DC SocialPulse: The Challenge Invasion - "A River of Endless Light"

*** Advisory: DC SocialPulse contains adult language, objectionable content 

& spoilers for some readers. Viewer Discretion is Advised. Due to its long 

length, take frequent eye breaks if you're reading this top to bottom. ***

BY DC CUEVA                     

■ @DC408Dxtr  @ TW / IG / YT

It's the last few days of this month of April, and the weather outside is starting to warm up as we get closer to the summer. And welcome on in to our look Inside The MTV Trifecta on DCBLOG, where coming up - the game changes yet again in Australia, and one last stand for the four left Stranded with a Million Dollars in Fiji. But first this weekend, we're kicking it off with the table being set for the final of The Challenge Invasion in Thailand.
   Last week, the last underdogs finals berth was claimed by Cory, leaving them, Nelson, Nicole and Ashley as the final four for Team Red. They then faced off with the last four champions for the only challenge with both teams having the same number of players on both sides, but ended with Team Red finishing a testy maze course and leaving the champs with tempers before their last Fortress. And a major shocker, Camila handed Laurel her first elimination loss in Knot So Fast.
   This week, the guys take center stage in the season's final elimination as CT and Darrell square off with a spot to join Camila and the underdogs in the final. Those four on Team Red also encounter a meltdown among one of them that could break them apart, before another big twist dropped by TJ Lavin that no one saw coming. And before it goes down, there's plenty of reflection among the finalists of what has brought them here, including of an all-time Challenge icon.

All of the action, reaction and interaction from this week is coming up on this Pulse diary... which if you might be wondering why we're presenting The Challenge up first rather than on Saturday or Sunday as we've done during the season we'll be explaining after the jump. And after the diary, some reflection on a comedic icon who passed away much too soon recently, and an often-forgotten Trifecta alum getting to meet him.

• As we begin, please note there is explicit language in many of the tweets below, but they are kept uncensored in order to retain the heat of the moment. So if you are mature enough, please read with discretion. :-)
• Plus, if you haven't watched the episode yet, then do not proceed with reading this post. But need not worry...DCBLOG will compile all of these tweets into these posts after every episode so you won't be in the dark of how your favorites saw this all unfold.

Ahead, Week 12 of The Challenge Invasion as we take you Inside the MTV Trifecta on DCBLOG.




NOTE: "On a Vacation..."
First, before we begin this somewhat truncated edition of the 'Pulse, you'll note that not everyone in Team MTV, and most of this Invasion cast, is present in social media land and thus not tweeting not just this episode, but also likely the two-part finale coming up this coming week. As I would always like to say on here, they are on either one of a few things: they are on a worldwide trip to help spread international goodwill, serving as volunteers at a major sports event overseas, or perhaps being one of those stranded on an island like what we saw this past week.
   But in reality, they are out of country to film Season 30 of The Challenge, and of course we'll be covering that for you on this site when we arrive there. No doubt, this will make my task a bit easy in not having to compile as many tweets in this timeline and for this instance, this will kick off the week's posts from now until the finale. For now, let's get on with the show...

▪    ▪    ▪

►5 DAYS TO CHALLENGE TUESDAY
@ChallengeMTV: It's anyone's game! Find out who will be victorious in this battle of Champs, Tuesday @ 9/8c 😱 #TheChallengeInvasion http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx
@n_zanattaMTV: Thanks MTV keep embarrassing me ahhhh I look like a cry baby 💕
- @AshleyMarieMTV: @n_zanattaMTV awwwwwww!!
- @n_zanattaMTV: @AshleyMarieMTV Ashhhhh I feel like a crybaby lol can we please do something this summer!!
- @AshleyMarieMTV: @n_zanattaMTV nahhh that's love! And yes yes yes. D and I will be on the east coast this summer so we will all meet up for sure!
@kailah_casillas: People say they wanna see you do great, but never better than them.
@tjlavin: Sometimes you just meet good dudes... When you do hang on to em. I love this guy and this year… https://www.instagram.com/p/BTMR6N5Fn8S/
@ChallengeMTV: Whoever wins, Darrell or CT, this is gonna be an epic elimination! 👏 #TheChallengeInvasion is new, Tuesday @ 9/8c http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx
@MtvMagicMike: Imagine @MTVMorganSt @ftwgiovanni @IamAdamKuhn on one season of @TheChallengeMTV that would be epic. Real competitors, crazy upsets #newera
- @IamAdamKuhn: @MtvMagicMike @MTVMorganSt and 2 others  I'm tired of the challenge feeding weak ayto competitors just to make real world look good. Put up our best guys and let's run the show
- @MtvMagicMike: @IamAdamKuhn @MTVMorganSt and 2 others   Ayto could run shit..real world too for that matter they just cast ppl that wanna do the show for "followers" but have no athleticism at all
- @ftwgiovanni: @IamAdamKuhn AYTO vs RW #givethepeoplewhattheywant
@IamAdamKuhn: Makes me laugh when people who always lose in eliminations constantly go back. Meanwhile I would have run through the whole challenge roster
- @banksy878: @IamAdamKuhn Yah happens tho hopefully you will get another shot ...politics bro
@ChallengeMTV:  When you're the third wheel ✌😂 | Don't miss a branew episode of #TheChallengeInvasion, Tuesday at 9/8c 🙌 http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx  https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9ylFHXXUAAiy5P.jpg
@ChallengeMTV: Don't miss the LIT conclusion to the Champs' elimination. Are you #TeamCT, or #TeamDarrell? 🔥🔥🔥 http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9y0t0OXYAAJZbE.jpg
@ChallengeMTV: Though she be little, she is FIERCE! Props for winning that elimination! #TheChallengeInvasion is new, Tues @ 9/8c 👏 http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9y5-ejWAAcBRiT.jpg
@ChallengeMTV: Even the mighty fall! The Elimination Queen LOST after a great effort 👑 #TheChallengeInvasion is new, Tuesday @ 9/8c http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9y8_6NXYAAK2o7.jpg
@kailah_casillas: Eyes on the prize 🏆 https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-IA-msXgAApfkB.jpg
@MTV_AMANDAG: I just saw that yesterday was National Amanda Day?!?
@AshleyMarieMTV: I miss my bf. That's all. ☺️
@ChallengeMTV: Me when I have to get out of my bed on Monday morning 😫😭 #TheChallengeInvasion is brand new, tomorrow at 9/8c 🙌 http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9yh2T_XsAABuhZ.jpg
@n_zanattaMTV: Set a goal achieve the goal and set another one type of attitude. Dream big always 💋
@ChallengeMTV: It's the moment we've all been waiting for! Don't miss a new ep of #TheChallengeInvasion, tomorrow @ 9/8c 🙏🙏🙏 http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx
@ChallengeMTV: Diem is gone, but she'll never be forgotten by her Challenge fam. Catch #TheChallengeInvasion tomorrow at 9/8c on @MTV!
@kailah_casillas: People always talk about how much they want to do it, but very rarely do they actually do it.
@ChallengeMTV: CT is untested in eliminations this season. Can he bust this one out? #TheChallengeInvasion is new 2morrow @ 9/8c 👊💪 http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx
@madiwadi2by4: Dear cupid, WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT YOUR AIM.
@WestonBergmann: There aren't many things more infuriating than someone walking incredibly slowly in front of you
@WestonBergmann: Every time say something on Twitter it's too long. Then I spend 3X as much time deciding which grammatical rules to violate to make it fit.
@MTVjennifer: 😂 #happybirthdaytome #26 https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-Jk1p4XsAAqmcZ.jpg
@MTVjennifer: thank you @MtvMagicMike for the cake in the face...even though i was more concerned about my eyelashes😂😂
@n_zanattaMTV: @MTVjennifer happy birthday beautiful let me know what you're doing Friday we'll celebrate 🎉
- @MTVjennifer: @n_zanattaMTV thank you love! just shoot me a text!
@NikaRashaun: Even though I already said it to her, I'm saying it again... Happy Birthday to my boo @MTVjennifer hope you enjoy your day love🎉🎊🎁💜😘 #mtvfam
@WestonBergmann: Just started #13ReasonsWhy...and I'm frustrated. Hasn't this kid heard of binge watching? He shoulda been done with these tapes on day one
@mikethemiz: If anyone needs the @cavs they will be in the 2nd round waiting for the rest of you chumps.
@madiwadi2by4: I just want someone to choose me and to never stop choosing me.
@madiwadi2by4: Stunt on anyone who didn't see potential in you.
@VMilerman: Plot twist: @MtvMagicMike and I have actually been dating for a few months....🙃😈
- @MtvMagicMike: @VMilerman The plot thickens: We're moving in together because I'm so in love with her 😍
@TheRealNiaMoore: If you fail a drug test at the NFL Combine you clearly don't want it bad enough. You can't give up weed for a month? J. Peppers trippin 🙄😴
@MtvJess: If mama can't fix it...it's really broke
@MtvJess: Yes. I would do another @ChallengeMTV in the future y'all. But right now cooking and working at Eleven Madison Park is my life. #dreams

►CHALLENGE TUESDAY
@ChallengeMTV: Don't miss the fight of the century! Who will win? 🤔🏆 #TheChallengeInvasion is all new, tonight at 9/8c 🙌 http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx
@shannanity: Good Morning LA 🤼‍♂️🎥 #MTV #surprise https://www.instagram.com/p/BTT0ajoFF-d/
@shannanity: Also - being decked out in head to toe Under Armour at a New Balance Conference - ...UNCOMFORTABLE
@ChallengeMTV: It's a trip to the finals, or a trip home! Watch CT vs. Darrell on #TheChallengeInvasion, tonight at 9/8c 👏 http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx
@ChallengeMTV: Me hanging out until tonight's new episode of #TheChallengeInvasion ⏳👀 http://on.mtv.com/2oVfBVx
@kailah_casillas: Some things are better left unsaid... but I'll probably say it anyway..... 💁🏻
@mtvrrdarrell: It's about to go down! Tune into @ChallengeMTV tonight at 9 to see me vs CT! 💪🏾 #TheChallengeInvasion https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-R3I4uXkAEPjoi.jpg
@ChallengeMTV: Name that Champ! Tune into #TheChallengeInvasion tonight at 9/8c to find out how you could win a Challenge jersey signed by the cast! 🙏👕✨ https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-SG0ZQXgAAq2YU.jpg
@shannanity: The Dream Team #backtothefuture #surprise #MTV https://www.instagram.com/p/BTUnIY6ltSX/
@ChallengeMTV: Set your Fantasy League lineup before tonight's episode, be a Champion, and you could win a trip to the #VMAs 🎤🙌 http://on.mtv.com/2ks011u
@ChallengeMTV: Tonight's episode of #TheChallengeInvasion is dedicated to Diem 💞 Tune in to @MTV at 9/8c to watch #DiemStrong https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-SNUlmXsAAHXga.jpg
@MTVShows: You're going to need tissues for tonight's episode. Catch #TheChallengeInvasion at 9/8c. Miss you Diem ❤️
@MtvJess: @DiemBrownMTV we miss you angel 💕 our hearts are heavy but full of love because of the legacy you built and left behind @MedGift #diemstrong
@MTVASHLEYBROOKE: Ready for tonight's episode!?  Gonna be a great one!  #thechallenge #teamashley #thechallengeinvasion #realitytv #mtv #ayto https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-TA1FpUMAAeauR.jpg
@AshleyMarieMTV: Having a blast today shooting with this one! 🤗#thechallenge #mtv #secretprojects https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-TEA6XUMAAzIM9.jpg

►AS THEY SAW IT: "A River of Endless Light"
@ChallengeMTV: Break out the bubbly, because #TheChallengeInvasion is brand new RIGHT now! 🍾
@ChallengeMTV: An all new episode of #TheChallengeInvasion starts RIGHT NOW! Tweet #TheChallengeInvasion 10k times for a chance to win a signed jersey! 🙌 https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-TOMhDWAAA8KOD.jpg
@ChallengeMTV: You're about to witness history in the making! 😱👏 #TheChallengeInvasion
@AceNichols33: OMG LITERALLY JUST MADE IT IN TIME!!! LET'S GO!!!! #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: If these guys thought this was going to be easy, I'm a frayed knot 😂 #TheChallengeInvasion
@CaptainCons: working smarter, not harder. Seasoned move here from CT and Darrel #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Do KNOT stop guys! 👏 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Camila - "Knot it up, knot it up.")
@ChallengeMTV: If this was a hammock-building competition, CT would win hands down 🙌 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: "I'm just gonna hang out here for a minute.")
@BombshellChels: The champs didn't invade anything but themselves this season lol production played them #TheChallengeInvasion
@AceNichols33: HAHAHAHA @tjlavin has the best laugh in the entire world. #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Basically me going through life 😭 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Cory - "You don't know where it starts, you don't now where it ends. You don't know how you're gonna get through this thing.")
@ChallengeMTV: Uh-oh, does @TheOfficial_CT have enough gas left in the tank? 🤔⛽️ #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: "That is exhausting.")
@ChallengeMTV: If anyone has the fight in them, it's the Gold Glove boxer over here! @mtvrrdarrell 👊💥 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: "You gotta have that fight.")
@AceNichols33: Dude... If @mtvrrdarrell can untangle this mess @TheOfficial_CT made.. I'm gonna shit bricks right here on Twitter. #TheChallengeInvasion
@NoQuittersPod: Nothing was worse than untangling video game wires back in the day. My heart goes out to CT and Darrel
@lupitarubio_: I can't even untangle headphones 😩 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Ok guys you know the deal: tweet #TheChallengeInvasion 10k times if you want the chance to win a signed Challenge jersey! 👕🙌 https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-TQVSSXsAALIC3.jpg
@ChallengeMTV: TBH that was a brilliant strategy by CT 👏 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Darrell - "He did a hell of a job.")
@ChallengeMTV: When you finally untangle your headphones 😫 #TheChallengeInvasion
@Morgan_MacAdam: My boy @TheOfficial_CT has got this. He tied that knot so well. Way to go!
@ChallengeMTV: CT WINS! He's back in the Finals where he belongs! 🎉🏆 #TheChallengeInvasion
@NoQuittersPod: Didn’t need that depressing ass music as Darrell’s kids had food taken off their table
@ChallengeMTV: MAJOR props to @mtvrrdarrell tho, who took out 2/3 of the Champs he faced! 👏 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Finals mood! LET'S GO 🙏 #TheChallengeInvasion
@AceNichols33: YEAAAAAHHHHH BUDDY!!!!!!!!! Congrats @TheOfficial_CT!!! That knot was ON POINT, BRO! LET'S GO! #TheChallengeInvasion
@AceNichols33: I'm glad I didn't have to shit bricks on Twitter. That would have been embarrassing. #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Prepare yourself for the most Challenging Final ever 😈 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: "It sucks the life out of ya.")
@Arlezzy: CT WON BLESS UP 🙌🏽 #TheChallengeInvasion
@DanielJeffreyS: So happy for @MTVASHLEYBROOKE @n_zanattaMTV & @CamilaMTV on making it to the finals on #TheChallengeInvasion! All 3 women deserve it!
@CohenBrian_: CT just broke an elimination. It's like discovering a new cheat code in Mario Kart. Have to ban the code for life now. #TheChallengeInvasion
@Bre_Filburn: So pumped my girl @n_zanattaMTV made it to the finals in her first challenge! I knew she wouldn't disappoint. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼  #TheChallengeInvasion
@matt_winthrop: I'm happy CT won but I wish Darrell could have been in that final, too. #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: When me and my girlfriends turn up at the club 🙌👑 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Ashley - "Queen! Queen!")
@AceNichols33: #PartyATheClubTime!!!!!! GET PUMPED! #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Slow your roll bro, you're gonna have to go thru the Champs first! 💪 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Nelson - "I'ma prove everybody wrong/")
@KyleMcCann214: My 2 favorite challenge champs of all time @CamilaMTV & @TheOfficial_CT beast the elimination straight to the final! #TheChallengeInvasion
@CohenBrian_: Nelson with the truest statement of all time about him making a final "Who would've thought?" #TheChallengeInvasion
@AceNichols33: CORMILA 😍 #TheChallengeInvasion @CamilaMTV @MTVCoryWharton
@ChallengeMTV: The music in this episode is 🔥 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: When your friends are all out and you're stuck at work 😪 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Ashley - "I just wish that I could have my people with me.")
@ChallengeMTV: Me when bae has to leave my side for 5 seconds 😭 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: When you accidentally open the rear-facing camera on your phone 🙅 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: She said "F*CK THAT HAT!" 😂 #TheChallengeInvasion
@BombshellChels: You made it to the finals and want to go home now... what? 🤦🏽♀️ #TheChallengeInvasion
@AceNichols33: OHHHHHH @MTVASHLEYBROOKE you acting crazy but THANK YOU SO MUCH for knocking @MTV_NellyT in the head like that HAHAHA #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Ashley about to go home again!? #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Bih, bye! More money for me 👋 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Cory to Ashley - "If you wanna go home, be my guest.")
@ChallengeMTV: When you're tired AF and the coffee machine is broken 😭 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Ashley - "I don't wanna feel like this.")
@autumnmaurer_: CT, you are a class act. @TheOfficial_CT #TheChallengeInvasion
@Haleyx0: CT is actually the voice of reason in every situation.  #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Let your haters be your motivators 😤 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: CT to Ashley - "If people are hating on you, you're doing something right.")
@AceNichols33: DAD CT WITH THE JERK OFF MOTION WHILE WEARING A SLEEPING MASK ON HIS HEAD. THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKIN ABOUT! #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: #NoQuitters 🙅 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: CT on Ashley - "She ain't going anywhere.")
@MTVLauraLee: @MTVASHLEYBROOKE is so emotionally unstable. I'm surprised it took so long for @MTV to find her!!
@CohenBrian_: Ashley has the mental toughness of a toddler. #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Is it sexy in here, or is it just CT? 🔥 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: "I know... sexy right?")
@ChallengeMTV: When my friends ask me if I have any plans this weekend 😴 #TheChallengeInvasion
@CohenBrian_: Nelson dropping a bottle of champagne while popping it is all you need to know about Nelson as a human. #TheChallengeInvasion
@rileys731: Darrell vs ct is the most amazing eliminations ever ❤❤❤ #TheChallengeInvasion
@jonnamtv: Knot So Fast is a hard elimination. I lost it.. twice.
@ChallengeMTV: How about every single one of my exes 😂😫 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Ashley - "What bad luck do you need to release from your past?")
@CohenBrian_: We are getting The Challenge equivalent of the Rites of Passage right now. #TheChallengeInvasion
@Ptx_Natasha: @TheOfficial_CT I love you CT💙💙💙💙 #TheChallengeInvasion #TheChallengeInvasion #TheChallengeInvasion #TheChallengeInvasion
@Athena0089: I love that ritual and CTs' response makes me wanna cry😭😭 Diem must be on his mind #TheChallengeInvasion
@Jayymmee_: #TheChallengeInvasion really hits home when you see @TheOfficial_CT is thinking about Diem 😔
- @ChallengeMTV: @Jayymmee_ Get the tissues ready 😭
@ChallengeMTV: You know this has gotta be hard for CT 😭 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: "What a day to do this.")
@ChallengeMTV: #NeverForget, we miss you Diem! 💞 #DiemStrong #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Camila - "Today happened to be Diem's anniversary.")
@MTVLauraLee: #diemstrong
@NoQuittersPod: And here come the tears
@ChallengeMTV: BRB, bawling my eyes out 😭 #DiemStrong #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Diem - "All I want to do is to help him through this.")
@ChallengeMTV: She's up above serving as a constant reminder to live your best life 👼 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Diem Brown - passed away November 14, 2014 after a long battle with ovarian cancer)
@EmmyMorning: How special is it tho that the anniversary of Diem is the date of a very special & beautiful tradition in Thailand? #TheChallengeInvasion
@NoQuittersPod: #FuckCancer
@CohenBrian_: Weird time for onions to be cut in my apartment but here we are. #TheChallengeInvasion #DiemStrong
@AceNichols33: On my birthday every year, Diem's anniversary, I definitely #DanceForDiem. 💜  #NeverForget #DiemStrong
@ChallengeMTV: Maybe winning the Challenge? Who knows! 🤔 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Nicole - "I can't wait to see what the future holds.")
@ChallengeMTV: No doubt about it. Diem is looking over all of them 🙏 #DiemStrong (GIF: "I think we just received a blessing.")
@ItsJustKatrinaa: CT and Diem will forever be the best reality tv couple. Their love was so pure, RIP Diem 😢 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ftwgiovanni: RIP Diem
@BombshellChels: I'm loving all this emotion ❤ #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: The future is looking bright ✨ #TheChallengeInvasion
@n_zanattaMTV: Not home to watch the show but looking at the comments what can I say she's my weakness. I hate crying especially on tv ahhhh 😒
@CodyThrive: What a powerful moment for CT. #TheChallengeInvasion
@AceNichols33: Wow.. how the stars aligned on this day for @TheOfficial_CT. I'm all choked up. #TheChallengeInvasion #DiemStrong
@CohenBrian_: All I can think of Nelson's past life "thuggin" is Prison Mike. #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: "The worst thing about prison, was the dementors!")
@ChallengeMTV: Me watching this episode of #TheChallengeInvasion 😭
@AceNichols33: "@LEmmel15: @AceNichols33 I missed what the exact day was! Their anniversary? Diem's bday, when she passed?! I don't have DVR 😩" RT It was November 14th, the day she passed. I'll never forget it, because it's my birthday. #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: That's what separates the men from the boys! It's the ultimate TEST💪 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Nelson - "Finishing a final is that ultimate feeling.")
@ChallengeMTV: But wait can we talk about how good @CamilaMTV's hair looks right now 👌 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: "I don't think I've ever been so hungry for first place.")
@ChallengeMTV: It's finally time for the Underdogs to try to beat the Champs 👊💥 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: Nicole - "Champions vs. The Underdogs, let's do it!")
@AceNichols33: Yooooo @CamilaMTV got that #FinalHairDo goin' onnnnnn! #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Clap now, but we'll see who's still standing at the end 🤔 #TheChallengeInvasion
@CohenBrian_: Nelson legit thinks he's a professional athlete chasing something millions of kids have dreamt about. Wild mindset. #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Did @tjlavin just say a THREE-DAY FINAL!? 😱 #TheChallengeInvasion
@NoQuittersPod: THIS CHANGES EV…NOTHING BECAUSE WE KNEW IT LAST WEEK
@NoQuittersPod: SUPERTWIST!!!
@ChallengeMTV: When @tjlavin drops another BOMB right before the finals 💣 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: $100,000 is a pretty big load 🤑 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: CT - "That's a lotta diapers.")
@bayBREEmama: Tj is wearing a ttm shirt! How sweeeet @MaciBookout @tmon3yy #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: When you're in a crowded elevator that someone farted in and the doors open 🙊 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Just keep swimming, just keep swimming 🏊 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: CONGRATS! You tweeted #TheChallengeInvasion 10k times! Now RT tis for a chance to win a jersey signed by the cast! http://bit.ly/2pis6dZ
@ToriFiorenza: Having somebody on the show is actually really hard- you play for two people instead of one...#TheChallengeInvasion
@AceNichols33: Nelson is basically going backwards. I'm smiling. #TheChallengeInvasion
@MTVLauraLee: Dear @Snapchat please bring back the chocolate bunny so I can look pretty every day! https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-TcvhOVoAAE_53.jpg
@abekanan: Damn! I know that @MTV_NellyT likes to 👀peep @MTVCoryWharton style, but the back rub too? C'mon now! 🤣🤣🤣#TheChallengeInvasion @ChallengeMTV
@AceNichols33: Alright, my emotions are shot! Thanks @ChallengeMTV! #TheChallengeInvasion
@ToriFiorenza: Ahh sweet @DiemBrownMTV, you my friend,are so missed. 💕#fightthegoodfight #danceforDiem
@MtvJess: We love you  @DiemBrownMTV 💕


►AFTER HOURS
@ftwgiovanni: I swam on my highschool team ☺️ recon training in the Marines as well
@ftwgiovanni: I have yet to see a challenge that I don't feel I would dominate
@ftwgiovanni: Oh we talking Challenges? You don't want me to go back to this. No fear, ready to kill or be killed https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-Tj64SWsAAbDgE.jpg
@WestonBergmann: Never forget that fortune favors the bold, my friends
@WestonBergmann: Every time I watch a great movie these days I think to myself that it'd make a better series on Netflix.
@MTVBeth:  At Mtvs real world house today with Jon Brennan! So fun https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-ThbadUMAAxuUl.jpg
@MTVBeth:  MTVS REAL WORLD VENICE BEACH with my former mate, @jonbrennan_com in our old hood! Love the memories https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C-ULGrxXgAIBsYw.jpg

@ChallengeMTV: WEST COAST: Get to your seats QUICKLY because a brand new episode of #TheChallengeInvasion starts RIGHT NOW 🍿👀
@ChallengeMTV: Trying to untangle my headphones like 😩 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: CT has no chill 😂 #TheChallengeInvasion
@CSUGradAkirk: CT killed part one of this elimination #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: CT pulled out this win, LITERALLY! Back in the finals 👏 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Keep your head up @mtvrrdarrell! Respect 👏 #TheChallengeInvasion (GIF: "I gave it my all.")
@ChallengeMTV: No doubt! The strongest have survived! 💪 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: When the food delivery guy shows up at your door 🤗 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: When you reunite with your bff after being apart for 1 day 😭 #TheChallengeInvasion
@CSUGradAkirk: For the first time in a while the finalists have guaranteed money going into the final which is what's up #TheChallengeInvasion
@CSUGradAkirk: Don't bring real world Ashley back that's one we're seeing right now #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: CT should be a motivational speaker on the side 😂 #TheChallengeInvasion
@CSUGradAkirk: Props to CT for getting @MTVASHLEYBROOKE  that pep talk #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: you're sexy and you know it 🔥 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: When you turn up too early and pass out at the party 😩 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Get your tissues ready, people 😭 #DiemStrong #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: She's literally a guardian angel 👼 #DiemStrong #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: RIP, Diem! We'll never forget you 💞 #DiemStrong #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: I feel blessed having gotten a look into her life and their relationship 🙌 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Camila is looking unstoppable this year! 💪 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Here we go with more twist! @tjlavin 😈 #TheChallengeInvasion
@CSUGradAkirk: 3 dayer lets goooo #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: YO Camila and CT are looking like BEAST right now 😱 #TheChallengeInvasion
@ChallengeMTV: Anybody else need a hug after that episode? Don't miss part 1 of #TheChallengeInvasion finale, next Tuesday at 9/8c! 👏👏👏
@_ayiiia: I wouldn't say strongest and smartest TJ. Relax. #TheChallengeInvasion
@_ayiiia: I surf and have a college degree. The first part of this final would be a piece of    🍰. #TheChallengeInvasion
@MtvJess: The @Mtv @ChallengeMTV #peanutbutter war is real y'all 😂 always has been @n_zanattaMTV

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So, the final six are set in CT, Cory and Nelson on the guys' side, and on the girls' side: Camila, Nicole and Ashley. It could have been five if Ashley decided to bolt just before the final, but luckily CT told her to stay here. And now they know what the finals format will be in the three-day format as they are off on a swim.  But this comes not before we saw more of the human side of these finalists as they thought of what brought them here to the end, including the memory of the late Diem Brown.
   Much more on all of this on the WRAP coming up in a few days, and check out our 'Pulse special from the weekend of Diem's passing --which took place the day after my birthday on November 14, 2014--at this link.  We'll be reposting the original portion of that post later this weekend.

 #DCExtraTime 

MEETING CHARLIE MURPHY

As Real World Philadelphia castmate and one-time Challenger Karamo Brown hosts Are You The One? Second Chances - which we'll cover tomorrow, him hosting hearkens old-school MTV fans back to him and his cast living in the City of Brotherly Love thirteen years ago. They got to hang out with Jon Bon Jovi, helped build a house, headed to Fiji, and go through drama there in Philly, along with having plenty of cheese steaks... and it aired before what would become an MTV guilty pleasure in itself, Season 1 of Laguna Beach.  This brings us to the topic of our first ExtraTime of the week.

A few weeks ago, the entertainment world joined together to remember a man who was a gifted comedian and funny man who left us too soon. Charlie Murphy was 19 when, after a 10-month prison sentence, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, and spent six years as a Boiler Technician, and whose last day on the job was also the day of the 1983 Beirut bombings.  He then settled into a behind the scenes role for hip-hop group K-9 Posse before taking to in front of the camera for the first time in the 1993 movie CB4, playing antagonist Gusto.
   A decade later came his most notable fame: a regular on Comedy Central's Chappelle's Show with Dave Chapelle in having his own sketch on that show: Charlie Murphy's True Hollywood Stories. There, Charlie was able to recount his misadventures as part of the entourage of his much more popular brother, Eddie Murphy, which includes him meeting Rick James, Prince and others. When Dave Chappelle left the show to do bigger and better things, Charlie and fellow castmate Donnell Rawlings hosted long episodes of sketches before he departed the show.
   In 2005, he appeared as "Herb" in the movie King's Ransom along with Anthony Anderson and Jay Mohr, then did his own sketch comedy series, Crash Comedy, on the web network Crackle. That was followed by a standup special on Comedy Central in 2010, appearances on TBS' Are We There Yet, 1000 Ways to Die, and plenty of voiceover work for Budweiser, Cartoon Network's Adult Swim series The Boondocks, the former G4 network and Grand Theft Auto: San Andres.

IG @frankiesaysrlx

One of Karamo's roommates from this largely forgotten season (aside from, of course, it being where we first saw Challenge icon Landon) was Sarah Burke, and a few years ago she got to meet Charlie at one of his standup gigs. She posted an Instgram picture after Wilson's death, where she captioned, "RIP Charlie Murphy 😢#ripcharliemurphy".
   Murphy succumbed on April 12 to leukemia at the age of 57, survived by three children. He joins his deceased wife, Tisha Taylor-Murphy, who he married twenty years ago until she passed away from cervical cancer in December 2009. This comes just some time after his last work, serving as a character voiceover on an episode of Nickelodeon's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

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Tomorrow, we'll delve into Are You The One? Second Chances as the second half of the season begins paranoia of one of the season's perfect matches possibly pulling off a third-straight steal, and another surprise from out of left field. And still to come, we'll be going in-depth on the big season finale of Stranded as Cody, Makani, Gina and Alex try to survive one more time.
   Plus in honor of the NFL Draft taking place this weekend, we'll look at how it all began from two Trifecta alums on the football field, as well as predictions of who will prevail in Thailand. And in case you're wondering... yes, we are aware of the big event coming up after this Challenge concludes, but again we'll be saving both the introductory tweets from the ten pros joining The Challenge: Champs vs. Pros, which we'll be previewing here after the finale.
   But for now, that is the 'Pulse of The Challenge Invasion. Make sure to rejoin us tomorrow when our coverage of the MTV Trifecta continues. Enjoy your weekend.

- I AM DC