The Early Show

"Survivor" Set To Debut In Gabon Jungle

September 25, 2008 / 1:05 PM EDT / CBS

With a new Emmy on his shelf, "Survivor" host Jeff Probst is ready to start a new season - his 17th - with the debut tonight of "Survivor: Gabon."

Eighteen American competitors have been flown across the world and dropped into the Africa wilderness with nothing but their street clothes.

"It made for a season you didn't know what was going to happen," Probst said in an interview on The Early Show. "You didn't know if an elephant would emerge from the jungle and be in a good mood or not."

While "Survivor" settings are generally remote, Probst says Gabon is the most removed so far. "We were in a place where not many tourists have been," he said, "so when we landed, the animals scattered."

He says the new contestants are an interesting group who will captivate TV audiences as the season unfolds. Among them are:

A 2004 Olympic gold medalist who plans to use her speed to win the $1 million prize. Her dilemma is whether she should admit to being an athlete or pretend to be a stay-at-home mom who is in great physical shape.

A 29-year-old actress from the "Gilmore Girls" who doesn't want anyone to know her profession because they will figure out that she is a good liar. Her strategy depends on projecting a different persona.

A self-described mean, ugly person who, Probst said, would take being told that she is nice as an insult. Is it an act? "I don't think so," says Probst. "I think Corinne would burn your house down."

As usual, there is a new twist to this season's game. Probst said competitors will be forced to choose between clues (leading to the immunity idol) or food and comfort.

Probst, who won the first-ever Emmy for Reality TV Show Host Sunday night, said this is also the first season to be shot in high definition.

Viewers watching in high-definition will see a different show, he said, indicating how sharp the image will be.

"You see so much more detail, including every single line on my face."