Carlo Allegri/Ian Spanier

Almost 10 years ago (February 28 is the exact date), the MTV audience was first introduced to John Devenanzio during the inaugural episode of Real World: Key West. More accurately, it was when the recent Penn State grad uttered "when people stop being polite" (against a perfect Florida sunset and getting a big ol' splash, as seen below) during the iconic series' long-running staple introduction.

From there, the fun-loving California native would provide endless entertainment during his Sunshine State tenure -- bonding with Zach, clashing with Tyler, flirting with Svetlana and much more. But when it was time to depart the 17th season and bid adieu to his roommates, this was merely a temporary goodbye -- and subsequently marked the beginning of the man dubbed as Bananas' unbelievable ride with this very network. Specifically, appearances on Challenge seasons The Duel, The Inferno 3, The Gauntlet III, The Island, The Ruins, Cutthroat, Rivals, Battle of the Exes, Rivals II, Free Agents, Battle of the Exes II and Battle of the Bloodlines -- with a record-breaking five No. 1 titles to his name.

Along the way, he's made some unbelievable alliances with his fellow cohorts (Kenny Santucci, Evan Starkman and Leroy Garrett, to name just a few), quarreled with some big personalities (Chris "CT" Tamburello and Wes Bergmann deserve a mention) and, outside of the game, beautifully honored the memory of his dear friend Diem Brown.

MTV News had the opportunity to speak with Johnny about this special anniversary and his tremendous journey on the small screen. Check out the interview below and, in honor of this occasion, please share your favorite memory featuring the one-of-a-kind cast member in the comments!