AceShowbiz - Before the iconic moment when host Jeff Probst calls contestants to "Come on in!" for a challenge on Survivor, a dedicated group known as the Dream Team has already paved the way. This team, unseen by viewers, endures the physical grind of testing obstacles, balancing on precarious platforms, and enduring countless falls and bruises to ensure the game runs smoothly.

Initially formed as a practical solution to avoid producers having to personally test elaborate challenges, the Dream Team has grown into an essential component of the show’s production. Established under the guidance of co-executive producer John Kirhoffer, the team now serves as a foundational training ground and backstage family, nurturing future talent who go on to be producers, camera operators, and department heads within the Survivor franchise.

During the preparations for Survivor’s milestone 50th season in Fiji, The Hollywood Reporter spoke with current Dream Team members Skylar Williams and Kevin Martinez, alongside past members who have advanced to leadership roles: Zach Sundelius (supervising producer), Brittany Crapper (co-executive producer), and siblings Tim and Chris Barker, who operate cameras and aerial photography respectively. Their insights shed light on what it takes to join the team, how their roles have developed, and why many consider being part of the Dream Team a career-defining opportunity.

How the Dream Team Members Found Their Way In

Brittany Crapper recalls her start: “I began on the Dream Team, and it remains the best job I've ever had. I learned about it through a family friend and thought it sounded incredible. I reached out, got John Kirhoffer’s email, and sent my resume. The application required a video audition, which was honestly terrible, but John gave me a chance anyway. Being accepted was life-changing.”

Kevin Martinez connected with the team through supervising producer Chris Marchand, whom he worked with previously on another reality show. “I wasn’t familiar with Survivor at the time, but once I watched it, I was hooked,” he admitted.

Skylar Williams was inspired by family ties: “My uncle, a former producer, told me about the Dream Team and thought I’d be a good fit. Having grown up playing sports and loving travel and culture, I reached out to Kirhoffer and Marchand. After two years of conversations, I finally got on at 21. Finding out I made it was the most exciting day of my life.”

Tim Barker entered through personal connections as well. “A friend we lived with in Canada worked with Kirhoffer in challenges and got my brother Chris on the team a year earlier. Chris encouraged me to apply, and I was eager to join.”

Zach Sundelius had a long journey to the team. “I’ve been a fan since the beginning. In college, Jeff Probst released a behind-the-scenes video about Dream Teamers, but there was no official way to apply. I sent countless emails to CBS with no response. I even created a Twitter account called Future Dream Team to network. Eventually, a writer named Gordon Holmes helped forward my materials, and a month later, Kirhoffer called me. Soon after, I was in Samoa on the Dream Team.”

What the Dream Team Actually Does

The day-to-day work of the Dream Team is multifaceted. Skylar Williams explained, “When we’re not testing challenges or assisting on shoot days—like moving gear or holding lights—we spend hours in the art workshop painting and assembling challenge pieces. Painting a single wooden post can take days. Our typical day begins around 7:30 or 8 a.m. and includes on-set work, art tasks, test blocks, rehearsals, and tribal council preparation. We often work 11 to 12 hours straight.”

Brittany Crapper added that they often serve as stand-ins during tribal councils, sitting where contestants will sit to help finalize lighting and camera setups. “We’re a bit like stunt doubles, filling in so the crew can prepare. The art department is closely intertwined with us. When not running or testing challenges, much of our time goes into crafting the challenge components. It’s a blend of physical and creative work.”

The Dream Team as a Stepping Stone for Careers

The Dream Team is not just about physical endurance; it’s a launching pad for promising careers in television production. Brittany Crapper explored various departments before discovering her passion for producing. “I shadowed producers extensively to understand their roles. I worked as a nighttime segment producer, then daytime, progressing to supervising producer, and now I’m co-executive producer.”

Skylar Williams is following a similar path. “I’ve shadowed producers during the last two seasons. Everyone here is eager to help you grow and teaches you to excel. We learn every detail of the show and prepare for long-term roles.”

Tim Barker has always been passionate about cameras but lacked entry points before joining Survivor. “Being on the show introduced me to experts who mentored me and taught me about camera gear. After a few years as a camera assistant, I became a camera operator.”

Zach Sundelius gravitated towards producing due to his journalism background. “I worked in various departments, but producing was my passion. After the Dream Team, I briefly worked on The Jeff Probst Show, then moved up through segment producer roles, eventually becoming challenge producer and supervising producer.”

From humble logistical roots to a vital hub for launching careers behind the camera, the Dream Team has become one of Survivor’s best-kept secrets. Their dedication, skill, and passion fuel the show’s iconic challenges and storytelling, making them indispensable to the Survivor legacy as it moves forward.