Fans of the hit reality competition show Survivor often think that they know all of the rules of the game, but some viewers may be surprised to learn that there are quite a few rules that contestants must follow which aren't discussed on the show. From clothing choices to g non-disclosure agreements, there are many things that contestants must do. There is actually a rather long list of rules they must follow once they are cast for the show.
With Survivor season 41 scheduled to premiere in September, fans are sure to enjoy reading about these surprising rules. Fans already know that this competition pushes competitors to the limit. While one harsh element of the competition has been eased, which is starvation (competitors get more food now, according to Entertainment Weekly), it's still a competition that pits humans against nature and against one another.
This competition puts winners in line for big bucks and long-lasting fame. Cast will go to extreme lengths to win, from building spy shacks to exhausting themselves to get off Elimination Island (these facets of gameplay were on display during Survivor: Winners at War season 40) and beyond. While they push for the prize, they have to keep the rules in mind.
Contracts
Before filming even starts for the show, each contestant must sign a detailed contract to participate. According to Reality Blurred, some of the clauses in the contract include agreeing that the environment may cause "severe mental stress," not advertising any prize won, and cooperating with any lie detector tests or psychological exams, which may be included in the show when it airs.
Medical History
Contestants must fully disclose their medical histories when applying. As anyone who is familiar with the show knows, Survivor is physically grueling, from a survival standpoint and in of competitions. The show's crew must be aware of any medical needs of the players so they can safely ister medication and treatment to those who get injured or contract illnesses while filming. Additionally, the crew also supplies contestants with items such as sunscreen, feminine products, and lens solutions.
Food
All food must be approved by the crew before the contestants can eat it. This is done so the contestants won't consume anything that is unsafe to eat. Given that they are only given a small amount of rice, players do have to forage, hunt, and fish to augment their daily diets. Producers put this rule in place to ensure the safety of the players. Luckily, players get fed more than they used to, as previously mentioned. Alum Sonja Christopher from Survivor season 1 told Entertainment Weekly that players today get more food "because when your metabolism drops, all you want to do is sleep and that doesn't make for good TV."
Clothing
Survivor cast must follow producers' instructions regarding the clothing they are allowed to wear. They can bring any clothes they want to the filming location, but producers go through their bags and choose what the players can actually take to their camps. Any articles of clothing with any type of logo are strictly prohibited. Additionally, producers need to make sure that the clothes are in camera-friendly colors. They also ensure that the contestants aren't all wearing the same colors.
Talking To Other Contestants
Players are not allowed to talk to each other when the cameras aren't rolling because the production crew needs to ensure they are able to capture the drama. Some of these conversations will eventually turn into memorable and iconic scenes. While Survivor crew do stay near the contestants in their own camps, there are times (such as when the competitors are being transported to challenges) that the cameras aren't on, and contestants must remain quiet during those occasions. Players are allowed to talk to the crew, but the crew are prohibited from talking back.
Sources: Reality Blurred, Entertainment Weekly