Jeff Probstsays at least as far as casting goes, the 12-month production delay was a blessing in disguise.

“And in that time, we found some really amazing people!

I was so excited to start shootingSurvivor 41because there are so many great stories from this group of players.

SURVIVOR 41

Jeff Probst on ‘Survivor 41’.Robert Voets

I can’t wait for fans to meet them and invest in them the same way we do.”

Probst adds that viewers will be meeting cast members in a different way than they’re used to.

Regardless, the host is quick to express how excited he is about his latest cast.

“I think this group of players will feel current, fresh, and really likable.

“I know I used to highlight certain players,” says the host.

“But it really never felt good to me because it meant leaving other players out.

So I’m done with that!

I like this group a lot, and I root for all of them.

The torch snuffing begins Sept. 22 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS.

To keep track of our daily pregameSurvivor 41coverage, check outEW’sSurvivorhuband followDalton Ross on Twitter.