‘Producers probably want to stab me’: Survivor host on show’s biggest problem

Survivor host Jonathan LaPaglia has spoken about the show’s biggest criticism — and why he might be in trouble for speaking about it.

Australian host Jonathan LaPaglia has opened up about the hit reality show’s biggest criticism — admitting he may get into trouble for addressing the issue.

Since its first season on Network 10 in 2016, Australian Survivor has had a predominantly caucasian cast — something LaPaglia admits is undeniable.

Jonathan LaPaglia. Picture: Nigel Wright.

Despite this year’s season of Champions V Contenders including former senator Nova Peris and Laura Choong, as well as season two winner Jericho Malabonga being of Filipino descent, the majority of contestants are white.

Speaking to the ABC’s Stop Everything! LaPaglia said that unlike the US version, he wasn’t involved in casting for Australian Survivor.

“I’ve never really got a satisfactory answer on it (the diversity question),” he said. “Basically I’m told that there aren’t that many people from minority cultures that apply, and whether that’s true or not, I don’t know, but that’s kind of what I’m told.

This year’s Australian Survivor cast.

“The producers probably want to stab me right now but … to disagree would be disingenuous right? I mean, it’s hard to deny the obvious, it does feel very whitewashed, yes.”

In a statement to news.com.au, a Network 10 spokeswoman said it took its “commitment to diversity seriously”.

“Eligible contestants on all Network 10 shows are considered regardless of race or background. Network 10 takes its commitment to diversity seriously and we cast as broadly as possible across our entire slate.”

Australian Survivor isn’t the only reality show to be criticised over its casting — last year’s season of Love Island Australia was slammed by fans online for being “too white” and accused of being “caucasian Island” before it even aired.

The Block, My Kitchen Rules and The Bachelor have also faced similar criticisms over their casting from viewers in the past.