Naviti Tribe members (Back Row L-R: Wendell Holland, Chris Noble, Sebastian Noel, Bradley Kleihege, Domenic Abbate, Front Row L-R: Morgan Ricke, Angela Perkins, Desiree Afuye, Chelsea Townsend, Kellyn Bechtold). Photo: Robert Voets/CBS
Angela Perkins
Age: 42 Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio Current residence: Cincinnati, Ohio Occupation: Army Veteran
Hobbies: Running, biking, and snowboarding.
Pet peeves: My pet peeves are laziness or unmotivated people when they have the ability and or resources to be and do so much more, and when someone expects someone else to pull their weight. One that believes things are “rights versus privileges.” Also, unorganized people or things, close-minded individuals and people who think you “owe” them something.
Three words to describe you: Spontaneous, courageous, and determined.
What’s your personal claim to fame? Retirement from the U.S. Army. I served over 21 years in the Army and I was an Army officer captain. I served in the transportation unit and in a psychological Operations Battalion as an executive officer and I was the only female officer in the organization, yet still chosen to be second in command. I have been to several countries, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Turkey, Dubai, France, Bratislava, Slovakia, Italy, and Germany.
I was put in the most unusual and extreme situations and conditions and survived better than most. I was in isolated conditions where life’s bare necessities were limited. While deployed to Iraq in 2003-2004, I went months with only taking bottle water showers. The supply lines were compromised so often I was forced to make a decision to either wash with my daily bottled water or consume it. I jumped from several different Military aircrafts and did drown-proofing that consisted of water survival.
While deployed to Afghanistan, I was put in situations that required me to influence the local “elders” (leaders) of our U.S. missions in their country while at the same time earning their trust. This posed a huge issue because one, I am a female (and their beliefs with females are VERY different than ours) and two, I was an American. However, I was able to gain the trust of the local people as well as many elders.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My son. He has been braver than he believes, stronger than he seems, and smarter than he thinks. I have never met a more amazing person than him.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? First would be my guitar because I have one and played a little in college but it would be a chance for me to have music and learn at the same time. Next would be paper and pen to document my experience. My memory is not the best and I want to capture as much as possible to remind me of the once in a lifetime experience I had. Finally, an iPod to listen to music.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? Michaela Bradshaw because not only was she fit, outspoken, attractive, and witty, she also spoke her mind and was extremely good at challenges. And when she won, she wasn’t afraid to celebrate. She expressed her emotions on her face which is very similar to me. My friends tell me even when my mouth is shut, they know what I am saying because my facial expression “talks.” I’m not afraid to express my feelings and I put a lot out there. I want to give my best self and Michaela never gave up. It was clearly depicted in the episode where she lost her top. I’ll do whatever it takes to win, with or without my top.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? To fulfill an exciting and different adventure that a small percent of people get to do. I want to be part of the small group that was chosen and is remembered. Not because everyone can, or everyone gets chosen or remembered. I will be the person everyone remembers because of my unique skills and plays I will bring.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I am strong, hardworking, loyal, determined, and able to figure out most things. I am very versatile and by my looks, most wouldn’t expect it. I am like the snake that you don’t know is there until bitten. I have a strong ability to win people over and get them to want to do what I want just by actively listening.
Bradley Kleihege
Age: 26 Hometown: Haslett, Michigan Current residence: Los Angeles, California Occupation: Law student
Hobbies: Sailing, skiing, and running.
Pet peeves: Stupid people and people who think they know everything.
Three words to describe you: Ambitious, impatient, and astute.
What’s your personal claim to fame? Getting on Survivor. But really, I am most proud of getting into UCLA Law, one of the best law schools in the country. Additionally, making it through the first year of law school taught me a lot about drive and perseverance.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? I don’t have a particular source of inspiration in life because I don’t believe in emulating or worshipping anyone. I think that everyone has positive traits to draw from as well as less desirable aspects.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? First, a notebook and pen to organize my thoughts and strategy. Second, my retainers because I have had my braces off for over a decade but am still too scared to try not wearing them. What if my pearly whites started moving around? And finally, a bottle of rum because no self-respecting sailor would be caught on a remote island without rum.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? I am passionate, competitive, and neurotic like Spencer. Also, I have the same penchant as him for making people feel irrelevant and that is something I will have to be very careful not to do during the game.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? To take a shot at playing a game I have watched religiously and loved since I was 9. I’d also like to win the million so I can pay off my student loans and then buy a sailboat and sail around the world.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I like to lead people and take initiative. Plus, I like to roast people and what doesn’t build tribe morale more on Survivor than a few laughs from roasting the other tribe? I can also cook a mean batch of rice.
Chelsea Townsend
Age: 24 Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah Current residence: Los Angeles, California Occupation: EMT/Pro Cheerleader
Hobbies: Hiking, camping, and enjoying time with family and friends.
Pet peeves: People with constantly pessimistic or negative energy.
Three words to describe you: Outgoing, dynamic, and driven.
What’s your personal claim to fame? Graduating college. I grew as a person and learned a lot about dedication and self-motivation. It gave me the foundation to continue my education and pursue a career as a physician assistant.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My family. I have the most supportive and loving family. They constantly challenge me to be the very best version of myself. I love being able to pursue my passions and dreams knowing they will always be there to help me along the way.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? A mattress to get a good night’s rest, a toothbrush because I can’t imagine not brushing my teeth for more than a day, and definitely food because nobody likes starving.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? Parvati. I think I could use my charm to build relationships, and I think I have the competitive spirit and wit she had.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? It is the experience of a lifetime. You get to push yourself to your absolute limits and challenge yourself in a unique way. I believe I will learn a lot about myself and become a stronger person physically and mentally. The money would of course be helpful as well. I am looking to attend graduate school in the near future and it would be nice to not have any student loans after school.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I have the traits needed to make me successful. I am a hard worker who is extremely driven to reach my goals. I am agile and athletic from a background in dance and gymnastics. I am personable and get along well with people of all backgrounds and ages. I am a competitor and love a good challenge.
Chris Noble
Age: 27 Hometown: Florida Keys, Florida Current residence: Brooklyn, New York Occupation: Male Model
Hobbies: Traveling, sports, being a foodie, adrenaline seeking, working out, and dating.
Pet peeves: My pet peeves are certain characteristics of people. If you are lazy and also a liar, I won’t like you. In fact, it angers me when people act lazy and try to manipulate everyone around them and ruin everything. Now, those pet peeves are going to be alive and well in the land of Survivor. Good thing I know how to dish it right back. I have been around people like that my whole life and I know how to deal with it. So yeah, my title of Most Dramatic, in the face of a bunch of liars will be, shall we say… interesting.
Three words to describe you: Ambitious, charismatic, and charming.
What’s your personal claim to fame? My greatest accomplishment was being on a 5th Avenue Versace billboard! It was by no means the end all and be all of where I want to be in life, but it was a major accomplishment. To me it was an accumulation of everything I’ve worked hard for finally getting justified. It was a huge symbol of perseverance and it was gratifying. I rely on my own self-motivation and have accomplished stuff that was difficult and took legit perseverance, but winning Survivor will top all that.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My ma is my hero. But it wasn’t always so. Growing up, my mom and I didn’t have the best relationship. She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at 27 and had me at 34. God bless her. A lot of side effects of MS don’t just affect the body, but the brain as well, such as depression. So as a kid, I couldn’t handle or understand what was going on. I look back at my childhood and most memories of my mom and I were difficult. She would have seizures during my baseball games, at my school where she tutored, and the side effects of all the medications made it difficult to have a normal relationship with her.
When I was 12, my parents split and the next couple years were even tougher as her disease progressed. If it wasn’t for my father telling me I needed to rise above the past and grow up, I would have continued to struggle. When I was told she had two months to live I decided to become a man at 17, and our past struggles brought us even closer. Through the years, our relationship grew, and our love and respect for each other brought our relationship to all-time highs. None of this would be possible if she hadn’t beat the odds for almost 10 years now.
I will always idolize her perseverance, her grit, and her faith in God. She is the greatest hero anyone can have and I live through her. She never quit or gave in when she was told she had two months to live, so why should I ever quit or give in when life “gets hard?” Want to talk about a survivor? That’s my mom.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? First would be a good luck necklace my mom gave me when she almost died. I’ve been wearing it ever since and crazy good things have happened since. Also, lotion, so I could give awesome massages and bond with the hot girls on my tribe, and finally a second bottle of lotion—I plan to be on the island for a while, and maybe I’ll get one if I play my cards right!
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? From Season 33, I would be a mix of Ken and Michaela. I would provide food like Ken. But unlike Ken, my social game would be on point. I would have Michaela’s fire, determination, and athletic ability. I would also be blunt like her, but would do a better job of building relationships. In previous seasons, I would have the social and ladies game like Joe. Joe is eye candy and smooth. I would try and form a coalition with someone like him. He would be my shield and then I would cut him later in the game. As far as Season 36, I won’t know whether to play the game like a Florida panther—stealthy and in the shadows, or like a lion—dominating its tribe. I may have to be both, depending on the dynamic of the game.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? The game itself, and to spread the awareness of MS. 2.3 million people worldwide have MS and there is no cure! For me, like life, I’ve been finding ways to survive for a long time. I want to apply all my experiences with different personalities, and put them to the ultimate test. I want to compete and I want to win. This is a competition of survival. I am a type-A personality and I cannot stand the thought of losing. I have tunnel vision when it comes to winning and there is nothing out there, competition wise, like Survivor.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I will bring my Survivor mental toughness, my ability to adapt, my positivity to aid the weak, and my will to survive. I might not know how to do some things, but I will find a way to eat and get water. Whether that’s through my creativity, my charm with women, or my ability to make one of the guys my bro. Some men will not like my alpha mentality, which strategically, I will hold back in the beginning as I read people, but I will find my way. They always say “don’t bite the hand that feeds you.” I grew up on an island so if I’m one of the few that can get his own catch and get his own water (which are the two essentials of living), no one will bite that hand. I will have ultimate power.
Desiree Afuye
Age: 21 Hometown: Newark, New Jersey Current residence: Brooklyn, New York Occupation: Student
Hobbies: Traveling, debating, and binging on YouTube videos.
Pet peeves: Complaining.
Three words to describe you: Unbreakable, driven, and real.
What’s your personal claim to fame? Getting a place and back on my feet after being homeless. Freshman year when school ended, I didn’t have anywhere to go. My parents were in Nigeria and both my brothers were in the U.S. but not much older than me so they couldn’t help. This resulted in me being homeless for 1-2 months.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? Beyoncé. She works so hard and is constantly topping herself. She literally sets the standard for every performer and artist and continues to raise the bar. She had Adele and Kanye West on stage defending her when she didn’t win an award. Who else can do that? She is one of the few super humans to walk the Earth.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? A picture of a skeleton in a grave to constantly remind me that things could be worse, a photo book of my family because I will always love them and they forever motivate me and finally, text message threads between me and my best friend. We have the funniest conversations and laughing is the best way to stay positive and happy.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? Michaela! I am a strong black woman who is not afraid to make power moves. I haven’t had an easy life and sure as hell don’t expect winning Survivor to come easy. I relate a lot to her because we are both strong-willed and determined and willing to do what it takes to accomplish our goals.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? The million dollars would change my life drastically. I would have a story for the books—the girl that went from village to Versailles. I’ve seen it all, from the slums to the fast-paced, hard working student life in NYC. I want to change my life and my surroundings. I want to show myself and others that regardless of what you’ve been through, (it was being homeless for me), you can succeed.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I currently live in a house of eight girls. I know how to deal with seven different versions of crazy and different personalities. I am constantly settling issues in the house and running the house meetings, not only does this make me sociable, it makes me likable and adaptable. I have good experience in sports, having played basketball for most of high school and I work out at my college gym. I’m putting myself through school with grants and academic scholarships while my parents are in Nigeria and I am an asset to any team.
Domenick Abbate
Age: 38 Hometown: Nesconset, New York Current residence: Nesconset, New York Occupation: Construction Supervisor
Hobbies: Crossfit, poker, and skiing.
Pet peeves: Fake people, small talk at parties, and judgmental people who are convinced they are better than me.
Three words to describe you: Calculated, intuitive, and empathetic.
What’s your personal claim to fame? My greatest personal accomplishment came when my first daughter was born in 2008. Before her birth I was very overweight, smoked cigarettes, dabbled quite a bit at the craps table and would most likely be sitting down at the poker table on any given day. I recall a specific moment when my daughter was about a year old and she wanted me to take her outside on the swings. It was chilly that day so I had to dress warm. While putting on my shoes, I recall panting from being out of breath from the simple act of tying my own shoes.
It was at that moment that I knew I had to make a change so that I would be around a long time for her and my other children that were soon to come. In the last seven years, I quit smoking, dropped 65 pounds and even though I can still occasionally be found in a poker room, I have dramatically prioritized where my income goes and where most of my money is spent, which is primarily bills and workout clothes for my wife.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My father. He raised nine kids on a construction salary, taught his boys to be men and his daughters to be ladies.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? A photo of my wife, a picture of my rugrats because they’re awesome, and an antihistamine, which I will spike in somebody’s drinking water if they are relentlessly annoying me and/or the group on the island.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? I know you are looking for one, but I am going to split this in three. Mostly Cirie, because I think she is masterfully empathetic with other players. She has an amazing ability to disable people. I hope I can do what she has done in the game. Second is Cochran. He wins in the emotional intelligence category that allows him to morph into whatever he needs to at the time. He also understands the importance of stroking other people’s egos when he needs to. This is something I hope I am capable of doing. And finally Rob Mariano, for the simple fact that we both come from Italian families with a background in construction. But more importantly, he sees the game big picture which is critical and I hope I can maintain.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? Obviously this is the opportunity of a lifetime to play this game, but this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to take a forced break from real life. And I don’t mean that I am happy to leave my family or my job, but this game will force me to be away from my life for a set period of time which I hope will open my eyes to what’s important when I get home. Oh yeah, and that money is mine!
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I grew up in a house with eight siblings. Lack of food, clothes, and showers are something I’m accustomed to. This game should be a walk in the park.
Kellyn Bechtold
Age: 31 Hometown: North Manchester, Indiana Current residence: Denver, Colorado Occupation: Career Counselor
Hobbies: Travel—I love meeting new people in new places, yoga, meditation, and gambling.
Pet peeves: Ignorance and unwillingness to try and walk in other people’s shoes and being interrupted by a man.
Three words to describe you: Empathetic, effervescent, and excitable.
What’s your personal claim to fame? My ever-evolving career. From being a waitress in Indiana, working at a plant nursery in Florida, to a receptionist at a crematory, and eventually working in career services and business consulting with a dual MBA and Master of Public Health.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My parents. My dad is one of the hardest working people I know. My mom tutors incarcerated women, volunteers on Election Day, and contributes to our local community in a loving, selfless way.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? A bag of Skittles. I’m addicted to candy and just one Skittle a day would keep me going through starvation! Next, a deck of cards so I could get people to play games that require deceit, and try to read tells, and tampons, because, duh.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? I hope I’m a mix between Kelley Wentworth and Aubry Bracco. Kelley is a badass game player who would do anything to win. She gets people to trust her and is still a snake. I’m also a little bit Aubry—strategic, very intuitive, but slightly neurotic and quirky.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? As Probst says, Survivor is a human experiment. I am fascinated, as a huge fan, to watch how people interact and deceive when pushed to their limits. Can’t wait to have a front row seat! I want to prove to myself that I can take on this insane physical and mental challenge. Survivor is the greatest game on earth, and I’d like to try my hand at it.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I will survive because of my innate ability to make people feel comfortable. I don’t give up. I’m a resilient person who has done a lot to design my own life. I have the mental and physical stamina to last, even if I don’t look like it. I think I am just sweet and sour enough to come out on top.
Morgan Ricke
Age: 29 Hometown: New Albany, Indiana Current residence: Orlando, Florida Occupation: Marine Animal Trainer
Hobbies: Sleeping, cheering for the South Carolina Gamecocks, and binge watching true crime documentaries.
Pet peeves: Feet, cold weather, and a shortage of ketchup.
Three words to describe you: Bubbly, stubborn, and determined.
What’s your personal claim to fame? Accomplishing my childhood dream of becoming a killer whale trainer at SeaWorld Orlando!
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My parents. They have been married for 32 years and have raised five successful, happy, and healthy children. They have stuck by each other’s side through all the ups and downs over the years and have never given up on one another!
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? Lip balm—I’m addicted—a space heater to keep me warm, and a super comfy pair of sweatpants.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? Kelley Wentworth. She was strategic, strong, sneaky, and a fighter. She wasn’t afraid to make big moves. She played her own game and didn’t hide in anyone’s shadow.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? It has always been one of my dreams to be on Survivor. I have been a fan of the show since Season 2 and I know I have what it takes to be the Sole Survivor. Additionally, I would love to see a new part of the world and a million dollars wouldn’t be bad either.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? Being resilient, strong, and fearless are nice traits that should translate well on the island. For example, at a younger age I was a competitive gymnast on the national level and sustained a career-ending injury. Doctors told me I would never compete again as a gymnast, nor play other sports. Fortunately, in high school, I went to state finals in volleyball and diving and then earned a D1 diving scholarship to the University of South Carolina. Go Gamecocks!
Sebastian Noel
Age: 22 Hometown: Melbourne, Florida Current residence: Satellite Beach, Florida Occupation: Fishing Guide
Hobbies: Fishing, surfing, cooking, living, loving, traveling, and gardening.
Pet peeves: When someone calls you but you miss their call by like a second, so you call them right back but then they don’t pick up, and then you call them three more times in a row and they still don’t pick up.
Three words to describe you: Outgoing, adventurous, and free spirited.
What’s your personal claim to fame? Being everyone’s favorite person. I truly enjoy meeting people from various walks of life, becoming very good friends with them, keeping them in my life, and smiling the entire way.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? Bob Marley. That man knew how to live life. He understood what living meant and inspired people to love the life you live and live the life you love. I smile just thinking about that beautiful human.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? A waterproof camera. Life is an adventure. I’m in love with memories. I really enjoy capturing every twist and turn this beautiful life has to offer. A Hawaiian sling. I am a waterman, so being in the water, hunting for food is where I feel the most at home. True peace for my soul. A big bowl of gummy candy. I am absolutely addicted to candy, especially gummies. I can catch the meat, but I can’t catch the candy.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? Tyson. He knew how to play the game through laughter, creativity, and good times. A true free spirit.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? I’ve been waiting my entire life for an opportunity to show the world the many skills I have to offer. I feel like this is my calling. Also, almost everyone I know literally asks me all the time, “Seb, why are you NOT on Survivor?” I just feel like it’s my time to shine.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I am perfect for this game. I spend most of my life outside in the elements, a lot of which is involved with something physical. I’m great with people and can make friends very easily. I enjoy being challenged in such ways that may be life risking. I can figure out little kinks to situations that others may not even think about.
Wendell Holland
Age: 33 Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Current residence: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Occupation: Furniture Company Owner
Hobbies: Playing basketball, traveling, creating something from nothing.
Pet peeves: People who aren’t open-minded despite facts/logic/new information, people that overuse the word “honestly,” and not being in control of my destiny.
Three words to describe you: Witty, intelligent, and competitive.
What’s your personal claim to fame? I left a comfortable job in the legal field to pursue my dreams.
Who or what is your inspiration in life? My family. I’d do anything for them or to make their lives better.
If you could have three things on the island, what would they be and why? First, my brush to take care of my beautiful beard and fro. Second, a chainsaw so I can make building things a lot easier, and finally, a sketchbook so I can doodle, draw, and write.
Which Survivor contestant are you most like? I think I’d play the game like Jeremy Collins because I’ll always keep my heart in the right place, but I’ll still be a serious competitor and threat.
What’s your reason for being on Survivor? I’ve been a big fan for a while, and I’ve always wanted to push myself to the limits and see if I can really survive. Oh yeah, I’m playing for the million bucks, too. That would really help things.
Why do you think you’ll “survive” Survivor? I’m good with people and likable. I’m very diplomatic and can connect with people from different walks of life. I’m also not the biggest and strongest looking person, though I can compete with the best of them. That will get me past the first few votes. Then, my athleticism and skill at puzzles will help me win challenges when it becomes an individual game. Finally, my persuasive skills in front of a jury will win me the million. Boom.
One point of interest is the age distribution (or rather, lack thereof) of the contestants. Out of the 20, 14 are under 30, and only two are 40 or older. That will be something to keep an eye on throughout the season. Will the “old” contestants be seen as easy targets? Or could they sit on the outside, waiting for an opportunity to swoop in as a swing vote and change the course of the game?
