TV Watch Parties Are Having a Renaissance: Why ‘Survivor,’ ‘Traitors’ and ‘Heated Rivalry’ Are Taking Over Your Local Bar

An hour before The Abbey’s inaugural “Survivor” watch party is set to begin, the bar’s substantial interior has become a standing-room-only affair. Some superfans are even trying to heave patio chairs inside to get an up-close seat to the action, which, in this case, is the gargantuan screen that will be projecting the first episode of the show’s 50th season.

The high-energy room becomes even more spirited once the premiere begins. The crowd, which ranges from buff-donning “Survivor” die-hards to franchise newcomers, claps and clamors over fan favorites: “The White Lotus” creator Mike White’s abs get particularly raucous applause,…