Latest news with #Davidvs.Goliath
Express Tribune
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Jeff Probst explains Mike White's return for Survivor 50 and addresses White Lotus cameo speculation
Jeff Probst has explained why The White Lotus creator Mike White is returning for the 50th season of Survivor. The host and executive producer admitted he anticipated attention around White's casting, but was still 'a little surprised' at the reaction when CBS announced the line-up. Probst told The Hollywood Reporter that White's return is notable because 'there is no hiding that he is the biggest writer, director, show creator in the world right now, and he wanted to come back and play Survivor.' He believes the interest lies in White's study of human behaviour, which influences his television work. White first competed in season 37, David vs. Goliath, in 2018, finishing as runner-up before The White Lotus premiered. For season 50, airing spring 2026, he will face other returning players, including former winners and fellow second-place finishers. Probst said White wanted to test how success in Hollywood might affect his gameplay, asking, 'Now that everybody is more aware of me… how will I fare?' The host expects it will be 'fun' to watch how other contestants interact with him, given his track record of inviting past players to cameo in The White Lotus. Asked if he would appear in White's HBO series, Probst declined, saying, 'No, Mike should never put me on White Lotus,' though he praised White's generosity in offering Survivor alumni the opportunity to visit and appear on set. White has previously joked that Probst would avoid casting him again after seeing him reach the finals. Probst said White's persistence and public campaign ultimately led to his return, adding that he is 'so grateful' to have him back. 'He's arguably the single best storyteller we've ever had on Survivor,' Probst said, calling White 'authentic' and 'one of the best of all time.'
Buzz Feed
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
How To Pack For Vacation Like A ‘Survivor' Contestant
Every year, Survivor fans of every age tune in to watch castaways navigate challenges, unbearable sleeping conditions, and emotional meltdowns over Applebee's — but now, something wild is happening to mark the show's 50th season. CBS just announced that during Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans viewers will be able to vote and choose the season's twists. If it couldn't get any more iconic, some past-season players will be returning — including White Lotus creator Mike White. (Long before the murder mystery show came into existence, he was an underestimated competitor on the David vs. Goliath season.) If you're dreaming of forging your own Survivor‑style escapade — whether that's exploring rugged jungles, sleeping on the beach, or camping off-grid — packing smart is crucial. Ahead, I'm rounding up some essential gear based on the moments that define the show. An officially licensed Survivor hat For many, the show becomes part of their personality in the best way — so show off your Survivor obsession with the officially licensed version of Jeff Probst's hat. It could protect you from sun, bugs, and bad hair days alike. Plus, wearing the iconic 'Outwit, Outplay, Outlast' version gives your trip big main character energy. Just don't become the villain!Get it from Amazon for $44.95 (available in four colors). A rice cooker for paying homage to the show's most essential dish Rice is a precious commodity – and a topic of heated debate – on 'Survivor.' (And we're not talking about the fluffy, seasoned kind.) If you're channeling your inner castaway but still want your meals to be edible, this compact rice cooker gets the job done. It makes perfect rice with zero guesswork, and even steams veggies or protein while it cooks, so you can upgrade your wilderness ration into a real meal. Get it from Amazon for $35.43. Some bug repellent wipes, even if you're trying to rough it Even if you want to collect bug bites like a rite of passage, it's probably a good idea to try and combat mosquitoes. These towelettes are your secret weapon for fending off jungle insects without carrying a bulky spray can. Individually wrapped and easy to stash in any bag or pocket, they're perfect for hikes and beach treks. Pro tip: Cover your feet if you're dining outdoors for dinner or you might get back to your room covered in them from Amazon for $5.25. A personality shirt for standing out at Tribal Council Even if you're off somewhere on a remote island, you still need a statement piece. What would you wear to Tribal Council in the hopes that Jeff Probst calls on you first? Not only is this button-down eye catching — it's also built for the adventure. Built with two‑way stretch nylon/spandex, the shirt is designed to move with you while building a shelter or enduring immunity challenges without being clingy. The fabric is equipped with UPF 50+ sun protection and there's even a zippered chest pocket so you won't lose anything in the it from REI Co-op for $34.93+ (originally $49.95; available in men's sizes S–XXXL and five colors). A filtered water bottle so you don't get too thirsty Staying hydrated is the name of the game if you're going to focus on winning that million dollars. This Brita water bottle comes with a built-in filter that reduces chlorine and improves taste, so even your campground tap water can feel like a luxury reward. It's leak-proof, lightweight, and fits snugly in backpack side pockets — ideal for long hikes, beach treks, or looking for idols through the it from Amazon for $13.79+ (available in two sizes and four colors). A quick dry towel On Survivor, you're either soaked from the ocean or drenched in sweat – yet somehow, no one ever has a towel. This quick-dry microfiber option is super absorbent, lightweight, and rolls down small enough to fit in even the most minimalist pack. Use it after a swim in the ocean, getting caught in a downpour, or to brush sand off your gear without carrying half the beach with you. It's designed to dry fast so you're not hauling around a soggy rag, which feels like a win when you're living your best castaway it from Amazon for $8.49+ (available in five styles and multi-packs). Some dry shampoo Survivor contestants never get a fresh shower — and by day 10, a true island glow (greasy roots and and an oily scalp) is the norm. This dry shampoo uses rice and barley starches to soak up oil and instantly refresh your hair without needing water or leaving a white residue. Use it at the end of a long, sweaty challenge day when you need to look halfway decent at a reward dinner. Get a three-pack from Amazon for $27.99. A fire starter kit If you're a new fan of the show or have been watching since day one, you know that making fire is a crucial part of the penultimate Tribal Council, where the final players vie for the million dollar prize. If you're on a real-life a camping trip deep in the wilderness, this fire starter kit will be a lifesaver. The heavy-duty paracord handle is designed to ensure a solid grip, even when everything else is drenched, and the striker promises to deliver a shower of 5,500°F sparks so hot they'll ignite damp tinder in it from Amazon for $11.16. A buff – the show's most recognizable accessory Whether it's a headband or protection for the wrist or neck, buffs are worn in a variety of ways on the show. This buff offers UPF 50+ sun protection so you don't end up with sunburnt, peeling skin by day 3. Made of cooling, moisture-wicking fabric, it can keep sweat out of your eyes during muddy obstacle runs and promises to dry fast enough so that it won't totally smell foul. Get it from Amazon for $13.45+ (available in 10 styles). A board game to test your survival instincts Think you have what it takes to outwit, outplay, and outlast your friends? 'Survivor: The Game' lets you test your strategic skills and alliances without actually sleeping in the rain or eating bugs. This card game is packed with bluffing, backstabbing, and last-minute immunity saves — just like the real show. It's the perfect game to throw in your backpack for any group trip. Get it from Amazon for $15.49. A sleeping upgrade for some real-life comfort Just because you're trying to emulate that Survivor lifestyle, it doesn't mean that you actually need to sleep on hard bamboo every night – this mummy-style sleeping bag has your back. It comes in six size options, so whether you're tall and lanky or a short king, you'll get a tailored, cozy fit all night long. And if the forecast calls for overnight rain, don't worry, because this synthetic insulation is designed to keep you it from REI Co-op for $99.95 (available in two colors).
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Survivor 50' spoilers: Jeff Probst on the ‘competitive, dramatic' first challenge and what the 24 players told him at the marooning
On Friday, some juicy Survivor 50 spoilers were revealed from the host and showrunner himself, Jeff Probst. "OK, it is about two hours after we just started Survivor 50," Probst announced on social media. "We had our marooning challenge this morning. So, this is what I know so far." More from GoldDerby 2025 Tony Awards (updating live): Sarah Snook wins Best Actress in a Play for 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' 'We need to be gayer than ever before': 'RuPaul's Drag Race' queens and producers get political at FYC pool party 'Ran' turns 40: How a clerical error and bad blood cost Akira Kurosawa an Oscar The four-time Emmy winner teased, "We have 24 players who had an incredible attitude. Every single person basically said the same thing: 'I want to play hard and I want to have fun.' That was a big theme because a lot of returning players said, 'You know, I've gotten so caught up in the game that I forget that I'm having this incredible adventure, and I want to do both.' If that's true, that bodes really well." Probst added, "The other thing that impressed me is they went full tilt on that first challenge. It's competitive. It's dramatic. It comes down to a close finish. But regardless of who wins, what I saw in all 24 players is pure desire. We have players going back 25 years, and we have players who just played, and it's everything in between, and it was very exciting. It's hard to get me more excited than I already am about Survivor, but this morning did it. I'm looking forward to a really fun season!" CBS The cast of Survivor 50 was unveiled on May 28, about a week before they officially started filming in Mamanuca Islands, Fiji. This is the first all-stars cycle since Season 40's Winners at War in 2020, so fans were understandably excited to see who was returning to the island. With 24 total contestants, this is officially the show's biggest cast ever. Here they are: Jenna Lewis-Dougherty: Seasons 1 (Borneo), 8 (All-Stars) Colby Donaldson: Seasons 2 (The Australian Outback), 8 (All-Stars), 20 (Heroes vs. Villains) Stephenie Lagrossa Kendrick: Seasons 10 (Palau), 11 (Guatemala), 20 (Heroes vs. Villains) Cirie Fields: Seasons 12 (Panama-Exile Island), 16 (Micronesia – Fans vs. Favorites), 20 (Heroes vs. Villains), 34 (Game Changers) Ozzy Lusth: Seasons 13 (Cook Islands), 16 (Micronesia – Fans vs. Favorites), 23 (South Pacific), 34 (Game Changers) Benjamin "Coach" Wade: Seasons 18 (Tocantins – The Brazilian Highlands), 20 (Heroes vs. Villains), 23 (South Pacific) Aubry Bracco: Seasons 32 (Kaôh Rōng – Brains vs. Brawn vs. Beauty), 34 (Game Changers), 38 (Edge of Extinction) Chrissy Hofbeck: Season 35 (Heroes vs. Healers vs. Hustlers) Christian Hubicki: Season 37 (David vs. Goliath) Angelina Keeley: Season 37 (David vs. Goliath) Mike White: Season 37 (David vs. Goliath) Rick Devens: Season 38 (Edge of Extinction) Jonathan Young: Season 42 Dee Valladares: Season 45 — Winner Emily Flippen: Season 45 Quintavius "Q" Burdette: Season 46 Tiffany Nicole Ervin: Season 46 Charlie Davis: Season 46 Genevieve Mushaluk: Season 47 Kamilla Karthigesu: Season 48 Kyle Fraser: Season 48 — Winner Joseph "Joe" Hunter: Season 48 Player No. 1 from Season 49 (premiering fall 2025) Player No. 2 from Season 49 (premiering fall 2025) SEE: The Survivor 50 cast photos The 50th season is subtitled In the Hands of the Fans, and viewers voted throughout Survivor 48 for certain aspects of gameplay, including advantages, Buff colors, abundance of food, final four fire-making, and whether the winner will be announced at a live reunion show or on-location at tribal council. The returning contestants won't know the results of the various votes until Probst tells them on the island. Survivor 49 airs this fall on CBS, and Survivor 50 will debut in the spring of 2026. SIGN UP for Gold Derby's free newsletter with latest predictions Best of GoldDerby The 25 best 'Survivor' villains of the past 25 years 'Survivor' winners list: All seasons 'The Voice' winners: All seasons Click here to read the full article.
Perth Now
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Perth Now
The White Lotus creator Mike White is returning to to iconic reality TV show
'The White Lotus' creator Mike White is returning for 'Survivor 50' The 54-year-old writer and director - who competed on the reality show's 'David vs. Goliath' season in 2018 - will be back to help the CBS franchise mark its 50th anniversary alongside 23 other returning players. On Wednesday (28.05.25), host and executive producer Jeff Probst told 'CBS Mornings': "Mike, after he finished playing, said, 'I want to play again'. 'When 'White Lotus' hit, and I thought, 'Well, he'll never play again.' "But he kept texting and saying, 'Look, I'm serious. If you ever do anything where you have returning players, I want to play again.' So we're happy to have Mike.' Before 'Survivor' in 2018, Mike was best known for his work as a screenwriter on the likes of 'School of Rock', 'Nacho Libre' and 'Pitch Perfect 3'. Three years after he made it to the end of the intense reality show, he found success as the creator, writer and director of anthology thriller series 'The White Lotus'. He's cast a number of his fellow 'Survivor' alumni in the HBO series, which could endear him to the other contestants in the upcoming 50th season. In 2021, Mike - who also appeared on 'The Amazing Race' in 2009 - opened up about his love for reality TV, and insisted taking part in Survivor' in 2018 wasn't done as a joke. He told The New Yorker magazine: "'Survivor' is the only show I really devotedly watch, even though I get frustrated with it. 'Part of my job and my way of life is studying people and analyzing motivation and character. I still feel like, even on the most contrived reality show, the people are human and they're more interesting than some of the most well-scripted drama. "And for me, as a writer of drama, I aspire to do what reality television already does. To create characters that are surprising and dimensional and do weird shit and capture your attention.' However, at the time he didn't expect Jeff to want him back on board for another stint. he said: "Probst is like, 'Let's be real—you're never going to go on the show again'. I was like, 'Really? Why?' "We are friends. We've become more friends since I was on the show, and he's an impressive guy. I think the fact that we've become close is probably why he says that. "I don't know. I don't think they want the Hollywood Goliath who knows Probst to win a season. "Now that Probst knows I can get to the end, I don't think he wants there to be a chance of that happening again.'
Metro
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
The White Lotus fans terrified season 4 will be delayed after major announcement
The White Lotus creator Mike White is returning to his roots with reality series Survivor for the 50th (all-star) season – but fans have one concern. The acclaimed showrunner may be best known these days for his deadly critiques of the mega-rich in his luxury resort series on HBO but we all have an origin story. For those not in the know, get ready for a bonkers piece of Mike White lore. In 2018, Mike appeared on the 37th season, David vs. Goliath, and landed an agonising second place. This time we have no doubt he'll be going for the crown as he method acts his show out, for a second time. The long-running US reality series strands contestants on a deserted island where they compete in a series of challenges for the chance to win $1million (£742k). Survivor 50 is scheduled to film in Fiji in early June but some White Lotus fans fear this means the worst for the season four of the show. 'Welp White Lotus will be back in 4 years,' X user Eli wrote. 'We never getting white lotus s4,' thecprincess added. 'What about s4 of white lotus,' Niki asked. 'Don't you have a 4th season of the white lotus to be writing and directing,' gingy echoed. 'Writers will do literally anything to procrastinate when they're on deadline,' Tom Smyth agreed. Others, however, are already seeing the vision. 'Iconic tbh couldn't be more excited he was genuinely so much fun to watch on his season,' Lauren Leti reflected. 'The way he lives his life fascinates me. love you Mike White!!!!,' kevyoh echoed. 'Mike White's method writing is commendable,' whalienboi wrote. 'Oh I just know he will be farming for great arcs for the next The White Lotus season. Real Mike White fans know there would be no White Lotus without Survivor,' halimertugrul shared. 'He clearly needs some inspiration for White Lotus season 4,' Euanmcgrath agreed. 'He's going to win because he can just offer people jobs on the white lotus if they agree to work with him,' sarahjenkinsxo posed as a theory. 'The way he's gonna glide his way to the final three just because he bribes everyone with a cameo on The White Lotus,' _iamaliyah_ agreed. Executive producer and host Jeff Probst told CBS Mornings just how keen the Emmy-winning creator was ready to fight for his (metaphorical) life again. He said: 'Mike, after he finished playing, said, 'I want to play again,' When White Lotus hit, and I thought, 'Well, he'll never play again.' 'But he kept texting and saying, 'Look, I'm serious. If you ever do anything where you have returning players, I want to play again.' So we're happy to have Mike.' The reality series enthusiast has long been a fan of Survivor and, aptly, has used it as a study of the human psyche – something that has no doubt filtered down into the shows he creates. What's more, he has even recruited former Survivor contestants for cameos on the White Lotus including Angela Keeley and Kara Kay in season two. And in season three, Natalie Cole, Carl Boudreaux and Christian Hubicki, rock up as guests on the Thailand resort. In an interview with The New Yorker in 2021 the former Amazing Race contestant spoke about how Survivor is the only show he 'devotedly watches'. The School of Rock star added: 'Part of my job and my way of life is studying people and analysing motivation and character. 'I still feel like, even on the most contrived reality show, the people are human and they're more interesting than some of the most well-scripted drama. More Trending 'And for me, as a writer of drama, I aspire to do what reality television already does. To create characters that are surprising and dimensional and do weird shit and capture your attention.' After an intense culling process (cut down from 200 names, according to Jeff) there are a total of 23 cast members joining Mike on the island. This includes season one's Jenna Lewis-Dougherty, season 10's Stephenie Lagrossa Kendrick, season 18's Benjamin 'Coach' Wade, season 12's Cirie Fields, season 13's Ozzy Lusth, and season 32's Aubry Bracco, season two's Colby Donaldson and Season 46's Q. View More » There are also two mystery contestants yet to be announced. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: And Just Like That series 3 is slowly fixing the show's biggest problem MORE: WWE champion Lyra Valkyria reveals star's horror injury was 'worst she's ever seen' MORE: The new Harry Potter child stars have confirmed my worst fears
