Survivor is a game of strategy, endurance, and tough decisions, but for Jake Latimer, a contestant on the upcoming Survivor 49, the most significant choice occurred before the game even began. Latimer faced a dilemma: join the competition or be present for the birth of his first child. The show, premiering on September 24, is known for its strict rules, including a no-contact policy with the outside world, except in emergencies. However, childbirth does not qualify as such an emergency.
Latimer, a Canadian, revealed in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that he and his wife, Louise, had been trying to conceive for over four years. “The doctor said, ‘We don’t think it’s going to work.’ So I applied for Survivor, just kind of like something to do to get my mind off of it,” he explained. Ironically, during the application process, Louise became pregnant, setting the stage for his unique predicament.
The Decision to Compete
Jake’s decision to participate in the show was not made lightly. He offered his wife the option to veto his appearance. “I gave her the option for me to bow out. I said, ‘This is our child. You’re here alone,'” he recounted. Despite being far from her family in Australia, Louise encouraged him to pursue his dream. “She says, ‘No, you go out. This is your dream, go do it, and whatever money you make is mine.'” This support underscores the couple’s mutual understanding and commitment to each other’s aspirations.
Survivor host Jeff Probst commented on the situation, noting that players are reminded that there is always another season if major life events coincide with filming. However, there was a poignant reason for Jake’s decision to stay.
A Father’s Legacy
Latimer’s father, who suffers from glaucoma, was a significant influence on his decision. “My dad has an eye condition called glaucoma,” Jake shared, highlighting that this would be the last year his father could watch the show before his eyesight deteriorates. “For me to make him proud one last time and be on his favorite show and have him watch his son on there, that will be it for his Survivor story.”
“For me to make him proud one last time and be on his favorite show and have him watch his son on there, that will be it for his Survivor story.”
This emotional layer adds depth to Jake’s journey, illustrating how personal motivations can intertwine with public endeavors.
Awaiting the Outcome
As fans anticipate the unfolding of Survivor 49, one aspect of Jake’s story is already known: his son, Jax Paul Kenneth Latimer, was born on May 2, the 13th day of the competition. Jake entered the game with the mindset that “no news is good news,” trusting that if he wasn’t informed otherwise, his family was well.
The birth of his son marks a significant personal milestone, one that Jake will have to celebrate post-competition. The experience highlights the sacrifices and decisions contestants make when participating in reality TV, balancing personal life with the pursuit of dreams.
Looking Ahead
Survivor Season 49 will be fast-tracked on 9Go! later this year, offering fans the chance to see how Jake fares in the game. His story is a reminder of the human element behind reality television, where real lives and emotions play out alongside strategic gameplay.
As viewers tune in, Jake’s journey will likely resonate with many, illustrating the complexities of balancing personal commitments with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. The season promises not only to entertain but also to provide a narrative of perseverance, family, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.
