“A really fun example” Survivor host Jeff Probst sheds light on the fried chicken and waffles chant

What started as a typical reward challenge introduction on Survivor 48 quickly transformed into an unexpected viral moment when host Jeff Probst led contestants in an enthusiastic chant about the prize at stake.

The seemingly spontaneous "fried chicken and waffles" chanting session caught viewers by surprise as both host and players repeated the phrase with increasing fervor, creating one of the season's most memorable non-gameplay moments.

"I think this is a really fun example of where the game is right now in terms of the playfulness of the players with each other and with me," Probst explained on his podcast On Fire with Jeff Probst.

Adding:

"The how something like this happens is really just everybody being open to having some fun and taking some chances."

The bizarre yet entertaining moment showcased the evolving relationship between Probst and contestants on the long-running reality competition show. For those unfamiliar with Survivor, the series strands participants in remote locations where they compete in challenges while voting each other out until one person remains to claim the million-dollar prize. Throughout its nearly 25-year run, the show has balanced intense gameplay with occasional lighthearted moments like this one.

How this strange Survivor chant began explained

The unusual scene unfolded when Probst announced fried chicken and waffles as the reward prize. Rather than simply moving on with challenge instructions, the host repeated the meal description with particular emphasis, then encouraged players to join him in chanting it repeatedly.

Contestant Shauhin Davari took the opportunity to freestyle rap about the potential meal, perhaps setting the stage for teammate Star Toomey's later musical moment in the episode.

On his podcast, Probst revealed his thinking behind the spontaneous chant.

"The phrase fried chicken and waffles is just so fun to say," he admitted.

Explaining:

"And it conjures up this fantastic meal. So I thought maybe I should see if we could just all start chanting it."

The host also credited a previous contestant interaction as inspiration.

"I think it was inspired by Shauhin earlier in the season doing his tribal chant. So it kind of was building this vibe."

Beyond just providing entertainment value, Probst explained that such unscripted moments serve a deeper purpose within the game.

"For me, the why is just looking to bond with the players and bring some levity into a very tough game," he shared.

He declared further:

"Because Survivor is hard, but when it's over, it should be something you look at with joy."

Survivor 47 winner Rachel LaMont, who co-hosts the podcast with Probst, offered insight from a player's perspective. She noted that such playfulness extends beyond just host-contestant interactions.

"I think that not only with you, Jeff, but with each other. We're living out there together. We're essentially roommates, and so there are all sorts of inside jokes and things that we're always spitballing about," LaMont explained.

Finding balance in extreme conditions

The chanting incident highlights how Survivor balances intense competition with moments of humor and humanity. Despite the game's physical hardships and strategic pressure, these spontaneous interactions create memorable television that resonates beyond gameplay.

"And then to have you there as well, willing to partake in the fun, it's a good time," LaMont added.

Explaining:

"Whether we're joking about balls or chicken and waffles, there's always some kind of narrative coming through."

While the chant may have seemed bizarre to casual viewers, it represents the unique culture that develops among contestants living in extreme conditions. After nearly 50 seasons, Survivor continues finding fresh ways to showcase human connection alongside fierce competition.

For fans wanting more behind-the-scenes insights about this episode and other Survivor moments, Probst and LaMont discuss these topics weekly on their On Fire podcast.

---

You can catch Survivor Season 48 on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS. It also streams live on Paramount+ if you have the Showtime plan, or you can watch it the following day with any Paramount+ subscription.