Why Survivor’s Jeff Probst Doubled Over During Intense Challenge

Jeff Probst couldn’t outwit this steamy obstacle.

Jeff Probst, the host of Survivor, revealed some surprising details about the reward challenge from the October 29th episode, including how he nearly fainted as the competition began.

Jeff, the host, recently shared on his podcast that the location of a recent challenge on Survivor in Fiji was unusually hot. He said it was the hottest place they’ve ever filmed there, and he’s not sure why. Despite asking his crew, no one could explain it, but he joked that listeners probably have their own theories, like a difference in air pressure.

He described the weather as incredibly humid, saying it felt like being in a sauna with someone constantly adding water to the hot rocks. He insisted he wasn’t exaggerating.

The intense heat in Fiji left the host struggling to breathe. During an episode of season 49, the remaining contestants faced a challenging race that included pushing a heavy cart, climbing ladders, carrying sandbags, and hitting bamboo targets.

As the runners approached the end of the race, Jeff clearly struggled, bending over and gasping for air.

“Are you as winded as I am, Jeff?” asked 25-year-old contestant Rizo Velovic. Jeff responded, “This is serious!”

The CBS show has been filming in the island nation since 2016, but the host says he and the crew still haven’t gotten used to the intense heat.

He described a wonderful boat ride with beautiful skies and a refreshing breeze. But then, stepping into a thick forest, people inevitably say what they always try to avoid: ‘It’s so hot!’ Despite knowing it’s a cliché, the heat is just that noticeable and unavoidable.

This isn’t the first challenge the Survivor contestants have faced from the environment and local wildlife. Earlier this season, Jake Latimer was bitten by a poisonous sea snake while standing in shallow water. Jeff Probst mentioned the quick response of the on-site medical team—which included doctors, nurses, and paramedics—and they determined the venom hadn’t affected Jake.

Reflecting on the frightening incident with The Hollywood Reporter earlier this month, Jake said he received the best possible care after being bitten by a snake while filming. He continues to be asked if Survivor is genuine, but assures viewers that the bite from a sea krait was real, and the whole experience was truly terrifying.

Keep reading to see more intense moments from Survivor 49…