The law student, 26, spoke to Us Weekly the morning after her elimination and still had a lot to say about her demise in the game.

“The only way they could’ve gotten me out was with, like, 15 advantages and a twist, that’s like the stupidest s—t ever,” Sydney told Us exclusively. “So yeah, that’s sick. I wasn’t outwitted, outlasted, outplayed. I was out f—king lucked.”

Still, the Brooklyn native has “no hard feelings” toward Erika Casupanan, who smashed an hourglass in a twist offered by host Jeff Probst to change the results of the immunity challenge. While it gave Erika safety, it put everyone who had won the challenge at risk of going home.

“I just think the whole point of the advantage was to get out a strong player because that challenge was meant to be won by strong players,” she said. “And then that twist was meant to get a strong player out, and congrats, CBS, it worked.”

Sydney added, “And now your ratings are gonna f—king plummet because your big personality is gone.”

Survivor airs on CBS Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET.

Scroll down to read our full exit interview with Sydney…

Us Weekly: How are you feeling this morning? How was it watching it back last night?

Sydney Segal: It was different than I thought. I was ready for it, but I was like, “God, I have this revived hate for everyone, which is, like, not healthy for like my zen, mental self.” But whatever.

Us: Was it as chaotic as you remember?

SS: Yeah, it was. I definitely remember how I felt and my senses, and the sensory overload in the moment. But, luckily, I was just really tired, so I really didn’t care at that point.

Us: Was it an extra long tribal?

SS: I don’t even remember it being that long, but tribal, in general, is later after sundown. Usually, you go to bed after sundown, so it’s like you’re already up past bedtime and then keep staying up, and tribal, and theoretically go back. I’m like, “Ah, I’m tired.” It was like episode three on that boat. I was like, “I don’t want to sneak off this island. I’m f—king tired.”

Us: With all the idols and advantages it seems tribal could have went a few different ways. You knew your name was out there, but how were you feeling before tribal?

SS: I think it could have gone one way and it was me just ‘cause where the idols were placed. I was the unfortunate collateral. And when we did get back to the beach, obviously we’re going to Naseer but everyone’s so f—king dumb. They’re like, “He’s going to play the idol so we can’t vote for him.” I was like, “Yeah, but now he’s going to know that we’re not going to vote for him because we think he’s gonna play the idol and he’s not going to play the idol.” Let’s just be f—king dumb, which is what they were. But whatever, that aside, Deshawn and Evvie were the names that were thrown out. So I’m like, “This is sick.” But, once the tribal went live and I kind of knew where the idols were, and how the alliances had shaped out, I was like, “I’m actually the only option.” So, I played the Shot in the Dark with no regrets. I really just didn’t think my vote mattered that much. And I thought that it was going to go all one way or all another way. So, it was a good metaphor for my self-awareness. I was good at reading the room.

Us: Did you know you were going to play it or did you decide at tribal once things got a little crazy?

SS: I did not think about playing it before. Even when Jeff introduced Shot in the Dark, I was like, “Yeah, I’m not gonna play that s—t.” I just acted like it doesn’t exist. So it was funny that I ended up using it. Once the tribal went live, I’m like, “Dude, f—k this. I don’t even like these people. I don’t trust them. I’d rather my fate be in God’s hands and not in any of these losers’ hands.” So that’s what I did. And God did me dirty, but everything happens for a reason. Right?

Us: I mean, even if you didn’t play it and you had your vote, and voted for Evvie, it would have been a tie. I think? I don’t know. I’m still confused by the whole situation.

SS: Yeah, it would have been a tie and Evvie probably would have gone home. But still, during this whole process of, like, mourning Survivor, I never post-mortemed a single decision because you have to put yourself in the mindset of where you were in that moment. And in that moment, I had no reason to think that I was either safe or my vote was going to matter. So, I might as well just use the Shot in the Dark. The worst thing in the world is going home with something in your pocket.

Us: Was it extra frustrating knowing how close you were to winning immunity?

SS: Yeah. Ricard’s a dancer, so it’s vindicating to know that I almost won immunity, but I lost to a dancer. Right? The only way they could’ve gotten me out was with, like, 15 advantages and a twist, that’s like the stupidest s—t ever. So yeah, that’s sick. I wasn’t outwitted, outlasted, outplayed. I was out f—king lucked.

Us: Who do you feel the most betrayed by?

SS: It’s funny, I don’t feel betrayed by anybody because everybody that I wanted to work with – which was Danny, Deshawn, Tiffany, Evvie and Xander – none of them voted for me. So I would say to Deshawn because he’s the only one that really threw my name out of those five, but he ended up using his extra vote against Evvie. So I can’t even say that. He did try to save me. I was exactly where I wanted to be strategically. I was liked by almost everybody but not everybody. Evvie and Deshawn were liked by everybody, therefore they’re on the chopping block. I wanted to be in the middle of two alliances. I didn’t want to be in an alliance where people needed, like, that person. I could have theoretically been f—ked over. And that’s exactly where I was. So, every relationship that I chose to foster really did have my back. And, like I said, it was out-lucked. Because when you talk about outplay, I played exactly the way I wanted to play. I wasn’t playing to lose, so it was a good strategy.

Us: What did you think about Erika’s decision? Would you have done the same thing?

SS: I was like, “Shocker, you broke it.” I would have done the same thing. Jeff wouldn’t have even had to be done explaining it before I’d be like, “Alright, break. Next. Easiest decision of my life.” So I harbor no hard feelings for that decision. I just think the whole point of the advantage was to get out a strong player because that challenge was meant to be won by strong players. And then that twist was meant to get a strong player out, and congrats, CBS, it worked. And now your ratings are gonna f—king plummet because your big personality is gone.

Us: We saw Danny was upset by this twist. What was the vibe back at camp?

SS: Yeah. I mean, no one was happy, but I don’t think anybody blamed Erika. Danny was by far the most upset. And that’s something they didn’t show at tribal, just this whole back and forth between Jeff and Danny where Danny’s like, “You played for something. And we played for something.” And that something is never called into question. You don’t win the Super Bowl and be like, “Sike, give me your ring back.” That’s not how it works. So, it was so hard for him to wrap his mind around, as someone who did play professional sports. For me, nothing in the games surprises me. And that’s what they didn’t even show my face. Obviously, I’m the only one that’s going to notice that detail. When Jeff was explaining it, Deshawn’s mouth is to the floor. Evvie’s eyes are wide open. I’m like, “OK, duh.”

Us: How are you and the cast today? Any bad blood or are you friendly?

SS: It kind of goes back and forth. When I think of the cast as a whole, I’m like, “OK, I literally never want to see you again in my life.” When I think of each individual, that’s like family. I do have good relationships with most everybody. And obviously, there’s tiers. There’s people I would do anything for, people I would keep in touch with and people that if I never saw you again in my life, that’d be too soon.

Us: Would you ever want to play again?

SS: Yes. I think everyone should boycott Survivor until they bring me back. But I think I would play to, like, live on an island, do the challenges, win a million dollars. Less like, “Oh, my God, twists! Idols! Survivor bucket list! Fire! Flint!” F—k that. If I’m going to win, I want to be on an island. I’m a mermaid so put me back in my element. So please, boycott until I get back.

Us: Speaking of all these advantages and idols, what did you think of Xander giving a fake one to Liana?

SS: I was supposed to be the beneficiary of that plan. So I was, again, not surprised because nothing surprises me at this point. But I was like, “Go Xander.” He just clowned her. Like, as much as it sucks to be me yesterday, it’s sucks to be Liana. She got out f—king clowned. I got out-collateral damaged. But, she got clowned.

Us: Do you think there was anything you could’ve done at tribal to stay in the game?

SS: Maybe but … honestly, it was a live tribal and I just didn’t get up for a while. So, if I got up and had a couple more conversations, that might’ve helped. I think I maybe could have talked to Danny and Deshawn in that moment a little more, to try to get Shan and Liana to vote for Evvie. I didn’t talk to either of them, but I was just … I didn’t feel betrayed by them but I definitely felt like they became more partial to Liana and Shan instead of me. So, at that tribal, I really didn’t interact with them as much as maybe I could have. But, at the end of the day, they still had my back so who knows? That probably wouldn’t have made a difference and I really didn’t care to talk to Shan or Liana.

Us: Shan and Liana did tell you several times that you were good. Were you ever buying that?

SS: F—k no. That’s why I played my Shot in the Dark. I’m like, “Yeah? I’m good, bitch? Over my f—king dead body.”

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The budding actor, 23, and Molliebird swimwear designer, 24, came to the mutual decision to split only 48 hours after they made things official following the season finale, Us Weekly can exclusively reveal.

“Christian and I are just friends,” Alyssa tells Us of their current relationship status. “We realized leaving the show that I have a career and he has to focus on his career, and we have barely any time to hang out with friends. So, having a relationship just isn’t something that we’re able to do.”

Christian echoed that during the joint interview, saying, “We just decided friends was probably a safer alternative for both of us, for now at least.”

They hinted at the breakup when the Connecticut native tweeted on October 2, “What does Chrisalyss & Wet cement have in common…? It only lasts 48hrs,” along with two laughing emojis.

It was actually a tweet they crafted together. “We wanted to make it funny,” Alyssa says. “We were on the plane giggling about it.” (They later realized it may have been confusing to fans.)

Once they decided to remain friends, the pair say “the pressure was gone” and they had fun just hanging out together. Still, neither is ready to rule out potential for something happening down the road.

“We’re not closing that door because you never know what could happen and you should never close the door with anyone, I don’t think, because who knows what could happen,” the Florida tells Us. “But, as of right now, we are just strictly friends.”

Christian adds, “We talk every day. We are best friends, but no one can predict the future.”

Scroll down to read our exclusive interview with Christian and Alyssa, including what they say about their friendships with Xavier…

Us Weekly: So what is the status of your relationship today?

Alyssa Lopez: So, right now, Christian and I are just friends. We realized leaving the show that I have a career and he has to focus on his career, and we have barely any time to hang out with friends. So, having a relationship just isn’t something that we’re able to do.

Christian Birkenberger: With the long distance and everything, we thought it may be easier to not have to try and work through that. Because it may be more complicated and end up hurting us in the long run. So we just decided friends was probably a safer alternative for both of us, for now at least.

Us: So, you came to the decision together. It wasn’t one person.

Both: Yeah.

AL: It was a mutual decision. We talked about it in Florida when he visited.

Us: You had an obvious connection in the house. Did you feel pressure to make it work once you got out of the house?

AL: It wasn’t like “it has to work.” It was more so me being in there locked away for so long and coming out and not just me and Christian being in the relationship. The fact that there’s hundreds of thousands of people being in the relationship too and wanting to know our every move, that was very new to me and kind of overwhelming. So, if there’s anything that’s going to happen in the future, him and I just want it to be him and I. So, right now, that’s why with everything going on, friends is best best. And it’s been really working well. We’ve been really enjoying hanging out for Halloween and everything. We just want that to be something that’s private.

Us: Christian was very supportive on social media while you were in jury. That must have been nice to see?

AL: It was really nice because I wasn’t sure what he was thinking while I was locked away. I kept saying on the live feeds, “Oh, is he at ladies night?” or anything (laughs). I saw it all and it was really nice to know that, for sure. You’re my biggest fan, right?

CB: I was! Still am.

Us: When did you guys decide to break up? What’s the timeline there with the tweet and everything…

AL: It’s actually a really funny story.

CB: The timeline of it all. … Before I left, we talked about how are we gonna handle things outside the house. And we both kind of came to the conclusion that we maybe should date immediately after the show because it would be too hard to continue talking being so far away. So, we decided to date immediately after the show. I showed up on finale night.

AL: Which was a mutual agreement, both of us.

CB: So I showed up with my checklist of things to do: the cheeseburger without cheese and roses. I showed up like we talked about, and we made it official that night. And at that point, I’d been out of the house for, like, two months.

AL: And I was out for 15 minutes.

CB: I was still adjusting. I wasn’t back to normal. And she was out for 15 minutes. It was just a lot going on, and we really tried to – within those two days of us being an official couple – make things work and to see how things went, but it wasn’t the same as it was on the show because it’s not the same environment as it was on the show. So we quickly realized that and we decided in the airport.

AL: We were at the airport actually, heading to Florida. He was just like, “Oh, should we just not date right now?” And we both agreed. And as soon as he said that, we were back to normal, joking around, laughing nonstop. He came to Florida with me.

CB: We had a great time.

AL: With all my friends and family, we had so much fun because the pressure was gone. We were able to hang out like we were in the house because we weren’t technically dating in the house either. And I was able to still adjust, and get back to reality, and see my friends and family and not have that pressure of it. We wanted to announce it because everyone thought we were dating still. But obviously, with us, we wanted to make it kind of funny.

CB: Yeah, so the tweet… just like cement… (laughs)

AL: Our relationship only lasted 48 hours because we only dated for 48 hours before we broke up. (laughs). So we wanted to make it funny. What sucked though is he made that tweet and then we went on the plane. So we had no service!

CB: Not intentionally, but we understood after how that could be confusing for everyone considering I just tweeted, “Hey, Chrisalyss is over.” So let me go back to her hometown with her, hang out and have a good time.

AL: People don’t realize how close we are anyway. Like, him coming back to Florida even though he just broke up, it was the best thing we could have done.

CB: It was because we said – even when I was evicted – I remember Alyssa in her message, she said, “You’re my best friend inside the house and I hope you’re my best friend outside the house.” And that stuck with us because that hasn’t changed at all.

Us: That makes sense now. Yeah, it was hard to tell that Alyssa was in on the tweet too.

CB: We were literally sitting on the plane figuring out this tweet together.

AL: We were on the plane giggling about it. It was so funny.

CB: Like, “Should we do it? Should we post it?”

AL: We’re, like, cracking up about us breaking up as the best thing we could’ve done. And we’re laughing and people around us at the airport are probably like, “What the f—k is going on? Enjoying a breakup right now?” We probably looked crazy, but whatever.

CB: It’s what we needed and we definitely don’t regret it.

Us: So it’s good Christian flew out for the finale so you guys could sort through that.

CB: Yes. I think both of us are understanding. I think both of us think that everything happens for a reason. And so I flew out and everything that was supposed to happen happened, and it’s for the better.

Us: Is there potential down the road or is that off the table right now?

AL: Right now, we’re just friends. We’re not closing that door because you never know what could happen and you should never close the door with anyone, I don’t think, because who knows what could happen. But, as of right now, we are just strictly friends. But we’re like best friends, best buddies.

CB: We talk every day. We are best friends. But, no one can predict the future. I think that’s pretty much what we’re trying to say.

AL: We don’t want to say, “No, it can’t happen.”

CB: And the last thing we want to do is say, “Yeah, the potential is there.” Then we put ourselves in a situation where the pressure’s back on.

AL: Yeah, we’re just hanging as friends right now.

Us: How did the rest of the cast react?

AL: I don’t think they were shocked.

CB: Yeah, they really weren’t.

AL: They know we’re on opposite sides of the U.S. He has a career with modeling and acting, and I have a business to run. There’s just no time for it, even if we really wanted to try.

CB: I think we can both laugh about it, but it was too perfect in the house. I think every single person in the house was like, “All right, this is some type of honeymoon phase s—t.” And it was. In the house, it was perfect. And that’s not necessarily how life is. Life isn’t perfect.

AL: In the house, the biggest responsibility is voting someone out every week. You don’t have family and friends and businesses, and things like that, that are all included. And me coming out of the house much later, and right off the bat with this Chrisalyss, and all this stuff, it was a lot.

CB: I think it’s safe to say people were much more shocked to see DX [Derek Xiao] and Claire [Rehfuss] together than they were to see ….

AL: …Us break up (laughs).

CB: Yeah, than to see us break up. It sucks to say. It’s unfortunate, but that’s the way the cookie crumbles.

Us: Speaking of, what did you guys think of Derek and Claire’s news? Alyssa, I know you were roommates with her in jury so you knew.

CB: Alyssa wing-womaned it.

AL: Honestly, they had such a good friendship in the house. They bonded really, really well, just like Christian and I did. But they never went to that level, ever, but you could just tell they were best friends and that’s where the best relationships come from. So, I wasn’t shocked. And then, in jury, I was the wingman. I’m their third wheel, their designated third wheel. I was probably the least shocked because I knew about it. But, when they’re together, they’re just best friends and that’s the best relationship you can have.

CB: I was just as shocked as you guys because I didn’t see it in the house at all, besides the fact that they clearly had just a genuine friend connection. I didn’t see the romance side of it at all. And so, on finale night, when I met up with Alyssa, that’s one of the first things she let me know. She was like, “You’ll never guess.” And then I found out and I was just as shocked as everybody.

AL: They weren’t romantic in our house. But when she told me they were having feelings in the jury, I wasn’t shocked because of how strong their friendship was. They’re the cutest.

CB: They are.

AL: They are so cute.

Us: Alyssa, where do you stand with Xavier? He had a crush on you in the house and I’m sure fans are curious. Is that awkward at all?

AL: What people don’t understand is – I mean, especially with our cast. Our cast is so close. Christian and X were my No. 1 allies in the house, and my best friends in the house, and who I talked to the most. I don’t know if people just need me to be in some type of relationship or something, but everyone in that house, I am strictly friends with, just like Christian. X and I are just really, really good friends as well. I mean, when Christian left, I followed X around, I was like his shadow (laughs). I just followed him around everywhere because I had no one else to hang out with – not really though. But no, we’re just friends.

CB: The issue with social media is that everyone can take it however way they want. Especially with all eyes on you, it’s something as simple as Alyssa is cold, for example, and I gave her my sweatshirt. When someone sees that, it’s like, “Oh s—t, they must be together.” No, she’s my friend and she’s cold. Am I supposed to let her suffer?

AL: Which we would do with anyone. I mean, I told Christian, I was like, “We can’t be upset that people are wanting to dig into it because we’re the ones that got in a showmance on a TV show.” So, of course people are gonna ask. And that’s why I was honestly glad that you messaged us about doing this. So we could kind of clear the air because there are questions nonstop. But everyone is just so, so close. X and Christian are just my best friends from the house.

Us: Christian, you and X always had a good relationship too.

CB: Oh, my gosh. I mean, X and I had the best relationship. We still do. I’m so happy I was able to spend so much time with him this weekend because I felt like in L.A., he was still so wrapped up in the show. Although it ended, as the winner, I didn’t even get to really hang out with him. And so this is the first time I really got to enjoy the time, just like it was in the house. That was my boy. He still is my boy. I missed him.

AL: That’s the showmance. Everyone’s asking if I’m dating Christian or X, they are dating each other.

CB: Yeah, how about me and X?

Us: Alyssa, tell me about your swimwear line, Molliebird. What are you working on these days?

AL: Ever since I got back home, I’ve been just grinding at my office for MollieBird and working on the next collection that we’re hopefully launching soon. Just getting back in the swing of things and being back at the office, and just taking it day by day. We just did a new photo shoot. There’s going to be a bunch of new photos coming out with that. I’m just getting excited about launching the next collection.

CB: I saw, it’s good! Be prepared.

Us: And how about you Christian? I saw some modeling shots!

AL: Some booty pics (laughs)!

CB: Yeah (laughs). I was modeling before the show and I’m going to continue to model, but my primary focus has always been acting. I’m hoping that with a little bit more recognition that I have from this show, I’m hoping with my team that we’re able to utilize it and work toward a bigger career in acting. That’s always been my focus, specifically film. We got the right team behind us to make it happen. Just like anything, it comes down to time.

Us: Are you guys done with reality TV or would you do Big Brother again?

AL: I would do Big Brother again. I’m a superfan of Big Brother and I went as far as I possibly could. I love the show, so I wouldn’t ever want to turn down any type of opportunity, especially when it comes to my favorite TV show. So, I would do it again. Would you do it again?

CB: I’d like to not be pre-jury again. So if I come back, that’s my goal. Survive one more week. I could be a week six nominee and I’ll be happy. I would 100 percent come back. I’m pretty sure I made it clear on the show, or I’ve said it multiple times in the show, that my application was taken from Survivor. So I would love the opportunity to be on Survivor. Like how Alyssa feels about Big Brother – of course, Big Brother will always be special to me – but that’s how I am with Survivor. I have that superfan connection with Survivor. So I’m hoping to have that opportunity one day, but we’ll see.

Us: I feel like The Challenge will be calling you guys.

AL: I love The Challenge. I think I would suck at it though (laughs), honestly. I think I’d be too scared to do certain things. Big Brother, those comps are way, way easier than The Challenge. But again, I wouldn’t want to turn down any type of opportunity. I’ve never seen Survivor. I’ve seen The Challenge, so I feel like I would do The Challenge if asked because I’m kind of familiar with it. That would be cool if I did it with Christian, or me, Christian and X. I think that’d be awesome.

CB: Me and X discussed it. Me and X definitely would…

AL: What about me?!

CB: That’s the first time you ever said it to me!

AL: Yes, I did! The Challenge?!

CB: That’d be really awesome. I think I need to do something a little more physical. My social game was not really the best on Big Brother (laughs), so if I can get on a more physical show, I think I would have a better chance.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The 24-year-old start-up founder and 25-year-old AI engineer had an obvious connection during the game but didn’t really explore that until after their evictions when they arrived to jury.

“I think that we both really felt the chemistry once we got to jury house and could really connect with each other,” Claire exclusively tells Us in a joint interview. “We would stay up late talking every single night and we just really developed a bond.”

Derek says that’s when things really started to click. “I remember the first or second night that she was there, we stayed up all night just talking until 5:00 a.m. That happened every single night for the first, like, five days. That’s when I started really thinking like, ‘Wait a second, why didn’t this happen in the house? There’s such a strong connection and chemistry between us.’ I think that was the beginning of us thinking about what this could be.”

While their romance didn’t start on camera, the new couple, both of whom live in New York City, don’t deny that there was an attraction all along, and their connection deepened once they were able to talk without live feeders watching their every move.

“I knew from week one that Claire was my type,” Derek says. “I guess I just never let myself explore that beyond just a friendship. I mean, you saw what happened to Alyssa [Lopez] and Christian [Birkenberger] week one. For me, despite getting taken out very early on (laughs), I did want to win that game. … I knew that if I let myself, I would just fall for Claire in the house.”

“Once you’re off camera, that’s when you really, really get to know who a person is and you can really be vulnerable and you can really be open and really talk about a lot of things from your life,” Claire says.

He adds, “I feel like I know Claire better than I know a lot of my best friends.”

As for how their fellow houseguests reacted to the surprise romance, the pair say they were nothing but supportive.

“The other houseguests were very aware of what was happening,” Claire explains. “Me and Alyssa were roommates in jury. She was like my confidante. Everyone else was also helping us try to get around the jury house managers. So everyone in the jury house basically knew what was happening. It wasn’t like a dirty little secret in the boat house or anything. It was very fun.”

Scroll down to see exclusive photos, taken by Erik Johnson for E-Studios, of the new couple and read our full interview!

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This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

In this exclusive sneak peek at the Wednesday, October 6, episode, you can see that strain manifest during the challenge.

Evvie Jagoda for the Yase tribe, Deshawn Radden for Luvu and Shantel “Shan” Smith for Ua are first in the water as they kick off this competition, which involves swimming, climbing up a ladder, going across on a rope and more.

“Now comes the hard part. This is tricky,” host Jeff Probst yells from the sidelines. “You have a very narrow rope to balance your feet on and only four ropes to get you from one end to the other.”

As Evvie struggles to get to the platform, the CBS personality, 59, narrates, “You can see seven days already taking their toll on how fast she’s moving.”

This round of the long-running series is only 26 days after 20 years of a 39-day game. With a shortened season comes limited supplies as the tribes were not provided with any food or rice on day one.

“Survivor 41 is birthing a new era, starting with a much more dangerous 26-day game,” Probst explained about the game’s evolution prior to the season airing. “So that means it is a very fast pace. It does force the players to make bigger decisions. So there will be new advantages and there will be some controversial twists.”

So which tribe ends up winning immunity this week? Watch the exclusive clip above!

Survivor airs on CBS Wednesdays at 8 p.m.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

Us Weekly asked each player during their eviction (or in Xavier Prather’s case, winner) interviews if they’re interested in ever returning to the game.

Most players seem open – some even hungry – to returning for another shot. “100 percent,” Derek Xiao told Us. “I would love to come back an all-star season. I don’t know if people would consider me an all-star.”

Claire Rehfuss said, “If they asked me to play Big Brother again the day after the finale, I would do it.”

America’s Favorite Player Tiffany Mitchell felt like her mission with The Cookout impeded her from playing the way she wanted to. “Oh, I love this game. And I don’t feel like I was able to be my Evel Dick self that I wanted to come in here and be,” she said. “However, I don’t even know what I would be without The Cookout. I don’t. I would love to know that. And … probably. I probably would play again.”

“I would definitely love a re-do,” Hannah Chaddha told Us, echoing the same sentiment. “I would love the opportunity to do that and play an individual game now that we have guaranteed that there will be a Black winner this season.”

Meanwhile, some players, like Sarah Beth Steagall and Azah Awasum, might need a bit of time to think about it.

Pre-juror Brent Champagne, for his part, told Us, “I already asked them about Big Brother: All-Stars.”

Kyland Young didn’t even leave the stage before he told host Julie Chen-Moonves that he’s ready to return: “I hope that’s not my only time back. I really love the game and I think one thing I found out is this year is that I am pretty decent at it. I’d love to come back.”

Watch the video to see what each houseguest had to say about ever playing Big Brother again!

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The safety officer, 29, was shut out by the jury after his ally X won the final Head of Household competition and decided to bring him to the end over Azah Awasum.

Derek says he “put in a a lot of work” to get second place and he’s “OK with that.” Still, fans aren’t thrilled with the way he claimed the women in the alliance – Tiffany Mitchell, Hannah Chaddha and Azah – weren’t pulling their weight.

“Me, Xavier and Kyland [Young] were part of different alliances that were doing more work than what the girls were,” Derek exclusively tells Us Weekly. “Throughout the game, it was just like, Xavier’s over here really throwing comps, doing things. The girls weren’t hardly winning comps. Not even me! But, that’s why I said I was doing my part in making sure I do what? Cook, clean, entertain, do it all, baby! Whatever I need to do to pick up my weight and have conversations to put targets on other people that are not in The Cookout.”

As for the debate on who started The Cookout, Derek says, “Xavier came up with a name called The Cookout. But, I put all six of the members together.”

In response to Tiffany coming up with the plan to also play in duos outside the alliance, he says, “Xavier and I did come up a little bit with the plan that Tiffany came [up with], but Tiffany did put it all in full force and, like, cleaned it up for us, if that makes sense. And then obviously, me being a leader that I am, I felt as though I don’t want to take, you know, someone’s credit. … You got to give people an opportunity to give something to the team or they’re going to feel like they don’t have a voice. So when she came in the room and was like, ‘This is what we’re going to do’ and things like that, I remember turning to Azah, like, ‘Baby, I already said this, but I’m gonna let Tiffany take the credit because I don’t want no smoke with her. OK?’”

(Tiffany told Us in our interview with her, “I don’t think Big D ever knew what he was talking about.”)

Watch above or scroll down to read our full interview with Derek in which he also talks about why he felt like he carried Azah through the game, if he ever considered cutting Xavier and more.

Us Weekly: How are you feeling after the finale?

Derek Frazier: I’m doing great. I am so happy. I’m so excited. You know, being in a house for a very long time, I am happy to be back out here in the real world. I’m ready to take off running. But, I am so glad that I got an opportunity to be a part of Big Brother. First African-American to be second place [on] Big Brother, and I can’t ask for nothing else. And hey, I think I did a great job. (Editor’s note: Danielle Reyes placed second in season 3.)

Us: How did you think the votes were going to go? Who were you campaigning to most in the jury?

DF: I’m gonna be honest with you, Sharon. I don’t think I need to campaign to nobody. Xavier played an awesome game and he deserved it. I knew going into that, that I was not going to win. And I’m OK with that. I looked at Xavier and said, “Look, man, I’m OK. I just want second place.” I want to get here so I can say I made it to second place. And I believe that I worked hard to get to the end. I put in a lot of work. It was not easy being the socialite that I was in a house full of a lot of wolves. I just wanted to explain what I did because I think the jury had this view that I was just coasting or riding coattails or, you know, didn’t really do work. The jury, I wanted them to know there would not be no Cookout if I did not bring six individuals together. I put them before my own game. I wanted to explain that to the jury, and I also wanted to remind them once again, anybody could get it. No one’s safe. I will send you guys home and I am a threat, but you guys never saw that. So, you know, I’m very happy with the outcome. I’m not bitter or upset at all. Xavier earned it.

Us: So you never considered cutting Xavier if you had the chance?

DF: Yes. There was a point that I was considering cutting Xavier when I felt like Xavier at one moment was making a decision without me. I can’t remember what week it was. And I remember reminding Xavier, “Hey baby, me and you run this Cookout. OK?” Like, we are on the same page. You do competitions. I will do social. And we will be the perfect duo. But I knew that I made a bond with him, a brotherhood that cannot be unspoken. We come from similar lifestyles, so I knew I could not cut him. But, if there was a chance that he ended up on the block, and my hands were tied, then I would have to let him go. But I knew Xavier being here all the way to the end was good for me because we worked together. He would not be there without me and I will not be there without him.

Us: So let’s settle the debate: Who started The Cookout?

DF: I talked to all six of the individuals. I said, “We’re going to work together.” It first started as an understanding that we’re not going to vote each other out. And then Xavier came up with a name called The Cookout. But, I put all six of the members together. I talked to each and every single one of those individuals, and I say, “Hey, look me, you dah, dah, dah, dah, dah, dah, dah is going to work together and we’re going to the end.” Now, Xavier and I did come up a little bit with the plan that Tiffany came [up with], but Tiffany did put it all in full force and, like, cleaned it up for us, if that makes sense. And then obviously, me being the leader that I am, I felt as though I don’t want to take, you know, someone’s credit.

Like, if she came up with it, you got to give people an opportunity to give something to the team or they’re going to feel like they don’t have a voice. So when she came in the room and was like, “This is what we’re going to do” and things like that, I remember turning to Azah, like, “Baby, I already said this, but I’m gonna let Tiffany take the credit because I don’t want no smoke with her. OK?” You got to give her some credit or she going to go off like a firecracker, you know? So I knew what it took to be a leader, especially me coming from a military school, especially me being a leader a lot in my life. I know at times you’re going to have people that are part of your team that come up with something, just let them have it, ‘cause they’re going to work better. They’re going to feel like, “Wow, I brought something to the team.” Going in there, I knew I didn’t have a chance of being able to explain it all because I was very quiet about my moves, but I made sure America knew what my moves were.

Us: Let’s talk about Azah. You felt like you carried her. How did you carry her if you weren’t winning comps? Can you explain that more?

DF: Yes. So, Azah was very … how can I say … she was very opinionated and she was very emotional a lot, and she would always go against the plan that me and Xavier already put in place in the beginning of the season. Keep in mind, me and Xavier were part of The Slaughterhouse. We were a part of the Butcher Squad. We were doing a lot of ground control, I would say the first five weeks, making sure things get done in order for people in our Cookout not to have to worry. So, for me, it was one of those things where Azah was not making moves or lying or manipulating and doing things because guess who was already doing that for her? Me. I would tell Azah, “Oh, that’s already done, girl. Don’t worry about that. Oh no, just come on, just go with the plan. We already got it.” There were so many things that were being put in place. And, like I said, I don’t know how the season was edited or portrayed. I don’t know until I sit back and watch it. But understand, in the game of Big Brother, you can sit here and try to play an honest game, but that’s not … in reality, you can’t just get to the end playing an honest game.

You’re going to have to get your hands dirty at some point. So with me and Xavier getting our hands dirty so many times and babysitting people, entertaining, making sure you’re planting seeds so then someone becomes the target, that allows someone like Azah to just play an honest game, which is fine. She took advantage and whatnot, and that’s OK. She’s my team member. I’m all right with that. But it got to the point, for me, where I felt as though it was hard to see eye to eye because it was one of those things where I was like, “Listen, I wouldn’t have got here if it wasn’t for you and you would’ve never got here if it wasn’t for me.” But me and Xavier definitely put in a lot more work. We were a part of more alliances and we had a lot more connections than Azah did. And that was what I was trying to say to her. I love her at the end of the day. She definitely earned her spot to be there. That’s why I kept her there when I had the decision to send her home. But, I kept her because I said she earned it. She deserves to be here. And I just feel like throughout the game there’s moves – and I don’t know how it was shown – but there were so many moves and conversations that were portrayed and done that she was not a part of.

Us: There were a couple of instances where you said the women of The Cookout weren’t doing as much as the guys. How did you feel like they weren’t doing enough?

DF: So, my thing was, when it came to the guys … what I mean by that is [that] in the beginning of the season, me, Xavier and Kyland were part of different alliances that were doing more work than what the girls were. I’m not saying the girls did not pick up their weight … I would say the first five weeks, or I would say the first four weeks, we were doing a lot of ground control. Frenchie’s fiasco was a lot of work, and we were doing a lot of ground control, which is epic, but we were doing a lot of ground control to cover for us. And then on top of that, we were doing a lot of more work. Kyland did a lot of work himself. Xavier did his own work. And I’m not saying the girls did not do as much because obviously, the girls had to do things in order for us to get there. But we were putting a lot more time and commitment and conversations and, you know, comps and whatnot, and coming up with plans and putting seeds down. At the end of the day, for me, it was one of those things where I did not have a very, very close relationship with the girls. Azah was my girl. I was going to protect her at all costs. But, throughout the game, it was just like, Xavier’s over here really throwing comps, doing things. The girls were hardly winning comps. Not even me! But, that’s why I said I was doing my part in making sure I do what? Cook, clean, entertain, do it all, baby! Whatever I need to do to pick up my weight and have conversations to put targets on other people that are not in The Cookout.

Us: If asked, would you ever play Big Brother again?

DF: Of course, I would do it again! I wouldn’t change one bit besides I would definitely do a lot more scheming than what I did this season. I definitely would do a lot more scheming, and I definitely will come back, uh, ready to go. ‘Cause, you know, being a big guy was really difficult at times. But, it got me to this far. So, I think I wouldn’t change a bit besides just a little bit more scheming.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The director of sales, 30, lost out to eventual winner Xavier Prather when he beat her in the final part of the Head of Household competition and decided to evict her over Derek Frazier.

“Of course, there’s going to be that disappointment,” Azah exclusively tells Us Weekly. “But I’m honestly extremely blessed to place in third. For someone who wasn’t able to win competitions, to go to the end of the game, and [for someone who] had honestly some doubts in their gameplay at times, I’m really proud of myself. I’m honestly really happy and proud for the winner. He played a great game.”

So how would Azah have fared with the jury had she been in the final two next to Xavier? “I had Hannah [Chaddha], Claire [Rehfuss], Tiffany [Mitchell] and DX [Derek Xiao] telling me, ‘Oh my gosh, I wish you were there. I would’ve voted for you.’ So, that’s four votes, which would have been interesting,” the Baltimore native tells Us. “I think just based off of social relationships, I did have some great social relationships in the house that I think, based off of how I answered my questions, might have done well for me. But, I’m just honestly really, really happy with the winner. I’m happy that we all were able to achieve what we did.”

Watch above or scroll down to read our full interview with Azah in which she also talks about who started The Cookout, her decision to get rid of Hannah during her HOH, whether she’d play again and more!

Us: You look beautiful and had a very classy exit. How are you feeling?

Azah Awasum: Thank you. Of course, there’s going to be that disappointment. But I’m honestly extremely blessed to place in third. For someone who wasn’t able to win competitions, to go to the end of the game, and [for someone who] had honestly some doubts in their gameplay at times, I’m really proud of myself. I’m honestly really happy and proud for the winner. He played a great game.

Us: Speaking of Xavier’s win. It was unanimous. Did you at all consider voting for Derek?

AA: If you would ask me up until a week ago, I would’ve probably voted for Big D because that’s my best friend. But, in the past week, I started really thinking about a lot of things. With this being such a historical season, really looking at all the different encompassing things of what makes a winner. And I did feel that X fit that very well, which is why I did end up voting for him.

Us: How do you think you would have fared if you were against Xavier in the final two?

AA: You know, that’s interesting. I had Hannah, Claire, Tiffany and DX telling me, “Oh my gosh, I wish you were there. I would’ve voted for you.” So, that’s four votes, which would have been interesting. I think just based off of social relationships, I did have some great social relationships in the house that I think, based off of how I answered my questions, might have done well for me. But, I’m just honestly really, really happy with the winner. I’m happy that we all were able to achieve what we did. Hindsight is always 20/20. I think about, “OK, I missed one question. Maybe that would have made the difference.” But at the end of the day, I have to really accept this amazing opportunity for what it is. Who would have known that little Azah who sat and stared at the wall in the beginning of the season would be at the final three?

Us: Speaking of Big D, you guys definitely had your differences over the past few days. He’s mentioned that he felt like he carried you through the game, which kind of undermines what you did in The Cookout. Do you think that was fair for him to say?

AA: I think when those discussions happened at first, I just said, “Oh, OK. You’re free to have your opinion.” But I did feel it was necessary for me to stand up for myself and I did. He did later apologize for the things that he said regarding that. I will say that the way that that house is, and a pressure cooker that it is, with the things that you do in the game and you having no idea what the other person is doing, you could have a skewed perception of that person. So I’m going to give grace to that.

The other thing I’m going to say is that on a personal level, me and Big D, that’s someone I know I’ll be friends with in and outside of this house. So while I know we did have our differences in the final week regarding gameplay and things, I know everything that I did, I had my final two speech ready because I knew what I had done to prepare and bring myself to the final three. When I walked in his house, I knew I was going to get final three, and I did everything I could in my power to get those steps necessary. So, I feel that my actions that are on the live feeds and can be seen, can show the steps that I made to get there. I feel like I did deserve the spot just as every other single member of The Cookout that got to final six.

Us: The Cookout made history. How does it feel to be part of that and crown the first Black winner of Big Brother?

AA: It’s incredible. I’m a fan of this show. When you hear about things like The Brigade. You hear about The Friendship. You hear about Level Six. And you always hear that they broke off after a little bit, but for all six of us to stick together despite our ups and downs with each other, is just incredible. And when I got to six, I was at such peace because I told myself, “You know what? It doesn’t matter what happens here. I don’t care if someone backstabs me. I don’t care if someone does anything. I mean, we made it. Like, this is pretty darn crazy.” To have an African American winner and honestly, a really great representative, is a beautiful thing. I’m so blessed to have been a part of this. I still say this every time, how God picked this random girl from Tacoma Park, Maryland, and plucked her into this house, and somehow was a part of a historical moment, is very humbling to me. I’m just blessed and very happy.

Us: It’s very exciting. There’s been some debate over who started The Cookout. What are your thoughts?

AA: I’m going to say, Xavier did start The Cookout. I feel like Xavier started The Cookout. I know that the person who approached me was Derek F. and he said, “Us POCs gotta be together, gotta be together, got to come together.” They both came with a notion of wanting POCs to work together. Xavier came up with the name. But, how a lot of people had approached it in the first week was, “All right, you got my back, I got yours. We’re cool.” How it evolved into this actual alliance and strategic gameplay was, I feel, a joint part from both Xavier and Big D. I guess we’ll have to watch the tapes to see how it started. But, I remember when I was approached in the kitchen, it was something that … Xavier said, “This is what I wanted to do when I came in. I wanted to make this alliance and I wanted to make it called The Cookout.” And I know Big D said, “Us POCs got to work together.” So it feels like Xavier to me, but I don’t know (laughs).

Us: I have to ask you about your decision to get rid of Hannah during your HOH. Do you still feel like that was the right move at the time?

AA: I think it was the right move at the time. When I play my game, I kind of dug myself a hole and had to stay with it. So the game I played was be as honest as possible, don’t break on any deals. Right before six, Kyland approached me and said, “I’m not going to touch you. Can you not touch me until four?” And I had to keep up with that agreement. And then I had a final three with Big D and Xavier. That left nobody but Hannah for me to go after, unfortunately. And as a result, just as process of elimination, she had to go. If I did not have that final four with Kyland, I would have gunned for him and made sure he got out. Even with him winning the veto, I would have been like, “We gotta figure this out and get him out.” But unfortunately, Hannah was just a casualty of war. I was very loyal to Big D and Xavier for the deal that I made. And I don’t like to make conflicting deals. If I sign up for a deal, then I’m riding that deal. And even with me and Kyland and having our differences, I wanted to honor that too. What I do regret is lying to Hannah about it. I should have been upfront and honest with her. And I think that left a mark in my gameplay.

Us: If asked, would you play Big Brother again?

AA: This was a great once-in-a-lifetime chance. I’d have to say I don’t know right now (laughs). It’s so funny, in the house I said, “I’m not coming back. This is a great opportunity. It’s a great opportunity. Great opportunity.” But it’s like an addiction. I got third and I’m like, “Man, I want to go back and see if I would win.” So, definitely not for some time, but possibly if the call came, I would consider it. I’d take some time to consider it.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The phlebotomist, 40, beat out her close ally Derek Xiao and won $50,000 during the live finale on Wednesday, September 29.

“It’s almost more than winning the game because winning the game, it’s the jury that votes for you,” Tiffany exclusively tells Us Weekly. “But America has to vote for you to be America’s Favorite Player. That is such a privilege to me. I am just grateful for being recognized in that way.”

She continues, “I would love for my name to be remembered for something wonderful, something positive, something great. To some people, it’s just Big Brother or it’s a reality show. For me, this was a dream to be able to come onto this show. I’ve always just watched it. Never knew that I would even be looked at, but the fact that I was recognized and I’m here, and then the difference that we made this season and to be America’s Favorite Player … to me, it means everything.”

As for how she plans to celebrate, the Michigan native says, “I’m definitely doing something with my son. We are getting the heck out of here. He deserves it.”

Watch above or scroll down to read our full interview with Tiffany in which she also talks about The Cookout, Xavier Prather as a winner, her ups and downs with Derek Frazier and Kyland Young, her plans for the future and more!

Us Weekly: Congrats on winning America’s Favorite Player! You carried this season, you carried it! How are you feeling?

Tiffany Mitchell: Oh, it is such an honor to be a part of this season and The Cookout. I don’t even know what to say. Waking up in the house everyday [thinking] like, “You know, you’re canceled today, right?”

Us: How did you feel when Julie [Chen-Moonves] said it came down to you and Derek X? Were you freaking out?

TM: I was freaking out. Listen, all of us have said that Derek was America’s Favorite Player. And to hear that I was ranked next to Derek, I was like, “Whoa, I came close.” But when Julie said my name, I’m like, “Oh my God, what is America thinking?” I love it. I love it. I love it. Just, I love this game. And to be America’s Player means … it’s almost more than winning the game because winning the game, it’s the jury that votes for you. But America has to vote for you to be America’s Favorite Player. That is such a privilege to me. I am just grateful for being recognized in that way.

Us: We have a Black America’s Favorite Player and our first-ever Black winner of Big Brother. How does that feel?

TM: It is historic. If nothing in the world, I have always wanted to be historic. I want to be remembered for something. I would love for my name to be remembered for something wonderful, something positive, something great. To some people, it’s just Big Brother or it’s a reality show. For me, this was a dream to be able to come onto this show. I’ve always just watched it. Never knew that I would even be looked at, but the fact that I was recognized and I’m here, and then the difference that we made this season and to be America’s Favorite Player … to me, it means everything.

Us: Congrats! Well-deserved. So let’s talk about Xavier’s win. You guys had some hiccups. But how do you feel about him representing the season as the winner?

TM: I am a thousand percent standing by Xavier representing BB23, the first African-American winner of BB U.S. He has played a phenomenal game. I have nothing but wonderful things to say. The times that Xavier and I bumped heads, that was probably my fault (laughs). I have so much respect for him as a person, as a man and as a player. He truly deserves it. I knew when they had me and Hannah on the block together, I’m like, “Oh, just give Xavier the money.”

Us: Give me some intel on how the jury was feeling. Did Xavier basically have it locked up? Was there anything Derek F. or even Azah could have done to win?

TM: There was nothing that Derek F. or Azah could’ve done. We knew who played the better game. It would have been great to see Xavier and Kyland at the final two. That’s really what I wanted, especially when I left. But, Xavier played a great game. He played a much better game. He played a low-key game. We would like, collectively, for the winner to exemplify certain characteristics that we all believe in. And I’m not saying that Xavier held true to them more than anyone else, but he is just such a great person. You can tell in and out of this game that he is who I would like to refer to as the first Black winner, especially on the season that I played on, BB23. I would not want it to be anyone else besides myself.

Us: Speaking of Kyland, when you won that HOH that he was “supposed” to win, that was a very contentious week. Xavier wasn’t happy with you. Do you think if you didn’t win, you would have gotten any further?

TM: As I was up there spinning around in a circle, getting hit by an elephant, I thought about that. And I realized that – well, I didn’t realize that, I knew – I just became OK with the fact that they were going to send me home regardless. They talked about sending me home before my second HOH. And so when I was up there spinning getting hit by the elephant, I figured if I’m going to go out, I might as well go out with a bang. So I don’t take it back.

Us: You and Big D didn’t always get along. What do you think about the times he said or implied that the women weren’t doing as much as the men for the alliance?

TM: When I heard that Big D and the other guys were going around saying that, I was offended because everyone had their role to play and everyone could step up to the plate at any time and win, if they could, to the best of their ability. I had not seen Big D win a competition either. However, he seemed to feel that he was carrying people. It’s OK for me to allow people to think that their right sometimes. I’d rather be happy than fight you on what’s right and what’s wrong. He had to be quiet though, after I won those two back-to-back HOHs. And I still never put him up, even though Big D kept saying, “She’s coming after me.” I don’t think Big D ever knew what he was talking about.

Us: We saw your reaction but what else do you have to say about Kyland claiming Chaddha and Big D were on the same level, game-wise?

TM: Kyland’s response to sending either Chaddha home or Big D home, Kyland doesn’t want to be wrong. His ego jumps right out of his mouth every time someone is proving a fact that is wrong. Because he made that decision to send Chaddha home and to keep Big D, he has to justify it with alternative facts that we all know are not true. Big D and Chaddha are not interchangeable, and it was insulting of him to say so, but he cannot admit that he’s wrong. So, I just, at that point, had to be done with the conversation because I am on TV and all.

Us: Settle this debate that seems to be out there: Who started The Cookout?

TM: Collectively, we decided without even speaking to one another, when we looked around that house and saw that it was six of us, that we would not target anyone. I know that’s what I said. I’m like, “I’m not targeting anybody.” Big D did take it upon himself, day one, to come around to each of us and say, “Hey, you know, we’re working together.” “Of course we do, thank you for confirming that.” Xavier did put a name on it and he called us The Cookout. And I was like, “What? OK.” So we were officially The Cookout, but we were just an understanding within the house that we would not target each other. And I guess we did not know how to formally move about as The Cookout until I came up with the master plan in week three.

Us: Congratulations again! Any plans for the money? Any vacations you want to take?

TM: I’m definitely doing something with my son. We are getting the heck out of here. We are. He deserves it. He hasn’t seen me. We haven’t spent time together, even if it’s just him and myself. I probably would take Mama Pat even though she probably would not let me spend a dime on her. But, my son and I are definitely going to do something great together. He started high school without me! I’m like, “Oh my goodness. I remember ninth grade.” I’m like, “Boy, we gonna have to have a talk first.” But yeah, I definitely want to do something nice for us. It’s still in my mind, like, I just can’t even believe this. I just have to probably pretend like I don’t have this money. I’m not in a rush to spend it.

Us: I did ask you in your exit interview if you would ever play again. You said yes. So if you did play, who from this cast would you love to play with again?

TM: Derek X! Who’s going to go on the block week one next to me? But I would love me Derek, Chaddha. I would even play with Kyland again. He’s a great competitor. I would have had an alliance of Claire, Chaddha, Derek X and myself. I would have loved to see how that went.

Us: We all would have loved to see that! It was pretty obvious that you were sacrificing the most for The Cookout’s mission, in terms of your personal game.

TM: Yeah, I know. I was fanning out. Sometimes I was like, “I’m a super fan. We got to tear this house out. Let’s flip it! Let’s flip it!” It all played out the way it was supposed to play out. But yeah, there would be some things … you know, I threw a rogue vote week one! Against Alyssa. I was ready to play.

Us: Before you go, what are you most excited for now that you are outside the house?

TM: Of course, I want to see my family. I am looking forward to the opportunities that are open to me now that I have presented myself to the world. I love TV. I love film. I do love cameras. So if this takes off and I get to do something for the world to view me, I’m here for it.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The attorney, 27, was in great spirits when Us Weekly caught up with him a few hours after his historic win.

“To be the winner of Big Brother is already a tremendous honor. So to be not only a winner of Big Brother but now the first Black winner in BB U.S. history is an amazing feeling,” he exclusively tells Us Weekly. “I came in the season having my own personal reasons to win, but I also wanted to crown a Black winner for the culture. And to be that person, that representative, for the game and the Black community is amazing. It’s a great feeling and something I’ll never forget.”

Now that he’s $750,000 richer, Xavier has some plans for what he’ll do with the money – most of which involve helping out his family.

“First and foremost, I want to set some money aside from my nephew,” he tells Us. “That was my big motivation coming into the season outside of helping crown the first Black winner. I made a promise to my brother that I would always do what I can to look after my nephew, if ever I could. And with him gone, this helped me kind of keep that promise.”

The Michigan native added, “I’m gonna take care of a little bit of student loan debt. A law degree is a little expensive.”

Watch above or scroll down to read the full interview with Xavier in which he also talks about Kyland Young’s tense exit, why Tiffany Mitchell is a legend, who can take credit for starting The Cookout and more!

Us Weekly: What does it mean to not only be the winner of Big Brother but the first Black winner of Big Brother?

Xavier Prather: To be the winner of Big Brother is already a tremendous honor. So to be not only a winner of Big Brother but now the first Black winner in BB U.S. history is an amazing feeling. I came in the season having my own personal reasons to win, but I also wanted to crown a Black winner for the culture. And to be that person, that representative, for the game and the Black community is amazing. It’s a great feeling and something I’ll never forget.

Us: And you won with a unanimous vote. How did you think the votes were going to go? Who did you feel like you had to convince on the jury?

XP: I thought it might’ve been 7-2. There were two votes I was a little iffy on: Britini, not because I have a bad relationship with Britini. I just knew she was very close with Big D or Azah. So I was like, “I might not get that one.” And Kyland, just because the last time I saw him things weren’t … we weren’t exactly in the best of moods. So, I wasn’t sure how that was going to go, but I mean, they both voted for me. For Kyland, I tip my cap to him because that shows he was still able to evaluate how I played the game simply from a game perspective and put any of our last differences aside. So I think that speaks to who he is as a person. And I appreciate all the votes because it helped me get a good check.

Us: What did you think of Kyland’s sort of non-apology and doubling down on what he said about your nephew?

XP: With Kyland, I know Kyland’s definitely a thinker, he’s analytical. Ky and I will have a discussion. I think what he said and how it was perceived, I think that’s where we had a little bit of a difference of opinion. But, we’ll have a conversation about that. We’re two grown men. We can sit down, have a conversation about it, be cordial. Kyland’s not someone I feel like I could ever hate, nor do I think Kyland’s a bad person. That’s just how the game goes. Sometimes emotions get hot, but I wish nothing but the best for him. I would never take away from what he did for The Cookout. I wouldn’t be in those two chairs if Kyland hadn’t been a part of this game. And so, nothing bad to say about Kyland. The incident was what it was. We’re going to talk about it and move forward.

Us: Let’s talk about The Cookout, the most successful Big Brother alliance in history. Let’s settle the debate: Who started it?

XP: Whoever’s saying they started it, they can say they started it. I just wanted to end up in those final two chairs, or somebody to end up in the final two chairs. I would say, in my opinion – you know, my personal opinion, Big Brother opinion – I would say Big D kind of got everybody together. I came up with the name and I’ll leave it at that. That’s my personal opinion. If other people feel like they started it, maybe they did some things I didn’t know about. So I don’t know. I think we all had the vision in mind. No one better say that they came up with the name. ‘Cause that’s mine.

Us: No, don’t worry. That seems to be the consensus.

XP: Yes. All right. Well then whatever. Whoever else started it, I don’t care.

Us: Azah was likely going to take you to the end if she had won that final HOH. How do you think you would have done sitting next to her?

XP: I think I probably would have had a little bit more of a run for my money with Azah. Azah won the final five HOH, and for her to win part two and part three in the final HOH, I think people definitely would have taken that into consideration. And her overall gameplay, Azah was nominated once and never had a single vote cast against her. Truthfully, out of all the members of The Cookout, she was probably the most honest with everybody else and had the most relationships in the jury. So I don’t think it would have been a landslide, if I would have won at all. I think Azah played a great game and I think she would’ve given me a run for my money. No doubt.

Us: Speaking of that HOH that she won, did you throw that?

XP: I didn’t throw that competition actually. Azah beat me fair and square. I just couldn’t get those balls to stay on that grass and she did. So no, I would never … she earned that win fair and square. I threw a lot of competitions, but that wasn’t one of them.

Us: If it had been Azah versus Big D at the end, who would you have voted for?

XP: That’s a tough one. My loyalty wants to say Big D, and also, I know a lot of the social manipulation game that Big D did play. He played a very strong social game. But, I think Azah played a strong social game in our own right. So, I’m going to professionally plead the fifth on that one and just let somebody else answer that. That can be their problem.

Us: I have to ask about the week Tiffany won HOH and you were upset with her. Do you think you were too hard on her or that your feelings were warranted?

XP: Well, Tiffany made history, so, like, I get it. She was straight up like, “I wanted to make history.” I was like, “You did, but now I got to go on the block.” And I had just seen the block two weeks in a row. I would say from a Cookout perspective, I don’t think it was unwarranted. I think multiple members of the Cookout felt a little … felt some type of way just from her winning. Truthfully, looking back, it all worked out so it doesn’t really matter. Tiffany is a legend in this game. She always will be. She’s one of very few people, if any, who have won back-to-back HOHs. So, she won it and put a bigger target on her back, and that worked out in my favor. So, that’s fine with me.

Us: I’m glad you said that because there were a few times where Big D and Kyland, in particular, were saying that the women weren’t doing as much for The Cookout as the guys. Do you that’s fair to say?

XP: I felt like everyone in The Cookout contributed to The Cookout’s success in their own way. Some people won competitions. Other people were positioning themselves well in the house to make sure to influence others, to be like, “Hey, Kyland is not actually a target” or “Hey, Xavier is not actually a target.” And then when it came time for the members who had played a strong social game to then start winning competitions, they did. So I won’t take away from any member of The Cookout’s game at any point in the season, because I think everything that every member did got us to the final six. And I don’t think I can take away from any type of strategy that clearly worked.

Us: You told people in the house you were a bartender but they called you out for not knowing how to make certain drinks. Why choose that profession?

XP: I didn’t care. I was like, “Go ahead and ask me to make drinks.” From the seasons I’ve seen, there’s not a bunch of liquor that gets brought into the Big Brother house. So I was like, usually it should just be beer and wine. And truthfully, with the type of bartending that I do, I only am given a certain amount of alcohol. Like, I’m not a full bar that you would see in like a Miami club. It’s a wedding. People aren’t out here trying to get crazy, they’re just trying to have a good time. So I was being honest. I was just like, “Yeah, I don’t know that drink.” I don’t feel the need to lie or do a bunch of research. I’m just going to be honest about the modeling and the bartendering. I left a couple of other secrets, but they found out eventually.

Us: Yes, that was fun. I know you had The Cookout but do you think you would have been targeted earlier had you been honest about being a lawyer?

XP: Yes. A hundred percent. Anyone who says otherwise, I think they’re lying because Travis went out week one after he started talking like, “Oh, I’ve done this, I’ve done this, I’ve done that.” Even in my head, I was like, “Threat. He’s got to go.” So yeah, I think if I had told people I was a lawyer, they definitely, probably would have been like, “OK, either one, we can’t trust anything he says because he has an ulterior motive.” Or two, “Just threat, get him out.”

Us: Now that you’ve won the biggest prize in BB history, any big plans for the money?

XP: First and foremost, I want to set some money aside from my nephew. That was my big motivation coming into the season outside of helping crown the first Black winner. I made a promise to my brother that I would always do what I can to look after my nephew, if ever I could. And with him gone, this helped me kind of keep that promise. I’m gonna take care of a little bit of student loan debt. A law degree is a little expensive. And then, help my family and friends out with as much financial issues that they’re having as I can. This wasn’t a win necessarily for my financial gain, I wanted to win this to help the people I care about. And now I’m in a position to do that and it feels great.

Us: If they ever asked you, are you interested in playing Big Brother again?

XP: I’m gonna need a break for a little while. 85 days is a long time. I’m gonna need to decompress, see what society is like again. It feels like a Truman Show experience. I need to hang out for a little bit, but I won’t say it’s out of the realm of possibility for a future season. Probably not next season, but we’ll see. We’ll see. Stay tuned.

Us: What are you most excited for now that you’re back in the real world?

XP: Truthfully, I just want to go see my family. I haven’t seen my family for 85 days. I haven’t even been in contact with them for 85 days. So as soon as I can get on a plane and go see them, that’s what I want to do. I’ll hit up my homies too. I’m sure they’ll probably be like, “Wow. So drinks are on you.” And I’ll be like, “No, maybe next time.”

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The final three – Xavier, Azah Awasum and Derek Frazier – had been working together throughout the season as part of the historic Cookout alliance.

Kyland Young, arguably Xavier’s biggest threat to win at that point, was evicted by Derek at the final four after Xavier won the veto.

Xavier then went on to win the first part of the final HOH with Azah taking the second part. On finale night, Xavier then won the live third part and decided to take Derek to the final two, sending Azah to the jury.

Then the jury – consisting of Britini D’Angelo, Derek Xiao, Sarah Beth Steagall, Claire Rehfuss, Alyssa Lopez, Tiffany Mitchell, Hannah Chaddha, Kyland Young and Azah – voted for X to win the money in a vote 9-0.

Host Julie Chen also announced Tiffany won America’s Favorite Houseguest over Derek X.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

Us Weekly asked the first five players evicted – Travis Long, Brandon “Frenchie” French, Brent Champagne, Whitney Williams (still waiting on her answers) and Christian Birkenberger – who they’d like to see win (or deserves to win) out of the final three.

Xavier is the clear front-runner and favorite, but some of their answers may surprise you.

Scroll down to find out who Travis, Frenchie, Brent, Whitney and Christian picked to win the game!

The Big Brother 23 finale airs on CBS Wednesday, September 29, at 9 p.m. ET.

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This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

Us Weekly reached out to tons of BB alums – including former winners Lisa Donahue (season 3), Jun Song (season 4), Rachel Reilly (season 13), Andy Herren (season 15), Derrick Levasseur (season 16), Josh Martinez (Season 19) and Cody Calafiore (season 22) – to get their takes on who deserves the $750,000.

While Xavier already won the first part of the final Head of Household – and is the clear favorite to win – it really all comes down to that final competition.

If X wins part three, will he take Azah or keep his word to Derek? If Azah wins, does she cut Xavier and clear her path to victory? Can Big D swoop in there and grab some votes? And how much will the final two speeches play a factor?

Either way, Big Brother will crown its first-ever Black winner.

Scroll down to see what former players have to say about the final three houseguests and pick who they want to win season 23.

The Big Brother finale airs on CBS Wednesday, September 29, at 9 p.m. ET.

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This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The cyber security analyst, 51, expresses his gratitude for even being cast on the show.

“It was a privilege to be selected, not only on this season of cast members that is all diverse cast members, but [to be given] an opportunity to live out a dream that’s ultimately controlled by others,” Abraham tells Us exclusively. “I’m honored to be able to not just to represent myself, but my family and my friends and the people in the community I work in, the cybersecurity community. It’s a great opportunity that I’m humbled by.”

As for what he thinks he could have done to possibly stay in the game, he tells Us, “I think I should have [thrown] Tiffany [Seely] under the bus some more. I wasn’t driving the bus fast enough. She was driving the bus faster.”

He was ultimately voted out 5-1.

Scroll down to read our full interview with Abraham about his time on the show and how he feels about being out so early.

Survivor airs on CBS Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET.

Us Weekly: You said in the moment that you were blindsided. What did you think the plan was going into tribal council?

Eric Abraham: You know what, Sharon, it’s almost like a dream scenario. I was like, “I know I’m one of the strong players. I know I’m going to be here for a while. Let me go ahead and push somebody out there in front of the bus.” And everybody was driving that same bus with me. I saw that happen. No, [Tiffany] didn’t pull her weight in the challenge. You don’t really get that on the editing, but I was like, “I got concrete evidence that she is a low-hanging fruit in our tribe right now. And I’m going to push her out there.” What I didn’t realize was they had already switched buses and I was actually standing in the street about to get hit.

Us: Do you think you were maybe too vocal about Tiffany being the one who should leave?

EA: Survivor is so fast that you think that your strategy is the one that’s the best strategy in that moment. Because then in the next moment, I could have sat there and not said anything, and they’d be like, “Nope, we still want to get Abraham out.” It’s just [doing] what I think might work. And you got, like, 10 moments to … “Oh yeah, it didn’t work.” Nope. It did not.

Us: What did you think about her calling you out at tribal saying that you talk in circles?

EA: I would have done the same thing to her if I had thought it up. I would have added fuel to the fire. I was like, “Hey, this why you need to get rid of Tiffany.” That hadn’t crossed my mind. I mean, you’re in a situation where you don’t want to be the one voted out. You don’t want to be the one voted out first, and you’re faced with only six people on your tribe. So, it’s coming regardless. Somebody has to be the first one. I didn’t want to be the first one. She didn’t want to be the first one. I just felt like with the tribe I was with, I had a better argument.

Us: So who did you feel most betrayed by? Who did you really trust out there?

EA: You know, if I have to rack and stack the ones that I would have said, “Hey, we’re going to be the ones that’s going to play a strategy of trying to stay out of voting.” I would’ve said Xander [Hastings], Liana [Wallace], and I would’ve said they probably would’ve sided with me because we want to keep the tribe strong and want to win challenges. [David] Voce is a doctor so he might’ve said a couple of things of lying, but that’s because he is a doctor. He loves people, don’t get it wrong. I went and I said, “You know what? That makes perfectly good sense to me.” But I think we all were thinking in our mind that whatever decisions we make made perfectly good sense to us.

Us: Speaking of Xander, what did you think about his story and decision about the summit?

EA: Like I said before, you got a short amount of time and Xander just had an honest disposition. He has an honest face. We were like, “Out of all of us, who would probably be the one to go and come back, and be more truthful about what transpired?” So that’s how we came to Xander. Not that we didn’t trust our other castmates, but we were like, “Xander [is] probably going to be the best one of us to go.” So that’s how he got selected. And when he came back, I was like “Maybe 75 percent of what he’s saying is true, 25 is what he’s kind of making up.” And I said, that’s a good number.

Us: You were blindsided, but did you think about playing the “Shot in the Dark” die at all?

EA: You know what, the “Shot in the Dark” was something new because as a fan of the show, I’ve gone back and looked at every season of Survivor until I actually arrived on island to play myself. And you’ve kind of got an idea of every type of scenario that you can throw at somebody on Survivor. That was brand new. And it was so early in the game, I’m like, “Not on the very first night of voting.” I didn’t think the “Shot in the Dark” was necessary to use. I said, as we move later on, or even when we got to the merge, the “Shot in the Dark” would be better tool. So I wasn’t even thinking about it at the time. Like I said, it was too early.

Us: Speaking about all these changes, the show is back after nearly two years of being off the air. What did it mean to you to be cast in this season?

EA: First of all, it was a privilege to be selected, not only on this season of cast members that is all diverse cast members, but [to be given] an opportunity to live out a dream that’s ultimately controlled by others. We sit at home and we look at Survivor season after season, and then you actually have to put an application in, and then you actually have to be selected and go through a process. I’m honored to be able to not just to represent myself, but my family and my friends and the people in the community I work in, the cybersecurity community. It’s a great opportunity that I’m humbled by. It was surreal to see myself on TV and be a part of this franchise and doing this. And on the other end, I just greatly enjoy the opportunity to go out there and be Beast Mode. Just get it.

Us: So I’m assuming you’d love to play again?

EA: So this is what happens. That was my prequel. You know, they are doing prequels now, before everything else happens. That was mine. They wanted to show you a snippet of Abraham before they brought him back for the next show. So y’all saw me, y’all saw the physicality, y’all saw me out there working hard in the camp. Everybody’s going to see what I brought to the table. And y’all gonna be like, “When they bring that next show out, who do we need to bring back?” I need y’all to all be out there [saying], “Abraham needs to come back.”

Us: You mentioned you’re a fan of the game. What did you think about it only being 26 days?

EA: You know, 26 days is really short compared to the other seasons. Doing three tribes versus two tribes, and you’re trying to quantify, calculate, strategize, and it’s fast. It is a fast thing, considering that you prepared for something different because you saw something different. I think as a fan of Survivor, to see it differently was great. Now, to actually be on the cast and be subjected to it, no. Not at all (laughs).

Us: How about the no rice situation?

EA: I didn’t see any of it and I was hungry. I was looking forward to rice. I hadn’t mentally prepared myself for rice, at a minimum, as one of our food sources. And to be told that, “Hey, we’re not going to give you anything.” And now you’re like, “Wait a minute. I understand we can eat coconut and everything else, but still can I start with some rice?” That was a physical challenge for us and a mental challenge, because now you’ve changed the game that we prepared for off of previous seasons. So we knew at a minimum, we were going to get rice, and it was like, “Nope, no rice. Hold up, coconut? I’m not a small dude. I’m not a big dude, but I’m going to need more than just coconut.”

Us: Even though you went home early, did Survivor live up to the experience that you wanted?

EA: Unfortunately, the audience won’t see our whole entire time that we’re there. Being on Survivor in itself, lived up to any expectation of a dream that I had. When I got selected, I was like, “I’m a winner.” I got selected to be on a show that, yeah, I put in the application, but they’ll never gonna never call me. And they called. And to be with that cast at this time in our history and society, I feel privileged and I’ll always be a part of this. So thanks Survivor [and] CBS for selecting me to be a part of it.

Us: Do you think there was anything you could’ve done at tribal council to stay in the game or do you think your fate was already decided at that point?

EA: You know, your fate is always going to be decided, but I think I should have [thrown] Tiffany under the bus some more. I wasn’t driving the bus fast enough. She was driving the bus faster. I could have said, “Hey, here’s a reason why Tiffany is not going to be a good fit going forward.” But I mean, that’s second guessing yourself. You think you’re doing what’s right as the show goes on. You just kind of live with the consequences, which brings me to today.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The account executive, 29, got into a heated conversation with Head of Household Xavier Prather after being blindsided when he didn’t use the veto on him and Derek Frazier then cast the sole vote to evict.

Kyland took some low blows, even bringing up Xavier’s family on his way out the door. Host Julie Chen Moonves actually had to yell at him to exit the house, and it seems the California native doesn’t regret what he said.

“I’m a very literal person. I wouldn’t say blunt because I think blunt sometimes lacks honesty,” Kyland tells Us Weekly exclusively. “As far as literal, I look at the words that I said to Xavier, and I hope that other people do the same. Him and I had had extensive conversations about people that we admire such as Kobe Bryant and Goku, and specifically how we love that they are people who face their competition head on, one-on-one, at their best.”

He goes on to say that he “thought that was something that Xavier and I aligned on.”

“I called out how this move proved that that was untrue,” Kyland continues. “The words that I said aren’t something I regret because objectively they were true. Did I realize that they would also strike a chord? Of course, you got to have some fun on your way out. But as far as my word choice, I feel good about that because I know that if you run it back and look at the actual words used, there was nothing I said that wasn’t objectively true, given the context of the conversations that Xavier and I had.”

He adds, “I hope that him and his family take no personal offense to it when they take in that context and the literal words themselves.”

Watch our video with Kyland above or scroll down to read the full interview, in which he also talks about who he thinks would vote for him if he were in the final two against Xavier, how he feels about Tiffany Mitchell and Sarah Beth Steagall, and more.

Big Brother airs on CBS Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 8 p.m. ET.

Us Weekly: You had had words with Xaviar and Big D on your way out, specifically mentioning something personal about Xavier’s family. Do you have regrets on the way you exited the house?

Kyland Young: As far as exiting the house, I would look at my conversation with Big D. I told him that his best strategic move would be to send me out if Xavier didn’t use the veto. So, I hold no ill will or disrespect toward him. And honestly, I don’t hold ill will or disrespect toward anyone. I’m a very literal person. I wouldn’t say blunt because I think blunt sometimes lacks honesty. As far as literal, I look at the words that I said to Xavier, and I hope that other people do the same. Him and I had had extensive conversations about people that we admire such as Kobe Bryant and Goku, and specifically how we love that they are people who face their competition head on, one-on-one, at their best. They give them an opportunity, like, “Hey, I want you at your best because I want to go head-to-head with you.

I thought that that was something that Xavier and I aligned on because that’s what he told me they cared about. That’s what he told me that they valued. That’s what he told me that his family valued. I called out how this move proved that that was untrue. The words that I said aren’t something I regret because objectively they were true. Did I realize that they would also strike a chord? Of course, you got to have some fun on your way out. But as far as my word choice, I feel good about that because I know that if you run it back and look at the actual words used, there was nothing I said that wasn’t objectively true, given the context of the conversations that Xavier and I had. So, obviously, I hope that him and his family take no personal offense to it when they take in that context and the literal words themselves.

Us: Tiffany said she wanted to work with you until the end. Do you regret getting rid of her during your HOH?

KY: I absolutely love Tiffany. I think that she is an incredible player in this game, especially both socially competitive, strategically. The only reason that I did end up having cut her at the end was because I knew that this season was about representation. Specifically with The Cookout, as soon as we made final six, my ideal situation would have been to go to the end with Tiffany and Xavier. But then, Tiffany made choices that by her own admission were selfish and un-loyal. That to me, I felt showed an inconsistency that I didn’t want to have in the first Black winter of Big Brother because this is history. And I think that the representation matters. I think that it’s not just that you win, it’s how you win. So unfortunately, that was when I had to make that decision between Xavier and Tiffany.

At that time, Xavier had shown a consistency with making unselfish decisions and making decisions that were in line with the gameplay that I personally found a little bit of a higher standard. And so, that was where I made that decision. It was absolutely hurtful to my own emotions because of how much love and respect I have for Tiffany, but I can’t regret it because I knew I came in with a certain set of values and principles. As the game progressed, those came to life in different ways. And that’s something I feel resolved about.

Us: You used the veto on Xavier. He didn’t use it on you. Any regrets about not keeping Hannah and working with her over Xavier?

KY: Similar when I look at Hannah – Chaddha, as she prefers – I see the same thing as Tiffany. She’s a great player. She won an HOH and a veto. She’s super smart, incredible memory. But, she had played a game that was not as strong as Xavier’s on both the competition level, social level and strategic level. All three, I mean. That’s something that I knew I wanted to sit next to in the final two, just because I’m a believer that to be the best, you gotta beat the best. For me, that’s head-to-head at the end, which I know is very idealistic, but this is already an idealistic season. You know, we got all six of us to the end of the game. I got to have a pretty direct role in that, so I’m pretty proud of it. And as far as using the veto on Xavier, I figured that if he was serious, he use it on me. And if he wasn’t, as soon as it wasn’t used, I knew what the deal was. You know going into Big Brother that’s always a possibility. The only thing that I would actually regret is not winning that veto myself, or that HOH, between those two. At this stage, I was one win away from winning the game on my own terms, the way that I thought was important and valuable. So I’m OK with that.

Us: If it came down to you versus Xavier in the final two, how do you see the votes playing out?

KY: If it was me versus Xavier in the final two, you never really know how the votes are going to turn out. I have not gotten to talk to any of the members of the jury. I don’t know how they took the news of The Cookout or the strategic moves that were made. But if it’s me and Xavier sitting in the final two, this is a jury that was very explicit about wanting to vote on gameplay as a whole – so not just competitions, and not just who your best friend is. As far as strategic moves, being in the position that I was and having the relationship with Xavier and Tiffany, and Sarah Beth and Derek X, and other move makers in the game, I got a view that was possibly more in depth than a lot of other people. So, as far as the points I had to give to each one of the jurors, I see things turning out pretty favorably, as long as people stayed true to the sentiments that they said they wanted to vote off of. And I think there’s a good chance a lot of them would have. So, I don’t know if it would have been anything better than 5-4, but I could totally see a win for me at the end against Xavier and clearly he saw the same. So, I can sit with that and feel good.

Us: You got super close with Sarah Beth and Tiffany. Were there feelings there or was it more platonic?

KY: With Sarah Beth and Tiffany, I got very close, but that’s just because that’s who I am outside the house. I grew up with four sisters. I have women that are my best friends [that] I’m very close to. I’m a very physical, affectionate person. And in the Big Brother house, you get very comfortable with each other, just hanging out, whether it’s me cuddling with Big D, or Derek X, or Sarah Beth, or Tiffany. All of it was really in a platonic and affectionate love, nothing else that I know of at this time. But I am so glad to have met them, and I find them to be absolutely beautiful, intelligent, respectable, incredible women. And, I’m just glad to know them and glad that we got some time together in the house.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The phlebotomist, 40, was evicted unanimously while sitting next to close ally Hannah Chaddha after Head of Household Kyland Young put them on the block and later won the veto to keep nominations the same.

“I think Kyland made a mistake nominating me and Hannah,” Tiffany exclusively tells Us Weekly. “I definitely think that he should have stuck with us because we didn’t have a choice but to stick with him. He’s taking a huge chance with Xavier [Prather] because Xavier wants to win.”

Not knowing that Hannah sadly followed her out the door, she adds, “Azah [Awasum] or Big D [Derek Frazier] can follow me out in jury. Not that I want any one of them to go, but on a game level, as far as strategy, this is a game. I want a game player to win this game. I think Kyland, Hannah and Xavier have done a phenomenal job adding to The Cookout getting further with their game play.”

Watch our interview above or scroll down to read what else Tiffany told us about her game, including her final two plans with Hannah and whether she would ever play again!

Big Brother airs on CBS Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 8 p.m. ET.

Us Weekly: Do you think Kyland made a $750,000 mistake sticking by Xavier over you?

Tiffany Mitchell: I think Kyland made a mistake nominating me and Hannah. I definitely think that he should have stuck with us because we didn’t have a choice but to stick with him. He’s taking a huge chance with Xavier because Xavier wants to win. Kyland wants to play Batman versus Superman. Xavier wants to win $750,000. However, maybe Kyland would win sitting next to either one of us. So if he wants to go Marvel, then he chose the best choice.

Us: Do you think you’ve got enough credit for your contributions to The Cookout and your master plan with the duos?

TM: In the house, I think people just wanted to stop talking about the master plan. They did not want to give it more life than it already had. And considering how Big D tried to tell me, like, less than two weeks ago that he’s the one that came up with the master plan, I don’t even know if it was my idea anymore. Did I get enough credit? I don’t know. We should ask Big D.

Us: Who would you have ultimately taken to the final two from The Cookout?

TM: I was dead serious about sitting in the final two with Hannah. I have so much respect for this young lady. Hannah is 21 – if she’s really 21 – but I believe she is. She has all of my respect. When I was 21, [I was] nowhere near close to who she is as a person. I fell in love with her. I promised not to move through this game with my emotions. She could have been playing me to the left and to the right. She had me a 100 percent, up until we sat on the block together. And then I was like, “Oh, OK. We’re going to be split up. I got to take somebody else if I stay.”

Us: Who do you want to see follow you out the door?

TM: Honestly, I would like to see Xavier, Kyland and Hannah in the house. Azah or Big D can follow me out in jury. Not that I want any one of them to go, but on a game level, as far as strategy, this is a game. I want a game player to win this game. I think Kyland, Hannah and Xavier have done a phenomenal job adding to The Cookout getting further with their game play.

Us: Would you ever play Big Brother again?

TM: Oh, I love this game, and I don’t feel like I was able to be my Evel Dick self that I wanted to come in here and be. However, I don’t even know what I would be without The Cookout. I don’t. I would love to know that. And, probably – I probably would play again.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The graduate student, 21 – fresh off losing her closest ally in Tiffany Mitchell – became the target of newly crowned Head of Household Azah Awasum, who decided to stick with the guys instead of working with Hannah to try to remove one of the biggest competitive threats from the game.

“I believe that Azah made a $750,000 mistake by targeting me,” Hannah exclusively tells Us Weekly. “I would have brought her a lot farther in this game than I think any of the guys intend to. But, she’s naive in the sense that she wants to believe that Big D [Derek Frazier] is her No. 1 and she’s Big D’s No. 1. I just don’t think that’s the case.”

The Chicago native adds, “She cost me my chances of winning, and I think she also cemented her loss. I fully expect to see her right after me in jury.”

As for the dominant Cookout alliance, which made history with six Black players in the final six, Hannah says, “I think everyone played their part. … I just think that the alliance was great. We all did what we came to do. We accomplished our goal and that’s what’s most important to me, not what Hannah did personally. I couldn’t care less. But I know what I did and I’m pretty proud of it.”

Watch our interview above or scroll down to read what else Hannah told Us about her game, including whether she would date Derek Xiao and/or play the game again!

Big Brother airs on CBS Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 8 p.m. ET.

Us Weekly: Do you think Azah made a $750,000 mistake sticking with the guys and targeting you?

Hannah Chaddha: Yes. I believe that Azah made a $750,000 mistake by targeting me. I would have brought her a lot farther in this game than I think any of the guys intend to. But, she’s naive in the sense that she wants to believe that Big D is her No. 1 and she’s Big D’s No. 1. I just don’t think that’s the case. So yeah, she cost me my chances of winning, and I think she also cemented her loss. I fully expect to see her right after me in jury.

Us: Do you think you got enough credit for your contributions to The Cookout?

HC: To be honest, I’m not that concerned about accreditation. I think everyone played their part. Tiffany came up with the master plan. She came up with the foundation of the six, making it to final six, and she deserves all the praise for that. Kyland [Young] was willing to get a lot of the blood on his hands by winning comp after comp. If Kyland hadn’t won so many competitions, I think someone would have definitely tried to take that shot against him, if given the opportunity, and they could’ve put him up next to another member of The Cookout, such as Tiffany, such as myself, such as Azah. So that is where, you know, Kyland did his thing. He also had a very good handle on Sarah Beth. He definitely steered Sarah Beth in the direction of targeting DX that week when that was kind of contrary to her interest in the game.

Xavier [Prather] was kind of the glue of the group. He resolved a lot of the conflict because I don’t believe that he’s a bartender. I think that maybe he works in law enforcement, or maybe he’s lawyer. I don’t know. Big D and Azah, I feel like they helped keep everyone off our scent because of how much they fought with Tiff. And then with me, I kind of helped Tiffany with the minute details with the process of elimination. This is why this person needs to go first, and then this person, and then this person, and what if there’s a battle back? What if there’s a double? Who should win this HOH? With the high rollers room twist, that was kind of my job. That was my contribution to The Cookout. I formulated who should play in each high rollers room comp, if they had enough money. Who should win? What should they do with that power? So, all of us definitely played our role within The Cookout, and I don’t believe that I deserve any singular credit. I just think that the alliance was great. We all did what we came to do. We accomplished our goal and that’s what’s most important to me, not what Hannah did personally. I couldn’t care less. But I know what I did and I’m pretty proud of it.

Us: Could you see yourself dating Derek X if he asked you out after the game?

HC: I don’t know. DX, he’s awesome. But, he lives in New York. I live in Chicago. In the house, I definitely had a crush on him. But, I still kept my distance because I knew that he had to go eventually. I’m about to see him in jury, so I don’t know how he feels about me because he probably does know about The Cookout at this point. So, stay tuned, but I would definitely like to be friends with DX after the show. He’s stuck with me because I adore him. I think the world of him.

Us: Would you ever play Big Brother again?

HC: Of course I would play Big Brother again. I love, love, love this game. I feel like I had to hold back because I was playing a very value-driven, group collective game. I wasn’t playing the game for myself. There were a lot of moves that I made that I wasn’t planning on making, or were contrary to my self-interest when that’s not normally how the game of Big Brother is played. So, I would definitely love a redo. You know, Nicole F[ranzel], her first season, she was very, very young. She did well. I think she came in like seventh or eighth place, and then the next season she was able to come back and win. So, I would love the opportunity to be able to do that and play an individual game, now that we have guaranteed that there will be a Black winner this season.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The swimwear designer, 24, was unaware she was in danger, especially after Hannah Chaddha won the Head of Household. Not privy to The Cookout alliance, she was surprised when she was nominated alongside Xavier Prather.

“I feel betrayed by Hannah because we made this whole strategy right before [the] live eviction of who we put up, if I’d use the veto on her, if she’d used the veto on me, and within five minutes of Claire [Rehfuss]’s conversation with her before live evictions, she completely changed her mind,” Alyssa exclusively tells Us. “And I just think that she shouldn’t have been persuaded that easily. And if she really wanted to be in a final two with me, she would have never thought to do that.”

Xavier ended up winning the veto and Hannah replaced him with Kyland Young. There was really nothing Alyssa could have done and she was voted out 3-1. Upon her eviction, The Cookout sealed their spot in BB history by having all POC in the final six, guaranteeing a Black winner for the first time ever.

Watch above or scroll down to read our full interview with Alyssa, during which she also talks about her showmance with Christian Birkenberger and whether she would ever play again.

Big Brother airs on CBS Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 8 p.m. ET.

Us Weekly: You said you felt betrayed by Hannah. Talk about that. And is there anyone else here?

Alyssa Lopez: I feel betrayed by Hannah because we made this whole strategy right before [the] live eviction of who we put up, if I’d use the veto on her, if she’d used the veto on me, and within five minutes of Claire’s conversation with her before live evictions, she completely changed her mind. And I just think that she shouldn’t have been persuaded that easily. And if she really wanted to be in a final two with me, she would have never thought to do that.

Us: Who would have been your target if you had won HOH?

AL: If I were to win HOH during the double eviction, I would have put up Tiffany and Kyland. I would have targeted Tiffany. That way, Hannah is a little bit more closer to me.

Us: Do you plan on dating Christian after the show? Does Xavier have a shot?

AL: I do plan to pursue a relationship with Christian outside of this house, as long as he is on board as well. Xavier is my best friend, my lifelong friend, but a friend. And that is all.

Us: Who do you think is playing the best game thus far and why?

AL: I do think Hannah taking me out was a complete waste of her HOH, but in general, in the house, I do think she is playing the best game. I think people underestimate her and I feel like she has a lot of people backing her up and people that may take her to the end because they underestimate her.

Us: Would you ever play Big Brother again?

AL: I have watched Big Brother since I was 11 years old, every single summer. And I’m now 25. Of course I would play this game again. It was so amazing to be able to play in this game, especially such a historic season. And I would most definitely go back into the house as soon as possible.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The AI engineer, 25, didn’t really have a shot of staying with The Cookout in power. She was deemed safe when Tiffany won Head of Household and originally nominated Alyssa Lopez and Xavier Prather, the former being her intended target.

But when Alyssa won the veto, Tiffany reluctantly had to name her best friend as the replacement nominee to stay true to the six without outing the alliance. Claire was hurt and shocked but took the news with grace and understanding.

“This game has been played for a long time and a lot of times, people of color aren’t looked out for in the game and they go out early,” Claire told host Julie Chen after her eviction. “Tiffany felt like she had to do, what she said she would do coming here. … I will never be mad at Tiffany for sticking to what she believes in.”

As for her secret HOH reign, Claire wishes she had done a few things differently. “In hindsight, I would’ve loved to have been able to make deals before winning that,” she exclusively tells Us. “And so then I could put up who I wanted to strategically, but at the time, I just was so invested in making sure Tiffany’s week went as smooth as possible. I felt bad for overthrowing my tightest ally. I can’t have that many regrets.”

Watch above or scroll down to read our full interview with Claire, during which she also talks about who’s playing the best game and whether she would ever play again.

Big Brother airs on CBS Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 8 p.m. ET.

Us Weekly: Do you have any regrets about your secret HOH week knowing what you do now?

Claire Rehfuss: Honestly, I wish that I could have done more information-gathering and more deal-making before I played in the Coin of Destiny competition. But, you never know if you’re going to win or not. In hindsight, I would’ve loved to have been able to make deals before winning that. And so then I could put up who I wanted to strategically, but at the time, I was just so invested in making sure Tiffany’s week went as smooth as possible. I felt bad for overthrowing my tightest ally. I can’t have that many regrets. Maybe I would have put up Alyssa and Derek F, but at the time, it’s hard to tell. So, no major regrets.

Us: Who do you actually think is playing the best game thus far and why?

CR: Best game is so subjective. I do think that X is in a fantastic position. I think that maybe he gets taken out, but I just think that he’s positioned himself so well. He hasn’t necessarily had to make a ton of big moves, but he’s still where he’s at in this game. And if he hasn’t been making a ton of deals, then that’s all the more credit to him.

Us: You were a huge fan going into this game. Did it live up to your expectations?

CR: This has lived up to my expectations. It was even exceeding it. It was way more fun than I thought that it could potentially be. It was way more stressful than I thought it would be. It’s so fun. I had such a blast playing in it. It was such a competition. It’s so stressful. You never know who’s lying to you. I wish I had done better, but it does absolutely live up to the expectations.

Us: Would you ever play Big Brother again?

CR: If they asked me to play Big Brother again the day after the finale, I would do it. I love this game. And although I’m the fourth juror, I would play again in a heartbeat. It’s so fun and there’s nothing else like it. Absolutely, I would play again.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The forensic scientist, 27, was voted out 5-1 against her closest ally, Kyland Young, and now recognizes she didn’t have much of a chance of staying.

“Especially knowing what I know now that I’ve been evicted – all I could have done would have been either had the BB bucks to play for the Coin of Destiny, and maybe win it, or win the veto, which I was unable to do either things,” Sarah Beth tells Us Weekly exclusively. “So I don’t think there was really anything I could have done, now that I know about the secret alliance this week, to change my fate.”

That being said, the South Carolina native does have a few regrets. “I think if anything, I should have just been a little more loyal or spent more time growing and bonding with the alliances that I already had. I think that would have benefited me more than just making more alliances,” SB tells Us. “I also do regret making my loyalty to Kyland so obvious.”

Kyland revealed to her in his goodbye message that he was involved in a “secret alliance” that wanted her out, and Sarah Beth is starting to put the pieces together. “I’m guessing that there is a secret alliance with the goal of having the first Black winner of Big Brother, which I think is really cool,” Sarah Beth says. “I totally understand why that would be super important to both Kyland and to Azah [Awasum]. So my guess is that Azah, Kyland and Xavier [Prather] are definitely in that alliance.”

Watch above or scroll down to read our full interview with Sarah Beth where she also talks about who’s playing the best game and whether she would ever play again.

Big Brother airs on CBS Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 8 p.m. ET.

Us Weekly: What do you think you could have done differently, or better, this week to stay in the game?

Sarah Beth Steagall: This week in particular? I think that – especially knowing what I know now that I’ve been evicted – all I could have done would have been either had the BB bucks to play for the Coin of Destiny, and maybe win it, or win the veto, which I was unable to do either things. So I don’t think there was really anything I could have done, now that I know about the secret alliance this week, to change my fate.

Us: Kyland mentioned he was in a secret alliance during his goodbye message. Who do you think is in the alliance with him? Talk us through that.

SBS: So, also in Azah’s goodbye message, she mentioned that she had to be OK with evicting me because of a mission that’s close to her heart. And there are also things that Kyland said to me in the house about who he would take to the final two if he got there, and why he would do it, and how it would be important for his career and his image. So, putting all of those things together, I’m guessing that there is a secret alliance with the goal of having the first Black winner of Big Brother, which I think is really cool. I totally understand why that would be super important to both Kyland and to Azah. So my guess is that Azah, Kyland and Xavier are definitely in that alliance. As far as how big it is and who else is in it, I’m not sure. Maybe Tiffany [Mitchell]? But it’s kind of hard at this point to know because it does make me … you have to rethink a lot of conversations that I’ve had, if people were in the secret alliance or not. But I feel pretty good about Xavier, Azah and Kyland being in it. Everybody else, I’m not quite sure who would be in it or not.

Us: Who was your closest ally other than Kyland? Do you regret not making more connections or alliances?

SBS: I do not regret not making more alliances. I think I had enough. I think if anything, I should have just been a little more loyal or spent more time growing and bonding with the alliances that I already had. I think that would have benefited me more than just making more alliances. Especially since I got to a point in the game where I knew I was going to be targeted because I was close to Kyland. And you can’t really play a floater game if you’re being targeted. It doesn’t really work. I also do regret making my loyalty to Kyland so obvious. I don’t think it was bad gameplay of me to have one person who I was fully loyal to, and then other people that I was a little less loyal to. I think, obviously not knowing about the alliance and if the secret alliance hadn’t existed, I really don’t think that that was bad gameplay. So I don’t regret that. Mainly what I regret is that it became so obvious to the rest of the houseguests that my level of loyalty with Kyland was so much higher.

Us: Who do you think is playing the best game at this point?

SBS: I think the person playing the best game so far is Xavier. I suspect that he’s part of the secret alliance, which means he has those people working for him. But I also think he has really good connections with everybody else in the house. He’s definitely convinced people that he’s a really loyal player, which I think particularly this season, people are liking. He’s also not bad at competitions as well as [being] connected socially. So I definitely think he’s set up to win this game should he make it to the final two.

Us: Would you ever play Big Brother again?

SBS: I think it would be very difficult for me to play Big Brother again, looking at how my season went. I think I would go into the house and people would not trust me. I kind of knew with my strategies and how I was playing the game, that this was likely going to be my one and only opportunity to play Big Brother because of that, which is part of the reason I was trying so hard to stay in the house. But that’s not to say that I wouldn’t be tempted if it was offered to me because I really do love the game. And I do think if I had a second shot, I could do better.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp

The start-up founder, 24, was voted out 5-2 after being targeted by Head of Household Sarah Beth Steagall. She originally put up Claire Rehfuss and Derek Frazier but the “Chopping Block Roulette” game let winner Alyssa Lopez remove someone from the block. After she took down Derek F, Xavier Prather was the unlucky houseguest to land the replacement spot.

Derek X wasn’t picked to play in the veto competition, so when Xavier won and took himself off, SB used that opportunity to backdoor him. He had put her up during his HOH reign in week five.

“It’s the roulette wheel,” Derek tells Us Weekly exclusively about his biggest game regret. “I just should have played it and I think going back, I had everything I needed in front of me to realize that I should play the game, but I was overly confident in what I thought. And ultimately, that’s what sealed my fate.”

Watch above or scroll down to read our interview with Derek X where he also talks about his closest ally, who he wanted to go to the end with and whether he would ever play Big Brother again.

Big Brother airs on CBS Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 8 p.m. ET.

Us Weekly: Do you think there was anything you could’ve done to change your fate this week?

Derek Xiao: 100 percent. It’s the roulette wheel. I just should have played it and I think going back, I had everything I needed in front of me to realize that I should play the game, but I was overly confident in what I thought. And ultimately, that’s what sealed my fate.

Us: So you regret not using your BB bucks?

DX: That’s probably the biggest regret I have.

Us: Who was your closest ally and who did you want to go to the end with?

DX: My closest ally [was] Hannah by a slight margin, but I would say Hannah [Chaddha], Tiffany [Mitchell] and Claire were all up there, top tier for me, and I would have loved to go to the end with all of them. But probably a final two with Hannah. Me and Hannah just had a great personal relationship. I love that girl and we had a great game relationship too, where I thought we complemented each other’s weaknesses.

Us: Who do you think is playing the best game thus far and why?

DX: I think X is playing a very, very good game. I think he has an amazing reputation in the house. I think he’s playing a great social game where everyone wants him in the house just for the entertainment. And then also, at a game level, he is not viewed as the biggest comp threat, but now that I’m out of the house, I guess that goes up a little bit. So honestly, he’s been executing flawlessly.

Us: Would you ever play Big Brother again?

DX: 100 percent. I would love to come back for an all-star season, but I don’t know if people would consider me an all-star.

This story originally appeared on: US Magazine - Author:Sharon Tharp