Seeds of Discontent

Previously on “The Biggest Loser” the remaining contestants went home for one week. This brought on new challenges as they struggled to include lifestyle changes in a short amount of time. Michael had to contend with his ailing grandmother while O’Neil had to deal with his children telling him to slow down. For a prideful older man with a significant knee injury it made for several humbling moments. On top of that there was a bike challenge that rivaled the first day the contestants first came to the ranch. Of course with the challenge came a temptation in which for each cupcake eaten time was added on to their competitors’ time. This aspect of the game play caused the $10,000 prize to go to the contestant who has not played games from day one. As viewers we must remember that the cash prizes are important to the cast-members as they give up everything including their paychecks to be on the ranch.

In the most recent episode the cast is reunited with the casted-off contestants to see if one of them will reenter the game. On top of the weigh-in, the remaining contestants must vote in their new competition. That goes for the one who everyone hated to vote off to the person who has played the game the most – to the extent where she threw the weigh-in. It makes for a television moment you can’t miss, since the vote is public. One more thing it’s every man for themselves as there is no more blue or black team.

Once the newest competitor is welcomed back into the fold, the host Alison throws a challenge to the eliminated players. The challenge is daunting as they must step their way back into the house. It’s one of the ways in which the producers set up to have enmity among the competitors. To have one of the “troublemakers” back into the house only breeds a contemptible situation where the game play will be even more intense. Although this is a reality show, the-powers-that-be do not have to reduce the quality of it. The storylines of the cast-members can be more than enough drama if handled right. Take for instance the man who inspired by the show lost 400 lbs. Wayne V was weighed-in live, which made for good television.

As the new competitors settle in, so does the mistrust as seeds of discontent are planted among the players. Friendships are tested and alliances are broken. This also gives the last chance workout a sense of urgency as Jillian and Bob work as the dynamic duo to get the contestants into shape – leading one contestant to walk out of the gym.

The weigh-in and the elimination room was racked with tension as paranoia gave way to sending another contestant out of the competition. It’s manipulation of the game that comes from an unsuspected source. Next week brings more intrigue as Melissa brings out animosity out of everyone causing game-play to go to astronomical levels.