The Survivor Dream Team: A Tribute to John Kirhoffer
The Survivor Dream Team is a group of production assistants who work behind the scenes of the popular reality TV show, Survivor. They are responsible for a variety of tasks, including challenge rehearsals, B-roll shots, lugging gear, and creating props. The team is led by John Kirhoffer, the challenge producer, who has been with the show since its first season.
The Dream Team is a dream job for many young television professionals in training. They live in Fiji on Mana Island for months at a time during the show's production schedule. They work long hours, taking instruction from department heads and learning various crafts, such as drone photography, story producing, set design, and camera operations.
The team is a close-knit group that often becomes a found family. They socialize, swim, and meet during their free time, and some have even started families together. Brittany Crapper, a former Dream Team member, met her husband while working on the show and now shares three children with him. The team's romances have led to over 60 babies, creating a mini tribe of their own.
The Dream Team is a training ground for higher-level positions. Members stay on the team for about two years before moving up in the production's ranks. John Kirhoffer, the challenge producer, takes great pride in mentoring the team and seeing them flourish. He considers it the most rewarding part of his job.
The team is selected through a word-of-mouth process, with candidates submitting a 1-2 minute video and a resume. Former Dream Team member Zach Sundelius, for example, created a Twitter account to connect with the team and eventually landed a spot on the team in Samoa.
The team's work is physically demanding, and they must test the show's challenges regularly. Kevin Martinez and Skylar Williams, two current team members, were recommended by their connections and have been working hard to build their stamina and confidence.
John Kirhoffer is highly respected by the team, and they often refer to him as a father figure. He has been instrumental in mentoring and launching their careers. The team's dedication and respect for Kirhoffer were on full display during a recent tribute event, where they celebrated his contributions to the show and his impact on their lives.
