The Exclusive With Sharon Tharp

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.

Survivor legend Jenna Lewis-Dougherty joins The Exclusive for an exit interview following the Survivor 50 premiere. Jenna doesn't hold back on why she felt like the "odd man out" from the second she landed, revealing the "FaceTime and Zoom" pre-game culture that left her playing from the bottom. She breaks down exactly why she believes Christian Hubicki is the true "chess master" of the Cila tribe, explaining how he used Rick Devens as a "lackey" to do his dirty work while keeping his own hands clean. From the truth about Cirie Fields’ challenge liability to what we didn't see at Tribal Council, Jenna gives a raw, unfiltered look at what it’s like to return to the game after 20 years.

Survivor legend Tyson Apostol and Vanderpump Rules star Tom Sandoval join The Exclusive to break down their unlikely bromance on House of Villains Season 3, revealing why they both felt "unfairly" labeled as villains before entering the mansion.The pair doesn't hold back on the clashing social styles in the house, specifically calling out the "Big Brotherly energy" of Paul Abrahamian and why his signature sunglasses were a major "sign of disrespect." From Tom’s secret Sudoku prank on Tyson to the "hall of mirrors" that made a strategic partnership with Paul impossible, the duo explains why you need a mix of petty moves and "logical" gameplay.

Big Brother legend Paul Abrahamian joins The Exclusive to discuss his surprise return to reality TV on House of Villains Season 3, explaining why the show’s over-the-top, “unserious” chaos finally drew him back after years away and how he’s leaning into his villain reputation. Paul reflects on getting “war flashbacks” from classic competition strategies and bringing his signature gameplay into a house full of notorious reality troublemakers, while castmates Ashley Mitchell (The Challenge) and Johnny Middlebrooks (Love Island USA) open up about being labeled villains by fans, navigating alliances and egos in the mansion, and why petty moves can be even more dangerous than strategy.

The latest player banished from The Traitors Season 4, Natalie Anderson, joins The Exclusive to break down the "frustrating" betrayal by Johnny Weir and Tara Lapinski that left her out to dry at the roundtable. The Survivor winner reflects on the "adrenaline dump" of her exit, the lingering trauma of her Winners at War finale that still haunts her gameplay, and why she failed to see just how "calculated" Rob Rausch really was behind his nonchalant energy. Natalie also addresses the online obsession with her wardrobe, her regret over not connecting with Mark Ballas, and why the "redemption" seeker inside her is already looking for a stylist to head back to the castle for another season.

Below Deck Down Under's Captain Jason Chambers joins host Sharon Tharp to break down the "A-Team" dynamics defining Season 4 of the Bravo series. The fan-favorite captain reflects on his initial "hesitation" regarding Daisy Kelliher’s leadership style, the "internal struggle" Chef Ben Robinson faced returning to the galley, and the chance meeting at an Outback Steakhouse that led to Ben's last-minute recruitment. Jason also addresses the challenge of managing a crew full of veterans like Joao Franco, explains why he had to check his own ego to "let people breathe," and reveals how his daughter really feels about his reality TV fame. Plus, Jason reveals if he’d ever trade the bridge for a spot in The Traitors castle.

Survivor alums Teeny Chirichillo and Stephanie Berger join The Exclusive to share their thoughts on the penultimate episode of The Traitors Season 4 and unpack Natalie Anderson’s banishment. The duo weighs in on Rob Rausch’s dominant Traitor game, Tara Lipinski’s emotional spiral as the endgame looms, and the shifting alliances that could decide the finale—while also sharing their predictions for who survives the final murder and wins it all.

The latest player murdered on The Traitors Season 4, Kristen Kish, breaks down the "wildly entertaining" experience of watching her own demise from the comfort of home. The Top Chef host and culinary icon reflects on the "mentally draining" reality of life inside the castle, the "crazy" difference between Rob Rausch’s quiet demeanor and his high-energy confessionals, and why she felt "far less pressure" playing a game of lies than she does in a professional kitchen. Kristen also responds to fans calling the Faithfuls "dumb," explaining why she can't be "mad or frustrated" with her fellow players, and reveals if she would ever return for a potential All-Stars.

In this exclusive preseason interview, Big Brother winner Josh Martinez joins host Sharon Tharp just days before handing over his phone and entering Telemundo’s La Casa de los Famosos. Josh opens up about why he turned down major projects like The Challenge 42 to pursue his dream of breaking into the Latin market, his strategy for the high-stakes public vote, and the anxiety of returning to 24/7 live feeds for a grueling 17-week Spanish-language version of what he calls "The Hunger Games."

In this episode, host Sharon Tharp is joined by a very special guest: her sister, Kelly. The duo dives deep into the fallout of Rob Rausch’s latest recruitment and the shifting dynamics within the castle. Sharon and Kelly discuss whether Eric Nam was the right choice for the turret, the tragic banishment of Stephen Colletti, and why Natalie Anderson’s gameplay continues to keep everyone on their toes. Plus, they break down that intense mission and give their endgame predictions.

The latest player banished from The Traitors Season 4, Stephen Colletti, joins The Exclusive to break down the "chaos" at the Roundtable and the "over his skis" strategy that led to his exit. The actor and reality veteran reflects on being blindsided by Natalie's gut instinct, the "sketchy" private conversation with Candiace that clouded his judgment, and why he failed to spot Rob's Traitor game in the moment. Stephen also addresses the online debate over his One Tree Hill vs. Laguna Beach credits and explains why the "competition beast" inside him is already ready to run it back for another season in the castle.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Survivor 49 winner Savannah Louie sits down with host Sharon Tharp to discuss returning immediately for Survivor 50 with almost no time to recover. Savannah opens up about the emotional and physical challenge of playing back-to-back seasons, starting the game with a target on her back, and how she plans to navigate the new-era pace against veteran players. She also shares her approach to trust and transparency, concerns about pre-existing alliances, and why she’s embracing the role of wildcard as the milestone season begins.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Rizo Velovic arrives for Survivor 50 as a "super duper fan" ready to cement his legacy among the greats. Fresh off a 10-day turnaround from Season 49, Rizo reveals that he models his strategic approach after Big Brother legend Dan Gheesling. He also breaks down his "RizGod" persona, his "surreal" first impressions of seeing Coach at Ponderosa, and why he believes his status as an unknown commodity gives him a "mortgage-level" advantage over the legends.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Joe Hunter reflects on the "honorable sacrifice" of returning for Survivor 50 just days after the conclusion of his season airing. Fresh off the fallout of Season 48, Joe admits his brain is "completely scrambled" as he prepares to navigate the game again alongside former allies Kyle and Kamilla. He breaks down his secret method for scouting other players during challenges, analyzes the "winner swag" of the unknown Season 49 players, and explains why he’s gravitating toward old-school legends like Colby and Coach.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Kamilla Karthigesu reveals her "tried and tested" strategy for Survivor 50: throwing everyone else under the bus. Fresh off her run on Season 48, Kamilla admits she was "annoyed" to see her former allies Kyle and Joe on the beach and explains why she plans to distance herself from them. From branding the unknown Season 49 players as "secret winners" to targeting the "dangerous" gameplay of Genevieve, Kamilla breaks down exactly who is on her radar.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Tiffany Ervin opens up about her high-stakes return for Survivor 50 and the "carefree" energy she’s bringing. Tiffany gets candid about the "mixed" reality of playing with her Season 46 castmates, admitting she has "complicated" feelings toward Charlie after he "stabbed her in the back" during their first run. While she considers Q a close friend in the "real world," she breaks down why history shows a second chance won't change his chaotic gameplay and why she’s ready to point the finger elsewhere the moment anyone screams "trio." From her "stone-faced" observations at Ponderosa to her mission to "erase the idol thing" off her resume,Tiffany reveals why she’s betting on being underestimated.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Charlie Davis opens up about his high-stakes return for Survivor 50 and the "muscle memory" he’s bringing back to the beach to finally seal the deal. Charlie explains why he is cutting the "fluff" from his original training and embracing a "different me" for this milestone season, one that is prepared for the "mixed baggage" of returning with former allies Q and Tiffany. From his surreal pre-game observations of Coach Wade’s "aura" to his breakdown of the "unfounded fear" old school legends have of the New Era, the law school graduate reveals why he is avoiding the "worst result" of another Final Tribal Council loss.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Genevieve Mushaluk opens up about her unique position as the lone representative from her season and the "particularly vulnerable" social landscape of Survivor 50. Mushaluk reveals the bizarre pregame dynamics currently unfolding at Ponderosa, including her "stern dad" encounters with a cold Colby Donaldson and her "toxic" attraction to the unpredictable gameplay of the Dragon Slayer himself, Coach. From her strategic plan to offer up the "RizGod" as a sacrificial lamb to her blunt assessment of why New Era players don't actually have an advantage this time around, Genevieve breaks down her ultra-adaptable mindset and why she’s ready to prove that her deep run in Season 47 was only the beginning.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, three-time Survivor alum Colby Donaldson explains why he was the first person to call casting for Survivor 50—and why this return feels more meaningful than any of his previous trips. Colby reflects on the full-circle perspective he has now in his 50s, revisiting his past games and the moments he’s proud of (and the ones he regrets), and what it means to come back determined to “finish the way he started.” He also shares how he’s approaching the modern, faster-paced game, why playing from the middle could be his biggest advantage, his thoughts on old school vs. new era players (and the targets that come with built-in season groups), and the relationships he’s excited to explore on the beach—from fellow Heroes vs. Villains alums to the unknowns from season 49.

Big Brother winner Andy Herren joins Sharon Tharp on The Exclusive to break down The Traitors Season 4, Episode 8, unpacking Candiace’s shocking banishment, Rob’s most powerful move yet as a Traitor, the fallout from killing Colton, and why the faithfuls continue to miss glaring red flags. They debate whether Candiace doomed her own game with the “throwaway vote,” how traitor-on-traitor betrayals impact the endgame, why the fandom discourse has spiraled, and who’s actually positioned to win as the season barrels toward a potentially polarizing finale.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Emily Flippen reveals the internal struggle behind returning for the milestone 50th season. She breaks down her fascinating psychological reads on legends like Cirie Fields and Coach at Ponderosa, explaining why she’s already picking up on a massive divide in energy between the icons of the game. From calling the back-to-back players from season 49 "psychos" to her ruthless decision to vote against the cast receiving rice, Emily discusses leaning into her reputation as a "physical liability" and how she plans to navigate a fast-paced game where she feels like a permanent underdog.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Jonathan Young reveals the unique preparation he undertook for his return in Survivor 50, including a personal letter of advice and three specific rules for success from legend Boston Rob. Known as the ultimate "challenge beast" of the New Era, Young explains why he is actually grateful his strategic game was downplayed in Season 42 and how he plans to use his status as a "free agent" to navigate a cast full of pre-existing alliances. From weaning himself off food to handle the island’s starvation to identifying which old-school icons he wants to work with, Jonathan breaks down his evolving strategy for this milestone season.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Rick Devens reflects on his dramatic path to Survivor 50, revealing that he was nearly left off the cast as a late alternate before finally getting the call. Devens explains how that setback gave him a chip on his shoulder—and why it’s pushed him to approach the game differently this time. From being one fire-making challenge away from winning his original season to intentionally playing down his threat level now, Devens breaks down his evolving strategy, his willingness to cause some trouble, and how he plans to navigate the massive old-school vs. new-era cast.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Christian Hubicki opens up about his long-awaited return for Survivor 50 and the major life shifts—including earning tenure and becoming a father just six weeks before the game—that have reshaped his approach to the season. Christian explains his new "narrative warfare" strategy, a lesson he’s stealing from Mike White to control the stories told on the island, while breaking down his fascinating "four role" hypothesis on how this legendary cast was built. From his pre-game observations of Coach and Cirie to his plan to become an "ace in the hole" that his competitors won't see coming, the robotics professor reveals why he is finally ready to crack the code of the final three.

The fifth player banished on The Traitors Season 4, Ron Funches joins The Exclusive to unpack his emotional exit after being targeted by a house of reality veterans. The comedian and actor compares the castle dynamics to a toxic high school, reveals why he’s expecting "fake apologies" from certain costars at the upcoming reunion, and breaks down the "popular kid" strategy that led to his downfall. Ron also opens up about his unexpected bond with Rob Rausch, the real reason he believes Candiace Dillard Bassett and Rob were such effective Traitors, and the deeply personal way his experience on the show led to a life-changing autism diagnosis.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Aubry Bracco opens up about returning for Survivor 50 after stepping away from the Survivor community and how that time off — along with becoming a parent — has reshaped her perspective and strategy. Aubry explains why she plans to play as a free agent in the early game, focusing on one-on-one relationships, keeping her options open, and avoiding early commitments in a cast full of returning players with pre-existing alliances. She also reflects on adapting to the modern game and what she’s watching for in the critical opening phase of Survivor 50.

After nearly a decade away from the game, Chrissy Hofbeck is back for Survivor 50—and she believes the timing couldn’t be better. In this preseason interview, the Survivor 35 finalist sits down with host Sharon Tharp on set in Fiji to break down her strategy heading into Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans. Chrissy opens up about why being a “lone wolf” from her season could work to her advantage, how jury dynamics may shape the endgame, and why she thinks New Era players could become early targets. She also reflects on the “robbed” narrative from her original season, discusses managing her challenge reputation, and explains why she genuinely believes she has a path to win this time around.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, Survivor legend Ozzy Lusth sits down with host Sharon Tharp ahead of Survivor 50 to size up the cast and reflect on how the game has evolved over the years. Ozzy shares his thoughts on old school versus new school Survivor, returning to the island after more than two decades with the franchise, and how existing relationships and reputations could shape the early game. He also opens up about who he’s excited to play with, which unknowns intrigue him most, and what he hopes to do differently in this landmark season.

In this preseason interview filmed in Fiji, three-time Survivor alum Stephenie LaGrossa Kendrick opens up about returning for Survivor 50 more than two decades after her original seasons. Stephenie reflects on balancing motherhood with coming back to the game, her concerns about physical endurance, and why she believes the game begins the moment players arrive. She also shares her thoughts on old school versus new school Survivor, navigating pre-existing relationships, modern twists and advantages, and which players she’s hoping to align with as the season begins.

In this preseason interview, Survivor 48 winner Kyle Fraser sits down with host Sharon Tharp on location in Fiji ahead of Survivor 50 to break down his mindset returning to the game so soon after winning. Kyle opens up about why being a winner isn’t his biggest concern, which players and unknowns worry him most, and how pre-existing relationships and groups could shape the early game. He also reflects on adjusting his strategy for a returning-player season, balancing loyalty with cutthroat gameplay, and what he wants to experience differently this time around on Survivor 50.

Survivor 45 winner Dee Valladares returns for Survivor 50 with confidence, clarity, and nothing to prove. In this preseason interview, Dee sits down with host Sharon Tharp on set in Fiji to break down how she’s approaching the game as a returning winner — from managing her threat level to why she sees her perceived disadvantages as advantages. Dee reacts to the Survivor 50 cast, opens up about who she’s vibing with (and who she isn’t), and explains why personal connections matter more to her than early-game strategy. She also reflects on playing with old-era competitors for the first time, navigating pregame dynamics, and what she truly wants out of her Survivor 50 experience.

Survivor alum and The Traitors Canada star Omar Zaheer joins Sharon Tharp on The Exclusive to break down the most hyped episode of The Traitors Season 4, diving deep into the dramatic Banquet murder, Yam Yam’s shocking exit, Lisa Rinna’s gameplay and defense, Natalie’s desperate fight for the antidote, and Rob’s increasingly powerful position in the game. Omar analyzes the strategy behind the murder in plain sight, whether Yam Yam’s final words should matter, the fallout at the roundtable, and what the looming turret showdown between Rob and Candiace means for the rest of the season — plus bold predictions on who’s set up to win and who’s in serious danger next.

The fifth player murdered on The Traitors Season 4, Yam Yam Arocho joins The Exclusive to unpack his shocking banquet exit, after being murdered in plain sight by Lisa Rinna. The Survivor winner breaks down the controversial moment that sparked online debate, why he believes murdered players should be allowed to speak, and how his growing suspicion of Lisa ultimately played into his fate. Yam Yam also reflects on navigating early heat in the game, the misunderstood “gamers vs. non-gamers” narrative, and what future Traitors players should learn from his experience.

After more than a decade away, Benjamin "Coach" Wade is returning for Survivor 50 with a clear goal: to win. In this preseason interview, the Survivor legend sits down with host Sharon Tharp on set in Fiji to reflect on how time, family, and personal growth have reshaped his approach since his previous seasons. Coach opens up about legacy, redemption, and why returning now feels like the right moment to rewrite how he’s remembered in the game. He also discusses adapting to the modern era, navigating familiar faces, and what it would mean to finally leave Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans as a champion.

After 20 years and four previous runs, Cirie Fields is returning for Survivor 50 with unfinished business. In this preseason interview, the Survivor legend sits down with host Sharon Tharp on set in Fiji to reflect on how experience, perspective, and longevity have reshaped her approach since her first season. Cirie opens up about loyalty, reading people before the game begins, and navigating pre-existing relationships. She also discusses managing her threat level and why recent winners could face bigger targets in Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans.

Angelina Keeley is back for Survivor 50 — and she’s playing a smarter game this time. In this preseason interview, the Survivor: David vs. Goliath finalist sits down with host Sharon Tharp on set in Fiji to reflect on how life, motherhood, and experience have reshaped her approach since her first season. Angelina opens up about learning from a zero-vote finish, dialing back theatrics, and balancing her big personality with a more controlled, intentional strategy. She also discusses navigating pre-existing relationships, the potential impact of her connection to Mike White, and how ambition and perception could shape the game in Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans.

Q Burdette is back for Survivor 50 — and he knows exactly what went wrong last time. In this preseason interview, the Survivor 46 breakout sits down with host Sharon Tharp on set in Fiji to reflect on how moving too fast and embracing chaos cost him his shot at the end — and why he plans to start Survivor 50 by slowing down. Q opens up about the reputation he brings into the game, the fine line between unpredictability and control, and why boredom could be the moment everything flips. With more experience, a new mindset, and no shortage of confidence, Q explains how he plans to adapt his game for Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans — and what might happen if patience runs out.

Mike White is back for Survivor 50 — and he’s ready to police the vibe. In this preseason interview from Fiji, the Survivor: David vs. Goliath finalist and The White Lotus creator sits down with host Sharon Tharp to discuss why the timing felt right to return, how stepping away from his day job helped reset his mindset, and why he’s drawn to playing a looser, more mischievous game this time around. More than two decades into Survivor’s legacy, Mike reflects on competing alongside old school and new school players, navigating a cast full of big personalities and past winners, and why creating the right energy on the island matters just as much as strategy as the milestone season approaches.

Jenna Lewis-Dougherty is back for Survivor 50 — and she’s counting on being underestimated. In this preseason interview, the Survivor Season 1 alum sits down with Sharon Tharp to discuss returning for Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans, why being overlooked is exactly where she wants to be, and how the game’s modern era of advantages and résumé-building has changed the way she plans to play. More than two decades after first appearing on Survivor, Jenna reflects on competing alongside players who weren’t even born when the show premiered, staying outside the modern Survivor social scene, and what she’s watching for as the milestone season approaches.

Survivor winner and The Traitors Season 3 alum Jeremy Collins joins Sharon Tharp to break down The Traitors Season 4, Episode 6 — the most intense episode of the season so far. They dive into Ron Funches' poignant Roundtable speech, Colton Underwood's’s aggressive (and controversial) strategy and Lisa Rinna’s growing target. Plus, Jeremy shares insider perspective from his own time on The Traitors, weighs in on the faithfuls’ mistakes, the gamers’ lack of unity, and what the murder in plain sight twist could mean heading into the next episode.

Host Sharon Tharp talks to Venita Aspen about the fallout between Craig Conover and Salley Carson on Southern Charm, pushing back on claims that she gave her friend an ultimatum and explaining why she felt compelled to speak up. Venita opens up about the criticism she’s faced, her perspective on Craig and Salley’s dynamic, and why she stands by how she handled the situation — plus where she currently stands with Craig after their friendship fracture.

In this bonus episode of The Exclusive, host Sharon Tharp is joined by social media influencer and reality TV superfan Bran Flakezz for a big-picture check-in on The Traitors Season 4 so far, breaking down the early stretch of the game, standout players, strategy, and how the season is shaping up compared to past installments. They also branch out into Bran’s thoughts on the Survivor 50 cast, his favorite seasons of Big Brother, and whether he’d ever say yes to doing reality TV himself.

Big Brother 27 finalist Morgan Pope joins Sharon Tharp to recap the drama of Episodes 4 & 5 of The Traitors Season 4, reacting to Tiffany’s shocking banishment, the latest murders, and the growing chaos among the Faithfuls. From Rob’s strong Traitor position to the controversy surrounding Colton’s gameplay and the castle’s shifting alliances, Morgan delivers her unfiltered thoughts and sharp strategic analysis on how the game is unfolding.

Fourth player murdered on The Traitors Season 4, Monét X Change joins The Exclusive to unpack her abrupt exit, the betrayal that blindsided her, and why she believes the Traitors’ loyalty this season is unlike anything we’ve seen before. Monét opens up about trusting Candiace Dillard Bassett, suspecting Lisa Rinna, unshielding Tiffany Mitchell, and how planting the right seeds ultimately put a target on her back. She also reacts to discovering the Traitors’ identities, reflects on whether being murdered or banished is worse, and shares why she’d love another shot at strategic reality TV—possibly even inside the Big Brother house.

The third player banished from The Traitors Season 4, Tiffany Mitchell, joins The Exclusive to break down her emotional exit, what really went wrong at the roundtable, and who tipped her off that she may be getting votes. The Big Brother 23 mastermind reflects on her fiery confrontation with Colton Underwood, her close bonds with Ian Terry, Rob Cesternino, and Candiace Dillard Bassett, and what she believes ultimately sealed her fate. Tiffany also opens up about watching the season back and what future players should learn from her banishment.

In this The Traitors Season 4 exit interview, Rob Cesternino joins host Sharon Tharp on The Exclusive to break down his shocking “murder in plain sight” and react to the moment he believes fellow Survivor player Yam Yam Arocho put a target on his back. Rob opens up about the emotional toll of his early exit, being labeled a “mastermind,” how that perception affected his game, and what he’d do differently if he ever returned to The Traitors.

Big Brother 14 winner Ian Terry joins Sharon Tharp to break down his experience on The Traitors Season 4 after becoming the first player murdered. From why he said yes, to how his reputation as a “smart player” made him an early target, Ian reflects on early-game randomness, missed connections, and what might have changed if he’d survived just one more round.

Survivor legend Tyson Apostol joins Sharon Tharp to break down Episodes 1–3 of The Traitors Season 4, diving into the early murders, banished players, and strategic mistakes that set the tone for the game. From first impressions to surprising moves and early-game chaos, Tyson shares his unfiltered take on what’s already shaping up to be a wild season.

Host Sharon Tharp sits down with Stephen Colletti to talk about his experience on The Traitors, his complicated history with reality TV, and how Laguna Beach shaped — but didn’t define — his career. From why he finally said yes to a competition show to reflecting on life, growth, and navigating Hollywood after early fame, the conversation goes beyond the castle and into what comes next.

Rob Cesternino joins Sharon Tharp to break down his return to reality TV on The Traitors, opening up about why the timing finally felt right after more than 20 years, how the opportunity differed from a potential Survivor return, and what it was like stepping into the castle as both a longtime player and podcasting powerhouse. Rob also reflects on building RHAP into a full-time business, balancing family life with a media career, and discusses his upcoming book, which explores the evolution of Survivor through the lens of a superfan-turned-player-turned-historian.