There's something fun in recognizes people for their reality TV futility, just like there are times to commend someone for their success. In the case of "Survivor," CBS had decided to hold a poll for the "dumbest move" in the history of the show. This is something that has crept on camera before, as James Clement famously proclaimed he was "no longer the dumbest 'Survivor' ever" when he watched Erik in "Micronesia" hand away his immunity necklace.
Ironically, two of these choice are from "Heroes vs. Villains" -- and both of them are well deserved. As a matter of fact, I even agree with the picks for "dumbest move ever," even though there are some great honorable mentions (such as Lex not voting off Amber in "All-Stars," Timbira imploding in "Tocantins," or Rafe more or less "releasing" Danni of her pact in "Guatemala").
Here are my rankings
5. JT writes Russell a letter -- and hands over an idol ("Heroes vs. Villains")
I actually don't think this move is as bad as some people make it out to be, and for two reasons -- one, he wasn't necessarily putting himself in jeopardy right away in doing this, and two, had he actually listened to Rupert about Russell later the whole mess could have been avoided.
Still, you have no not to give away your safety in the game -- the immunity idol may not be super-helpful in the long run, but it can save you for a week. That's all you need sometimes.
4. James goes home with two idols in his pocket ("China")
Most people (such as Ozzy and Jason) avoid this list because they only had one idol -- James, meanwhile, had two and decided to play neither one.
Yes, this was a horrendously dumb move, since James could have still had guaranteed safety at one more tribal in the future. However, there was no guarantee that he would have made it to the end, anyway -- as a matter of fact, he probably wouldn't have because he would be too big of a jury threat.
3. Tyson votes himself out ("Heroes vs. Villains")
Sure, Tyson was paranoid and wanted to make sure he was safe at tribal council -- but going against a foolproof plan is no way to do that. There was no way he would have went home! Boston Rob had crafted a strategic masterpiece by forcing out an idol and either gotten rid of Russell or Parvati in the process. However, he instead changed the entire course of "Heroes vs. Villains."
If Tyson had made a different move, then he'd probably still be on the show chilling on the beach with Boston Rob. Instead, Russell and Parvati are still there.
2. Erik doesn't want immunity ("Micronesia")
This elimination was an art form, really. If it wasn't for the gleeful expressions on the Micronesia alliance's faces, this probably wouldn't have been so hilarious.
The difference between this and James' move is that there was no guesswork -- it wasn't like Erik could hold on to the necklace for later, so there was no point in not wearing it. Giving it to Natalie for no real reason other than loyalty is completely silly. You have to think about yourself first on "Survivor." If you don't...well, you end up like Erik.
1. Colby gives Tina a million dollars ("Australia")
After careful consideration, I've decided there is no dumber move than virtually handing someone a million dollars simply because they're your pal. I will never understand why Colby didn't take Keith to the end -- maybe he thought he could win either way, and so he was better looking like the good guy.
Maybe he thought Tina would be upset. However, he still could have gotten her jury vote! Earl Cole said it perfectly in "Fiji" when Yau Man asked for a reason behind being betrayed: "I would not win." Four words, that's it. Nobody thinks of Earl as a bad person.
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What is your opinion of the dumbest "Survivor" move ever? Feel free to share your thoughts below! With the finale a little over a week away, check back daily for all sorts of coverage.
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