SURVIVOR: COOK ISLANDS - Official Thread

My somewhat fertile brain | 24 August, 2006 | Cuz_it_aint_their_money

[cuz_it_aint_their_money]

Yes FReepers and FReeperettes, its time once again for another season of Survivor.
This time they are in the Cook Islands, in the middle of the South Pacific.

I was going to start off this thread by informing you all about how Mark Burnett’s Production Company has decided to split the tribe along ethnic backgrounds. But that subject has been pretty much beaten to death on at least three different threads. So. . . .

I would like to point out that for all their talk about “minorities” not applying to the show as much as “whites” and about how they had to send their casting producers out to round up minorities, they apparently didn’t have to look too far.

Of the 20 contestants recruited for this season, no less than 13 are from California!
And of those 13, NINE are from the greater Los Angeles area!
So much for diversity!

[elc]

Seen this story about Ozzy?

http://www.realityblurred.com/realitytv/archives/survivor_cook_islands/2006_Nov_13_ozzy_playboy_tv

Don't click the links in the story if you are at work or their are youngs eyes around. But the story itself is okay.

[ken5050]

Ozzy will go because he's waaaay too nice..no one will want to be in the final two with him..

[ken5050]

Doesn't CBS do background checks....or haven't they ever heard of Google.

[elc]

Doubt they really care. This just brings more attention to the show.

[sweet_diane]

Oh my! Bad Ozzy...bad bad.

lol

[cuz_it_aint_their_money]

The Aitutaki Tribe – (Red Buffs):
Becky, Ozzy, Sundra, Yul

The Raratonga Tribe - (Blue Buffs):
Adam, Candice, Jonathan, Nathan, Parvati

The Jury
Brad, Rebecca, Jenny

The LOSERS!
Sekou, Billy, Cicilia, J.P. Stephannie, Cao Boi, Cristina, Jessica

Greetings fellow Survivor Fans!,

Tomorrow is Thursday and more importantly, it’s Thanksgiving, so here is your:

Survivor Ping!

one day early.

The title of tomorrow night’s episode is: "Why Would You Trust Me?"

And from the official SeeBS website we get the following clues:

One survivor's leadership style quickly begins to annoy their fellow tribemates, who would rather work at their own pace. This Survivor knows their team must work if they want to win the Immunity Challenge. Will they be able to motivate their tribe or will their pushy ways put them in jeopardy? I doubt anything is going to annoy the Aitu tribe, they seem to be working like a well oiled machine and show no signs of stopping. So this hint must refer to Raro, and while Jonathan seems to be the workhorse of the tribe, I think it’s Nate that starts to annoy the others.

When another shocking surprise is revealed to the Survivors, the lines are quickly drawn between tribemates. Will the Survivors stay true to their alliances or will this news stir up the game? No big surprise to us, we already know that tomorrow night the two tribes merge into one tribe and start the individual challenges. As far as which players stay “true” to their alliances, we all know that Jonathan is the odd man out, the man without a country, in other words, NO ALLIANCE! So he in effect becomes the swing vote between the Becky, Ozzy, Sundra, Yul (BOSY) alliance and the Adam, Candice, Nate, Parvati (ACNP) alliance.

Yul reveals his possession of the hidden Immunity Idol to a few select tribemates. How will this information affect his position around camp? We already know that he has told Becky, so my guess is he tells Ozzy and Sundra to shore up the BOSY alliance.

One Survivor considers betraying their alliance at Tribal Council and voting out an ally, a decision that will cause drama back at camp. Which way will they vote? As I said above, Jonathan is the swing vote. I think he lets on to Candice that he is considering voting with the BOSY alliance and casts his vote for Nate. Candice immediately goes and blabs to her cuddle bunny Adam and before long the rest of the tribe knows that Nate’s days are numbered!

Since we have a merge, there will be no Reward Challenge, and no one will be banished to Exile Island.

The first Individual Immunity Challenge is the standard individual endurance hold-on-to-something while Jeff tries to ridicule you and temp you to give up with a pitiful plate of snacks. In this particular case, they players must shinnie up a pole and hold on till the last player wins. In this case, I think it’s pretty clear that Ozzy will begin an Immunity Challenge run to best all previous Immunity Challenge runs.

Well, there you have it:

Cuz’s Weekly Survivor Picks!

Reward Challenge Winner: No challenge, we have a Merge instead!
Sent to Exile Island : No one is banished.
Immunity Challenge Winner(s): Ozzy
Tribal Council Bootee: Nate

I’ll be back Monday morning with a recap, so till then,
Remember to set your VCRs/TIVOs to tomorrow night, just in case you succumb to the usual tryptophan induced slumber. (Or as Rush would say, “Thats the chemical in turkey that makes you want to take a nap, for those of you in Rio Linda.”)

Take Care,

FReepmail me if you want added to, or removed from the Official Survivor Ping List.

[ken5050]

Didn't Yul release the immunity idol into the sea?..or was I hallucinating?

[cuz_it_aint_their_money]

Just a partial hallucination. He released the box the idol was packaged in into the sea, but he kept the idol.

After all, there's not too many places you can hide a box the size of a large coconut in your personnel possessions.

[Lee'sGhost]

Way to go, coder. I can understand how you feel.

[Lee'sGhost]

"Ozzy will go because he's waaaay too nice..no one will want to be in the final two with him.."

Guess everyone has forgotten how he threw one of the first challenges so as to get rid of one of his own. The victim was a duffus, for sure, but at the time it was unnecesary and extremely stupid.

I do give him and his three mates kudos for sticking it to the other tribe though. I hope at least one of them wins.

[Lee'sGhost]

What was the site about? I can't get it to load.

[girlscout]

I remember clearly how blatant and jubilantly they threw that challange to boot Candice's soul mate Billy. I deducted points from Ozzy's column over that one. JP had been more of a verbal ass, but Ozzy was no angel. He's a powerhouse in the challenges and has worked hard, but I don't want to see him win the pot of gold at the end of this rainbow.

I also think that Yul is being unwise in letting all his tribemates know he has the hidden immunity. That will probably bite him on the butt in the end.

I don't have any special favorites that I'm rooting for at this point which is unusual for me.

[A knight without armor]

I'm looking forward to this. The past few Thursdays I've had to work late and missed most of the show. I did not see the box release scene. I suppose it would have been possible to hide the box by burying it in the sand somewhere. Hope tonight is a good one!

[Texas2step]

Great move last night by Yul in flipping Jonathan. Being forced to play the idol last night would have been bad news for Yul as he would have had a major target on his back and would not have lasted much longer without beating Ozzy in the IICs.

Jonathan was (and still is) the #5 man in a 5 man alliance. But if he hadn't told Yul he'd flip, then he would have gone home last night because of the hidden immunity idol.

However, what he should have done was to make Yul think he was flipping, causing the Yul alliance to vote for Nate, then voted with the Nate/Adam alliance against Yul.

This would have forced Yul to play the hidden immunity idol, sending Nate home and taking the hidden immunity idol out of play.

As it stands now, he has flipped on every person in the jury (which could make him an attractive person to bring to the final two, maybe) and he's still the #5 man in a 5 man alliance who nobody will trust.

Finally a little drama at TC (sorry Cuz, I cannot read the predictions any more because they're too good these days. Gotta wait until it's over to read. ;-)

[Lee'sGhost]

Anybody know why Nate wasn't on the The Early Show? I did miss the first 15 m or so, so maybe I just missed it.

[kingu]

Great move last night by Yul in flipping Jonathan. Being forced to play the idol last night would have been bad news for Yul as he would have had a major target on his back and would not have lasted much longer without beating Ozzy in the IICs.

Yeah, I think that Yul did a great job playing it. As for the suggestion that Jonathan stayed with his alliance, while convincing the other side that he was flipping (and for them to vote for Nate), I just don't see Candice and Adam taking it well that Nate goes because Jonathan saved his own rump. He tried to get the vote off of Yul, couldn't and I think he ran out of room to move.

By the time they reach camp, everyone will know that Yul has the immunity idol.

[Texas2step]

I just don't see Candice and Adam taking it well that Nate goes because Jonathan saved his own rump.

That's just it, they wouldn't know this was orchestrated by Jonathan. Jonathan could say, "see, I told you not to vote for Yul because he may have the idol." He did try to tell them that Yul might have it, and they wouldn't even consider it.

Jonathan's "best" move would have been to pretend he was flipping, causing the idol to be played and Nate to be voted out. He would have a four man alliance, with a strong chance to go final two (under the theory of bringing the "villian" to the final two so you can win).

Now, as it stands, he's out #5, at best.

His 2nd best move was what he chose. He couldn't not flip, or he would have left last night because of the hidden idol.

But he's going to catch hell from Candace and Adam, for sure.

[kingu]

I understand what you're saying about the pretending to flip - but, I think that plan would have failed for a few reasons. Candace and Adam would have asked Yul 'why Nate?' and Yul probably would have told them why - why not, he didn't get what he wanted, and his most valuable piece was wasted.

If Yul refused to answer, or gave some other form of answer 'Nate's huge, big worry for me in the physical competition', I think they'd figure it out, especially after the warning about not voting against Yul.

And this week, assuming that Jonathan doesn't win immunity, he'd be gone anyway. Yul & Co wouldn't miss again, and the mere suggestion that he pulled something would ruin his cred with his new tribe. Even if he pulled off the miracle and got everyone on his side to vote against Yul, it'll be a head to head challenge /or/ the purple stone. None of those options keeps Jonathan on the island for long.

[cuz_it_aint_their_money]

Well Ladies and Gentlemen, it’s Monday so that means its time for:
A SURVIVOR RECAP

If you taped/Tivo’ed last weeks show and haven’t had a chance to watch it yet, read no further.

.

The (Merged) Aitutonga Tribe - (Black Buffs):
Adam, Becky, Candice, Jonathan, Ozzy, Parvati, Sundra, Yul

The Jury
Brad, Rebecca, Jenny, Nathan

The LOSERS!
Sekou, Billy, Cicilia, J.P. Stephannie, Coa Boi, Cristina, Jessica

SNAP! BACK TO PEDDLING SHOES Nate Voted Out

After the tribes merge, Nate Gonzalez, the 26-year-old shoe salesman from Los Angeles, California, gets blindsided at Tribal Council. The confident Raro tribe comes into the merge with the numbers, but crafty Yul uses the hidden Immunity Idol to swing Jonathan back into the Aitu alliance. Feeling completely cheated, Nate explains, "It hurts to leave this early in the game. Jonathan, you can kiss my ass! You a dirty stanky, whack fruitcake who sold me out, who sold out our tribe when we brought you in. You trading bastard. So kiss my ass, Jonathan. Other than that everyone I love. But that's how it's gotta be in this world."

Your Father or Your Boss

Jonathan starts out his day fishing and tries once again to motivate Raro to work harder. Jonathan laments that the tribe needs to put some effort in around camp and start winning the challenges. He observes them as they lounge and stretch, doing nothing to advance their position. Fed up with feeling like he has to behave as the tribe's father or boss, Jonathan comments, "I'm not going to lose because you kids can't get your asses out of bed."

Aitu's Hurting

On Day 25, Aitu's small tribe of four is starts to feel the burn from constantly giving it their all in the challenges. Strong Yul is tired and achy with a sore leg. Sundra points out a big scab on her knee. An exhausted Sundra sums up the tribe's position: "We have to prove ourselves every day, every challenge. And that's all we can do."

Merge

The two tribes arrive ready to go head to head in the next challenge. But first, Jeff Probst reveals that two members of the Raro tribe were voted out in the last Tribal Council. A shocked Aitu tribe looks over at the almost even numbered Raro tribe, considering the consequences if they had been the ones to go to Tribal Council. Then, Jeff reveals a basket containing paints, brushes, a blank tribe flag and new buffs. Aitu's small tribe of four joins Raro's dwindling five to become one new tribe. They decide to reside on Raro's beach, where the coconuts are plentiful and they can live a rat-free existence. Adam confides that he wanted the merge to happen while Raro still had the numbers. "The future's looking bright!" he exclaims.

Jeff Probst directs the new tribe to follow the sound of drums to a native catamaran, which is filled with food and refreshments. The hungry tribe lets out some jubilant groans as they head over to the catamaran, where they are greeted by friendly islanders and partake in a delicious feast.

The Aitu four have some maneuvering to do in order to stay in the game and a determined Yul says that they must try to "figure out a chink in the armor."

Annoyed by the former Raro tribe's behavior, Jonathan voices his disdain for their desire to consume alcohol, "These kids are vomiting, they are eating and drinking so much." He continues to feel a growing annoyance with their actions. "They are psychos, I don't understand it!"

Aitutonga

The merged tribe disembarks the catamaran, arriving on Raro beach with a newly painted flag that reads Aitutonga. Nate explains that the new tribe name is a mixture of Aitutaki tribe and Rarotonga tribe. Nate confides that the Raro alliance has the numbers and they plan on sticking together. Then, Nate and Ozzy take a walk on the beach and Nate lets Ozzy know that "my five are gonna want to cut off your strong points." The two have a friendship and agree to work together, if they can. Meanwhile, an unlikely coupling of intoxicated Adam and flirty Parvati snuggle under the shelter. When Parvati asks Adam about Candice, he comments, "You both can appreciate me." Drunken Adam proudly declares "It's been a great day, best day since I've been here."

Rational Player

Becky and Yul take a moment to strategize and Yul contemplates the advantages of revealing his hidden Immunity Idol. They decide that their best chance of getting any Raro member to flip is by approaching a more rational player: Jonathan.

Yul approaches Jonathan, asking if they might work together again. Jonathan entertains the notion and tells Yul a player can't get to the final four unless he has an alliance with someone who has the hidden Immunity Idol. Jonathan states, "If I flip again, the Raro people are going to go mental."

With no other option, Yul is forced to pose a hypothetical scenario to Jonathan-suggesting that he has the Immunity Idol. If Aitu votes for Jonathan and Raro votes for Yul, Yul will play the idol and therefore Jonathan would be the next to go home. Skeptical that Yul is serious; Jonathan figures, "If Yul has the idol, I have to consider flipping…. If I was with the guy who had the idol all along and I have to flip back, that's a fantastic twist."

Happy Dance

Yul informs Sundra that he has the Immunity Idol and thinks that he can persuade Jonathan to join the Aitu alliance. Becky playfully dances up to them as they all revel in the moment. Sundra is happy to have the "nice little wild card." Yul then brings Ozzy into the circle of knowledge. Ozzy feels bad about turning his back on his friend Nate, but feels that being true to Yul and his former Aitu tribe is the right thing to do.

Going Home

Parvati and Candice discuss the next target for Tribal Council voting. They are threatened by the way that Yul and Jonathan have been talking and want to oust Yul. Candice suspiciously questions Jonathan about Yul and they discuss who should be the first to go from the new Aitutonga tribe. Jonathan thinks it should be challenge dominator, Ozzy. Candice informs Jonathan that Nate and Parvati would like Yul to go. Nervously, Jonathan informs Candice, "If we vote for Yul and he has [the idol] we will find ourselves going home."

Immunity Challenge: Mast Cling On

The merged Aitutonga tribe arrives at the challenge, ready for business. Jeff Probst informs the tribe that they will now be competing for individual Immunity and he reveals the Immunity necklace. Jeff explains the rules of this challenge. Each individual must hang on to a pole for as long as they can. When they fall off of the pole, they are out of the challenge. Last person left hanging on their pole wins Immunity and is safe at Tribal Council. One caveat is that no one can use the top of the pole for support.

Each tribe member starts the challenge, clinging to his or her individual pole. Adam is the first to drop from his pole, logging only nine minutes. Jonathan points out that people with bigger feet are likely at a disadvantage, since the rope on the pole is the same size for everyone. Jonathan is next to slide down his pole and be eliminated. Then, Nate struggles as Sundra starts to slip. Nate's feet shake as he falls off of his pole. Sundra and Yul both lose the fight and fall off of their poles. Suddenly, rain starts pouring down on the remaining participants. Parvati falls off, and then Becky falls off. Down to only Candice and Ozzy, the two grip their poles, clinging to hope. As the rain continues to soak them, Nate comments from the sidelines, "We could be out here until tomorrow morning with these two." After more than two hours, Candice slides slowly from the pole, defeated by the challenge powerhouse Ozzy. Triumphant, Ozzy collects his prize as Jeff places the necklace around his neck.

Up Against the Wall

Returning to camp from the challenge, the Aitutonga tribe discusses how hard this challenge was. Relieved that his friend is safe, Nate confides that he is happy that Ozzy won the Immunity necklace. Parvati points out that "Yul is the choice because he's brilliant."

Backed into a corner, Yul decides that he must show Jonathan the hidden Immunity Idol, in order to switch up the game and get Jonathan to vote with Aitu. Yul tells Jonathan that he wants to take him to the final two, because he has made enemies, whereas Sundra and Becky have not. Although Jonathan has no option other than getting voted out, he tells Yul that he needs to think about it. Jonathan tells his former Raro tribe mates that he is concerned that Yul may have the idol. Adam, Parvati, Nate and Candice reply that he simply doesn't have it. Jonathan is frustrated by the Raro alliance's inability to imagine scenarios.

Isolated from the group, Adam and Candice strategize in the woods, and talk quickly turns to flirty smiles and passionate kissing. Meanwhile, Jonathan solidifies his bond with the Aitu alliance and asks that they vote for Nate, rather than Adam. Jonathan believes that if he betrays his protectors, Adam and Candice, "It makes me the guy who betrayed every single person in the game at one time or another." Aitu agrees that it will be Nate who gets their votes. Though Becky and Yul worry about the mutinous Jonathan playing them for fools, Jonathan sticks to his word with the Aitu alliance. And in a nail-biting five to four vote during Tribal Council, Nate is voted out and Yul does not have to play his Immunity Idol to stay in the game.

I’ll be back Thursday with my picks. Until then,
Take care,

Freepmail me if you want to be added to or removed from the Survivor Ping List.

[MomwithHope]

Hey Cuz, you're up and at 'em early. Thanks for the recap. Jonathan is turning into a player's dream to be against in the final 2. Have a great week!