At the age of 12, I stumbled upon the show Survivor while flipping through channels with my mother. We paused to watch a group of contestants arguing over where to establish a shelter and a fire, led by corporate trainer Richard Hatch, who was attempting to take charge despite the resistance from contestant Sue Hawk. My mom explained that Survivor was a new reality television show where participants lived on an island and competed for a chance to win $1 million. By the end of that episode, I was hooked.
Now, at 36 years old, my fascination with Survivor remains strong. Over the years, I’ve engaged in discussions on forums, listened to podcasts dissecting episodes, predicted season winners based on editing clues, and even participated in Survivor fantasy leagues. I’ve often contemplated applying to be on the show, but the thought of enduring 26 days without proper sleep or food feels daunting.
However, an opportunity arose on January 31, 2023, when I noticed a casting flyer at a coffee shop for Surviving Bloomington, a four-day live game inspired by Survivor, with applications closing that same day. I quickly filmed an audition video and, a few months later, found myself in a wooded backyard in Bloomington, Indiana, meeting my fellow contestants while the production crew recorded us using their phones.
The reality of participating in live reality games (LRGs) had never crossed my mind until this moment, and within 14 months, I had taken part in three different LRGs. I discovered that LRGs exist all over the United States, featuring not just Survivor-themed games but also adaptations of shows like The Mole, Big Brother, and The Challenge, along with entirely original concepts. These games can last anywhere from one to ten days, with some being live-streamed and others edited into YouTube episodes. Notably, Survivor LRGs occasionally feature players from the actual show as competitors or special guests.
These games mirror their television counterparts, complete with challenges, immunity twists, and unique themes. The Survivor Weekender event I joined had a theme called “Olive Garden of Eden,” where tribes were named Soup, Salad, and Sticks—my tribe being the latter. In Surviving Bloomington, the theme was Order vs. Chaos, and I represented Order.
My experience in Surviving Bloomington was short-lived: I helped my tribe lose the first immunity challenge, which involved assembling a wooden puzzle, and as a result, I was voted out first. Being the first to be eliminated is an undesirable spot to find oneself. The game was filled with unexpected alliances, and the editing failed to capture the full drama of my last-minute betrayal.
I also attempted to return through a Redemption Island challenge that involved holding a water bottle above my head for as long as possible. I reached the final three, but after nearly 25 minutes, I had to concede defeat. While not as grueling as eating bug larvae, it certainly wasn’t an enjoyable experience.
Despite my brief stint—alongside the classic “I’m not here to make friends” trope—I unexpectedly made meaningful connections. As my tribe settled at camp, we quickly began sharing personal stories. One night while on Redemption Island, we stayed up late, and I drifted off listening to ghost stories told by a fellow participant.
After Surviving Bloomington and the Survivor Weekender, I participated in The Mole Ohio. Similar to its television counterpart, contestants collaborated to increase a prize pot meant for only one winner while being sabotaged by a producer-appointed mole.
While Survivor emphasizes teamwork and alliances, The Mole required participants to rely on their individual strategies. This allowed me to explore a different side of myself. Typically, I’m accommodating and transparent, but without the pressure of needing votes for survival, I adopted a more self-centered and secretive approach.
Live reality games tend to have lower stakes, as participants usually compete for bragging rights rather than substantial rewards, fostering a spirit of kindness often lacking in televised formats. The dynamics within the games do not typically influence real-life interactions, and I have maintained connections with nearly everyone I’ve played with, either through one-on-one communication or group chats.
Though I’m unsure if I could withstand 26 days on a deserted island, participating in these games has bolstered my self-esteem. Generally, I consider myself socially awkward, but among fellow fans of the show, I found a sense of belonging and confidence.
Now, with the premiere of Survivor 47 approaching tonight, I am eagerly anticipating the season and have my sights set on contestant Teeny as a potential winner.