Latest ‘Survivor’ courting controversy

They wanted a reaction, and “Survivor” producers from SEG Inc. and host Jeff Probst seem to be getting just that.

The show’s decision to pit ethnic races – Asians, blacks, Hispanics and whites – against one another this season when the 20 contestants are divided into tribes has created some controversy. Procter & Gamble, which has advertised during the show in all previous seasons, has pulled its commercials from the time slot.

It’s been said that there’s no such thing as bad press, and when you make it to your 13th season of a show, it’s reasonable to feel that you need a new twist to keep people interested.

“Survivor: Cook Islands” has created more buzz, in my opinion, than the show’s previous seasons, and it could be a good thing for ratings.

But should that be the most important thing, and have they gone too far?

“I think when most people hear the idea, the first reaction is to flinch a little bit,” Probst said in a recent conference call. “It’s a sensitive topic, and we understand that.”

He’s encouraging people to give the season a chance, and to voice their opinions when it’s all over.

The season kicked off at 8 p.m. Thursday. If you missed it, visit the CBS Web site for updates and a chance to air your thoughts on the show.

Looking for something less controversial? I found it!

After searching the Web, tracking down a contact, and making a quick phone call, I’ve discovered that I’m not crazy and DIY Network is searching for that one person that everyone in the family goes to for handyman help.

The network’s new show, “Stud Finder,” is in search of America’s next home improvement show host.

For information on how to submit an audition tape, to take the handyman quiz, or to see how fast you are with a hammer, visit www.diynetwork.com.

I also was shocked this week to learn that VH1’s “Flavor of Love” is creating a female spin-off.

As if watching the original wasn’t bad enough, now they’re taking one of the “eccentric” contestants from season one and giving her her own show.

The good news is the show’s producers have decided it’s time for Flavor Flav to do something different, and we shouldn’t have to suffer through another season of the original.