CBS ORDERS TWO MORE EDITIONS OF "SURVIVOR" FOR BROADCAST DURING THE 2008-2009 SEASON

Jeff Probst Signs New Agreement to Continue as Host

Casting for "Survivor 17" Is Underway

CBS has ordered two more editions of SURVIVOR to be broadcast during the 2008-2009 season. These will mark the 17th and 18th editions of television's longest-running hit reality competition series.

Additionally, Jeff Probst has signed a new agreement to continue as host of SURVIVOR. Probst has hosted SURVIVOR since its inception.

"I am looking forward to many more seasons of SURVIVOR," said Mark Burnett, SURVIVOR's executive producer. "It has become an expected treat every Thursday at 8:00 PM, and I am glad our loyal fans can continue their appointment television with us."

"This kind of longevity is achievable only with loyal viewers. We've been very lucky that our fans have stayed with us," said host Jeff Probst. "I still get excited to get on the plane and travel to another exotic location with another group of adventure seeking, Type A personalities. It is without question the best job I've ever had."

"SURVIVOR is a show that defies ratings gravity," said Ghen Maynard, Executive Vice President, Alternative Programming & Entertainment Content for New Media, CBS Paramount Network Television Entertainment Group. "It is truly remarkable feat to be winning your time period in all ratings categories after 15 editions. The show's success is testimony to the creativity and passion of Mark, Jeff and the entire production team; and to a brilliant concept that continually introduces new casts and settings, making each season feel like a new series."

This fall, SURVIVOR: CHINA, the franchise's 15th edition, continued its ratings dominance, winning its Thursday (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) time period in viewers and key demographics every week against its toughest competition in several years, including critical favorites "Ugly Betty," "My Name is Earl" and "30 Rock."

SURVIVOR: CHINA (9.0/14, 15.18 million viewers) averaged 5.1/14 in adults 18-49 and 6.2/15 in adults 25-54.

The groundbreaking reality series, which premiered in May 2000, has anchored CBS's winning Thursday lineup since February 2001.

The 16th edition, SURVIVOR: MICRONESIA, premieres on Thursday, Feb. 7 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT).

Casting for SURVIVOR 17 is currently underway via online applications at cbs.com and open casting calls in select cities.

SURVIVOR is produced by SEG, Inc. Mark Burnett is executive producer.