A week-long vacation on a tropical island is the epitome of relaxation—until you have to hunt for food and shelter. Since 2000, “Survivor” competitors have been traveling to far-flung places, and although the settings are usually breathtaking, their living circumstances aren’t. Do you have what it takes to survive?
This article will walk you through how to apply for Survivor, the casting process, and how to create a standout Survivor audition video. Whether you’re a superfan or a first-time applicant, these tips will help you outshine the competition.
What is the plot of “Survivor”?
Every season of “Survivor” divides 16–20 contestants into two or three tribes and places them in a remote location. Contestants must form alliances, compete in challenges, and outlast their fellow players to win the title of Sole Survivor.
- Reward Challenges: These pit contestants against each other to win food, shelter, and comfort items.
- Immunity Challenges: Competitors fight to avoid elimination at the Tribal Council, where the majority votes out one player.
When eliminated, the castaway’s torch is snuffed out by host Jeff Probst, signaling their departure with the famous phrase, “The tribe has spoken.” The last remaining player wins the grand prize and the title of Sole Survivor.
Meet the “Survivor” Season 47 Cast
Season 47, which premiered on September 18, 2024, introduced 18 new castaways competing in the Fijian islands:
- Teeny Chirichillo, 24, freelance writer
- Rome Cooney, 30, esports pundit
- Anika Dhar, 26, marketing manager
- Terran “TK” Foster, 31, athlete marketing manager
- Tiyana Hallums, 27, flight attendant
- Rachel Lamont, 34, graphic designer
- Jon Lovett, 42, podcast host
- Genevieve Mushaluk, 33, business attorney
- Gabe Ortis, 26, radio show host
- Kyle “Kyle Rhen” Otswald, 31, construction worker
- Kishan Patel, 28, ER physician
- Sam Phalen, 24, sports writer
- Andy Rueda, 31, AI research assistant
- Sue Smey, 59, flight school owner
- Caroline Vidmar, 27, strategic consultant
- Aysha Welch, 32, IT consultant
- Sierra Wright, 27, nurse
- Solomon Yi, 43, medical device salesperson
Who is “Survivor”‘s casting director?
Jesse Tannenbaum is the principal casting director for “Survivor,” taking over from Lynne Spiegel Spillman, who cast the show from 2001 to 2019.
To stand out, Tannenbaum recommends submitting an audition video that showcases your unique talents and personality. He urges applicants to avoid sending in TikTok-style clips, saying, “We are looking for real people, not actors.”
The casting team wants to see authenticity, your storytelling ability, and your true self. It’s essential to present a version of yourself that stands out while being relatable.
How to Apply for “Survivor”
Interested in becoming the next Sole Survivor? Here’s the step-by-step process for applying:
- Submit Online: You can apply online through the official CBS “Survivor” website. The application requires a video and answers to various questions about your background, personality, and gameplay strategy.
- Audition Video Tips: Your video should:
- Be no longer than 3 minutes.
- Show your personality.
- Include a memorable story or interesting fact about you.
- Avoid reciting a script—be spontaneous!
- Casting Producer Review: Once submitted, the casting producers watch all videos and select a group of applicants they believe could thrive on the show. According to casting team member Jodi Wincheski, producers “look for people who are passionate about the game and their life stories.”
Tips for Creating a Winning Survivor Audition Tape
The casting team is looking for great storytellers who can be entertaining on-screen. Here are a few key tips:
- Be Yourself: Jeff Probst and Jesse Tannenbaum both stress the importance of authenticity. Don’t try to imitate past contestants or put on an act.
- Show Your Personality: Whether you’re the life of the party or more reserved, embrace who you are. Casting is more about character than charisma.
- Keep It Dynamic: Malcolm Freberg, a three-time contestant, advises applicants to be a heightened version of themselves. “Lean into your quirks and show what makes you unique.”
- Use Good Lighting and Sound: Make sure your video is well-lit and your voice is clear.
Behind the Scenes: How “Survivor” Casts Its Players
The casting process can be grueling. For example, during the 2022 casting cycle, over 16,000 audition tapes were submitted, but only 24 people made it to the final in-person casting call.
Season 45’s Brandon Donlon shared his own experience of applying year after year. After attending an open casting call for “Big Brother,” he finally made it to the Survivor casting interviews. His persistence paid off when he was cast for Season 45.
Read Also: How to Apply for “Love Is Blind” Casting
“Survivor” Filming Locations
“Survivor” has been filmed exclusively in the Mamanuca Islands, Fiji, since Season 33. The location offers beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a supportive local crew, making it an ideal filming spot.
Jeff Probst even stated, “We hope to film here forever. Fiji gives us everything we need to create the show.”
Where to Find Casting Calls and Auditions for “Survivor”
Interested in applying for a future season? CBS regularly updates their casting call page for open auditions and online applications.
Watch this video on how to apply for Survivor: Watch Video
When Does “Survivor” Season 48 Filming Begin?
Applications are currently open for Season 49, with filming scheduled to take place from mid-April to mid-May 2025.
Top Strategies for Getting Selected for “Survivor”
Jeff Probst offers this advice: “Just be yourself.” While this may sound simple, many applicants trip themselves up by trying to guess what casting directors are looking for or by imitating past contestants.
Casting director Jesse Tannenbaum adds: “We are looking for authenticity, not scripts.” Don’t memorize your audition; instead, focus on storytelling and showing who you truly are. Whether you’re telling a funny story or explaining a tough moment in your life, let your personality shine through.
Key Takeaways:
- Be Real: Don’t try to be someone you’re not.
- Tell a Story: Show the casting team why you’d be a compelling character on the show.
- Embrace Your Quirks: Highlight what makes you stand out from the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Apply for “Survivor”?
You can apply online via the official CBS Survivor casting page. Submit an audition video and answer questions about your background.
What Makes a Good Survivor Audition Video?
A good audition video is all about showing your personality. Avoid scripts, be dynamic, and tell a compelling story about yourself.
How Many People Apply for “Survivor” Each Season?
During a typical casting cycle, over 16,000 people apply, but only 18–20 contestants make it onto the show.
Conclusion
Making it onto “Survivor” is no easy task, but if you’re authentic, engaging, and passionate, you could be the next Sole Survivor. Start working on your audition tape and apply today for your chance to compete!
Do you have any audition tips or stories? Share them in the comments below!
Be the first to comment on "Survivor Casting Process: Step-by-Step Guide to Getting on the Show"