Susan Granger’s review of “Naked and Afraid: Last One Standing” (Discovery Channel)
One of the most bizarre reality shows to surface in recent years has been the Discovery Channel’s “Naked and Afraid,” first aired in 2013.
This popular series revolves around two contestants – usually a woman and a man – dropped into rigged, remote environments with no clothes, food or water. Their goal is to endure the wilderness for 21 days, relying on survival skills and wits.
As days pass, contestants grow weaker. Starvation and illness are real because finding food is challenging, even for the most experienced. Several have experienced food poisoning and dropped out. Hypothermia is a constant threat because being naked removes protection from heavy rains and humidity.
On the final day, there’s an arduous hike to an extraction point as viewers are updated with PSR (Primitive Survival Rating) statistics.
The first spin-off – “Naked and Afraid: Last One Standing” – is currently in its second season – set in Oribi Gorge in the northern region of Limpopo, South Africa. Contestants vie to outlast each other for 45 days to win $100,000.
Inevitably, viewers have questions about whether or not what we’re watching is ‘real’ or staged. Answers about authenticity vary:
Are they really alone? That depends. During the day, there’s a production crew but at night they leave participants alone with a diary/camera recording every move.
Are they really nude? Yes – although editors blur all their private parts. Working at computers, visual effects editors use a stylus/tablet to create an amoeba-like blur.
How far from civilization are they? Not as far as you think. They’re usually close to emergency services, often only a few miles from local inhabitants.
Where do they go to the bathroom? Anywhere they want.
Can they bring more than one personal item? Yes. Showrunners decide what they can and cannot bring. Usual items are a machete, fire starter or metal pot. Water purifiers are not allowed but drinking water is often provided, although this is not shown to audiences. All contestants must sign a non-disclosure agreement.
Can they call for help? Contestants receive an emergency radio transmitter/walkie-talkie and whistle. They each wear a necklace with a center bead/microphone that’s connected to a wireless audio transmitter hidden in their cross-body satchels.
Are the interpersonal fights scripted? Somewhat…being in high-stress situations can naturally lead to strained relationships, which are encouraged and edited for dramatic effect.
Wild animals are shown: have they attacked? So far, no – except when a producer was bit by a pit viper and required airlifting to a local hospital.
Do contestants ever have sex? According to reports: no. They talk intimately but apparently – being dirty and tired – they lose their libido quickly.
Do the women get hygiene products? Yes – tampons are distributed for sanitary and safety reasons because blood would attract predators.
Why do some contestants “tap out”? Medical crises, hunger and loneliness.
On the Granger Gauge of 1 to 10, “Naked and Afraid: Last One Standing” is a survivalist 6 – with new episodes airing Sunday nights on the Discovery Channel through Sept. 15.
