Much to my dismay, I found myself saying this toward the end of last episode. I still haven't figured out why. Is it because of some hidden crush I have on Trish? Nah, not my type. Is it because every article written this season about Survivor has been all about Rupert? Perhaps. Is it because that beard of his is getting way too scraggly (just as I predicted in my first article)? Maybe. Or maybe it's due to the fact that this cast is basically Rupert and the rest unknowns, and I'd like to get to know everyone else a bit (except of course for Jon).
It isn't Rupert's fault. He really has stood out in every conceivable way. He is easily the best hunter and food gatherer, and has single-handedly provided all the fish to both tribes this entire season. He also was the only one of the Drakes who had the foresight to know the idiocy of throwing a challenge. Additionally, he has shown superior strength and endurance to his muscle-laden counterparts. Step aside Colby, Rupert even has you beat on all levels.
Yet somehow I'm losing faith in Rupert. No, I don't think he was responsible for his snake Balboa's death, although it did look he kept him in some suffocating-like bag. No, I don't think he could've done much better at this week's immunity challenge, although Andrew easily outlasted him, and even Christa looked like she was his equal. And no, I will not hold it against him that he hasn't yet voted out Jon, because I've thoroughly enjoyed despising Johnny Fair Play.
Maybe I'm beginning to resent Rupert's arrogance. He is the best, but he clearly seems to know it. Furthermore, he is far from shy reminding everybody, especially at tribal council. In fact, I'm waiting for him to start telling Jeff Probst what he is doing wrong as the host. However, you have to give Rupert credit. He doesn't shovel the same politically correct banter that most of his predecessors do - he says things honestly and fairly, and I guess he deserves praise for this as well.
I think it must be that I'm just sick of him. Don't get me wrong - he may be the best overall player ever to play this game. It's just that, well, I think that's been said to death. I'd rather get to see each character's screw-ups, oddities, and neuroses. I relished Jerri's bitchiness, Sean Keniff's cluelessness, Clay's ignorance, etc. For example, I have to believe there's a lot more to Darrah than her funny accent. I mean, she's a mortician for god's sake! But so far nothing except a few measly lines. It's time for Rupert to share the spotlight.
Did Trish feel the same way as me? I hope so, because she otherwise surrendered the game for no other apparent reason. Her foolish tribemates had the opportunity to vote Rupert off and therefore get more screen time, but they blew it. It's back to one feverish tirade a week for Sandra, and then more of her thoughts on Rupert.
Maybe I should give Rupert one more chance. In fact, his escalating competency may turn out to be his fatal flaw. If he sits back more and takes less of the provider/leader role, it'll allow his tribemates more screen time and story lines. Additionally, it may be the key for him to staying in and ultimately winning this game.
Oh, and one more thing. He's got to cut that beard!
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