For all the lovers of idols and twists, welcome to Survivor: Ghost Island. Jeff Probst teases the mistakes of the past will haunt the island and a bad choice could cost a player the game (so like every season?) This cast is comprised largely of superfans and skews fairly young, so it should be an interesting season dynamic all of which will be even more chaotic with random twists showing up non-stop.

I've done my usual research of reading player bios, watching cast videos, and dabbling in some additional reading to work out my latest prediction of who will be the Sole Survivor.

MELISSA PREDICTS...

Brendan will win Survivor: Ghost Island

I've done some thinking and this time I'm trusting my initial gut pick since many years I ignore it and BAM, they win or make the finals. That said, I've also chosen with my gut and lost before so pretty much I'm just plain bad at choosing a winner. Ultimately, I chose Brendan because he's the wise elder (41) and gives me a Tom Westman vibe. He seems like he's got the strength for challenges and an aura that will charm others into working with him. But all those muscles could get a target put on him come merge-time, but hopefully solid alliances will see him to the end. Being "older" could also work against him but Brendan is a teacher so is used to forming bonds with a younger set. I also felt Morgan reminded me a bit of  Kim Spradlin, but I think many will view her as an early threat. And if 18 year old Michael can charm the other castaways and hide his real age, I could see him making it to the end and becoming the youngest winner ever. But I'm putting all my chips on Brendan and spinning that Survivor roulette wheel. 

Now it's your turn! Time for YOU to cast your pre-show winner prediction. Who do you think will be the winner of Survivor: Ghost Island? VOTE BELOW - voting closes right when the east coast premiere begins!