The Exclusive With Sharon Tharp

SPOILER WARNING: This audio contains major spoilers for the latest episode of Survivor 50, including the eliminated player.The latest player voted out of Survivor 50, Cirie Fields, joins The Exclusive to reflect on her emotional elimination and what many fans are calling her most impressive game yet. The Survivor legend opens up about why she knew nobody would let her reach Final Tribal, responds to Stephenie's comments about loyalty, and shares her honest feelings on Rizo writing her name down. Cirie also reacts to Ozzy’s game-ending mistake, explains why certain players were never viewed as real jury threats, and reveals what her relationship with Aubry was actually like on the island. Plus, Cirie discusses whether she’d ever play Survivor again, a wild airport story involving Shannon Sharpe, and why she still has zero regrets about her Survivor 50 game.

America’s Culinary Cup showrunner Josh Silberman joins The Exclusive following the season finale to break down how the hit CBS cooking competition came together — from the Survivor-inspired twists and strategy elements to Padma Lakshmi’s hands-on role behind the scenes. Silberman opens up about designing the million-dollar finale, Jeff Probst’s reaction to the format, and why he wanted the chefs to win or lose based strictly on their food rather than gimmicks. The producer also shares emotional memories of bonding with his late mother over Top Chef, reveals the hidden Taylor Swift Easter eggs planted throughout the season, and explains how working alongside Padma and the judges completely changed the way he thinks about food. Plus, Silberman discusses Cara Stadler’s victory, the pressure of crafting challenges for elite chefs, and what he would want to evolve if America’s Culinary Cup returns for Season 2.

Survivor 43's Jesse Lopez joins The Exclusive to recap a wild episode of Survivor 50, including Ozzy's emotional blindside and Emily's nearly game-changing move against Cirie. Jesse breaks down why Ozzy’s attempt at jury management completely backfired, explains why Emily’s risky strategy would have earned her “immediate legend status” if it had worked, and reacts to Cirie once again proving why she’s one of the greatest to ever play. Jesse also weighs in on Joe's “honor and integrity” approach to the game, Rick Devens’ chaotic energy this season, Rizo’s position moving forward, and whether anyone can actually beat Cirie at the end.

The latest player voted out of Survivor 50, Ozzy Lusth, joins The Exclusive for an emotional conversation about the “worst decision” of his Survivor career and the regret he feels after choosing not to play his idol. The Survivor legend breaks down the jury management strategy that backfired, explains why he believes Rizo made a game-ending mistake by turning on him, and reflects on the heartbreaking blindside that left him feeling “numb.” Ozzy also opens up about his complicated family story and the emotional scene involving his father, reveals how closely he worked with Cirie throughout the game, and shares why he was trying to align with Rick and Christian. Plus, Ozzy discusses why winning challenges mattered less to him this season and whether he would ever return to play Survivor again.

The latest player voted out of Survivor 50, Emily Flippen, joins The Exclusive to unpack her “hot mess express” game, the emotional fallout from Ozzy’s shocking blindside, and why she believes getting voted out on Day 21 may have been a “blessing in disguise.” Emily breaks down her failed “Hail Mary” plan with Rick Devens, reveals how worried she was about becoming a no-vote finalist, and reflects on the chaotic relationships that defined her season — including her rocky dynamic with Ozzy, her close alliance with Christian, and her struggles with Jonathan. She also reacts to the infamous rice situation, shares behind-the-scenes insight into Survivor jury management, and explains why she believes Survivor 50 will be her final time playing the game.

Rick Devens may have just delivered the biggest moment of Survivor 50 so far — and Domenick Abbate is here to break it all down. The Ghost Island runner-up joins The Exclusive to unpack Devens’ “MVP” fake idol play, the chaotic Tribal Council that flipped the game, and why this might be one of the best episodes in recent memory. Dom explains how creativity separates great players from good ones, and whether Devens’ bold move actually helps or hurts his chances to win. Plus, Dom weighs in on Cirie’s dominant social game, Stephenie’s critical misstep, the controversial coin flip twist, and how the shocking $2 million prize could impact strategy moving forward. He also shares his honest reaction to missing out on Survivor 50 — and whether he would’ve played just as aggressively if given the chance.

Stephenie LaGrossa Kendrick, the latest player voted out of Survivor 50, joins The Exclusive to break down the wild Tribal Council that ended her game. The four-time player opens up about trusting Cirie Fields despite years of history, why she now calls that her biggest mistake, and how she believes her entire alliance was quietly taken out “one by one” without her realizing what was happening. She also reacts to Joe and Jonathan writing her name down, the coin toss twist she ultimately passed on, and why she says communication breakdowns led to her downfall. Plus, Stephenie reflects on the social game she wishes viewers saw more of and reveals whether she’d ever return to Survivor again—including the one other reality show she’d say yes to without hesitation.

The latest chefs eliminated from Top Chef Season 23, Jennifer Lee Jackson and Justin Tootla, join The Exclusive for a candid exit interview breaking down the shocking turn that led to both of their departures. Jennifer opens up about the scary medical emergency that forced her to step away mid-competition—and what it was like realizing something was seriously wrong in real time. Justin reveals what went into his emotional decision to turn down the chance to return and replace her, explaining why leaving to support Jennifer was the only option.The duo also reflect on competing together as partners, the pressure of watching each other struggle, and the heartbreak of missing out on Restaurant Wars just as they were getting close. Plus, Jennifer reacts to being invited back to the competition in the future—and whether Justin would ever consider stepping into the kitchen again.

Top Chef showrunner Doneen Arquines joins The Exclusive to break down the high-stakes Restaurant Wars episode and reveal what really happens behind the scenes. The longtime producer explains why the fan-favorite challenge is “like Survivor’s merge,” what goes into building the restaurants from scratch, and how close calls at Judges’ Table are actually decided. Doneen also shares insight into common strategy mistakes chefs make—from vague “global” concepts to risky role choices—and weighs in on whether contestants should speak up when they disagree with a dish.Plus, she opens up about the evolution of Top Chef over 20+ seasons, the decision to change immunity rules, how casting and challenges come together, and why even the most talented chefs can struggle under pressure. Doneen also discusses Kristen Kish stepping in as host, the possibility of another All-Stars season, and answers fan questions about everything from dessert strategy to behind-the-scenes judging logistics.

Survivor winner Jeremy Collins joins The Exclusive to break down the Jimmy Fallon twist that shook up the game and Cirie Fields’ “magical” social strategy this season. He reacts to the latest Tribal Council, explains the key decision that shifted the vote, and shares why some players are thriving while others are unraveling. Jeremy also weighs in on Devens’ chaotic gameplay, the risks of playing too hard too fast, and what it really takes to build a winning resume in today’s Survivor.

The latest player voted out of Survivor 50, Christian Hubicki, joins The Exclusive to break down the chaotic Tribal Council that led to his blindside and the series of moves he says “really messed things up.” The fan-favorite strategist reacts to the controversial Jimmy Fallon twist that forced him to vote for himself, explains how throwing out Ozzy's name to Cirie shifted the target onto him, and shares why he ignored key warning signs that his name would be written down at Tribal. Christian also dives into Rick Devens’ flashy fake idol play, gives credit to Cirie’s subtle social game, and reveals what viewers didn’t see from his final days on the island.

Big Brother runner-up and House of Villains finalist Paul Abrahamian joins The Exclusive to break down the Season 3 finale, including where things went wrong in the final challenge and the strategy that could have secured him the win. Paul reflects on being underestimated as the “dumb stoner rocker,” why he believes he could’ve won sitting next to the right players, and how a “bitter jury” may have impacted his chances. He also reacts to the final three, shares his unfiltered thoughts on key moves that weren’t owned, and explains why intimidation—not strategy—ultimately defined the winner. Plus, Paul opens up about coming out of reality TV “retirement,” why he had “the time of my life” on the show, and whether he’d return for The Traitors, Survivor, or another competition series.

Big Brother 16 winner and Traitors alum Derrick Levasseur joins The Exclusive to break down Episode 8 of Survivor 50, including the double elimination twist and the Tribal Council that sent both Chrissy and Coach home. Derrick shares why, as a player, he would “hate” a twist like this but as a fan finds it “interesting,” weighs in on whether the right targets went home, and reacts to Devens’ flashy idol play and its impact on the vote. He also dives into the evolving power structure of the game, explains why players like Cirie and Rizo are in the strongest positions, and discusses how the “middle” players could ultimately control the outcome—plus who he sees as the biggest threat heading into next week.

The latest player voted out of Survivor 50, Chrissy Hofbeck joins The Exclusive to break down the “brilliant” twist that led to her elimination and why she and Coach ultimately “both are responsible for our own demise.” Chrissy reflects on going into Tribal Council “feeling safe,” the shocking vote flip that blindsided her, and how Devens’ fake idol chaos played into the outcome. She also opens up about her complicated dynamic with Rizo, addresses the “Zoom Alliance” rumors, and explains why, despite the result, she leaves the game with “a grateful heart” and no regrets about her Survivor journey.

Benjamin “Coach” Wade joins The Exclusive after his Survivor 50 exit to break down the chaotic Tribal Council that sent him home, including the “huge mistake” that left his alliance “cooked” and the moment he admits his game “all just went to shit.” The Survivor legend reflects on building what he calls an “amazing, brilliant game” before it unraveled, why the refusal to split votes shocked him, and where things went wrong with allies like Chrissy, Rizo, and Ozzy. He also addresses pregame alliance rumors, Devens’ idol impact, and why he ultimately feels at peace with his elimination, saying, “I messed up, and it is what it is.”

The latest chef eliminated from Top Chef Season 23, Brittany Cochran, joins The Exclusive to break down what really went wrong in the elimination challenge, including the equipment issues—a delayed meat grinder and oven mishap—that derailed her dish at a critical moment. She opens up about the intense mental pressure of the competition, why she felt confident going in before everything unraveled, and how being in her hometown added a unique layer of stress. Brittany also reacts to Tom Colicchio’s rare praise, shares why she believes the outcome could have been different, and reveals whether she’d ever return to the Top Chef kitchen again.

The latest players eliminated from House of Villains Season 3, Tyson Apostol and Tom Sandoval, join The Exclusive to break down the chaotic chain of events that led to their exits — and why they believe the game was stacked against them from the start. The duo sounds off on the controversial challenge they say gave the underdogs “no chance,” the lack of real endgame strategy in the house, and the moves they’re calling “terrible gameplay,” while also opening up about failed attempts to flip the numbers, broken trust with allies, and behind-the-scenes moments that didn’t make it to air.

Season 49 runner-up Sophi Balerdi joins The Exclusive to break down Episode 7 of Survivor 50, including the pregaming rumors involving her friends Dee and Rizo—and how those connections actually played out before the game began. She also weighs in on Rizo’s game, why his ability to build trust (even with players he doesn’t plan to stick with) is setting him up well, and how alliances like “Cirie’s Rizard of Oz” are quietly gaining power. Sophi reacts to the growing tension back at camp, including Coach and Jonathan’s approach, and the “honor and integrity” divide, and explains the key mistake that shifted momentum this episode—plus where players like Tiffany stand moving forward.

Former Survivor winner Dee Valladares joins The Exclusive after her exit from Season 50 to break down where things really went wrong—from the “mix of everything” that unraveled her game to the one move she calls her biggest regret: revealing Rizo’s idol. Dee opens up about her emotional fallout with Rizo (including a moment that didn’t make air), why her feud with Jonathan felt “personal” after brewing since day one, and how camp paranoia—even over something as simple as a fashion show—turned players against her. She also explains why she knew she had an “expiration date,” why she had to win immunity to survive, and how pregaming may have impacted other players’ games. Plus, Dee reacts to Emily’s vote, shares what was missing from the edit, and makes it clear she’s not done with Survivor just yet.

Danny Booko and Luke Broderick join The Exclusive to break down The Valley Season 3, from the fallout of last season’s drama to navigating new challenges as dads. Danny reflects on having a “target” on his back and whether he expected apologies after the reunion, while Luke admits he had “false hope” that fractured relationships could be repaired. The two also open up about vulnerable conversations around intimacy and parenthood, why those moments matter for viewers, and how Jesse’s relationship with Lacy is changing the group dynamic. Plus, they share their unfiltered thoughts on Lala stirring the pot, filming without Jax, and why this season feels lighter—but still full of tension behind the scenes.

Tom Schwartz and Michelle Saniei join The Exclusive to break down The Valley Season 3, from fresh starts to lingering drama. Michelle opens up about her “painful” divorce from Jesse Lally, weighs in on his new relationship with Lacy and what it was like filming together, while Schwartz reflects on entering a new chapter he calls a “rebirth” after a difficult few years. He also shares where things stand with ex-wife Katie Maloney and how joining The Valley compares to Vanderpump Rules, as both discuss the lighter tone this season, the absence of Jax Taylor and how the group dynamics are shifting moving forward.

Jesse Lally and Lacey Nicole join The Exclusive to preview The Valley Season 3 and tease a “different” side of Jesse as their relationship takes center stage. The couple opens up about why Lacey initially hesitated to join the show, how their dynamic has evolved over time, and what it’s been like navigating filming with kids in the picture. Jesse also addresses where things stand with his divorce from Michelle, the tension that still lingers, and how their on-camera interactions play out this season. Plus, they react to the shifting group dynamics, new cast additions like Lala and Schwartz, and hint at “petty, not dark” drama — while also teasing surprising moments fans won’t see coming.

Janet Caperna and Jason Caperna join The Exclusive to break down where things stand heading into The Valley Season 3, including the tension that still lingers within the group. Janet opens up about navigating awkward dynamics after last season’s fallout, why she wasn’t looking forward to seeing certain cast members, and her attempt to mend friendships — even when it didn’t go as planned. The couple also discusses how the group dynamic shifts this season, what it was like filming alongside friends like Lala and Schwartz, and why the experience felt “lighter” without Jax. Plus, Jason shares how he’s handled being caught in the middle of cast conflicts, and they tease what’s ahead — including a shocking injury that plays out on camera.

Zack Wickham and Jasmine Goode join The Exclusive to break down all the drama heading into The Valley Season 3 — and they definitely don’t hold back. The duo reacts to the shifting group dynamics, shares their honest thoughts on Jax’s absence, and explains why this season feels lighter (but still full of chaos). They also weigh in on Lacy joining the cast and how she’s changed Jesse, before sounding off on Brittany’s new relationship — including why they saw major “red flags” from the start. Plus, Zack and Jasmine open up about their role in the group, navigating friendships that are constantly shifting, and what fans can expect as everything unfolds.

Kristen Doute and Nia Sanchez join The Exclusive to open up about one of the most personal seasons of The Valley yet, as they navigate motherhood, friendship, and shifting group dynamics. The two reflect on filming during such a pivotal time in their lives, including the challenges of postpartum struggles, body image, and maintaining intimacy in their relationships while cameras are rolling. They also address where things stand with Janet and Jason after last season’s fallout, why attempts to move forward didn’t go as planned, and how the group continues to evolve. Plus, Kristen and Nia share their thoughts on Lacy joining the cast, how it impacts the dynamic with Michelle, and what fans can expect from a season that feels lighter — but still packed with real, emotional moments.

Survivor 42 alum Omar Zaheer joins The Exclusive to break down the latest episode of Survivor 50, including the controversial “Blood Moon” twist and historic triple elimination. Omar explains why the players voted out “had no chance” in the split tribal format, reacts to Genevieve’s “unlucky” exit despite doing “so many things right,” and weighs in on the role of pre-gaming in returning player seasons. He also shares his take on the biggest strategic decisions of the episode—including whether the wrong players were targeted and who’s best positioned moving forward.

Host Sharon Tharp is joined by latest chef eliminated from Top Chef Season 23, Nana Araba Wilmot, to break down the intense challenge that led to her early exit. The private chef opens up about the “overthinking” and “stage fright” that threw her off in the kitchen, why her dish never made it to the judges as intended, and the emotional moment that left her feeling like she was “stuck in her head.” Nana also reflects on the pressure of competing without a safety net, the panic attack viewers didn’t fully see, and how Kristen Kish’s support helped ground her in the moment. Plus, she opens up about finding her confidence in Last Chance Kitchen.

Bravo expert and Gabbing With Gib host Gibson Johns joins The Exclusive to break down the Summer House scandal that has everyone talking after the shocking reveal that West Wilson and Amanda Batula are apparently an item. The news has sent shockwaves through the cast—especially given Amanda’s recent separation from Kyle Cooke, who is also West’s friend, and West’s past relationship with Ciara Miller, one of Amanda’s closest friends. Together, they unpack the messy timeline, behind-the-scenes dynamics, fan backlash, and what this could mean for the future of the show.

Genevieve Mushaluk, the latest player voted out of Survivor 50, joins The Exclusive to break down her exit and the twist that limited her options. She reacts to finding idols she couldn’t use, explains why she “absolutely” would have played one at Tribal, and shares her frustration with how the advantage favored players with stronger relationships. Genevieve also opens up about her "uncomfortable" rivalry with Aubry, the strategy she tried to execute at the merge, and where her game ultimately slipped away.

Kamilla Karthigesu, the latest player voted out of Survivor 50, joins The Exclusive to break down her blindside and the moments leading up to it. She reveals how she realized she was the decoy vote, why she ignored key red flags at camp, and how a pregame alliance ultimately left her with “no chance” in the game. Kamilla also shares what we didn’t see from her strategy—including a bold Shot in the Dark trade—and reflects on where her game slipped away at the merge.

Colby Donaldson, the latest player voted out of Survivor 50, joins The Exclusive to unpack his emotional exit—and the risky move that could’ve changed everything. The Survivor icon reveals the secret plan to throw a challenge, why it never happened, and how losing his vote left him powerless at Tribal Council. He also opens up about battling a serious infection and the rare moment of clarity he had walking out of the game. Plus, Colby reflects on playing with old-school legends and whether he’d ever return again.

Survivor alum Abi-Maria Gomes joins The Exclusive to break down the latest episode of Survivor 50 and sound off on what she calls the “purpling” of female players. The Philippines and Cambodia alum shares her unfiltered thoughts on Angelina Keeley’s edit, Christian Hubicki’s dominant gameplay, and why she believes too much of the women’s perspective is being left out. Abi also reacts to Charlie Davis’ blindside, critiques key strategic moves across both tribes, and explains how past-season “trauma” continues to shape players’ decisions in the game.

The latest player voted out of Survivor 50, Charlie Davis, joins The Exclusive to break down the moment he realized he was “cooked” at Tribal Council and the shocking blindside that sent him home. The Season 46 alum reflects on his strategic position within the tribe, why his alliance turned on him, and the comment from Dee calling him the “dumbest” player that caught him off guard. Charlie also explains his reasoning for targeting Rizo, shares why the vote may have been confusing for viewers, and reveals what wasn’t shown from his game.

The latest player voted out of Survivor 50, Angelina Keeley, joins The Exclusive to break down what viewers didn’t see from her elimination and why she felt “so much” was missing from the episode. The David vs. Goliath alum opens up about the emotional fallout after Tribal Council, her failed attempt to flip the vote onto Christian, and why she believes she was targeted before the game even began. Angelina also addresses the lack of female voices shown in the edit this season, shares her unfiltered thoughts on Christian’s “premeditated” move against Mike White, and reveals where she stands with her former tribemates today.

The latest player voted out on Survivor 50, Mike White, goes home in a shocking 3-2-1 blindside—and David vs. Goliath alum Davie Rickenbacker joins The Exclusive to break it all down. Davie reacts to Christian’s bold move against his longtime ally, explains why the decision may have been driven by deeper history between the trio, and weighs in on whether it was too early to take such a big swing. He also dives into where Mike’s game went wrong, Emily’s messy gameplay, and how the dynamics between Christian, Angelina and the rest of the tribe could shift moving forward.Plus, Davie shares behind-the-scenes insight into the real-life relationships between the players, addresses the off-screen tension that’s been brewing, and gives his take on other key storylines—from the Genevieve vs. Aubry feud to Ozzy’s evolving strategy and the impact of the season’s celebrity cameos.

The second chef eliminated from Top Chef Season 23, Jassi Bindra, joins The Exclusive to break down the high-stakes spicy challenge that sent him home. The Houston-based chef opens up about why his lamb vindaloo ultimately fell short, how the progression of the courses may have worked against him, and whether the feedback on spice level came too late to adjust. Jassi also reflects on representing Indian Sikh cuisine on the show, why he still felt confident in his dish, and how the intense competition sharpened his skills. Plus, he reacts to missing out on Last Chance Kitchen and reveals why he’s already ready to return and “finish” what he started.

Chef Day Anaïs opens up about her early exit from Top Chef Season 23, reflecting on what went wrong in the premiere challenge and the key decisions that led to her elimination. She also shares a more personal side of her journey, revealing how a serious kitchen burn accident just six months before filming—after which she hadn’t returned to a commercial kitchen—quietly impacted her confidence and performance in ways she didn’t fully realize at the time. Day also discusses the pressure of the competition and whether she’d consider returning for another shot.

Big Brother winner Andy Herren joins The Exclusive to break down Survivor 50 Episode 3, and he’s all in on the season so far. Andy shares why this installment feels like “old-school Survivor” again, what’s making the gameplay so exciting (and chaotic), and the moments that had him fully locked in as a fan. He also reacts to Jeff Probst’s unexpected rap, weighs in on the unpredictable tribe dynamics after the swap, and discusses which players are thriving—or slipping—early on. Plus, Andy gets into his standout favorites, surprising impressions, and why this season has him feeling more energized about Survivor than he has in years.

The latest player voted out of Survivor 50, Q Burdette joins the show to break down his game, including why he encouraged Mike to vote for him, the risky plan he hoped would save ally Stephenie, and how Emily and Ozzy flipping ultimately sealed his fate. Q also reflects on losing his vote early, his suspicions about Ozzy’s extra vote, and why he felt like the “biggest fish to catch” after the tribe swap left him completely exposed. Plus, he shares behind-the-scenes insight into the Vatu tribe dynamics, his frustrations with Angelina around camp, and the strategic moves viewers didn’t see on TV. And despite the early exit, Q says his Survivor story isn’t over.

Survivor: Ghost Island winner Wendell Holland joins The Exclusive with Sharon Tharp to break down the biggest moments from Survivor 50 Episode 2. Wendell reacts to the early strategic chaos, weighs in on the escalating tension between players like Joe and Rick, and shares his thoughts on Christian’s creative theatrics at Tribal Council. The former champion also discusses the challenges of returning to a milestone season packed with big personalities, why certain players may already have targets on their backs, and which competitors are quietly positioning themselves well early in the game. Plus, Wendell reveals who he’s rooting for this season and whether he’d ever return to play Survivor again.

The third player voted out of Survivor 50, Savannah Louie, joins The Exclusive to reflect on her whirlwind Survivor journey after winning Season 49 and returning to Fiji just days later. Savannah opens up about the emotional moment when Jeff Probst snuffed her torch, why the Ozzy vote nearly happened, and the strategic conversations viewers didn’t see on TV. She also shares her perspective on the tense clash between Joe and Rick, explains why she kept her advantage secret, and reveals which tribe relationships were stronger than the edit showed. Savannah also gets candid about the emotional aftermath of Survivor and what it was like adjusting back to real life after such an intense experience.

Sharon Tharp is joined by fellow journalists Kelli Boyle (TV Insider) and Stephanie Petit (PEOPLE) to take you behind the scenes of their Survivor 50 set visit in Fiji—what a weeklong press trip actually looks like, what it’s like interviewing the cast, and the wildest moments they witnessed up close (including running challenges, watching the marooning and Tribal Council unfold, and the little production details fans never get to see).

Maura Higgins joins The Exclusive after The Traitors Season 4 finale to reflect on losing the game to her friend Rob Rausch and why she ultimately gave him “fair play” for his winning move. She opens up about trusting him until the very end, why she believes loyalty was both her greatest strength and biggest vulnerability, and reveals she wishes she’d been chosen as a Traitor. Maura also shares what surprised her most watching the season back, how entering the castle without seeing the show shaped her strategy, and whether she’d ever return for a Traitors All-Stars season.

Host Sharon Tharp hits the red carpet at the Survivor 50 NYC premiere, talking to the cast ahead of the milestone season. In these exclusive red carpet interviews, the players react to their preseason interviews, respond to what their fellow castaways said about them, and share which classic themes they’d love to see return. Sharon also puts them on the spot about whether they see themselves as heroes or villains, and if they’d ever compete on Big Brother.

Sharon Tharp is back to break down The Traitors Season 4 finale and reunion with special guest Jimmy Heagerty from Big Brother 27. The two recap how the season felt different compared to the previous two season, what the show needs next year (more gamers in the turret!), and whether Rob Rausch's win was earned or more luck. Plus, they break down Maura Higgins' reaction, the Eric Nam cut, and why the reunion felt too tame. They also dive into Candiace Dillard Bassett’s cheating accusation, Colton Underwood’s messy reunion moment, Michael Rappaport’s constant interruptions, the “Secret Traitor” twist flop, and the never-ending debate of strategy vs. entertainment.

The runner-up of Season 47, Sam Phalen, makes his debut on The Exclusive to break down the "perfect blend of nostalgia" in the high-stakes Survivor 50 premiere. The reality standout reflects on the "beautiful" opening that served as a reminder of the show's status as a cultural institution and why he was "choked up" by the emotional return of the game's icons. Sam analyzes the devastating first vote that sent Jenna Lewis-Dougherty packing, the "misreading of relationships" that led to her early exit, and why he was so moved by the "composed" way Kyle Fraser handled his heartbreaking medical evacuation. He also dives into the "older, wiser" version of Colby Donaldson, the difficulty of managing the "Cirie factor" on the Cila tribe, and why he’s officially "obsessed" with the "fire" he sees back in the eyes of the returning legends. 

Selling Sunset star Christine Quinn, Basketball Wives legend Jackie Christie, and RuPaul's Drag Race breakout Plane Jane join The Exclusive to dish on the explosive start to House of Villains Season 3. The trio doesn't hold back, with Christine labeling a certain castmate a "try-hard" who belongs in a "padded room" and Plane Jane breaking down the "straight tiny" betrayal by Paul Abrahamian that left her feeling blindsided. Christine also reveals her surprisingly "special bond" with Tom Sandoval over bronzer and nail polish, while the group discusses the "torture" of living in a house with no doors and constant blindsides.

Below Deck's Kate Chastain and Mob Wives legend Drita D'Avanzo join The Exclusive to discuss why they take issue with being labeled "villains" on House of Villains Season 3. Drita opens up about being a "retired violent person" while Kate reflects on her years as a Chief Stew "working with morons." The duo also dishes on the reality of living in the mansion, including the "torture" of rooming with a messy Christine Quinn, the peaceful mystery of rooming with Tiffany "New York" Pollard, and why they think Johnny Middlebrooks was surprisingly "not good" at his attempt to be the house super-villain.

Survivor winner Kyle Fraser joins The Exclusive to discuss his heartbreaking medical evacuation from Survivor 50, revealing how he tried to hide the severity of his torn Achilles to stay in the game. Kyle breaks down the "unseen" challenge moments that led to the injury, his Boston Rob strategy for camp life, and the secret "No. 1" alliance with Genevieve Mushaluk that he left behind. He also opens up about his "crumbled" leg, the truth about the Aubry Bracco and Genevieve rivalry, and more.