Survivor back with new twist
Survivor returns with a new spin on an old twist for its 26th season, a revision of the old “fans vs. favourites” format. Even after 25 seasons, Survivor continues to be one of the mostwatched reality-competition series in Canada, more so that in the U.S., relative to the size of the two countries’ populations.
Jeff Probst, fresh off his foray into daytime TV, makes an affable yet quick-thinking judge, ringmaster and ceremonial host.
He has yet to tire of Survivor’s semi-annual ritual of immunity challenges and tribal councils.
To the casual viewer, Probst looks like central casting’s ideal of the typical game-show host but, much like Survivor itself, there’s more going on there than meets the eye.
Probst is one of the reasons Survivor works as well as it does, even after all these years.
He listens, which in itself is unusual for a TV personality.
He’s unafraid to mask his disdain of for appalling behaviour, and shows occasional flashes of irritation.
He also has genuine empathy for people’s hardship.
As beautiful as Survivor’s tropical locations are, Probst will tell you there’s a big difference between swanning around a fivestar resort, and huddling under a makeshift shelter open to the elements, with not even the basics to sustain ones self.
Survivor’s sole concession to the necessities of day-to-day survival outdoors is an unlimited supply of drinking water and several sacks of uncooked rice.
When Survivor: Caramoan opens with an expanded 90-minute season premiere, fans at home will be introduced to 10 supposed “superfans” who’ve watched the game at home and think they can out outlast, outplay and outwit all those who’ve gone before.
(CBS, Global – 9 p.m.)
The ages-old conflict between wolves and buffalo is brought into sharp focus in the absorbing natural history program Cold Warriors: Wolves and Buffalo. (PBS – 8 p.m.)
Modern Family takes on Valentine’s Day with a whimsical outing in which a role-playing game between Phil and Claire’s alter egos Clive Bixby (Ty Burrell) and Juliana (Julie Bowen) lands Claire in hospital.
Meanwhile, Cam and Mitch wake up hung over from a Valentine’s Day party, trying to piece together what happened the night before and wondering how — and more importantly why — Dylan is now living with them. (ABC, Citytv – 10 p.m.)