After the misconduct allegations on the talent manager Dan Spilo for CBS’s long running reality show Survivor, the network has started a series of guidelines “regarding personal space, inappropriate behavior, and how to report these issues” for the next seasons, as per a report by The Hollywood Reporter.
On Tuesday (17 December), the network released a long statement, outlining several policies and guidelines that will be established in the aftermath of contestant and talent manager Spilo being removed from the competition following misconduct allegations. It was the first instance in its 39-season long run.
After the elimination of fellow contestant Elaine Stott, executive producer and host Jeff Probst told remaining players, “Alright, so, need to share some news. So I just spoke privately with Dan and I want to update you guys. A decision has been made and Dan will not be returning to the game. He will not be coming back to camp. He won’t be on the jury. He’s gone.”
Last Wednesday’s episode ended with a title card that said, “Dan was removed from the game after a report of another incident, which happened off-camera and did not involve a player.”
Among the new guidelines is a new rule that prohibits “unwelcome physical contact, sexual harassment and impermissible biases” during the gameplay. There will also be “on-site professional to provide confidential means of reporting any concerns” as well as mental health support staff. The network will also institute sensitivity training with a third-party body to oversee all the procedures.
In the statement, CBS claimed the incidents that occurred on season 39 were “unprecedented” and led to the network and producers to investigate and listen to the players before establishing the new guidelines which will be effective from season 40, which has already been filmed, and the subsequent season 41.