Come on in, critics!Jeff Probsthears you loud and clear.
In PEOPLE’s exclusive look atSurvivorseason 46, the show’s longtime host addresses some viewers’ complaints about his ever-evolving hosting style.
“I’ve heard the criticism that I’ve become a little too soft — I hear you,” Probst, 62, says in PEOPLE’s exclusive video, overlaid with new footage and an old clip of him stabbingSurvivor 45castaways’ bag of rice with a knife to force them to make a decision quickly. “Maybe I need to bring a little of the edge back, and I think you will start to see that.”
“We get to spend more time with the players,” Probst adds. “This group is funny. I had a smile on my face every single day, because even though they are still playing this game and trying to figure out how to maneuver, they’re doing it with a personality that’s fun to be a part of.”
Season 46 players compete in a challenge.Robert Voets/CBS
Robert Voets/CBS
The 18 castaways also took “the game to a new level” this season, which continues the 26-day format that started with season 41 instead of the typical 39-day seasons.
“I think one of the biggest differences about playingSurvivorin the new era is it is a sprint,” the five-time Emmy winner explains. “The second your feet hit the sand, the game is on, which [for contestants] means follow your instinct and just go play.”
The new era has incorporated new, polarizing twists and brought back the fan-favorite auction over the past few seasons, and incoming players have become accustomed to expect the unexpected in addition to preparing physically and mentally to outwit, outplay and outlast each other.
“I think one of the biggest differences about playing ‘Survivor’ in the new era is it is a sprint,” Jeff Probst says.Robert Voets/CBS
Survivorpremiered nearly 24 years ago in May 2000. Since then, over the course of 661 episodes before season 46’s premiere, 43 players have claimed the title of “Sole Survivor,” with only Sandra Diaz-Twine and Tony Vlachos each having won twice.
“Survivor 46may go down as the best season of the new era,” Probst says. “All these levels and layers just add up to this great gameplay and that’s what you’re going to see this season — gameplay like no other.”
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Survivorseason 46 premieres on Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS.
source: people.com
