Survivor has made subtle changes to the show over the years, but one change that host Jeff Probst made has remained a controversial one. Some fans understand why he did it, while others are frustrated that one of the show’s slogans was removed.
For years, when the castaways were about to play a challenge, Jeff would say, “Come on in, guys,” to the group. They would then emerge from the trees or the brush, ready to take on the next challenge of the day.
The recent seasons have not included that catch phrase, as Jeff made a concerted effort to help the show evolve with the times. Many fans complain about the missing phrase on social media, and Jeff has certainly noticed the backlash.
In a new interview, Jeff addressed the “Come on in, guys” controversy and his view on the change. The summary is that Jeff doesn’t regret his decision.
Jeff Probst addresses the ‘Come on in, guys’ Survivor controversy
“Everybody got upset because I’m ‘too woke’ or whatever, which is irrelevant to me,” Jeff stated when addressing the removal of his catch phrase, “Come on in, guys.”
“I don’t care about that. I only care about if I feel like I’m doing the right thing in the right way,” Jeff elaborated to Vanity Fair. Even away from Fiji, he rarely says “guys” in everyday conversation.
It was his daughter who suggested the shift on the show. He also insists that Survivor is not political — and that the political climate doesn’t dictate changes to the format or presentation.
Some fans have blamed a former castaway for the change, but Jeff insists that the idea came from elsewhere. He also appears content with saying “Come on in” now, so the new phrase is likely locked in place.
It’s probably a good thing that Jeff is paying attention to the noise on social media, especially when it comes to things like the Live Reunion Shows.
The producers (Jeff is one of them) let fans vote on many aspects of Survivor 50. It was recently announced that Survivor 50 features the return of the Live Reunion Show. This increases the action on the finale night as Jeff reads the votes in front of a studio audience.
Jeff also teased Survivor 51 and what’s to come. But first, we get to enjoy 24 returning castaways on Survivor 50.
More Survivor news and notes
A cheating scandal on Survivor has rocked the long-time fans. It’s something the show has to get under control before Survivor 51.
The Survivor 50 cast members revealed their targets. They were asked who they would target on the first day of the new season.
House of Villains 3 features a Survivor alum. The new season will arrive soon on TV.
