Long before contestants face demanding tasks on the popular reality show 'Survivor', an essential behind-the-scenes team, known as the Dream Team, rigorously tests every challenge. What began as a practical solution to avoid producers personally tackling obstacle courses has blossomed into a fundamental component of the show's operation. This group not only ensures the integrity and excitement of each challenge but also functions as a fertile ground for cultivating future talent, fostering a profound sense of camaraderie and family within the production.
The Unseen Engine of 'Survivor': A Deep Dive into the Dream Team's Journey
In anticipation of 'Survivor 50', 'The Hollywood Reporter' recently visited Fiji to uncover the multifaceted contributions of the Dream Team. Current members Skylar Williams and Kevin Martinez, alongside accomplished alumni Zach Sundelius (now a supervising producer), Brittany Crapper (co-executive producer), and brothers Tim (camera operator) and Chris Barker (Director of Aerial Photography), shared their insights into their unique roles. Their collective experiences illuminate how this dynamic team has grown from mere challenge testers into the very heartbeat of the show.
Becoming a member of the Dream Team often starts through unconventional pathways, as recounted by its members. Brittany Crapper, now a co-executive producer, secured her position despite an "atrocious" audition video, crediting John Kirhoffer for recognizing her potential. Kevin Martinez joined after a colleague from 'Big Brother', Chris Marchand, introduced him to the 'Survivor' world. Skylar Williams, whose uncle was a former producer, actively pursued a spot, driven by a passion for sports and travel. Brothers Tim and Chris Barker were recruited through a friend in the challenge department, highlighting the network-driven nature of their entry. Zach Sundelius, a long-time fan, relentlessly sought opportunities, eventually connecting with a writer who helped him land an interview with Kirhoffer, leading to his dream role in Samoa.
The daily life of a Dream Teamer is a blend of strenuous physical activity and intricate artistic work. Skylar Williams explained that their days begin early, involving everything from testing challenges and assisting on set with lighting and gear to painstakingly painting challenge elements in the art workshop, a task that can consume days for a single piece. Brittany Crapper added that they also serve as stand-ins for contestants during tribal councils, ensuring camera and lighting setups are perfect. This versatile role, encompassing aspects of stunt work and artistic creation, demands dedication and a wide range of skills, often stretching to 11 or 12 hours daily.
The Dream Team serves as a powerful launching pad for careers in television production. Brittany Crapper's journey exemplifies this, moving from Dream Teamer to shadowing producers, then through various producer roles to ultimately become a co-executive producer. Skylar Williams aspires to a similar path in producing, valuing the mentorship and long-term career development opportunities available. Kevin Martinez aims for assistant directing or camera operating, appreciating the hands-on experience and internal promotion structure. Tim Barker honed his camera skills with guidance from experienced professionals, advancing from camera assistant to operator. His brother, Chris Barker, pioneered the use of drones on set, eventually becoming the Director of Aerial Photography, transforming how 'Survivor' captures its expansive visuals. Zach Sundelius, initially drawn to storytelling, transitioned from the Dream Team to various producing roles, eventually becoming a supervising producer.
At the core of the Dream Team's success is its profound sense of family, largely attributed to co-executive producer John Kirhoffer. Kevin Martinez and Skylar Williams both describe Kirhoffer as a father figure, genuinely invested in their well-being and professional growth. Brittany Crapper highlighted his deep care, invaluable advice, and the supportive environment he fosters. Chris Barker likened Kirhoffer to a "camp counselor," emphasizing the bonding experience shared through working and living together. Tim Barker reflected on how Kirhoffer seamlessly integrates new members into the 300-person crew, transforming colleagues into lifelong friends. This institutional community, where mutual support and shared goals are paramount, makes working on 'Survivor' more than just a job; it's a deeply personal and enriching experience. Many cast and crew members, including Brittany Crapper, have found partners and started families within this unique 'Survivor' community, a testament to the strong bonds forged over months spent together abroad.
The narratives shared by these individuals paint a vivid picture of a team that is not merely functional but foundational to 'Survivor's' enduring appeal. Their dedication, versatility, and the strong community fostered by figures like John Kirhoffer transform the demanding production environment into a fertile ground for professional growth and personal connection, making the Dream Team a truly indispensable asset to the show.
