Welcome back, Survivor fans. Okay, enough small talk, let’s get to it.
Back in the good ‘ole days of the movie business, stars and starlets were often discovered having a malt at the corner drug store.
Well, not many folks drink malts anymore and the corner drug stores are long gone, but stars and starlets are still being discovered every week…on reality shows.
If you’re an actor you hate me for even suggesting such an idea. Reality shows responsible for discovering stars? Hogwash. “Reality shows” and “stars” are mutually exclusive ideas, you protest.
Hang on, cause I’m gonna take it one irritating step further. The truly great reality stars of today… often write their own material as well!
Go ahead, writers, pelt me with tomatoes. Throw stones at my head. I get it. I understand the frustration, but it doesn’t deter my beliefs.
In fact, I am going to challenge you to be honest with yourself and with me if and when you respond to this blog.
A new star has most definitely been born. He stands about 5 feet tall and when he slips that buff on top of his head, he transforms into a pirate, missing tooth and all. He was discovered on Survivor, the greatest reality show of all time, his name is Russell Hantz and in addition to being absolutely captivating on television, he writes and delivers some of the greatest material ever heard in 20 seasons of Survivor.
As long as Russell is on the show you are going to be talking about him and I am going to be writing about him. Instead of protesting like you did last season about my infatuation with Coach, why not try “riding the horse in the direction it’s going.” ‘Cause trust me, that is the direction this blog is going.
But for now, a brief detour.
I love Shambo! Shambo is the prototype for what we look for when casting Survivor. The voice, the walk, the hair! I think Survivor fans are going to adore Shambo and root for her to win. Who knows… maybe she will.
She is clearly a bit of an outcast on her tribe and that is part of her appeal. She moves to her own beat but she respects her leader, I’ll refer to him as the “Dreadlocked” Russell, (who is off to a great start leading Galu) and that’s commendable. If I had to guess, I’d say Shambo is already one of the most popular people of this season. While I’m at it, you’re going to like Dreadlocked Russell as well.
Ben is a bully. I don’t really like bullies but I also don’t want Ben showing up at my front door looking for revenge, so I’m going to call Ben the “likable Bully” but the truth is I don’t know him well enough to know if he is likable, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t. Likable, that is. Could be very likable. Probably is.
Marisa doesn’t like bullies. She also doesn’t appreciate anybody telling her what to do. I really liked what I saw of Marisa, but her reluctance to take a step back and “count to 10″ did her in. I was bummed to see her go so early. Attractive women are not in short supply on Survivor, especially this season, but attractive women with a strong point of view are few and far between. Marisa left too soon.
Back to Russell Hantz, let’s just call him “Evil” Russell to make it easy.
I must admit, I am instantly intrigued by a villain who spouts as his philosophy: “The most important thing is honesty.” Then proceeds to make alliances with everyone on his tribe.
Russell: “I have an alliance with the dumb short-haired blonde. I have another alliance with the even dumber long-haired blonde. It’s my dumb-ass girl alliance.”
INSIGHT: Keep in mind that the interviews you see on the show are done in private, away from all other Survivors. So last night when Ashley and Natalie were watching Survivor at home and heard Russell’s comments about them it was for the first time. Imagine watching with your family or your boyfriend as Russell refers to you as part of his “dumb-ass girl alliance.” Ah, this is going to be a fun season.
Without question, the most jaw-dropping sequence in last nights premiere episode of Survivor: Samoa was this one:
Russell: “I lived in New Orleans, right by the levee. The storm (hurricane) was a category five. When it hit… it broke the levee…. I was in my house. Me and my German Shepard, his name was, uh, Rocky.
I tried to get out of the house and realized I wasn’t gonna make it. So I grabbed my axe.
Because as a fireman, one thing you learn that if you go in something you have to be able to get out… The water was rushing in… I looked at Rocky, I couldn’t see him.. It was muddy water. He’s gone, I couldn’t find him.”
Cut to: Russell: I never lived in New Orleans. I’m not a fireman. I never even had a German Shepard. It’s crazy how you can break their hearts by telling them a lie.
In a span of 10 minutes, he emptied everybody’s canteen (his own tribemates) and burned Jaison’s socks in the fire. Not since Denzel Washington in Training Day have you seen someone this evil.
Ah relax, I’m just pushing your buttons. But be honest, your jaw hit your knee when you heard the New Orleans story, right?
Talk about using and abusing a national tragedy for your own good. With that lie alone, Russell earns consideration into the Survivor Villain Hall Of Fame.
Okay, a few more thoughts.
SHOW INSIGHT: You may have noticed, this episode did not have our normal “Survivor Open,” where we show you really sexy shots of all the Survivors. Not to worry, it does exist, we just had so much good material that we decided to use the time to put more content into the show. Look for it next week.
PERSONAL INSIGHT: Voting out Marisa over Mike Borassi? I think it was a mistake. I like Borassi a lot. He’s a great character, but Marisa was strong. Foa Foa made their first mistake and I think it will cost them in challenges.
TOURIST DESTINATION: At the beginning of the show I always say “39 days, 20 people, 1 Survivor.” The spot we chose this time is called “The Blow Holes” located on the island of Savaii in Samoa. I gotta tell you it ranks right up there as one of the coolest places we’ve ever shot the tag line. Those blasts of water shoot nearly 100 feet high. If you watch it again it looks like I must have been drenched by the water, but the truth is, I never got so much as a drop on me.
FINAL THOUGHT:
Betsy is a wise woman. She’s on to Evil Russell. You gotta love and trust the insight and wisdom of a cop. A female cop, no less. It’s a two for one deal. You get a woman’s intuition and the experience of a cop. Betsy is right. 100%. Don’t trust Russell.
The question is, will anybody listen?
Until next week…
Check out Dalton’s ‘Survivor: Samoa’ recap.
Comments (1-30) of 737 Add your comment
I have watched Survivor religiously since season 2, and tonight was the first episode I’ve ever seen where I felt like I was watching “reality television”. The reality television that takes the lowest common denominator and plays it up relentlessly for cheap shock value.
I get that Russell H. is supposed to be outrageous and evil “star” but really it just all felt very cheap and sad. Like watching Jerry Springer or the Real Housewives of Atlanta.
I thought this show better than all that. I’m disappointed in Survivor, and if it continues to be a show solely about whichever man is the biggest jerk (as it was last season with Coach and apparently will be this season with Russell) I won’t have any problem tuning out.
Coach was awesome. I can’t stand this Russell guy. He is like a stalker and seriously creepy. I don’t know if I have the energy to put into this season.
I totally agree with you, Layla. I don’t mind having colorful characters on Survivor. But then have really good strategic players too. Last season lacked any really good strategic players. I mean, c’mon–who really thought J.T. and Steven played an outstanding strategic game like Yul (Cook Islands), Rob (Amazon), or the infamous Richard Hatch? I hated last season of Survivor. And it looks like this season may turn out to be a repeat. First, Coach. Now, Russell H. I don’t mind having Russell H., but I hope there’s really good strategic players too. But if this season is anything like last season–I’m not holding my breath.
don’t forget Rubert… he was a character, but a character we loved.
I agree with you, Layla. The opening sequence of the show even appeared as if it were against a green screen/CGI in several shots, too. The competitors rowing in, in closeups….the lighting on them etc, the background…looked as if they were in a studio. And yes Russell is a complete sociopath. He’s scary, and truly creepy, in addition to just being an asshole. We’ve watched every Survivor since Season 1 and this is a new low….won’t be tuning in if this freak is on there very long at all.
I totally agree with you Billie – he is a sociopath – no question in my mind.
Kelly, Billy, et al, you got that one, spot on. Russell H. has that Charlie manson look in his eyes. He isn’t playing some role, on a reality show, he is letting his vacant soul come through. Lying is his calling card. He told Survivor he was a millionaire oil tycoon. What he meant was, he is a manager of a gas station in Texas, and as soon as he saves enough money, he’ll get that missing tooth replaced.
JEFF CAN YOU PLEASE GIVE A “WE’RE WITH YOU” SHOUT OUT TO ETHAN ZOHN WHO HAS BEEN BRAVELY BATTLING CANCER AND WHO HAS JUST GOTTEN SOME CRAPPY NEWS ABOUT TUMORS THAT HAVE GROWN INSTEAD OF SHRUNK POST-CHEMO? HE’S PROVEN TO BE A TRUE SURIVOR IN THE GAME AND IN THIS GAME CALLED LIFE!! YOU”LL BEAT THIS ETHAN JUST LIKE I’D LIKE TO BEAT EVIL RUSSELL’S ASS
Aw, that’s terrible! I’m sure Jeff will call Ethan personally (I would hope!), but please let him know there are other “Survivor” fans who are pulling for him and keeping him in their thoughts. Stay strong, Ethan!
You won’t be missed because there are 14 million others that wont “tune out”. First of all Coach wasn’t a jerk…he was loyal, up front, and arrogant. Not a jerk. The goody twoshoes do not win this game. They want to establish a story line for the season. Not just random conversations and boring interactions. Once someone does something interesting they will show it. For now Russell is the entertainment on the island….because no one on the island at the time shown is aware of his deceit.
ENJOY Dancing with the Stars and Biggest Loser! Because they don’t edit players a certain way do they. Sheesh.
Keep it up JEFF. Congrats on the Emmy!
Total agreement with you three. Don’t think Russell is smart or amazingly evil, just creepy and dumb. Really dumb. Obviously, he isn’t going to try to win, he just wants the most camera time, then he can parley his infamy into a lucrative reality show living. Layla is right, this is as phony as it gets. I doubt he owns any successful oil company, forget about him being a billionaire. A poster on another chat said he couldn’t find any record of his company in Texas, and in fact his company’s address is a trailer park. It figures. And please don’t insult pirates this close to their sacred day (Talk Like a Pirate Day – Sept. 19). Hanz is NOTHING like a pirate, in fact he most resembles a troll. One that belongs under an unused super highway. Rupert WAS a pirate, Russell isn’t.
Okay I’m going to comment because I don’t think Russell is trying to get a career out of this. He’s a multi-millionaire for Christ sakes. I think he’s doing what everyone at home says they would do but never actually has the guts to do. I get that we want a dynamic show, but seriously, how can they NOT show that stuff, it’s classic!
I don’t know – do you believe he’s a millionairre? I kind of don’t. He has that whiff of loser-dom and desperation – his power (such as it is) is in manipulating people until they catch on, not in actual power (or financial significance).
There’s no way Evil Russell is a multi-millionaire. You have to be able to spell millionaire in order to be one. He can’t find a coherent sentence with a shovel and a flashlight. In other words, stupid people aren’t successful…at least not to that degree.
Only problem with tuning out… would you also tune out of the All Stars edition which they just wrapped filming if he’s on it like he’s rumored to be?
I agree! The main focus on Coach last year ruined my favorite show for me so….. I was looking forward to this season and we get repulsive Russell??? I’d rather watch Coach or Ace again. PLEASE survivor do NOT make him the standout for any more episodes. I don’t even know who is who on galu–that’s plain wrong
i agree – Russell is stupid and mean – why weaken your own team in the early going? dumping water and burning socks are certainly NOT survivor skills. Don’t believe he is a millionaire either.
Hope it gets better (without him) cause I will miss it otherwise.
hey Jeff
My nemas paul im from austrlia and i gotta be on your show man. Ill even marry a random american women in las vegas for a week to get USA citizenship and be on the show. PLease think about it and email me on ptleige@hotmail.com
I am already hating Evil Russell and I worry that watching the show will just be too disturbing and frustrating and I will have to boycott. I don’t mind a “villian” but he is just so repugnant that it isn’t fun to watch him like it was to watch Richard Hatch or Jerri Manthey or even Coach. Ugh, I hate Russell and find nothing likable or appealing about him.
I agree. Why are they showing so much of this evil Russell? I’ll give it 2 more episodes and then it’s over for me if he is still there and they are giving him so much air time.
So true! Jeff: you need to cast a villain with at least a *hint* of likeability, humour or self-awareness!!! ER is like Natalie on BB or Coach last season – no ability to laugh at themselves or capacity for self-awareness. Please stop casting these 1-dimensional villainous caricatures! Bring back players like Fairplay, who, while obnoxious, at least was kind of fun. ER is just a woman-hating sociopath…there is no fun there!!
You said it exactly. I got a bad feeling in my chest watching Evil Russell. He makes Randy look like a saint. I tend to wonder how a girlfriend or wife puts up with him (assuming he’s not gay) and hope that he doesn’t have any daughters or nieces. I wonder how this will affect his business. Hopefully it will for the worse. Love Black Russell though – he sounds like Cleveland from Family Guy. And Shambo.
I agree with Hannah. As much as I have liked Survivor in the past, if ER is still around after two more episodes–I’M OUT!! While I watching this first episode and the sociopathic antics of ER, I kept thinking “who does he remind me of?” Thank you Snsetblaze. It was Randy, the very unlikeable, misogynist bigot from a couple seasons back. I can’t take much more of these evil types on what is supposed to be a great show. And Jeff should stop praising him in his blog.
I love a good villain! I hope evil Russell lasts a loooong time!
I love evil russell too. the more evil the better. I hope he wins it all. anyone who trusts anyone on this show is a fool, and doesn’t deserve to win
Best Thing is…
I am sure there is at least one IRS agent watching this show. You can bet with this insight into how Russel views life. That man is getting audited when he gets back, If he has the money he says he might be the first participant who loses a Million$$ for being on Survivor!!!
Actually that would be the second participant. Don’t forget Richard “I didn’t declare my national TV million win and went to jail for it” Hatch.
I’m with you on this. He’s not fun evil, he’s sociopath evil. Survivor is supposed to be my escape, and if Russ stays too long, I won’t.
after Meg want to marry a millionaire was canceled because an unstable participant killed someone…it seems that screening for unstable people would be EXTREMELY important. This reeks of what is wrong with stations caring more about controversy than safety and mental health.
Well said. Agree 100%.
I thought the same about Russell being a scary sociopath. He gave me a bad feeling in the chest as well and I also thought of that reality tv guy who murdered his ex wife. I love Survivor but as I was watching, I told my brother I cannot watch anymore until this guy is gone. He makes me ill.
I agree with LaRUE. Something is really OFF with this guy. If he is an Oil Company owner and Millionaire, I am the Queen of England! He’s not there for the money? B.S. Then why go? To torture or look for a victim of his twisted thinking. Coach was just strange not potentially violent, I mean pouring out everyone’s water or burning socks? Come on…Listen to him talk. That is NOT the educated Owner of any Oil Company….probably just drives the Semi that delivers the oil. Not there for the money, indeed!
I know Jeff likes to have controversy but he did not like that loser who lied about his Grandma and I bet he doesn’t like this fake oilman either.
He’s just trying to entertain us.
I agree, I’ve watched Survivor every season but if Russ stays, I’m not sure I can watch this season, he’s just too evil.
Agreed. I think the longer he lasts, the more viewers will stop watching. There’s a point where it’s just not fun to watch.
I totally agree. He is not “fun” evil. He seems possessed! Not sure how much of him I could take.
Fun to watch is the point. The evil does not bother me so much as the just plain disgusting to watch factor. Make him put on pants at least.
Dawn is right. There is “fun” evil and there is “no-pants evil.” Nobody wants to see THAT. I’d rather see a naked Richard Hatch. At least he was amusing, while narcissic.
I have watched Survivor for the last 5 years and I absolutely love it! But this I can not do. Russel is evil, evil! I was so uncomfortable watching the show. His little devil eyes are still creeping me out. I don’t think I can watch again until he goes. I am scared for all the women in his life.
I hate, hate, hate Bad Russell. He makes Stalin look like Mother Teresa. He is the most repulsive human being I have ever had the misfortune to be aware of.
And I will enjoy watching every single second he’s on the air!
It’s obvious Russell is worth hating but watch the hyperbole. Stalin killed millions. For all we know Russell isn’t out of single digits yet.
When the first episode was over last night I turned to my hubby and said “I can’t do this anymore”. After watching Nasty Natalie all summer on Big Brother, this is just too much repulsion for a normal well-adjusted & happy individual to be expected to take. I’ll read the recaps until the Bad Russell is gone. Sorry Jeff, a truly evil person is just no fun to watch.
CV, those were my exact thoughts! I think going from evil nasty gnat on BB11 to evil russel h. will be more than I can stomach. I’ll give it another try, but if it gets any worse (is it possible?) I’m out. I’ll read the updates until he’s gone.
Yeah, what is it with the reality shows this year? I’d like intelligent competitors, not stupid evil ones. Time to fire the casting agents and look for new ones.
Russel will make for fun TV. The guy is already a millionaire, so it’s not the money for him. It’s the manipulation of the rest of the cast. Most of the girls fell for his alliance line, but Betsy is on to him. It should be fun to watch as others catch on to him and run him off.
I don’t think he really is a millionaire oilman. I think he is even playing the TV audience. Why? Why not.
That’s what I’ve heard from other sources. I am positive he is an illiterate low level criminal. Wouldn’t surprise me if he was mentally ill. If so, the Survivor casting agents should be ashamed of themselves.
I agree. I am not going to watch it if they keep Evil Russel on. He is just a jerk. They need to get rid of him. There is a limit to how bad they should be.
Jeff, I love you, I really do.
And this show is like…my life.
BUT… if this show continues to feature the “evilness” of Russel H, GOD SO HELP ME, i will cease to watch this. COACH was entertaining in many ways and he was bearable due to his few likable attributes. Thus, I could survive the slightly boring season of Tocantins mainly due to the fact that he meant no harm that was just how crazy he was.
I know I will be unpopular for this, but I am with Jeff… I LOVE watching this guy.
I’m in agreement with you. Maybe everyone who wants Evil Russell gone have gotten too involved with the show and need to step back and get an understanding of the entertainment value. Unless these people all go watch only fluffy chick flicks, they’ve surely gone to a movie with a bad guy and were entertained. Step back and watch. His dumb ass girl alliance comment was hysterical. I hope he stays on for quite awhile because I think his comments are going to be priceless. I have no clue why people thought Coach was more likable. Jerks are jerks and the more they run their mouths, the funnier they are.
It’s not ALL about entertainment value. This is not a movie where you expect to see a villan. This is suppose to be “real life” people, not actors, and there are plenty of other ways to have the “entertainment” value without having a completely despicable, evil person. I mean, come on, he should NOT have put Jaison’s sock in the fire!! There is no “entertainment” in that!! This is for 1 million dollars. Having him on the show is just unacceptable.
I love Survivor and I love reading Jeff’s blog, so I will keep watching, I just hope the others catch on to EVIL JERK and he gets the boot sooner rather than later!!
One of my friends described Russell as a “bad little leprechaun”.
I would just say “little toad”
@Mircat – Do you enjoy watching people kick puppies too? ‘Cause this guy is one step away from that. There is no entertainment value in his sexist, sadistic, evil little man.
A man who deliberately pours out all the water and tells lies about a storm that destroyed so many lives; he shouldn’t be given 5 seconds or airtime and if they are going to play him up I guess it’s back to cable for me.
I so agree. I love the show, I love Jeff (congrats on the Emmy), and I even enjoyed Coach last year. BUT Russel is too much for me to stomach, I really don’t want to watch this guy.
This new guy though Russel H. is completely irritating and unbearable and unwatchable. And I will stop watching if he is focused too much upon in this blog and on the show. The challenges today were very entertaining and the location beautiful. Plus some of the cast really interests me (Shambo, Betsy, Mick, Liz etc.) so start focusing on real gameplay and strategy NOT THE CRAP THAT RUSSEL H as well as imbecile Ben spew.
Russell is pure evil. It is more than just part of the game. He is evil to the core. I can’t figure out why the tribe wasn’t more upset about their canteens being emptied? I would have demanded to know who done it. I wonder if this came up at all at Tribal Council?
I’ll bet the tribe was more upset and they just didn’t show it on the air. Sounds like Jeff Probst just loves Russell and they are editing it the way they want. Hey, what about what the viewers want.
because you represent ever viewer right?
I like everyone else I know LOVE russel. I really hope he wins it all. Most entertaining survivor in years, and he isn’t evil. It’s a game for a million bucks lying and doing everything you can to win IS THE POINT
Joe:how could he possibly win? His play is just plain stupid, it’s not an intelligent strategy at all. As most of the commentators here have noted, a stupid malicious person isn’t entertaining, a master strategizer would be.
Love the blog, Jeff. This is going to be a great season. Poor Marisa…she was smart and cute and ready to cry at the end. Gone before her time, for sure. I loved it when Mick (leader of Evil Russell’s team) picked Jaison as the best swimmer and the old guy (Mike, I think) made the lame-a** comment about “Afro (nice) -Americans not being known for their swimming ability” or some equally racist remark, and then Jaison reveals himself as a water-polo playing God who easily smoked his opponent, giving his team an early lead which eventually led to their victory in the challenge. I couldn’t have scripted that one better.
RHG – that wasn’t a racist remark, but a statement based on all the previous seasons black contestants. GEEZ – even the black Olympic swimmer acknowledged that blacks aren’t known for their swimming prowess. Stop using the race card for stupid stuff, save it for the real bigots.
I agree with you 100% BarbaraG. Leave the race arguments for actual bigots.
But when Jaison said blacks aren’t known for their swimming prowess, I think he was just saying he knows about this stereotype. I don’t think he was agreeing with it!
The stereotype is based in truth. It may be harder for Blacks to learn to swim because of their superior bone density, which makes them not float as well as Whites, in general. This is why Blacks are better suited to be astronauts. Bones decay rapidly in space.
Whatever. I still think these comments cause more harm than good.
C’mon, man, you’re spouting the same crap that lost Jimmy the Greek his commentator job. Save the racist-enabler rhetoric for the Democratic Caucus and Nancy Pelosi, for crying out loud…
I was uncomfortable with Coach last season because he seemed to take himself seriously. I have no problem watching Russell playing the villain- it’s a game, and he’s coming from a different angle.
I am on the fence with Shambo- I don’t like being told told by her how much every person is drawn to her. Let me figure it out for myself.
I love that Betsy saw thru Russell immediately. I don’t think he’ll make it to the Jury, even if he thinks he will show the world how easy the game is to win.
I’m on board for this season. Bring it!
Exactly. Yeah Russell’s a dick, but he acknowledges and sees it as playing a role. He isn’t delusional (ahem Coach) and is simply playing a game. It should be an interesting experiment to see how long he lasts and how quickly people catch onto him.
My only complaint is that it was nearly impossible to keep track of who was who (with the exception of the notable contestants).
Marisa may have been strong, but she came across as pretty dumb in Tribal Council.
Why you being so judgmental? Shambo was just saying what strengths she brings into the game. If I was a reality show contestant, I’d say that people tend to like me also. People must not be drawn to you.
Not sure where I fall on the ER issue yet, but have to say in answer to ck that I never heard him acknowledge that he is a d*ck or that he is playing a role. He is choosing to play the game this way, but nowhere did I hear him say – but I’m not like this in real life, blah blah blah. Nope, sorry – think we’re dealing with someone equally self-delusional, though perhaps in different ways.
Glad the blog is back! Looks like another great season coming up, as always! The creativity in the challenges is just awesome!
Did you stop doing the twitter thing? Was following you and then something happened.
Looking forward to the next episode!
that was a fake account and it was confirmed by many sources.
Hey Jeff… nice to have you back. Hope you had a good summer.
Love Survivor and your blog. Not sure if I’m feeling your love for Shambo though. I like Betsy and the better looking Lennox Lewis LOLOL and LMAO at the live leprechaun Russell… I’m gonna enjoy watching him… did you guys recruit him or did he apply for the show?
he isn’t a leprechan, he is a troll…I can see him under a bridge waiting for victims
Yes definitely a troll. Leprecauns are kind of cute and they’ll give you a reward if you outwit them and don’t fall for their tricks. The only thing this troll could give you would be a disease.
Jeff,
Love your blog and love Survivor, I might even love you! I also LOVE villains and bullies on Reality TV shows. Hope Ben and Evil Russell are around for a good while.
Jeff – Welcome Back! Loved the premiere episode…looks like there will be plenty of drama with this cast.Evil Russell knows how to turn on the charm and con everyone (well, okay, almost everyone) so it looks like his true persona will stay below the surface for awhile. I can’t wait to see what havoc his future antics will wreak. Ben, not so much. He is just mean – no attempt on his part to sugarcoat things. First impression: this is going to be a great season!
Jeff
Hated Coach but honestly, after the first half hour, I wanted him back over Russell H. Coach may have been delusional but Russell H is a complete sociopath and does NOT make for interesting or compelling television.
Here’s hoping that Betsy engineers a speedy ouster for him.
The level of misogyny coming out of Russell’s mouth in this episode makes Coach look like a lover of women.
Jeff, guess what, the majority of people don’t like listening to someone call women “dumb bit****”.
This guy makes Fairplay, Tyson and Coach look good.
I watch “Survivor” to watch people out play,out last, out smartm not degrade women every chance they get.
And why is he allowed to destroy someone’s private property?
Totally agree, it was nauseating. Even more nauseating – it was played for laughs like it was no big deal. And it wasn’t just Evil Russell. I wasn’t too impressed with hillbilly boy mock-shooting Marisa at the end.
Are there NO rules once the players get to camp? Destroying personal property (socks)certainly should be one. How could the producers have foreseen on night one that a player would deliberately rid the camp of LIFE SUSTAINING water? However, once they saw his antics on the first night they should have known that it would only escalate. Stepping in before someone was hurt would be too much to ask for, right? After all, its all in good fun till someone loses an eye.
I wonder if they’ll show the rest of the season when all their loyal female fans are watching ‘Bones’ instead? I always did like Booth and Brennan…
Jeff said:
>>Attractive women are not in short supply on Survivor, especially this season, but attractive women with a strong point of view are few and far between<>The level of misogyny coming out of Russell’s mouth in this episode makes Coach look like a lover of women.<<
Jeff, you are right, most of the attractive young women you cast aren't interesting. So why cast them?
Lynn, I hate the misogyny of Survivor, and posted about it several times last year. But honestly, I'd be just as glad to see Russell vote off all the young women if it meant we didn't have to watch them teetering in high heels (because that's what the producers allow them as footwear) and struggling through challenges in clothes that won't stay put (again, because that's what they are made to wear.) But then, I'd be glad to see a season of all men, or all women, just to avoid the sexism of the show.
Good points!
I agree with Amanda and Ughhh. I have no interest whatsoever in watching The Russell show. this guy is NOT remotely entertaining. If this hate filled creep continues to be the sole focus of the show I will be tuning out. No thanks.
Wow, that was fast! I hope to see your blogs the night of and not the next morning. I’m counting on you and EW!
Evil R. is just that, evil. He has really taken the villain to a whole new level in such a short time.
If there was so much good material, mostly centered on Evil R., why didn’t you guys do a 2 hour premiere? You could’ve shown the full opening credits, which includes Marissa (but now she’s gone) and you could’ve showed more of the other people.
Example: how does Ashley get 3 votes? Surely what we saw at Tribal couldn’t be enough to spawn 3 votes.
The opening twist is great. Also, I liked the IC, of which part of it was quite original.
Jeff, Russell is showing traits that appear psychopathic. Does survivor screen/monitor their contestants?
I’d like to know what was in his Survivor audition. Did he let them know ahead of time that he would be a villain and how he would do it? If so, shame on CBS. He’s appalling, quite frankly. At least we felt sorry for Coach last season!
I so agree, He is the kind of person I stay away from. The show last night was very disturbing. I was so looking forward for Survivor to start again, but now I will not be able to watch. It was just too disturbing.
The uneasiness that I got from Russell was the way he came off when talking one on one to Marissa when she told him she was worried about him. His body language and tone was like “I’m gonna strangle you and hide your body in the woods.” He seems like he would physically cause women harm.
Wow, that is definatelly a consensus of opinion, Russell exhibits psycopathic tendencies, and I would like to see his rap sheet. I think it would behoove Survivor to do a more extensive background check on its contestants. This troll has those far away Charlie Manson eyes. As far as him being an oil tycoon, I’d say he pumps gas in Texas, that is much closer to the truth.
AMEN! This guy is CREEPY. Wouldn’t be surprised if he had a bunker full of half dead animals and more ammo than the government. I am also so sickend by Russ that I honestly don’t know if i can keep watching. PLEASE – villians can be entertaining, but can’t we have just ONE SEASON of actual honest, kind people?!?! Think of it as a social experement. To see how different things were if there were no people w/ god complexes or evil souls! I’m always rooting for the good guys. PS Jaison is just WOW!
I feel the same way. I kept thinking that he is a stalker type weirdo!!
I couldn’t stand Russell, but I disagree with just seeing nice, but boring people!It is always fun to see them go down in flames like Randy from 2 seasons ago. Can’t wait for the hate-filled removal of Russell from the island!
I meant it is fun to see the trash like Russell go down in flames
Part 2. I can understand why you would want someone to be GOLD for Reality TV. Like Coach, Tyson, Fairplay and Hatch. However, Evil R. will most likely go down as the most hated player ever because of his intent and malice. Viewers will not “love to hate” him like they did with the aforementioned players. Instead, they’ll loathe him all season AND CBS if Survivor centers TOO MUCH on him alone. Even if he is an intricate part of this show, there are 19 (now 18, thanks to him) others for viewers to identify with and relate to throughout the season. I surely hope Survivor Samoa does not become a 1 man show.
My 9 year old daughter was traumatized by Evil Russell! She seriously was scared to go to sleep, saying she was going to have nightmares about Evil Russell burning her socks. I must say, you can say he’s just playing the game, but this guy has crazy eyes. Crazy WAY WAY beyond the game. I don’t believe for a second that he is a “multi millionaire” owner of an oil company. THat’s a lie, too. I’m not sure if I can handle an entire season of this guy, but I can’t wait to find out . . .
I couldn’t stop laughing when I read your comment. A great threat to keep children in line – eat your veggies,go to bed now, or Evil Russell will visit and burn your socks. hahaha
When did you get the idea that anyone would want to watch a misogynistic sociopath for more than one episode? And isn’t there some rule about not destroying other people’s property? If not, the show should have one. What’s next, he gets to go around kneecapping others for kicks (’cause really, it sounds like that’d be his hobby)?
I was also wondering about the intentional destruction of other’s property. That was just not right, and frankly I don’t feel it makes for entertaining television.
Coach was basically harmless. “Evil” Russell is another thing entirely. The sooner he’s gone, the better, and good riddance!
That was actually my biggest issue. Even the water wasn’t as big a deal. I mean, it’s a hassle to get and boil more, but it’s there. They provide you with a water source. Where is Jaison gonna get another pair of socks? That was definitely over the line and should definitely be against the rules.
It wouldn’t surprise me if Russell was the father of Gnatalie from big Brother. Where do they GET these people?
Well golly. Firstly – Amazing setting. Samoa is such a brilliant destination for this season. It’s lucky that the scenery alone is worth watching because with evil Russell about, Survivor will get tiresome reeeeeally fast.
I get that in theory, conflict on TV is entertaining… but aren’t we all getting a bit sick of the mid-life-crisis aged, sleazy, chauvenistic, whackjob villian role? I mean.. three seasons running? (Randy, Coach, Russell). They don’t make the game more interesting… they just make you want to punch them.
New ideas, casting people?
On the upshoot – it’s great to have Jeff back. And the rest of the contestants look pretty fab.
First time poster, long time reader… yadda yadda. Jeff, dude, I don’t care what anybody says… Russel H is awesome! I was a fan of Tyson, a fan of Coach, and now a fan of Russel’s, and since you’re a fan of theirs, I’m a fan of yours. (That hurt trying to say right)
What makes me like him even more is there is already people pissing and moaning about him. LOL @ If he doesn’t get booted you’re all gonna stop watching… yeah right.
Felt bad about Marissa but it was her or Ashley and Ashley is my girl, and damn right more fit! Jaison or Shambo FTW!!
Awesome blog Jeff as always!
Hi Jeffy – I am so happy to have Survivor back! I’ve watched every season and I love your blogs! ER is a hoot. I love his big grin every time he does something evil. He’s like the Grinch. Also loving Betsy & Shambo.
Loving that Survivor is back to form, with a great villain, what seems like a cool location and plenty of drama. Evil Russell will make and keep things interesting. This show is the ultimate social experiment, and Evil Russell is certainly playing the ultimate social game — and so far winning. I’ll be watching all season! Keep on blogging it, Jeff.
however i do agree this is one of my favorite locations yet. absolutely STUNNING scenery and the panoramic shots are GORGEOUS.
Even though I hate Evil R., I’ll still be watching this season because I want to see the awesome scenery, the awesome challenges, the Bypass Rule mentioned in the Tribal Council Orientation video -if it’s true, and more conflict, drama and twists and everything else that sets Survivor apart from other (reality) shows. I just hope the editors will do a good job of balancing out air time for the other contestants.
Too bad you didn’t get wet Jeff. Did it do as much for you as the rain does? Looking forward to another great season of blogs. Missed you all summer long.
Wow, it’s fascinating (and creepy) to watch a true sociopath in action. The hallmark is the complete lack of conscience. Russell’s flash of anger at a woman who would dare question him was truly worrisome. Thank goodness the cameras are around to prevent him murdering his tribemates.
I don’t know about the camera men being around to protect anyone from Russ. Next show they do a challage which is very dangerous – i didn’t like it last time when the lil gay guy got drug along the maze and was hurt by that fireman dude – and i don’t want to see Russ bashing or REALLY TRYING TO HURT the women in this new game of “grab the ball”. At least ballance it out where it’s girls against girls/guys against guys. Too much risk w men going full force, trying to hurt smaller women. It’s not sportsmen like – makes the show seem like they care more about ratings then they do about the safety of the players. DON”T LIKE IT AT ALL!!!
They’re going to grab each other’s balls? What’s with Survivor this season? Definitely pushing the envelope.
THIS.. “Russell’s flash of anger at a woman who would dare question him was truly worrisome. Thank goodness the cameras are around to prevent him murdering his tribemates.” ..I felt the exact same way. Having an evil player can be fun, having someone who has murder in their eyes is another thing all together.
Russel is awesome! I was watching him pull all the strings and loving it! But the New Orleans story wasn’t that big of a deal, I could care less about that lie. It was the water dumping and the sock burning that did me in! What an evil little man! Is he really a multi-millionare? What company does he own?
Shambo is annoying me right off the bat. I want her gone, and I want her gone now. I can’t believe you thought we would like her! “Everywoman” my ass!
I’m disappointed Marisa is gone, I thought she seemed interesting in the pre-interviews!
P.S. I hated Coach but I’m loving Russel.
I can at least relate to Russel because he doesn’t seem like he needs to be on meds or in a psych ward (like Coach). Russel just seems like an evil genius who knows exactly how to work people. That’s what’s so great about him!
Jeff, I love the show, but Russ really ticked me off with that whole New Orleans bit. I lost everything that I possessed in the hurricane, my house got almost 6 feet of water in it. What I could take was just a box of pictures, but there were so many more left behind. How dare he use thousands of peoples tragedies and joke about it. I don’t know how long he will survive on survivor, but he sure wouldn’t last on the streets of New Orleans……