Jeff Probst Discusses Selecting All-Star Cast for ‘Survivor 50’

Survivor 50 will be the show’s first all-star season featuring returning contestants since the beginning of its New Era. Jeff Probst has shared his thoughts on how he’s selecting the participants, considering the vast number of choices from the previous 46 seasons.

Probst explained the unique method he’s using to determine the cast for this milestone season. While Survivor 47 is about to premiere, Probst is already looking ahead to the significant 50th season.

In preparation for Survivor 50, Probst has been busy sorting through a plethora of potential contestants. He mentioned, “I printed out their faces on 4×6 magnetic sheets with their names, the season they first played, and how old they will be if they play in [Season] 50.”

The plan is to place these magnetic sheets on a whiteboard to visualize the options better. Probst added, “How are you going to get this down to a handful of people to play Survivor 50 that will satisfy the fans and will honor 50 seasons?”

Initially, there was a list of 200 potential contestants, which they have been gradually narrowing down. Now, they are left with about 100 candidates.

Probst emphasized that the 50th season needs to be a celebration. “50’s gotta be a celebration. Let’s do a great season of Survivor but put an emphasis on the word ‘fun’.” He is particularly interested in choosing individuals who will be engaging and contribute to the excitement of the season.

Looking at the series’ schedule, Survivor 50 is expected to air in the first half of 2026. Currently, they are in post-production for Survivor 47, while Survivor 48 has already finished filming and will enter post-production soon.

Despite the busy schedule, Probst remains dedicated. “I’m starting casting on 49, and then we have 50 coming up this year, so that’s a bigger thing. Then we also have the podcast that we’re doing. It’s a year-round job,” he stated.

Fans are eagerly anticipating who will be cast in Survivor 50 and what the season will bring. Feel free to share your thoughts and dream lineups for this special anniversary season in the comments below.

Source: Variety