It turns out a winner can still have something to prove. RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 7 is the first all-winners season in the franchise's history, bringing back illustrious...The Survivor amulet – introduced during the first episode of this season – has finally reached its highest potential and has become an Immunity Idol…all of that, only to expire in Lindsay‘s pocket.
It was another stellar episode of Survivor 42, in a season that continues to push the entertainment envelope. Down the stretch, every time there seems to be a cool, chaotic scenario present itself as an option in the game, it ends up playing out. Tonight, there were a few safe choices as to who to send home, but Maryanne had other ideas and once again up-ended the Survivor apple cart. Omar, who had been this season’s puppet master, orchestrating big moves behind-the-scenes week-to-week, had his strings clipped by a player (Maryanne) who at the beginning of this game might have seemed like the least likeliest person to ever win Survivor…but who now seems like a strong candidate to become Sole Survivor.
It’s come down to this, the Final Five of Survivor 42: Maryanne. Lindsay. Jonathan. Mike. Romeo. It’s been quite a while, if ever, that we’ve seen four of this caliber of Sole Survivor candidates all make it to this late stage in the game, at the same time. I’ve left out Romeo, but to his credit, here’s a guy who was a super-strategic threat pre-merge who has simply been playing from the bottom (it’s a debate whether or not he ended up there by bad luck or due to his own paranoia, but if you want to call him a “goat,” he’s one of the better goats that Survivor has had). Five are left as we head into next week’s three-hour Survivor 42 Finale (be sure to check back here for the season wrap-up as well as updated lists of all-time Survivor Winners and Most Memorable Seasons!).
Depending on who you were rooting for, tonight either induced a massive celebration or a frustrating groan. For me, my mind always tries to make me cheer for the underdog in any situation, so while I LOVED Omar and thought he had the potential to be one of the most impressive winners in quite a while, I was SO on board with Maryanne‘s plan to blindside him since Omar was at the top and Maryanne was perceived as being on the bottom. But from the perspective of Team Omar and Team Lindsay, man-oh-man. Things seemed to have worked out perfectly! Lindsay went up against Goliath (aka Jonathan) and beasted-out an Immunity Challenge win – her second – only to choose not to play her amulet-turned-Idol on Omar. Her reasoning? Thinking too far ahead. She was more concerned about a potential Idol coming back into play the next day after Tribal, than she was making sure her number-one ally even made it there. It was a bone-headed move any way you slice it. But thinking too far ahead is something that players tend to do when they feel a bit too comfortable, and I think that Lindsay – riding high after navigating last week’s “Do or Die” challenge and with an Immunity Necklace around her neck – was feeling just that. I mean, do you know how many things had to occur for that amulet to turn into an Idol, and then you don’t even play it? Ugh.
What is so incredible about this season and this group of players though, are that they are all in it to win it. There has been no dead weight. Omar was orchestrating, Maryanne was scheming, and Mike was taking things into his own hands. Rightly so, everybody saw everybody else as a major threat to their own games.
Jonathan continues to impress me (despite how he’s fallen out of favor with some viewers), not only as a physical competitor but with his in-game awareness. Player “types” like Jonathan rarely make the merge let alone Final Five, and even this deep into the game, he loses a challenge and still isn’t voted out. It could be said that his social game is just fine, given that he was the target tonight, but other connections he has made – like befriending Mike and keeping an uneasy yet respectful alliance with Maryanne – saved him. His rivalry with Lindsay has been one of the most rewarding storylines of the season, and it was great to see Lindsay bounce back and beat him this time after losing to him at the last challenge.
Speaking of Lindsay vs. Jonathan, I think that their final showdown will of course, obviously, take place during next week’s Finale. But I think it will happen early. If you look at that game as it stands, both Mike and Maryanne have Idols that must be played next week, so barring an Erik Reichenbach-level mistake (hi Erik!), both of them will make Final Four. I see no scenario where Romeo is targeted next, so that leaves…you guessed it…Lindsay vs. Jonathan. If one of them wins the next Immunity Challenge, it is likely that it will mean the other will finally be sent to jury. It’s the ultimate showdown between two outstanding competitors. I think the odds are in Jonathan’s favor actually, if you consider that I think Lindsay is more vulnerable in the unlikely event that one of the other three – Maryanne, Mike or Romeo – win Immunity. At this point, Jonathan might actually be looked at as someone that Mike and Maryanne may want to sit next to at the end…yes, he’s been an impressive competitor, but both Maryanne and Mike would – rightly so – believe that they are both more likable than Jonathan in the eyes of the jury. Same goes for Romeo. I think neither Mike nor Maryanne would want to sit next to Lindsay if given the choice. That ultimately means that it’s not only Lindsay vs. Jonathan, it’s Lindsay vs. Everybody.
Beyond the Lindsay/Jonathan match-up, the most intriguing thing heading into Finale is the dynamic between Mike and Maryanne. Yes, they helped each other out, but they both have shown to have great in-game awareness (for the most part), so they both have to know that the other is their next biggest threat. Sitting next to Lindsay or Jonathan, each of them could make the argument that they are more well-liked. But if Maryanne goes head-to-head against Mike in front of the jury? They’d be rolling the dice as to who the jury actually thinks is most-deserving.
Speaking of rolling the dice, this week was the last chance for the “shot-in-the-dark” to be played, a concept that might have added a few extra layers to gameplay but one that never quite materialized into anything dramatic for TV. But maybe the show should give it time? The “extra vote” advantage has been around for a while, and never actually made all that much of a difference at Tribal until Maryanne‘s double-vote this week. What do you think, should the “shot-in-the-dark” be given some more time to make an impact or do you think it should be retired a la “The Medallion of Power”?
Not only has this been a great season, from the balanced tribes headed into the merge, to the great Tribals and challenges we’ve witnessed, but I’m again struck by just how great this particular cast is. More specifically, how they all seem to just “get it” when it comes to the game of Survivor. Omar, for example, was just a few days away from a million bucks, and upon being blindsided, he smiled, gave hugs and laughed about his misfortunes. Drea did the same last week. Here is a group that respects the game, that understands it, and who we all hope will make for the least-bitter jury in history. Because there is nothing that sucks the energy out of a Finale quite like a bitter jury, so here’s hoping we won’t have one.
I personally believe that anyone remaining can win Survivor (yes even Romeo…could you imagine if his “fake Idol” that was teased last week, led to a huge blindside of some kind? That would skyrocket Romeo’s value to the jury!). But because of the way it is shaping up, I feel like it will come down to either Maryanne or Mike. The best news of all, is that I would honestly be 100% satisfied with any outcome. That means we can just sit back and enjoy the fireworks next week, because if we’ve learned anything at all from Season 42, it’s that it’s going to be a fun ride.
Episode Take-Away: I thought for sure that the vote was going to be on Jonathan and that the editors were just faking us out to maximize the drama…but nope! Kudos to Maryanne for working her plan and convincing two dudes to help her deliver what is definitely one of the biggest moves of the season. If she can move Mike and Jonathan, she can sway a jury. But now Maryanne is a known factor. Others now know what she’s capable of, and all of them would be fools to let her get to the end. But with an Idol and her strong will in her possession, it may not be up to the others to decide Maryanne’s fate at all. She would be the unlikeliest of winners, and at the same time one of the most-deserving and rewarding ones. Even with her move to dethrone Omar, she still strikes me as an underdog…and who doesn’t want the underdog to come out on top?
Erik Reichenbach DabuDoodles Art. Survivor legend Erik Reichenbach has been kicking out some amazing artwork all season long, and I’m so thrilled and honored that he shares his talents every week on my column and with my audience. His latest piece will appear here usually in the days after the show’s airing, so if it does not appear here now, check back usually by the weekend following an episode and give this page a refresh. All of Erik’s work can be found and purchased on his site, DabuDoodles.com, and I urge you to support this fantastically skilled former Survivor player!
Out this week: Omar
Won Immunity: Lindsay (2)
Vote Result: Maryanne used her “Extra Vote” advantage to receive two total votes. No other advantages or Idols were played. 3 – Omar (Maryanne #1, Maryanne #2, Romeo), 2 – Jonathan (Lindsay, Omar), 2- Romeo (Mike, Jonathan)
Current Advantage List:
Next Week’s Three Hour Finale Episode: There’s no way that this won’t end great. Jonathan calls it a “Battle Royale.” We see Lindsay searching frantically for an Idol (is there one out there to be found or was this included as a final red herring?). Maryanne seems to target Jonathan. And Romeo presents a fake idol. I just can’t wait to see what else Season 42 has in store for us!
Quick Note! I appreciate that you are reading this recap! Those that have followed me also know that I am also a RottenTomatoes-approved film critic and I encourage you to check out my past movie reviews and my movie show (episodes are also available online at the website, www.MovieShowPlus.com.) As always, the easiest way to get all of my Survivor coverage and movie reviews is to follow me on Twitter – @tomsantilli – or on Facebook.
TELL US – WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS EPISODE? DO YOU THINK THE “SHOT-IN-THE-DARK” IS SOMETHING THAT SHOULD BE BROUGHT BACK? AND WHO WILL BE CROWNED SOLE SURVIVOR?
[Photo Credit: CBS/Monty Brinton/Robert Voets/Timothy Kuratek/Jeffrey Neira/Michele Crowe/David M. Russell]
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OK. Here we are, Good Vibe Tribe. The end of Season 6. And right back in the middle of Danielle Olivera and Ciara Miller‘s reunion confrontation. (Over the latter pelting the former in the chest with a wine glass during their Italian dinner blow-up. Just in case you were lost.) Hate is a big word, but Danielle throws it out to describe how she feels about Ciara these days. Mostly because she didn’t reach out and apologize again after seeing the fight play back on TV.
I took a lot of heat in the comments about being biased against Lindsay Hubbard last week. But here’s the difference: Ciara actually apologizes. And she doesn’t need to be coached through it either. There’s no “I’m sorry you felt that way…” or any other type of non-apology apology. Instead, she takes accountability, recognizes she shouldn’t have done it, and offers Danielle a sincere apology. Ciara also gives added context as to why she had reached her boiling point at the meal. Apparently, gossip was flying around the house that Lindsay and Austen Kroll had made out, gone skinny-dipping, and slept naked in bed together the weekend before. All coming straight from Lindsay’s mouth. And there’s unaired footage to prove it.
I’m sorry. Why was this key element of the story left on the editing room floor? Lindsay tries to backpedal that she never had sex with Austen. But the detail about sleeping naked together came from no one but her. Lindsay also openly admits in the footage that the only thing that kept her from hooking up with the Charm-er was the fact that he fell asleep. So the argument is basically moot. And whether or not literal penetration was involved, there’s still more than enough reason for Ciara to be justifiably upset. But enough of this. I’m over it. (Also, Ciara admits to hooking up with Austen again one month later? Gross. Just gross.)
Charmed, I’m Sure
Let’s move on to a different Summer House/Southern Charm romance. Yes, I’m talking about the one between Paige DeSorbo and Craig Conover. And I have a confession: I love them together. I don’t care what anyone else thinks or says. I love Paige. I love Craig. Together, they are the Bravo power couple of my dreams. Drag me in the comments, Monique. It seems Andrea Denver is also a fan of the couple. Because as much as viewers and production try to make the love triangle a major plot point, he has nothing but good things to say about his two friends getting together. Plus, he got Lexi back. So really, all’s well that ends well.
There’s also the Kristin Cavallari of it all. And apparently the reality icon has an unprecedentedly talented legal team. Because not even Andy Cohen is allowed to use her full name on camera. The roommates are split on whether Craig actually hooked up with The Hills alum. And if you ask me, he was probably making it up or exaggerating in an attempt to look cool. I mean, Craig has a heart of gold. But this is still the guy who spent multiple seasons lying about passing the bar exam. Still love you, though, Craigy!
There’s also debate over how long Lindsay actually knew about the Kristin rumors before deploying them on camera as ammunition. Was it a month before? Or is Austen lying that he told Lindsay that early? Amanda Batula throws out the accusation that Lindsay loves to insert herself into her cast mates’ relationships under the guise of being a good friend. But really, she just loves launching grenades in front of the cameras. Then again, two things can be true at once. Lindsay’s still not a “girl’s girl,” though. Cue the footage of her “sexy car ride” and nipple licking with Andrea…The part of this whole thing that I hate the most is seeing Paige and Carl Radke still turning on one another.
When Carl Met Lindsay
Next, we’re treated to package about the long road Carl and Lindsay took to coupledom — failed attempt at a relationship and fingerbang included. They’re in love now. I don’t love it. I think Carl deserves so much better. But c’est la vie. One positive element of their new relationship is that it’s caused Lindsay to reevaluate her own relationship with alcohol. Which is nothing but for the best, even if she doesn’t see herself being sober forever.
One negative element is that no one in the cast seems to be all that supportive of RadHouse’s relationship on social media. (Yeah, I’m not calling them that. It doesn’t have the same ring as Kymanda.) When Andy takes an impromptu poll, everyone insists they’re genuinely happy for the happy couple. Even if it’s to, let’s say, varying degrees of enthusiasm. (Cough, cough…Paige.) So…blame it on the algorithm? Everyone just needs to emotionally prepare themselves for Carl and Lindsay to move in together for Season 7.
Whitewashed in the Hamptons
Andy pivots from all the couple updates to a far more sobering topic: Ciara and Mya Allen‘s experience being Black in the predominantly white Hamptons. It was a touching early in the season, even if it was brought on by Andrea‘s thoughtlessness towards Mya. (And now that we know who Lexi is, we also understand where his head was at when he called the newbie by the wrong name.) And once again, the conversation is productive on the reunion couches. Mya admits that, in life, she tends to avoid assuming things are about race. But even Kyle Cooke, arguably the whitest, most ignorantly privileged (and I say that with love) person in the house, explains that the girls sharing their experiences helped open his eyes to being more understanding, compassionate and aware of what other people around him may be going through.
Alex Wach also speaks up during the discussion, recounting a guest at one of the roommates’ first parties of the summer treating him like a member of the staff because he’s Asian. It makes my blood boil thinking that someone thought it was OK to tell Alex he looked like Bruce Lee. So nasty. So rude. Not only is it insensitive, it’s a downright racist microaggression. But sadly, it’s something that all the people of color on the couches have to deal with on a daily basis. Danielle also confronts Ciara for leaving her out of the discussion. But the model tries to clarify that she was speaking about being a Black woman while using the term “person of color.” And the two seem to leave it there.
Prenuptial Disagreements
Finally, it’s time for Kyle and Amanda to relive all the drama leading up to their wedding. But not until after Andy and all the girls point out how attractive Amanda’s dad is. The long-running couple in the house claim their life is wedded bliss these days. But Kyle does take issue with some of the comments his housemates made over the course of the season. Most Paige and a little bit of Ciara if we’re being honest. However, everyone roundly insists they just wanted Kyle and Amanda to be happy before walking down the aisle. Like, really and truly happy. Which they didn’t seem to be for most of the season.
When it comes to the couple’s much-fought-over prenup, they never signed one. With Amanda particularly confessing that she was more than a little naive about what it entailed. All she knew was that it had a sort of negative cultural connotation — probably from watching lots of Bravo — and didn’t bother doing her research. So now she’s on the hook for half of Kyle‘s four million dollar loan for Loverboy, yes? Andy brings up the idea of having kids. But once they start popping out little Kymandas, won’t they stop doing a share house in the Hamptons every summer?
And with that, the reunion’s pretty much over. Andy tries one more time to address the very obvious tension between Paige and Carl and Lindsay. But Paige really refuses to take the bait. Even in light of Carl trying to offer an apology for their nasty back-and-forth moments all day. Guess we’ll find out how things move forward once Season 2 of Winter House premieres later this year!
TELL US – DO YOU THINK DANIELLE STILL HATES CIARA? DO THE OTHER ROOMMATES REALLY SUPPORT LINDSAY AND CARL’S RELATIONSHIP? HOW DID CIARA AND MYA’S CONVERSATION ABOUT RACE IMPACT YOU AS A VIEWER? SHOULD KYLE AND AMANDA HAVE SIGNED A PRENUP? WHO DO YOU WANT TO RETURN NEXT SEASON?
[Photo Credit: Bravo]
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