Part II: The starting-from-scratch Survivor guide

Your next 11 seasons are ready.

Your next batch of seasons is here!

Now, I know that I have given you plenty of time (too much time, my internal project manager repeats on a regular basis), but there’s nothing like an election year to spur the need for distraction. Here is several weeks’ worth of television (11 seasons) for just that purpose.

If you missed the first edition of this guide, I must implore you, much like Hilary Duff once said, to go back…back to the beginning to part I.

The guide to the guide

Let’s revisit our goal: In my estimation, the aim is to reach the show’s 40th season — where 20 previous winners return to compete against each other in an epic showdown — and understand all of the dynamics between the contestants. Like most reality competition shows, strategy and inter-season relationships develop over the years. If you’ve watched the first three seasons I recommended, you’re surely hooked. Now, we go back in time to the show’s early days so you can appreciate how far it’s come and meet all the players who helped evolve the game. Please watch all seasons IN THIS ORDER! (All seasons available on Paramount+.)

🚨 Remember: NO GOOGLING! 🚨

The risk of spoilers is too great. If you must, include “no spoilers” in your search. It is also helpful to have a personal shaman (TY Brian) who can answer your questions or at least google without fear. Text me if you get desperate.

---

Your next batch of seasons

Emoji key

🏆 Pre-requisite for S40: Winners at War
➕ Not a requirement for S40, but still a good watch
🫶 A personal favorite of mine