The TV shows that inspired the creation of “Survivor”

August 11, 2023 Joe Ditzel

Ever wonder what inspired “Survivor?” How did they think of the format? Like all things, “Survivor” draws from many TV shows that came before. Here are the most influential:

“Island Pioneers” – ABC (1972)

Concept: A group of participants is taken to a deserted island, with no challenges or eliminations. The goal? Simply to build a sustainable community from scratch. With a focus on cooperation rather than competition, viewers are drawn into interpersonal dynamics and the daily triumphs and tribulations of starting anew.
Signature Feature: A diary room where participants share their insights about island life and their fellow pioneers.

“Treasure Trackers” – CBS (1976)

Concept: Teams of two race around a secluded coastal region, solving riddles and searching for buried treasures. The catch? Only one member from each team knows the riddles while the other is tasked with physical challenges.
Signature Feature: The “Pirate’s Gamble,” where teams can risk their treasures for clues, increasing their odds of winning or going home empty-handed.

“Jungle Quest” – ABC (1980)

Concept: Set in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, participants need to reach a final temple while facing natural challenges such as river crossings, wildlife encounters, and finding food. Along the way, they encounter “tribes” (actors playing roles) that teach them survival skills.
Signature Feature: The “Nature’s Test” where participants have to mimic an animal or plant behavior accurately to gain advantages.

“Realm of Realities” – NBC (1984)

Concept: This show places participants in a series of mini-realities, from a desert to a snowy mountain to a dense forest. Each episode has a challenge related to the environment, but participants can vote on which reality they enter next.
Signature Feature: “The Element Swap” where two participants can trade places, shifting team dynamics and strategies.

“Castaway Chronicles” – CBS (1988)

Concept: Predating “Survivor,” this show has a similar premise but with a twist. Castaways can find “time tokens” scattered across the island. These tokens can be used to gain modern amenities like food, tools, or even a phone call home. But each advantage comes at a price – the team has to sacrifice something in return.
Signature Feature: “The Time Council,” a dramatic ceremony where participants negotiate and decide how to spend their tokens.

Come back for more as later we’ll look at TV shows inspired BY “Survivor.”