On “The Summit,” the only things more unforgiving than the mountainous terrain are the alliances. This week’s episode, “The Final Checkpoint,” finds our intrepid contestants facing a literal chasm between them and their goal. King’s Leap, a daunting expanse traversable only by a single rope, stands as the ultimate test of nerve and, let’s face it, a pretty good metaphor for the entire show.
After a forced evacuation thanks to a storm (because apparently treacherous cliffs and dwindling rations weren’t dramatic enough), the remaining contestants resume their climb. But just when exhaustion starts to set in (along with the inevitable bickering), the Mountain’s Keeper delivers a surprise bag drop. This unexpected lifeline throws a wrench into the carefully constructed alliances (or what passes for alliances in a competition like this) and reignites the simmering tensions. Is it a selfless act of survival, or a calculated maneuver? Viewers will be left wondering who genuinely needs the supplies and who is playing the game most ruthlessly.
The central drama of “The Final Checkpoint” isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s about the fragility of trust. With the finish line in sight, the pressure cooker atmosphere intensifies, forcing contestants to choose between self-preservation and loyalty. Will these bonds hold, or will they snap like a frayed rope bridge? You’ll have to watch to find out.
“The Final Checkpoint” episode of “The Summit” airs at 9:30 PM EST on CBS and streams on Paramount+.
