“Someone… who is very accomplished and known around the world”: Jeff Probst Teases a Country Music Legend Is Joining Survivor 49

Jeff Probst has always worked hard to make each new season of Survivor better than the last, constantly finding ways to keep things fresh and exciting for fans. After wrapping up the intense drama of Season 47, Probst seems more than ready to kick off the next chapter. The host recently shared an exciting teaser about Season 49, revealing that a major celebrity could be joining the cast.

Jeff Probst in a still from Survivor | Credits: CBS Broadcasting

While Probst didn’t name the mystery contestant, he did mention that this person is very famous and popular around the world, leaving fans to speculate about who might be taking part in the new season.

Jeff Probst drops a major hint about Dierks Bentley’s possible participation in Survivor Season 49

Excitement is growing among Survivor fans after host Jeff Probst shared a cryptic tease about a celebrity contestant potentially joining the cast of Season 49. On his On Fire podcast, he mentioned that someone very famous was applying for the upcoming season. While Probst didn’t reveal a name, many fans are speculating that country music star Dierks Bentley could be the mystery celebrity.

Dierks Bentley via @dierksbentley/Instagram

Probst made sure to clarify that even if the contestant is famous, they will still go through the same thorough casting process as everyone else. He explained:

Probst also stressed that being a celebrity doesn’t guarantee any special treatment. He added:

What’s fueling the speculation that Bentley is the one Probst is referring to is the timing of his schedule. Bentley, a popular country artist, has a break in his touring calendar in April and May, which just happens to line up with Survivor’s filming schedule.

TikTok user @AllWinnersSurvivor via Wide Open Country further fueled the rumor by claiming it’s “the worst kept secret” in Nashville, with a source confirming Bentley’s participation.

Bentley’s love for outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and camping, makes him an ideal fit for the survivalist nature of the show. With his passion for adventure, he seems ready to take on the ultimate challenge that Survivor has to offer.

Whether or not he’s the celebrity contestant remains to be seen, but all signs are pointing to an exciting reveal for Season 49.

Jeff Probst defends the shortened seasons on Survivor

In recent seasons of Survivor, the game has been shortened from the traditional 39 days to just 26 days. This change started with Survivor Season 41 in 2021 and has sparked a lot of discussion. Many fans and former players who experienced the longer format believe the game has become easier and less challenging.

Jeff Probst in a still from Survivor | Credits: CBS Broadcasting

Jeff Probst addressed these concerns in his On Fire podcast. He explained that some fans don’t like the change and want Survivor to go back to 39 days. He added “Fans that simply don’t want the game to change… they want Survivor to stay the same.” He understands this point of view, but he also explained why the change happened.

The shift to 26 days was mainly because of the COVID-19 pandemic. With new health and safety rules, the show couldn’t continue with the normal 39-day format. Probst explained “How we landed at 26 days to begin with was COVID… we just couldn’t do it.” The shorter season wasn’t about making the game easier; it was about adapting to the new situation.

Even though the seasons are shorter, Probst believes they are still tough for the contestants. In fact, he argues that the shorter season can be more intense. The challenges are still hard, and the mental and emotional strain on the players is just as real, if not more intense. He also confirmed that the 26-day format is here to stay, but it continues to push contestants in different ways.

You can watch Survivor on Hulu.