EXCLUSIVE: Debbie Schwartzberg from The Circle Season 7 Discusses the “Catfish” Strategy and Gaining More Freedom

The Circle season 7 debuted exclusively on Netflix on September 11, 2024, captivating audiences with its surprising twists and turns. In this social media-based competition, contestants strive to become the ultimate influencers, utilizing strategies as themselves or adopting a catfish identity.

The top influencer carries the power to block another contestant, sending them home. To secure this title, players must forge strong alliances while projecting themselves as loyal and trustworthy contestants. The title of top influencer is determined through votes. In the opening episodes, one of the top influencers, Gianna, was particularly supportive of fellow contestant Rachel.

Rachel, a 26-year-old catfish, is played by 54-year-old Deb from Pittsburgh. Deb’s journey in the competition has been full of twists, particularly when she was labeled the disruptor and was required to swap profiles with cast member Madelyn.

When asked if she would choose to play as herself or remain a catfish if given another opportunity on the Netflix series, Deb remarked:

“You know, there’s something to be said about being a catfish that allows you a little more freedom. Hiding behind a catfish identity enables you to be a bit crazier. However, I think it would also be fun to represent myself.”

Deb Reflects on Her Experience as Rachel in The Circle Season 7

Q. What motivated you to join The Circle? Were you already a fan of the show, or did someone recommend it?

It was the latter. One of my best friends, whose daughter feels like family to me, called and said, ‘My all-time favorite reality TV show is casting, and you need to apply, Deb!’ Honestly, I hadn’t seen the show before, which made it more interesting. She encouraged me to watch some clips, and I thought, why not? I’m 54; how often do you get a chance like this? So, I told her I would apply. What’s the worst that could happen?

Q. As you indicated, you hadn’t followed The Circle before applying. What was your outlook going into the competition?

Well, I caught up on all previous seasons afterwards. I wasn’t a super fan before, but I aimed to understand the game as best as I could. I just thought it would be enjoyable. I imagined having a younger version of myself navigating social media, fitting in with the younger contestants and seeing if I could keep pace with them.

Q. Did you find it challenging to portray Rachel, a 26-year-old? Did you feel confident communicating as a twenty-something participant on The Circle?

Yes, I entered with confidence, thinking, ‘I can definitely do this.’ But by the end of the first day, I realized, ‘Oh no.’ I had to shift gears and just be myself while engaging with social media in my manner.

Q. Did you decide beforehand to be a catfish on The Circle, or was it a spur-of-the-moment choice?

I initially thought that playing as a mother would be too easy to block, as they might hesitate to confide in me. I decided it would be more entertaining to see if I could match the younger players’ energy.

Q. If you could make one phone call during The Circle, who would you choose to talk to?

This is interesting; I hadn’t considered that. From a personal perspective, I probably would have called my husband to say, ‘I miss you.’ But if I needed guidance, it would be my children. I would have said, ‘I think I’m struggling, I need your advice.’ I wonder how that might have influenced my gameplay.

Q. What did you enjoy most about the format of The Circle?

Interestingly, I really enjoyed the games we played. It may sound odd since we weren’t physically in the same room, but it was such a surprise. When playing the games, you’re constantly guessing your opponents’ answers. It’s gripping to try and strategize without being able to read body language, which left us all stunned during gameplay.

Q. While interacting with fellow players in The Circle, did you accept their claims about their identities, or did you have other impressions?

I must admit, I misjudged many contestants. I took them at face value. I assumed everyone was who they claimed to be, except for Kevin; I sensed he wasn’t genuine from the outset. I found it easier to conceptualize the people I spoke to as those representations, despite knowing some could be catfish.

Q. Now, let’s discuss your alliances in The Circle. Do you believe trusting Gianna was a wise decision?

Absolutely. In hindsight, watching the episodes, Gianna played a crucial role in keeping me in the game. I don’t think I would have lasted as long without her support. During the first blocking, she chose to save me, and I felt a genuine sense of loyalty from her.

Q. Besides Gianna, which contestant did you connect with the most on The Circle?

I really connected with Savannah. Her story is incredibly inspiring, and she brings such joy and silliness to the group. She has a positive outlook on life despite her challenges, which I find truly admirable.

Q. Did you bond with Madelyn after becoming disruptors? Should viewers anticipate fun interactions between the two of you in upcoming episodes of The Circle?

Definitely! It was fun to explore her pictures and learn more about her. By the end of the experience, I felt that I liked her, and viewers can look forward to some hilarious moments in the forthcoming episodes.

Q. If you could go back and change one decision, what would it be? Or are you content with your choices in The Circle?

Honestly, I am happy with my overall experience. Of course, there are moves I might reconsider, but not my alliance with Gianna; I wouldn’t change that at all. Perhaps I could have formed stronger alliances in some areas, but I feel generally satisfied with how things unfolded.

Q. Are you still in touch with any of your fellow contestants from The Circle?

Yes, I am in touch with all of them! They feel like family to me. I really enjoy keeping up with their lives and sharing updates feels special. It’s wonderful when they send me pictures and updates.

Q. If Netflix approached you about participating in a spinoff of The Circle, would you return?

Absolutely, I would jump at the chance to join again.

Q. Describe The Circle finale in just one word.

Out of control.

All episodes from The Circle season 7, specifically episodes 1 to 8, are currently available for streaming on Netflix. Episodes 9 to 12 will be released on September 25, 2024, with the season finale scheduled for October 2, 2024.

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