When Survivor host Jeff Probst is asked for audition tips, his No. 1 recommendation: “You just have to be yourself.”

While he admits that may be a “frustrating” answer to some, the host of CBS’ still-thrilling competition series says those who receive an instant “yes” to be on the show are those who are “very comfortable in their skin. They’re not manufacturing an answer. They don’t have notes in front of them. We’re just talking,” he tells TVLine.

All of that can be said about the show’s upcoming crop of 18 Sole Survivor hopefuls who will brave the elements (and each other) when the show returns with its two-hour premiere Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 8/7c on CBS. Judging by the looks of the cast ( get a full rundown of the new participants here ), the stage is set for an absolute show

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