Episode 0 has arrived. While we didn’t get a whole lot more than introductions, you can learn a lot from the way production edits these preshows, and these are the snippets that likely imply that certain cast members will be important down the road.
1. They Made a Big Deal About Jordan’s Late Arrival
The episode opened with intros for each era, but they blacked out one of the Era 3 male’s faces. If you knew about this preshow, you’ve seen the cast release and you know Jordan will show up. But, Jordan does make an appearance at the end of the episode.
2. Johnny Feels Like He’s On the Wrong Team
Most of the Challenge mainstays are on Era 1, but Bananas debuted on Season 13: The Duel. So, he’s not on a team with Mark, CT, or Derrick. Instead, he’s on a team where the girls are stronger than the guys.
3. Brad is Drawn to Emily
Brad claims he’s drawn to good people, and he’s feeling a connection with Emily, even though they’re not on the same team. Coming into the game, Brad says he has no real alliances.
4. Horacio Is Still a Hot Topic
Coming into this season, many cast members recognize that Horacio is an up-and-coming competitor, and they acknowledge that he and Nurys are a fan-favorite couple. Even Era 1 players like Katie and Derrick are mingling with the newbies.
5. Laurel and Cara Maria Are On Good Terms — Kinda?
It seems Laurel and Cara are willing to be friendly now that they’re on the same team, and after all stars, Cara Maria feels Laurel has the victories she needs to have a friendly relationship. On the other side, Paulie feels nothing good can come from Cara and Laurel getting close.
6. Era 1 Is Embracing Amanda
Rachel confesses that she was excited to meet Amanda, and Amanda is flattered to be embraced by the original “Mean Girls.” For some reason, Aneesa tags along while Amanda is showered in compliments, even though they’ve had conflicts in the past.
7. It’s a Woman’s Game
Rachel is the designated toastmaster of the night, and she just celebrates the women, But with powerhouses like herself, Cara Maria, Laurel, Emily, and Jenny in the game, it’s hard to overlook the ladies this season.
8. There’s Still Love for Diem
This house has photos from former Challenges, and there’s a section dedicated to Diem. It’s a touching tribute, as she was such an important figure on the show, and she would have been a shoo-in for a season like this. It’s great that she was acknowledged in some capacity.
9. Olivia and Theo Are Flirting Already
At the pool party, Olivia’s booty catches Theo’s eye. Both insist they’re single and don’t need distractions, but it’s hard to think this won’t go any further.
10. Amanda Apologizes to Cara Maria
Amanda apologizes to Cara Maria for mean comments she’s made in the past, including the infamous “I hope your horse dies” line from Final Reckoning. She says she’s friends with Paulie and sees how happy Cara makes him. She also thinks she can bury the hatchet with Cara because they have a mutual hate for Tori.
Stop Being Polite 
I thought this was super entertaining for a welcome episode! The season has a chance to be GREAT.