Outwit, Outlast, Outbrand

What is the greatest show in television history? Breaking Bad? Game of Thrones? The Wire?

If you ask Kevin Hartley, there is only one answer: Survivor. Cue the music: “Ooo-Ahh, Ooo-Ahh, Ooo-Ahh-Ahh!”

Today is a big day for Kevin. The Season 47 finale airs tonight. Who’s going to win? Rachel is the favorite, but don’t count out Sam from Nashville. Maybe he can pull off another Music City Miracle?

I was into Survivor when it first aired back in the dark ages. I distinctly remember watching the first three seasons. After that, it gets foggy. I lost track sometime around the rise of “Boston Rob”, and I was completely out of the loop until earlier this year when, inexplicably, my children got interested in it. We’ve been working our way through all of the seasons ever since.

Every season of Survivor features its own logo. And wouldn’t you know, they are registered trademarks:

In addition to playing their usual role as trademarks, the logos are occasionally featured in a challenge:

If history is any indicator, Survivor Productions, LLC will be filing an “intent to use” application for the Season 48 logo any day now. The next season is scheduled to premiere on Wednesday, February 26. Get your popcorn ready.