The cast for upcoming Season 36 of Survivor has been revealed. The cast consists of 20 new castaways divided into two tribes, Malolo and Naviti. And for the first time in a long time, the tribes will not be divided based on any theme-related characteristics. The tribes are below, with a bio and other information for each player. I’ll make a pick for first one out (one pick from each tribe) and will mention a few players to watch. Full cast bios found at CBS.
Malolo Tribe
Malolo Tribe members (Back Row L-R: James Lim, Jacob Derwin, Laurel Johnson, Michael Yerger, Janna Bowman, Front Row L-R: Stephanie Gonzalez, Brendan Shapiro, Stephanie Johnson, Libby Vincek, Donathan Hurley). Photo: Robert Voets/CBS
Brendan Shapiro
Age: 41 Hometown: Herndon, Virginia Current residence: Herndon, Virginia Occupation: Physical Education Teacher
Hobbies: Coaching and watching my kids’ sports, tailgating at Redskins games, running and chopping wood.
Pet peeves: Passive-aggression, when people slow down to merge or change lanes, cry babies, and waiting.
Three words to describe you: Deliberate, optimistic, and determined.
What’s your personal claim to fame? I am not afraid to take risks and make big changes. During the recession, I left a well-paying but unsatisfying desk job, risking everything I owned, to start my own business. After more than a dozen years and at 40 years old, I sold the business to pursue another lifelong interest to become a teacher.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My wife because she overcame bike crashes, injuries, and big obstacles to become a world-class professional triathlete (while raising two kids and running a business).
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? A picture of my wife and kids to keep me tethered to reality, a football to throw on the beach, and bacon jerky because it’s delicious and doesn’t need to be refrigerated.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? Jeremy Collins and Tom Westman because I understand people and know how to unite them behind a common goal. Also, I am pretty athletic for an old guy.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? To win.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I’m strong, fast, tough, and good with my hands. I can read a room. I know how to make people feel comfortable and secure. My tribemates will want to keep me around.
Hobbies: Discovering new music on Spotify, vinyl record collecting, binge watching Survivor on CBS All Access, and photography of nature and portraits.
Pet peeves: People who think they know it all, people who are disrespectful toward others for no reason, people who judge the book by its cover (people have treated me that way my entire life), people that say “literally” without it being literal, people who aren’t straight forward when they need to be and finally, getting my name wrong. It is D-O-N-A-T-H-A-N, not Jonathan or Donovan.
Three words to describe you: Determined, whimsical, and rare.
What’s your personal claim to fame? I was a part of a national and state level winning dance team. I danced in the hip-hop routine. I am proud of being openly gay and dancing in front of thousands in this area. My goal is always to try to change the opinions of others when it comes to the LGBTQ community and through dancing, I was able to open the arms of many.
There will never be another me when it comes to those years and for that impact, I feel very accomplished. Being the only guy to hold a national championship among the basketball, football and baseball guys—yeah, that felt really nice!
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My hero is my grandmother, Deloris Bentley. Always has been, always will be. My grandmother had seven children between the years of 1960-1968, with my mom being the youngest. She raised them all with very limited food, no power until 1975, no bathrooms, only outhouses—all while dealing with the day-to-day struggles of having an alcoholic as a husband.
Over the years, things got better for her. She raised her children, divorced and re-married (twice), and ended up being very independent and open-minded! In 2006, she had a brain aneurysm. She flew out to have emergency surgery and you know what saved her that time? Her blood was so thick from smoking three packs a day for so many years, that the aneurysm was sealed shut.
After her surgery, she was up the next morning eating on some ice. Now if that isn’t inspiring, I don’t know what is! She has always been the glue in our family. She is such a hero in my eyes because of all the sacrifices, determination and selflessness she has expressed and shown all her life! Many people are probably picking celebrities and all that jazz, but my little ‘ole Maw Maw is my hero.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? My cross necklace my grandmother got for me, my glasses (if that counts) so I can snap them in half to help with making fire, and just the clothes on my back.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? While there are tons of castaways that I have related to, especially those from the LGBTQ community (Colton, Todd, Tia), and my hillbillies (Keith, Sandy, JT), I always find the most relatable to be Cirie.
No one expected the gameplay Cirie played in her first season. She went out there, hated leaves, and really didn’t know much about the game. But you know what? She went out there and learned the way. She kept her mouth shut when need be, made the big moves when she needed to, and had a great sense of the people on the island what they were thinking.
She is the type of player I see myself being. I adore her, and it doesn’t hurt that her birthday is July 18th and mine July 19th. We Cancers just have a way about us that is charming, yet manipulative. Our knife is always ready for backs (figuratively)!
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? It’s for me and my family. We have always been below the poverty line. We have always struggled year to year to make ends meet. But it does make you stronger having to live that way. But you know what? I am tired of living this life.
I want to be a great influence for my family—prove to them that when you try, things can happen. It takes you to put the first foot in the door, no one else. I don’t want to end up being stuck here in a rusted old trailer. I want more for my family, especially my mom and grandmother, and also help those in my area who are less fortunate.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? Living in Eastern Kentucky has its perks. We are outdoors people. We love the lakes, we love to roam trails and mountains, and I have learned a lot about nature and survival. And while I have never been in a dire situation to use these skills, I truly believe when the survivalist in me kicks in, I would have a lot to offer.
Now darlin’, I ain’t no lumberjack. But I can offer common sense solutions in order to help make my tribe grow. I already plan on breaking my glasses to help with fire and prove that this little gay hillbilly nerd isn’t afraid of what nature can bring! I really think I will surprise a lot of people.
Jacob Derwin
Age: 22 Hometown: Merrick, New York Current residence: Brooklyn, New York Occupation: Music Teacher
Hobbies: Songwriting and performing those songs, telling stories—be that on stage or just to friends—and cooking with my mom. Shut up, it makes me happy! Also, I listen to a ton of podcasts, attend as many concerts as I possibly can, and spend a great deal of time panicking over current political events.
Pet peeves: When people let little discomforts spoil an entire experience. When people feel a need to complain constantly, even when there’s nothing to complain about. The worst, though? When people don’t have a sense of humor. Laugh, dammit!
Three words to describe you: Self-deprecating, charming, and affable—though others would say “punchable.”
What’s your personal claim to fame? Nothing feels better than hearing your own music for the millionth time and still enjoying it. And even better, when other people hear your music for the first time and it makes them cry. You can’t fake those kinds of responses. It’s the best. Cheesy? Maybe. True? You bet, man.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? I have a few but I suppose Robin Williams is the most well-known one. When I was a little kid, Genie from Aladdin was my entire sense of humor. That wild, a-hundred-jokes-a-minute pacing, all the voices and wackiness completely dazzled me. As I got older, I got to appreciate all his other amazing roles and unabashedly nutty stand-up routines. I’m often told I’m too loud. I blame that entirely on Robin Williams.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? First would be my guitar because it gives me something I can focus on outside of the game. Next, one of those daily joke calendars because not only is it great for keeping track of time, but if your situation isn’t providing many laughs, it’s good to have a reliable way to find some. Finally, beard oil. I bought my first vile of this stuff about a year ago and it’s the best feeling thing ever. Plus, it’s really fun to respond to “Are you wearing cologne?” with “No, just beard oil.”
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? I’ve always felt like I related most to Stephen Fishbach, though I see a lot of David Wright in me as well. I’m a funny, nerdy, neurotic Jewish guy trying to make it in the entertainment business. I’m logical and smart (I like to think), but I’ve spent plenty of time crying in private.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? I’ve been dreaming of doing this for well over a decade. At this point, above all else, it’s to prove I can do what I’ve been saying I could do since I was a kid: Win Survivor. Part pride, part sticking it to the kids who tortured me growing up. It’s a “What have you accomplished?” kind of thing. I promise I’m not usually so vengeful!
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? This sounds stupid, but I’m really easy to talk to. I want to set up my situation so everyone knows they can come to me to chat and get support despite any problems they’re having personally or socially in the game. I’m a teddy bear, y’know? On top of that, I’m not a weakling. I can haul firewood and follow instructions when it comes to building shelters. I know how to make fire and untie knots and all that.
James Lim
Age: 24 Hometown: Los Angeles, California Current residence: New York, New York Occupation: Business Analyst
Hobbies: Working out, exploring restaurants/bars, and traveling to faraway destinations.
Pet peeves: Slow walkers, people who are superficial, and bigots.
Three words to describe you: Astute, resolute, and ambitious.
What’s your personal claim to fame? I am a U.S. Presidential Scholar selected by President Obama’s commission, and interned for his White House administration. In college, I was a walk-on sprinter for Harvard Track and Field and, as a senior, was elected team captain by my teammates, becoming the first Asian American captain in program history.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My grandfather came from a rural village in Korea, survived the Korean War, put himself through the best college in the country, and eventually became a successful businessman. He came from nothing to overcome tremendous odds and so much adversity and always exemplified love for family along the way. He passed away a couple of years ago but remains an inspiration in everything I do.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? First, a photo of my family. They’ll be a source of emotional strength no matter how tough it gets out there. Second would be an American flag because being a first-generation American is one of the greatest sources of pride and willpower for me. Finally, a journal and pen to take notes on the game as it develops and also to keep a diary during the adventure of a lifetime.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? Yul Kwon. Our backgrounds are uncannily similar as Korean-American management consultants, and I plan to follow his example in being cool, calm, and collected throughout the game. Yul’s Survivor journey contributed greatly to the positive representation of Asian-Americans on TV, and I hope to do the same.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? Survivor is an adventure like no other. Everything it presents—the wilderness, the challenges, the fellow castaways from all cross-sections of America—will be a chance for me to break out of the bubble I’ve been a part of for most of my life and push myself physically, emotionally, and mentally like never before. I’ll embrace the challenge and have fun along the way.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? There is no magic formula to winning Survivor. However, there are qualities that will help players get far. I believe I have most of them—I am team-oriented, athletic, outgoing, and tenacious. I will focus on being a helpful, likable asset to those around me, and on the down low strategically pave my path to the very end.
Jenna Bowman
Age: 23 Hometown: Detroit, Michigan Current residence: Venice Beach, California Occupation: Advertising Account Executive Hobbies: Volunteering for the non-profit Wish Upon a Teen, traveling, and being outdoors.
Pet peeves: People who move too slow to accomplish something, people who say the word “poop,” people who lie for no reason, internet trolls, bad breath, and road rage (basically everyone needs to chill).
Three words to describe you: Creative, open minded, and adventurous.
What’s your personal claim to fame? I think I feel the most accomplished when I make someone’s day. It’s important to maintain relationships with family and friends by going above and beyond for them. When you see someone cry happy tears from what you did, it’s extremely rewarding. I think it’s important to not only maintain healthy relationships with friends and family but also to make a difference in a total stranger’s life. I don’t care what type of person you are, seeing someone better off because of something you did changes you for the better. Pay it forward, people—even the smallest gesture can make a large impact!
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My hero is Shailene Woodley because she uses her platform to make a difference. Her participation in Standing Rock protests is inspiring. I’d say my daily hopes and dreams are inspired by all of the unique creatures, cultures, and nature that surrounds us on this planet.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? First, lemons to flavor my water/food and bleach my hair. Second would be Mentos gum to chew, and finally, pen and paper to document my journey/write love letters to a hot castaway.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? Because why the hell not? Literally can’t think of a single reason why anyone would say no to an experience of a lifetime. Life is too short to not say “YES.”
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I have been able to manifest anything and everything I’ve ever wanted in my life—it’s pretty cool. Not to brag, but I say I want something and I always get it. So hopefully by saying “I’ll survive,” I will win or at least come out of the experience with nothing but a profound appreciation of what I just accomplished.
Hobbies: Watching Survivor, playing beach volleyball, and the Sunday New York Times crossword puzzle.
Pet peeves: Incompetence, indecisiveness, and open-mouth chewers.
Three words to describe you: Driven, focused, and calculated.
What’s your personal claim to fame? My college volleyball team winning our division championship. It’s one thing to compete at the highest level, but it’s another to win and be the best at it.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My parents—for their dedication, support, and all the values they instilled in me.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? Crossword puzzle book to keep my mind sharp, keep me sane, and give me a way to tune everyone out, a camera to capture every single moment, and a self-addressed envelope—so there’s no confusion as to where to send the million dollar check to.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? Todd. I’ll be a smart player, shrewd, and pulling all the strings, a snake (but unbeknownst to others), and run circles around anyone in a final tribal speech. Also, Sophie. Not afraid to get stuff done, stand up for myself, and tell the boys what to do. I’ll be the smartest player there.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? The title of Sole Survivor and the challenge.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I’m a triple threat to win this game—I’m a former college athlete, an Ivy League graduate, and I know the game better than anyone else out there. I’m a superfan who knows better than to let the game pass me by and I will always fight for every single inch.
Libby Vincek
Age: 24 Hometown: Houston, Texas Current residence: Houston, Texas Occupation: Social Media Strategist
Hobbies: Working out (boxing, running, weights), traveling, and cooking.
Pet peeves: When people don’t put away simple belongings, loud chewing, and slow walkers.
Three words to describe you: Adventurous, strong, and outgoing.
What’s your personal claim to fame? Training and completing a marathon! I tried while I was in Florida and my coach was in Texas. Crossing that finish line faster than my goal time was an incredible feeling.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? Elisabeth Filarski-Hasselbeck. I began to look up to Elisabeth when I first saw her on Survivor when I was 9 years old. Even at a young age, I looked up to her not only because of her outer beauty, but her noticeably beautiful heart and work ethic. I continued to follow her in all aspects of life, from standing up for her beliefs to working with people who stand on her same side. I am a strong believer in my faith and when it comes to politics, let’s just say I’m a true southern girl. She is a badass blonde, but shows that her faith and family come first. To be able to balance all of that like she does makes her a hero and a mentor to me.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? My Bible because my faith is everything, a baseball hat, and a huge bag of my family’s smokehouse Turkey Jerky.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? I would play a combination of Jenna Morasca and Kim Spradlin, and a little bit of Natalie White. Jenna because of her strategy to flirt to the finish. She wasn’t afraid of much and used her strengths like beauty, social and brains to get her to the top. Kim because of her ability to keep cool when necessary and her athletic ability was on point. Natalie, because she used her southern outgoing charm to win hearts and keep her social game strong.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? To win a million dollars. And to prove that this southern small town blonde is more than just a pretty face. I love adventure. I love challenges and I love to overcome them. Winning could be my chance to show the bullies in high school that I’m not little ‘ol Libby anymore. It’s a chance to show off my skills and strengths and use them to their full potential. Being on Survivor has been a dream of mine. I feel like God’s been putting me through challenges and experiences in life to prepare me for this.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? Because I know that I can outlast and outplay! I work out a lot. I have endurance, I danced for 12 years. I have balance. I’ve completed tough mudders, marathons, and other races so I can get myself through challenges. My social game is strong. Making friends and alliances wouldn’t be an issue for me. Though I now work with technology and digital media, I grew up camping, hunting, and fishing. I love the outdoors so I know I can use that experience and those skills to outlast those 39 days. I’m strong, smart, and pretty and I know how to use it.
Michael Yerger
Age: 18 Hometown: Knoxville, Tennessee Current residence: Los Angeles, California Occupation: Real Estate Agent
Hobbies: Health, fitness, luxury and exotic cars, outdoor activities (camping, hiking, swimming), traveling, concerts/festivals, and architecture/design.
Pet peeves: Incompetent drivers, negativity, and rain/cold.
Three words to describe you: Energetic, slick, and resilient.
What’s your personal claim to fame? Earning Eagle Scout, the highest achievement or rank attainable in the Boy Scouting Program of the Boy Scouts of America.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? The strong desire to use my inherent abilities to leave a positive impact on this earth when I am gone.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? Hot sauce, boomerang, skittles.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? Malcolm Freberg—I’d be inwardly strategic and aggressive but outwardly friendly and easy-going.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? To become the youngest Sole Survivor ever.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? Because I’m a people person. I’ve always preferred to spend my time around others over being alone. I feel as though I can relate to those of all ages from all walks of life in some way in order to form common ground.
Stephanie Gonzalez
Age: 26 Hometown: Aguada, Puerto Rico Current residence: Ocala, Florida Occupation: Graphic Sales
Hobbies: Paintball, working out, running, free diving, snorkeling, being in nature, anything involving the ocean, and I LOVE race/stunt cars drag race. Yes I’m a little bit of a tom boy and not at all ashamed.
Pet peeves: Complainers! People who feel entitled to everything without working for it. Also, annoying laughs, arrogant men, racism, bullies, and pretty boys.
Three words to describe you: Outspoken, strong-willed, and strategic.
What’s your personal claim to fame? I was promoted to Senior Surgery Technician after only one year of long hours and sleepless nights of on call emergency surgeries. Meanwhile I was taking care of 14 foaling babies (horses) at home in exchange for rent.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? Not to be the cliché but my mother, reasons being I would not be here if she decided to abort (which was highly recommended by her doctors due to health issues when pregnant with me), Thanks for rebelling Mom! I am grateful for the woman she is and instilling in me the fighter I’ve become. She recently overcame skin cancer with a smile on her face. She’s had to work hard and reconstruct her life after some health issues and losing close family members. She is a genuinely kind, graceful woman with fire in her heart. She works with handicapped children which has been a dream of hers. She reminds me I have a bigger purpose in life.
I’ve always really appreciated her strong support in my way of thinking and encouraged me to keep being an extraordinary human being. In other words, having a strong personality and being weird is cool in her book. That normal is boring and with that, normal woman rarely go down in history. To always do everything in life wholeheartedly. It’s an “all or nothing” kind of life in my mom’s eyes. I couldn’t agree more with that woman.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? A small plush panda teddy bear my mom gave me. It’s special because she calls it my guardian angel. It really is the little things in life. A small bottle of my dad’s cologne. He is the one who always pushes me to do better than the best, to be tougher. Being able to smell his cologne will feel like he is right next to me talking words of wisdom and encouragement. I was always a daddy’s girl, and most importantly I have this bracelet that says “ONE MILLION WIN” (cause Sole Survivor would be a bit too cheesy even for me). It’s gold on black strings and it serves as my reminder of how bad I need to win Sole Survivor. I never take it off.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? I would play like a combination of people. First would be Tony Vlachos who actually goes out and hunts for idols when no one’s paying attention. Next would be to play challenges like challenge beast Kelly Wiglesworth. I’m also going to go for a nice little four win streak. Also, Brenda Lowe who can’t help but be expressive, kind but is a total badass in challenges, and finally, Sandra who I can identify with socially in her sassy attitude and manipulative ways.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? One million dollars is a huge motivating factor for me. The bragging right of forever being a legendary Sole Survivor and being 1 of 16 women to win will be nothing short of amazing, but a million dollars is life changing! It would give me the freedom to be able to have a home and not continue to move from crappy apartment to crappy apartment. It would allow me to pursue investing and financial growth which I can turn into my lifelong goal of living a philanthropic life.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? Because of my hell-bent determination and strong will to win. I put my heart into everything I do. I wanted to go to school, so I worked three jobs to pay for it, along with 1,000 hours of internships to graduate. In business I wanted to help my brother and we grew the business from one store to three stores. I know in my heart that I can win. I welcome all challenges with open arms and can read people really well.
Socially, it’ll be fun to test waters on how diverse I can be in order to really connect with people. After all, I have to cater to people’s personalities so they’ll feel comfortable doing what I need. Once my heart is set I will stop at nothing until I’ve achieved my goal even through blood, sweat, and tears. I’ve studied Survivor well enough to understand how to manipulate the numbers, play idols how they should be played and hustle the social game. I will go into this with focus, agility, and perseverance.
Hobbies: Triathlon, running, yoga, meditation, climbing mountains and trekking, travel, and writing. Is wine considered a hobby too?
Pet peeves: When I run out of wine.
Three words to describe you: Wild, determined, and passionate.
What’s your personal claim to fame? Ironman. I’m most proud of not just the finish line at the event but the dedication to the training as a working single mom that went behind it. It made me a better human and changed my kids and my life. My racing is always a family affair and I couldn’t do it without my two little cheerleaders. Also, I’ve done a lot of solo traveling. I’ve been to 24 countries and six continents. Backpacking and trekking solo is a massive passion of mine and feeds my wanderlust soul. It is adventurous and crazy at times but it’s shaped me more than anything else in life.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? Bob Scott. 87 years old. He is my angel. I met him the week of my divorce and two weeks after his wife passed away. I like to think his angel wife brought us together. He taught me to swim shortly after we met because he wanted me to be a “happy and fit mom” for my boys. He helped me learn to ride a triathlon bike. He introduced me to the world of triathlon, which changed my world. He competed alongside me at my first half Ironman and full Ironman and still competes to this day. Bob taught me the sport is about fun, fitness, and friends and that to do this for life and be just like him, I had to keep this mentality. We still train together each week as well as compete alongside each other.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? Lipstick! Because I even wear it when I do my Ironman races! Next would be ear plugs because I’m an insanely light sleeper and hate snorers, and a piece of Rose Quartz because it’s my favorite stone and would remind me to follow my heart and trust my intuition.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? A combo of Parvati for her heart and inner strength, Tyson for his sarcasm, Ozzy for his love of adventure, Courtney for her sass, and Mama C for being a strong and fierce mom.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? The adventure. I’ve watched every single episode of Survivor since it began 18 years ago and the adventure of the show keeps me coming back for more and applying over and over and over! And the social game! I have wanted to play the social game since the first season. Ever since I taught English in Russia in college and was dropped into Siberia with a random mix of girls I have loved the social game of learning to get along with people in a group setting and finding out what makes people tick. That’s why I love traveling solo too, because I like to meet and connect with other people from different beliefs and backgrounds.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? Because every day for the past 10 years, I have looked at a sticker on my mirror: “Outwit, Outlast, Outplay. Survivor.” I never once have stopped believing that this dream would come true. I can have all the strategy in the world and I will! But if I have learned anything from watching the show, participating in endurance events, raising children, working in a fast-paced finance position, studying in an ashram, being an entrepreneur, or all my other adventures is that nothing turns out like you expect. I am really good at adapting to circumstances, to people, and to unlikely situations. Plan A quickly becomes Plan C and it doesn’t shake me up. I can endure pain both mental and physical with a smile on my face. Adaptation. A sense of humor. Dreaming big. That embodies who I am and why I will win!
