physical challenges, he may be viewed as a detriment and sadly voted off. Jeff’s opinion that Yau-Man is one of his all time favorite characters though tends to have me believe that he may do very well in order for Jeff to be that positive about him

Earl (35-California-Advertising-African American-not married)

Jeff says “That’s a good strategy (with respect to Earl advising of a seize or retreat strategy) It’s playing to win and as far as I’m concerned, why else are you here?”

Not a lot said on Jeff but Earl appears to be strong without having an overbearing attitude. There was nothing in my glimpse of him that showed he would have any real issues in the social aspect of this game. As stated with other contestants, he may have a ready bond with other contestants of his race and this goes for gender, religion, age, etc. He is also sitting in the middle/upper tier of the age bracket and if on a tribe with brash younger males, one of them may be eliminated as Earl appears very capable physically to pick up the slack. He may get along quite well with the older males should he be with them and/or deal well enough with some of the younger males. While Jeff does not say too much, a good strategy is never a bad thing; time will tell if it can be implemented fully. I will say that upon my brief viewing of Earl, I had a positive feel for him and it would not surprise me if he is a long term player

Boo (34-Louisiana-Construction-Caucasian-not married)

Jeff says: “Boo could win this game. I'd be delighted if Boo won this game. I'm not sure I buy the New Orleans twang and charm, that's all Boo is. But it works.” and

Without embarking on a debate of gender on Survivor; I have already stated that athletic, personable young men do relatively well. It is at the time of merger and beyond that they are then viewed as a risk to keep although one of the advantages of being a young, strong male is that winning individual immunity can keep you safe. It is usually a younger guy who is ridiculously arrogant, mean, etc. that would get eliminated before their time as logically speaking, pre merger tribes want to keep their numbers and a young, physically fit male who does well in challenges will do this. I tend to give higher marks to younger men prior to the show solely based on needing them physically unless there is something in their personality that strikes a negative chord with me. With Boo’s “twang and charm” he may sit very well with the women (provided this charm is held in some check and is sincere) If Boo is also personable with the men, he may do very well. Jeff’s indication that he could win the game means ultimately nothing but logically it can’t be disregarded as he was also “delighted” should Yul win the game. I can’t see any reason that Boo can’t do well unless/until he is viewed as someone who must be stopped (and often times those who are the most threatening can’t be stopped and the opportunity to do so is not taken)

Anthony (32-California-Witness Locator-African American-not married)

Jeff says: “Anthony is going to have a big challenge in this game. I just don’t think he’ll fit in. Anthony will not win this game”

A very emphatic opinion by Jeff and I’m not entirely sure he is correct although far be it for me to believe that after all these seasons Jeff would certainly have a better read on those successful in this game over myself. Anthony appeared to be very likeable and there was no indication that he would not be useful. Anthony indicated he was fond of games and self described geek. I cannot ascertain if this would make any difference until his tribe makeup is shown and how much of the “geek” persona makes an appearance. For all intents and purposes, I can’t really see him being someone who goes early and for some reason (based on their interviews) I wouldn’t be surprised if he and Mookie get along should they end up together

Alex (28-California-Attorney-Hispanic-not married)

Jeff says “Very good socially; got looks, physical abilities. I would consider him an absolute threat. Alex could win this game”

More optimism over another strong male and logically so. Alex has many ingredients to do very well in this game and without any indicators otherwise, it stands to reason he may do very well. Like stated, his Hispanic background may provide an automatic “meeting of the minds” with others of Hispanic heritage should they be on the same tribe. In any event, without anything else to go on, I doubt he is leaving early. His demeanor was very pleasant and I did not see any level of arrogance. He may also be someone I can see getting along with Anthony and Mookie should they be together and appears to be someone that women may enjoy being around.

Edgardo (28-Florida-Advertising-Hispanic-not married)

Jeff says: “...told us stories in casting (re: moral situation) In a game like Survivor, Edgardo could win”

From the glimpse of him and Jeff’s word, we are no doubt in store for a very interesting “character” and will probably be highlighted if his interview was any indication of how he’ll act on the show. While Jeff observes that Edgardo’s methodology could have him winning the game, I would not be as quick to make that conclusion. Those whose “moral compass” has no limits may do quite well but often they pay the price near or at the end and he may be one that the audience will be delighted when they are eliminated. He may also group together with those of his background but if he is an arrogant person, it would not matter that there is a cultural similarity. Ultimately, this game is about others perceptions of you as a player and often those who have dirt on their hands will not get rewarded at the end. With that said, he is seemingly athletic and strong so that may be enough for him to be safe for a bit IF he does not have any issues with his tribe mates which could very well be his undoing

James (28-California-Bartender/former military-Caucasian-not married)

Jeff says: “The only way he wins this game is if he makes it to the final two by being a lunatic and then says it was all an act; I’m a Road Scholar. That’s the only way he wins” and “There's a guy, Rocky, his name is James Reid but he goes by Rocky and there's a reason. Rocky leaps off of the island. He cannot help himself. He's colorful and funny and challenging and at times irritating and you will know him instantly”

No doubt, James helps to fulfill that “character” persona that makes great television. Whether this will help him reach the end game remains to be seen. These “types” of contestants are fascinating as while they must know their personality can be detrimental they are quite often kept around for precisely that reason. Needless to say, if he is athletic and helps with challenges (dependent upon who he is with) he may last for awhile (Robb was extremely hard to get along with but was crucial in challenges and there was also a quality about him that did not make him completely unlikeable. Jamie also was very grating but again, he was needed physically for quite some time. Shane caused much commotion but he insulated himself with a majority and was “attractive” (not in the visual sense) to keep around. James sounds like he will no doubt rub some the wrong way but in the world of Survivor that may bode well for him but rarely do we see those of his “type” actually win the game

Dre (25-North Carolina-Cheerleading Coach-African American-not married/father)

Jeff says: “...could easily end up on the outside through no fault of his own. Just an inability to know how to do the social thing and that would be a tragedy” and “We have another really interesting person in Dreamz. He was homeless, really, a homeless kid, a street performer. His story comes out on the show but in a nutshell, he lived in garbage dumpsters, scrounged for food. He's a gymnast. Him and his brothers would put on shows to make money. This is a kid literally off the street who has survived and made something of his life. He's an underdog. He's a guy that you listen to his story and you instantly forgive a lot of things because you know where he's coming from. I think his biggest challenge on the show is going to be his social adaptability. It's not something he's used to. Hang around 20 people and having to fit in and compromise and say the right thing is not something he grew up with. He's used to doing whatever he needs to do to take care of himself and his family right now. You will see that dilemma play out for him this season. That dilemma right there of how do I adapt to other people and try to get along when my instinct says 'do what's best for you right now cause that's how you grew up.”

Notice that Jeff states decisively “he’s an underdog” That is an absolute rather than “thinking” someone may be which tends to reinforce my belief that while Dre may have some bumps ahead of him, his standing in the game is more optimistic than Jessica’s would be. Jeff appears to delve deeply into Dre’s background which is quite different (again) then how he speaks of Jessica’s back story. We also know Erica survived some hardship and that was not touched on that I could gather. Dre’s potential issues on this show are also fleshed out by Jeff which may be an indication that there is quite a bit of longevity on Dre’s part regardless that Jeff finds his “social” game to be a cause for his demise. Dre may, in fact, be a wonderful journey character indicative by the “underdog” tag and all that he may learn by being out there. There appears to be no question that physically he should be an asset and again, should he be with other African Americans, there may be an initial bonding although that is never a certainty. Quite often we see two individuals create a bond that often appears unusual and I would not be surprised if this may happen for Dre. Regardless of my flights of fancy, I do see that Dre could be a long term player if for no other reason that he is embarking on a journey that the audience will see play out.

Mookie (25-Illinois-Loan Manager-Asian-not married)

Jeff says: “If Mookie can stay in the game long enough to make it to the individual portion, he can be a threat”

We have heard similar words spoken about prior contestants in this regard; I recall that Jeff stated this about Terry as well except for a notable difference. With Terry he stated that if Terry could stay in the game long enough and have the numbers to make it to the individual portion he could be a threat. We know that was crucial in Terry’s demise as he was the lone member of his former tribe. While his words about Mookie may not mean anything substantial, Mookie could be there for a good portion of the game. He appeared very fun loving and someone who may get along well with everyone. At this juncture, Mookie, on paper, may have a good shot for end game. How savvy he is at the game remains to be seen

Looking forward to another great season with you