When we think of Survivor, we usually picture the intense challenges, dramatic Tribal Councils, and those fierce contestants battling it out for the million-dollar prize. But let’s not forget about the host who’s been through it all — Jeff Probst. Unlike the players who live off rice, coconuts, and minimal shelter, Jeff faces the brutal elements of the game too. He’s gotten knocked down by waves, tripped while announcing challenges, and even hosted Tribal Council in downpours and scorching heat. Yet, there’s one major difference: after the chaos, Jeff can head back to his comfortable beachfront property, enjoy a shower, and freshen up with some deodorant or cologne. Must be nice, right?

The Question That Sparked a Hilarious Moment

In a recent episode of the On Fire With Jeff Probst podcast, a fan named Nicole had an interesting (and slightly hilarious) question for the host. She asked, “When players ask for a hug and you’re taking the necklace off of them, do you hold your breath so you don’t have to smell them?” A bold and funny question, no doubt, but it opened the door for a lighthearted conversation about the less glamorous side of Survivor.

Probst’s Honest Response

Jeff Probst’s response? “Yeah, it’s a funny thought and it makes total sense,” he admits. “But it actually never enters my mind.” Well, there goes Nicole’s big theory! Jeff continued, explaining that for him, the Survivor experience is like being in an improv scene the entire time. “I’m just going wherever it is,” he says. “I stay focused.”

So, while he’s not concerned about the stench of the players, Jeff Probst still acknowledges that the contestants definitely do have a unique smell after weeks on the island. “They smell. It’s part of the world,” he says. No sugarcoating here!

What Exactly Does ‘Survivor’ Smell Like?

As for what that smell actually is, Jeff describes it as a mix of two very different scents: “campfire, which is kind of nice,” he says, followed by the not-so-pleasant smell of “an old gym locker that hasn’t been opened in months.” It’s an odor that’s both pungent and strangely familiar to anyone who’s spent time on the island. Jeff calls it the “eau of Survivor.” A little gross, but undeniably a part of the game’s charm.

Rachel Lamont, the winner of Survivor Season 47 and cohost of the podcast, couldn’t help but comment: “Sorry, Jeff,” when hearing about the less-than-pleasant aroma. But she wasn’t done there. She suggested something that could turn the whole smelly situation into a money-making opportunity: “I think you should make a candle and put that in the CBS shop, Jeff.”

Could we really see a Survivor-inspired candle hit the shelves? Maybe one day! It would definitely be a unique souvenir for fans of the show.

The Takeaway: It’s All About Improv and Staying Focused

Despite the chaotic and sometimes stinky environment, Jeff Probst remains unfazed. He continues to host Survivor with a level of focus and commitment that keeps him fully in the moment, even when surrounded by smells that could knock out a lesser man. And for fans of the show, these behind-the-scenes stories make the Survivor experience even more interesting.

So, the next time you watch a Survivor challenge or Tribal Council, just remember: while the players are battling it out for their spot in the game, Jeff Probst is right there with them — doing his job, staying focused, and apparently, enjoying the unique smell of Survivor.

For more fun insights and behind-the-scenes details, make sure to tune into the On Fire With Jeff Probst podcast. You never know what hilarious question will pop up next!