If someone managed to miss the first nineteen season of "Survivor," then Thursday night's special was perfect for them. For the diehard fan, though, the special was hit-or-miss.
As for some of the highlights, we got to see an intimate look at Rupert's Kids, the charity founded by "America's Favorite Survivor" Rupert Boneham. I know not everyone in the "Survivor" community is a big fan of the guy, but you have to respect what he's doing for the community.
As nice as seeing Rupert's segment was, the real tear-jerker of this episode was the story of "Africa" winner Ethan Zohn, who has recently fought a difficult battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Ethan's romance with "Amazon" winner Jenna Morasca is a different one even by "Survivor" standards: they were never on the same tribe together in "All-Stars," but they used their love of the game to bond over time before becoming a couple.
Yes, we all know that Boston Rob and Amber are the "Survivor" lovebirds in terms of airtime, but it was nice to see a story this time that was something new.
Outside of that, this show may not have that much to offer you unless you're a diehard fan of Russell, Coach, or Parvati. The show seemed relentless to shove these three characters down our throat, with a little bit of Tom Westman thrown in there for good measure.
Other observations?
- Richard Hatch made a noteworthy return to the show and he's just as obnoxious as ever. He won the first season, but nobody would ever let this guy go far again even if he returns in the future.
- "The View" co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck talked for a few minutes about her time on the show...and then promoted her own stuff.
- Having the episode dedicated to former "Palau" contestant Jenn Lyon, who recently passed away after a long cancer battle, was a nice touch.
- Where were some of the lesser stars? I guess it's too much to ask, but I wanted more of Todd Herzog, Crystal Cox, Shane Powers, Twila Tanner, and some of the others who have only gotten an opportunity to play this game once.
- Even though they showed Coach a great deal, it was still epic.
Probably the best thing that came out of the episode was yet again the reminder that without "Survivor," reality TV would be a wasteland. It started the genre down the path to where it's ended up today. We also received yet another look at "Heroes vs. Villains," premiering next week.
Want more coverage of the upcoming season? Then stay tuned here for commentary, analysis, and any breaking news.
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Other "Survivor" coverage:
"Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains" previewed during "Surviving Survivor" special
"Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains:" TV Guide reveals their favorites, I reveal mine
Individual spotlights for every "Heroes vs. Villains" contestant
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Charlie Sheen to be handed felony charge
"The View:" Robert Pattinson to make first appearance
"Jersey Shore" house coming at a heavy price
"Jon and Kate Plus 8:" Kate Gosselin to return to "The View" as guest host
Tiger Woods mistress Jamie Jungers joining the ranks of Heidi Montag, Spencer Pratt
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