Warning: This article contains major spoilers for the season 48 finale of Survivor.
Kyle Fraser‘s survival instincts just earned him $1 million.
48 seasons of Survivor saw 18 competitors in Fiji, aiming to outsmart, outperform, and outlive each other. By May 21st, only five contestants remained for the three-hour finale: Kyle, Joe Hunter, Eva Erickson, Kamilla Karthigesu, and Mitch Guerra.
And after a final plea from Kyle, the CBS competition series crowned its newest champion.
He shared with his fellow cast members prior to the vote, “During this game, I’d often amuse myself by thinking I’m the most versatile average individual you’ll ever come across. I’ve got a bit of athletic ability, a smidgen of humor, a hint of good looks, and yes, a touch of boastful pride, but hear me out – this game has allowed me to demonstrate the capabilities of a multi-talented person. I won challenges, formed meaningful connections that hold great significance for me, utilized these relationships while playing the game, navigated the middle ground effectively throughout this competition, and when others tried to blow the whistle on me and force me out, I responded in kind, holding my position until the very end of the game.
At the end of the event, it was disclosed that Eva had a hidden fact about her personal life – she is pursuing a doctorate in engineering at Brown University.
She mentioned that she conducts research alongside the Navy. In her case, she’s quite skilled, but she chose to keep that fact a secret while playing the game. Instead, she’ll portray herself as the athletic character.
In the final episode, there was no shortage of drama, but on May 14, a significant event occurred: the jury, made up of players previously eliminated from the competition, started preparing to choose the Ultimate Winner at the Ponderosa location.
In this episode, a debate professor named Shauhin Davari from California claimed his initial victory in the reward challenge by employing his physical strength to balance himself on an incline above water, which was continuously drenched by rain. However, just as Shauhin believed he had successfully persuaded everyone to eliminate Mitch from the game, it turned out to be him who left the competition instead.
As Eva and Joe continued their well-loved collaboration, Kyle and Kamilla formed an unanticipated team which subtly moved them both towards the closing stages of the game, adding a captivating element of surprise.
Right from the get-go of the season, Jeff Probst had a feeling that these castaways were brimming with feelings, hidden truths, and possibly deceit.
In a final five like no other, I’ve found myself torn between who truly deserves the win,” I shared with Entertainment Weekly during an interview on May 20th. “As soon as the players stepped off the boats in Fiji, I could feel it – there was an undeniable energy among them that was almost tangible.
He went on to say, “The initial stages are crucial because, even though we’ve spent the entire year understanding each player individually, it’s impossible to foresee how their collective dynamics will unfold once they’re all assembled.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly on May 20, Jeff expressed that it’s exceptionally unusual for a final five to have contenders who could genuinely claim the victory. He felt this immediately when the contestants disembarked in Fiji. The energy from the group was noticeable and electric.
He went on to say, “The initial stages are significant because, even though we’ve spent a whole year learning about these players individually, we never truly know how their collective dynamics will play out when they’re all assembled.
To discover what previous winners of the popular show “Survivor” did with their million-dollar reward – whether they spent it, saved it, or splurged on unnecessary items – keep going!
The initial victor of “Survivor” is now widely known as one of its most notorious contestants. This corporate trainer was a divisive figure due to his arrogance, relentless gameplay, and habit of wandering around camp without clothes during the debut season in 2000.
Following his triumphant victory by outsmarting, outplaying, and outlasting others, Richard gained fame as a TV personality and radio host. Later, he took another stab at winning $1 million on the show Survivor All-Stars. (He had also appeared on Celebrity Apprentice and The Biggest Loser).
In the year 2005, there were allegations that he evaded paying taxes on a $1 million prize and earnings from appearance fees following his win. He argued CBS would cover these taxes, but was still found guilty in 2006 and given a prison sentence of 51 months. Upon his release in May 2009, he faced jail time again due to unfiled tax returns for the years 2000 and 2001.
Following my triumph in the Australian Outback during the second season, I returned to a familiar daily routine, much like before.
The speaker, who was once a nurse and motivational figure, expressed that her life’s essence hasn’t undergone a significant transformation when speaking to the TV Guide Network. However, she did share some personal updates – like how she constructed her cherished cabin in North Carolina, and the year 2006 saw the release of her book titled “Out Live, Out Laugh, Out Love“. Furthermore, she took on roles as a spokesperson for the National Arthritis Foundation and became an advocate for adoption.
She came back twice more, being eliminated initially in the All-Stars season and then participating alongside her daughter in Blood vs. Water. Additionally, she took part in the competition of The Amazing Race.
In 2018, she remarked that participating in Survivor was simply another life event for her, yet one which opened up numerous enjoyable opportunities that may have otherwise remained unexplored. Essentially, her lifestyle mirrors what you see – she resides in the woods, engages in various activities like biking, swimming, kayaking, motorcycling, and almost anything she desires. She also plays around, travels extensively, and generally lives life to the fullest.
In simple terms, the character who emerged victorious during season four resumed her everyday lifestyle following her 39-day stay in Marquesas.
In the Survivor Winners special on TV Guide Network, she mentioned that her life was hardly affected by Survivor, as she and her husband decided not to let it impact their lifestyle significantly. They continue to shop at Walmart.
Still, Vecepia managed to land her own local TV show and traveled as a motivational speaker.
As she noted, “It’s been a really, really good ride.”
During the third season, the beloved former soccer player won not only the fans’ hearts but also that of the jury. In All-Stars, he made a comeback, yet his fortunes didn’t fare as well in his second stint.
Following his victory in 2002, Ethan established Grassroot Soccer, a non-profit organization that intertwined his passion for soccer with charitable endeavors. This innovative venture aimed to generate funds and promote education about HIV/AIDS prevention in Africa.
2009 saw Ethan getting diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He faced another round of this disease two years afterward. However, following a stem cell transplant from his sibling, Ethan was able to overcome cancer and live cancer-free.
Following his 10-year relationship with Survivor winner Jenna Morasca (I’ll tell you more about her shortly!), Ethan began a romantic journey with interior designer Lisa Heywood. When the duo announced their engagement, Ethan expressed, “I survived cancer twice for the sole purpose of meeting Lisa and embarking on a stunning and wholesome new life together.
The pair tied the knot in 2016; their representative shared with TopMob News that it was a breathtaking expression of genuine love and life.
The former soft-core porn actor, who was a top-ranked used-car salesman at the time, is a highly divisive and debated character within the franchise, not only on the show but also significantly so off-screen.
Following his victory on “Survivor: Thailand” in 2006, Brian faced charges for misdemeanor battery and animal cruelty. His wife, Charmaine Costigan, had reportedly accused him of shooting a puppy with a bow and arrow, leading to his arrest. Interestingly, this incident occurred shortly after Charmaine herself was arrested in 2002 for domestic abuse, having allegedly struck Brian in the nose prior to the season finale’s airing.
Charmaine expressed her opinion to the Journal-Constitution that Brian hasn’t managed to adjust to normal life since then, due to the impact of his time on the show. She said he believes he can do anything and thinks he’s indestructible. They ended up divorcing later in the same year, with Brian marrying Courtney Heidik afterwards.
In the TV Guide Network special from 2009, it was reported that Brian, who is considered one of the least popular winners, splurged a significant amount of his winnings on luxury sports cars.
In a remarkable turn of events, the college student-cum-swimsuit model, who was only 21 at the time, claimed the lone title of Survivor during season six.
In addition to receiving a million-dollar check, Jenna was awarded another prize at her final show: She got paired with Ethan, the season three winner, as her new partner. This successful duo dated each other for ten years, from 2003 until their split in 2013.
Following a brief hiatus from her academic journey (later resuming to earn a psychology degree), Jenna delved into television work by hosting shows for TV Guide Network. She also featured in numerous films. In tandem with her partner Ethan, they participated in the reality show The Amazing Race, and jointly starred on a health-centric program titled Everyday Health.
Jenna got invited to rejoin All-Stars, however, she decided to leave the program and return home because her mother was fighting cancer. Tragically, her mother passed away just eight days after Jenna’s return.
Back in early 2018, Jenna got arrested for driving under the influence and drug possession. The incident occurred when she supposedly bit a police officer while receiving treatment for an apparent overdose. As stated in the Pennsylvania police report, the vehicle she was driving had a personalized license plate that read “AMAZON,” possibly hinting at her season on the show Survivor: Amazon.
Following the event, Jenna finally spoke up on Twitter, addressing her fans saying, “It’s been a while. I’m back, stronger than before. Here’s Jenna, version 4.0.
This remarkable player managed to win not just one, but two seasons of the game! The ex-army expert and mother of two children is uniquely the only castaway to have achieved such a feat, earning $2 million along the way. However, during the ‘Game Changers’ season, she didn’t take home another victory; instead, she was eliminated before reaching the merge by her fellow contestants.
Regardless of her two victories in the Pearl Islands (season seven) and Heroes. vs. Villains (season 20), Sandra’s everyday life remained largely unchanged.
She mentioned this during a special on the TV Guide Network in 2009: “The rest remains unchanged.” In other words, she continues to do everyday things such as shopping at places like Walmart, K-Mart, using coupons, and going to matinee movies.
In the state of North Carolina, Sandra continues to reside with her spouse, while their eldest daughter has just completed her academic journey at a university.
Talk about the ultimate reality TV power couple.
Boston Rob solidified his reputation as one of the most infamous Survivor players in history, with four stints on the program culminating in a $1 million victory in Season 22, Redemption Island.
However, even though he technically hadn’t officially won, he had already found something much more valuable in his heart – falling in love with fellow Survivor contestant Amber during All-Stars. In the end, it was Amber who emerged victorious, taking home the $1 million prize. This was moments after he proposed to her live on stage during the reunion show, despite some audience members booing and receiving criticism from their jury. But for them, love proved to be far more important than any monetary prize or public opinion!
Rob and Amber raced together on “The Amazing Race” as an engaged pair, finishing second. Later, they returned for the “All-Stars” season, two years after their initial run. In 2005, they got married and were given a brief reality series called “Rob and Amber: Against the Odds” in 2007. The couple now has four daughters together.
Following his fourth and concluding season that ended in a victory, with Probst describing it as “nearly flawless performance on Survivor“, Boston Rob, who also earned an additional $100,000 through viewer’s vote, expressed to Entertainment Weekly that he was stepping away from the show.
In simpler terms, “I’ve achieved all my dreams. This time, it wasn’t primarily for financial gain but for the prestige of the title. Now I no longer feel confined within my home. And to add, Amber will still receive her payment.
Some people buy houses; the season 9 winner decided to build one instead.
After winning the game, he openly shared that one extravagant decision he made was purchasing a Harley. He confessed to TV Guide Network that this has been a dream of his since he was around 16 or 17 years old. Due to financial constraints in the past, he never had the opportunity to buy one, so his first post-win splurge was on this motorcycle.
Besides that, he went back to the work he had before Survivor, eagerly anticipating his retirement and travels after leaving work.
The person from Ohio shared with People that contrary to expectations, life has gone back to its usual rhythm for them. They are employed as a project inspector for the Department of Transportation, maintaining their friendships, residing in the same community, and feeling contented with their current situation.
The firefighter hailing from Long Island emerged victorious in season 10, playing an impressive and well-respected game on Survivor, earning a record-breaking five individual immunity idols and maintaining a likable demeanor that earned him a spot among Probst’s favorite winners of all time. Known as Tom, he later returned as a hero during Heroes vs. Villains, but was unfortunately eliminated in fifth place. After his Survivor stint, Tom transitioned into a motivational speaker.
Following his $1 million windfall, Tom decided to leave the fire department and venture into the insurance sector, specifically in New York City. There, he took up selling life and disability insurance policies. During a 2009 interview on the TV Guide Network, he expressed his gratitude for all that came his way since then, stating, “Everything I’ve experienced afterward has been truly a blessing.
A stealthy player, Danni flew under the radar to win Survivor‘s 11th season.
Originally crowned Miss Kentucky USA and a model, she subsequently tied the knot with ex-NFL player Casey Wiegmann. Their family of four includes two boys who are avid baseball players, named Bo and Stone. The family continues to live in Kansas City, with Danni expressing her love for rural life by saying, “Being a country girl, I needed to stay near the countryside. I actually travel every weekend for competitive baseball.
Apart from that, Danni has ventured into creating her personal clothing brand called Sideline Chic, she has been a sports journalist, and most recently, she has taken on the role of a children’s book writer.
She shared with People that while winning a million dollars is certainly fantastic, it hasn’t significantly altered her everyday lifestyle.
Following his victory on ‘Survivor: Panama’, the yogi regarded the prize money as a means to delve deeper into his heartfelt interest – music. He expressed this sentiment during an interview on the TV Guide Network special in 2009, stating that it had provided him with a newfound freedom to chase his passions. Additionally, he shared that he used some of the winnings to gift cars to his father and brother, and even started a business selling Russian hats.
Through his stint on the program, he managed to forge a friendship with the musician and lyricist, Damien Rice, who ended up guiding him. Known as Aras later in his musical career, he released tracks under the moniker Odd Us.
Initially, he denied having difficulties with his sudden fame from the show. However, later on, it was revealed that he did grapple with his newfound stardom. (He went back to compete yet again in Blood vs. Water, teaming up with his older brother.)
In his own words, everyone has their personal limits. Following his victory on Survivor in 2012, he experienced deep depression. He explained to Irvine News that it was an overwhelming mix of battling the elements, introspection, and exposure to the world that left him drained. He said, “I couldn’t maintain such a high frequency for so long.” Later on, he established a yoga studio in Cape Town, South Africa, and married model Christy Petersen in 2015. Together, they have two children.
Following a season filled with intense debate, Cook Islands stands out as one of Survivor’s most talked-about series. This particular edition began by dividing the competitors into tribes based on race. Throughout this journey, Yul has been remembered as one of the kindest and most cherished contestants in Survivor history after claiming victory.
He expressed gratitude, stating he believes his time on “Survivor” opened up numerous chances to accomplish his dreams. In a 2009 TV Guide Network special, he noted this. He’s actively collaborated with various cancer, leukemia, and bone marrow organizations, aiming to raise the number of registered bone marrow donors. Moreover, Yul founded a nonprofit dedicated to supporting victims of domestic abuse.
After appearing on Survivor, Yul transitioned into being a television host and an FBI lecturer, all while launching multiple Red Mango frozen yogurt stores in San Francisco. This venture came about when he was searching for a healthier dessert option post-game (and gained 25 pounds).
Additionally, he discovered more than just concealed treasures while on the program; he also found his future spouse, Sophie, who was a fellow tribe member introduced by Brad Virata. Since then, they have expanded their family with the arrival of two children.
In the final episode of Survivor: Fiji, the winner became the very first contestant to receive a unanimous vote from all members of the tribal council during the fourteenth season.
After his victory, Earl chose to spend some of the winnings on a journey instead of purchasing material goods. He visited an impressive 35 distinct countries, as he believed that such life experiences were invaluable. When asked about his reasoning, he stated, “I sought this life experience because it’s beyond price.” Later on, Earl decided to revisit Fiji, commenting, “Since my win, I returned to Fiji to explore its more luxurious aspects.
Additionally, he employed the funds towards establishing the Earl Cole Fund in partnership with the Perthes Kids Foundation, focusing on Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease – a bone condition he endured during his childhood.
During “Survivor: China,” the flight attendant ultimately won the $1 million jackpot and intended to travel the globe with it. However, following his stint on the popular CBS reality show, he faced public struggles with alcohol addiction.
He often appeared as a guest on “Dr. Phil,” but gained notoriety in 2017 by claiming to Stat and The Boston Globe that the show’s producers gave him alcohol and Xanax prior to his 2013 stage appearance, when he registered a .5 on a Breathalyzer test. (He returned to the show in 2016, admitting he had relapsed.)
A representative for the show refuted the allegations, saying to TopMob News, “The Stat article misrepresents and inaccurately portrays Dr. Phil, the TV program, as well as its goal of educating millions on substance abuse issues. The show does not provide drugs or alcohol to its guests, and any such claims are utterly false.
In 2018, during his Reddit AMA session, Todd expressed gratitude for the show Survivor, stating it had helped him access some of the kindest facilities in the country. He considered this a priceless gift. However, he also mentioned there were aspects of the show that he disliked and found unrealistic. He implied that he should have been hospitalized due to certain circumstances, and that there shouldn’t have been large quantities of vodka in his dressing room.
After his victory in 2007, Todd, who previously had a romantic relationship with Spencer Duhm while both were castaways, found employment as a waiter in Orlando. In an interview with People magazine in 2012, he shared, “Customers often remark, ‘I recognize you from somewhere,’ but I never disclose the source. They might leave a poor tip if they find out I won a million dollars.
Now “happy and sober,” Todd revealed in his Reddit AMA that he manages a movie theater.
Among the most renowned contestants ever, Parvati capitalized on her charm during her second stint, eventually claiming victory in Micronesia’s sixteenth season by forging an alliance known as the Black Widow Brigade with the women.
Probst stated that Parvati embodies the strength of a beautiful woman and demonstrates how they can effectively utilize this power in social situations. He found it intriguing to observe Parvati’s development throughout the game. Initially, she relied solely on flirting as a means of interaction. However, by the time she emerged victorious, she had transformed into a young woman who understood that her appearance could be used strategically, but now needed to concentrate on forming connections and earning people’s trust.
Following her triumphant victory, she generously contributed $50,000 to the organization Knockout For Girls, blending her passion for boxing with philanthropy. Additionally, she embarked on a journey to Peru and looks forward to exploring more destinations in the future.
2017 saw Parvati, a finalist on the reality TV show “Heroes vs. Villains,” find love and financial success from her time on “Survivor.” She married John Fincher, a contestant from “Survivor: Samoa” in the same year, and they had their first child together in July 2018. However, their marriage ended with a divorce in August of 2021. In 2023, Parvati announced her relationship with comedian Mae Martin.
Ever since she started playing that particular game, Parvati has now transitioned into a role as a yoga instructor and life/business coach, as indicated on her Instagram profile.
In his 57th year, Bob, with his distinctive bow-tie, became the eldest contestant to claim victory on ‘Survivor’, winning the top prize during season 17.
Due to his advanced years, the shipwreck survivors mistakenly thought little of the high school teacher, but they were proven wrong as he amassed a significant number of immunity victories. Furthermore, he not only received $1 million as prize money, but also an extra $100,000 from the “most outstanding player” poll.
As a passionate advocate for sustainable living, hailing from the stunning landscape of Maine, I chose to reinvest my winnings into a unique venture – Maine Forest Yurts, a family endeavor that provides an eco-conscious camping experience in this beautiful state I call home. To give back to those who serve our nation, I also established Durham Warriors, a non-profit organization that generously covers lodging expenses for disabled veterans, active military personnel, and their families, as well as other charities at Maine Forest Yurts.
The rancher from Alabama secured a unanimous victory in his debut season (Tocantins), and later participated in two additional seasons (Heroes vs. Villains and Game Changers), where he made one of the most regrettable moves seen on the show, during Heroes vs. Villains.
He mentioned that he intends to continue working on his cattle ranch, using the winnings from the 2009 TV Guide special as income. His hope is to save and invest the money prudently, creating college funds for each of his nieces and nephews.
Two years on, it came to light that he had used a significant portion of his funds to buy cars for his sisters, provided some cash to his parents, and invested most of what was left over.
In 2015, J.T tied the knot with his long-term sweetheart. His fellow castaway and closest friend, Stephen Fishbach, had the honor of officiating their beautiful wedding ceremony.
In the 21st season of Survivor, themed “Old vs. Young,” a 21-year-old surfer claimed victory, making him the youngest contestant to ever win the show and receive the grand prize.
Fabio shared his post-finale plans for some of the money, which included launching a production company to create 45-minute short films. He also expressed interest in trying stand-up comedy and sharing some of the 60 poems he had written, promising they were quite unique. However, it seems his production company never came to fruition, but he was a drummer in Space Funk Odyssey.
Not long after securing the victory, a model (who happened to be male) was taken into custody for skateboarding while under the influence in Santa Monica during 2011. As he had a sudden influx of money following his arrest, he paid the $37,000 bail and was swiftly escorted out of prison by a stretch limousine stocked with friends and beverages. This rather amusing display of wealth became known as a “flex.
On the Survivor After Show, he revealed he bought a farm for his dad and a condo for himself.
The witty and blunt medical student came into season 23 with one goal: win $1 million.
In a conversation with CBS before the competition, the 22-year-old confessed that he had boasted excessively to his friends about how simple Survivor seemed and how talented I was. He expressed a desire for the flexibility in medical school to select his specialty based on interest rather than financial gain, and the opportunity to swiftly repay his debts.
What she did after being named Sole Survivor was exactly that – she carried on and graduated from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in 2017.
In the series “Survivor: One World,” Kim amassed a grand total of $1.1 million in winnings. This was not surprising to many, as she was also acknowledged as the Player of the Season by fans, thanks to her remarkable performance and unparalleled dominance throughout season 24.
Since the bridal shop owner hadn’t been raised with much wealth, Kim expressed her excitement about being able to generously splurge on her family when using her winnings.
She shared with EW that she has some financial responsibilities (bills) but is eager to invest in a few smaller bridal boutiques, giving them a facelift along the way. She expressed her intention to enjoy this process. Growing up without much wealth, she finds it particularly appealing to arrange her finances more effectively. Moreover, she looks forward to using her newfound resources to be generous towards her loved ones.
After the hit show “Survivor,” Kim has moved forward in life, getting married, having three children, and launching an interior design business. One of her major clients is no other than fellow Survivor castaway and close friend Chelsea Meissner, who later became famous on “Southern Charm.
Despite being an underdog, the surprising victor of season 25 successfully battled back from a significant string of losses (losing in every immunity contest and attending every tribal council after the merge) to claim the grand prize of $1 million.
Following her participation on the program, the sex therapist confessed during an interview with THR that she didn’t have any significant ideas for spending the winnings.
She expressed that they would thoughtfully consider their options before making numerous decisions. They, along with her husband, intend to carefully discuss these matters. Their primary concern is ensuring a fully funded college education for their 9-year-old daughter. Beyond this, they have family members including nieces and nephews who could greatly benefit from a million dollars. Therefore, they prefer to move at a deliberate pace.
Initially appearing in season 23, Cochran later triumphed during Survivor’s 26th run. A beloved figure among fans, he is considered by Jeff Probst, the show’s executive producer and host, as his all-time favorite winner. According to Probst, “I chose Cochran because from my perspective, he embodied the original promise of Survivor – on any given day, anything can happen.
Cochran had always been an ardent admirer of the reality show “Survivor” (to the extent that he published a newsletter on the topic during high school), which made winning the $1 million prize not the primary motivation behind his decision to compete.
He mentioned in an interview with THR that his plans for the prize money are rather mundane. He might invest some of it as a down payment for an apartment and indulge in a small, impulsive buy. However, he doesn’t plan to splurge on anything fancy. Once he gets the new apartment, he aims to modernize it with high-tech devices, filled with wireless gadgets. He also expressed interest in buying a Segway, despite finding it somewhat uncool. He isn’t sure how often he’d use it, but he envisions himself casually riding around on one, even if it’s just spinning circles in his living room.
After his stint on the reality show Survivor and earning his law degree from Harvard, Cochran pursued a career in television writing, contributing to CBS comedies like The Millers and Kevin Can Wait.
Following two earlier tries, Tyson ultimately emerged victorious in the ‘Survivor: Blood vs. Water’ competition, during which his partner Rachel Fougler was among the contestants as well.
Tyson wasn’t thinking about grand schemes for his winnings. Instead, he told ET, “I plan to sensibly save and grow the money, hoping to enjoy some relaxation with it.
However, that ex-bicycling pro confessed, “I’m less enthralled by flashy automobiles and more fond of pedal-powered ones. In truth, I identify myself as a bike enthusiast rather than a car enthusiast. The sole motivation for me to acquire a car would be to provoke a bit of envy among my car-loving acquaintances.
Despite being eliminated from the game prematurely, Rachel found a joyful conclusion in another reality series when Tyson popped the question during the season finale of “Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars”. Their wedding was officiated by Tyson’s fellow competitor from “Tocantins”, Stephen Fishbach, in February 2015. Since then, they have been blessed with two children.
Right from the onset of Cayagan, it was evident that the New Jersey police officer would play a significant role throughout the season and in the team’s history. Although he emerged victorious with a $1 million prize, his dreams of being a two-time champion were shattered when he was eliminated in second place during Game Changers.
Despite being criticized by many viewers for his strategies, which even prompted boos during the live finale, the season 28 winner (who also earned the title of villain) had a well-thought-out plan for his substantial winnings. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, he expressed his intention to establish a college fund for his children first, emphasizing the importance of education.
He made one somewhat extravagant purchase: A pink chandelier, as his wife had requested. After the final event, he shared with People magazine, “That’s what my wife wants. She can choose it at Home Depot or somewhere similar. I might even have to buy a house to accommodate it.
After participating in The Amazing Race twice alongside twin sister Nadiya Anderson without securing a victory, the dedicated fitness enthusiast shone brighter during season 29, ultimately claiming the grand prize of $1 million.
The CrossFit coach mentioned to The Hollywood Reporter, “I plan to get something special for my parents and set aside some savings for Nadiya. I aim to use the money wisely.” He added that he isn’t a big spender, as his primary goal during his first appearance on The Amazing Race was to attend physical therapy school, which this could cover. Additionally, he and his team have always dreamed of launching a CrossFit gym, and now it’s within reach.
In the reality TV show “Survivor: Worlds Apart,” the victor hailed from the working-class tribe. The oil driller swiftly rose through the ranks as one of the group’s leaders and demonstrated a formidable competitive spirit, matching the record for the most individual immunity wins.
For Mike, what mattered most wasn’t the money; instead, he cherished his legacy. He expressed this to TV Guide, saying, “Beyond a million dollars, I earned a title. That’s what I was competing for. Money comes and goes, but you can spend it and earn more. However, the title…you can’t replace that.
But he did have plans for the money, using it to start a t-shirt company, Sweet T’s Designs.
After winning one million dollars on Survivor, courtesy of CBS, this individual aims to multiply it to around 25-30 million and spend his days relaxing on a beach, engaging in spear fishing. Essentially, he intends to emulate the Survivor lifestyle in real life.
Following his victory, Mike also discovered love, initiating a romance with former Big Brother contestant Meg Maley in 2015. They tied the knot in 2021.
Following a less than successful debut in Season 29, he seized his second opportunity, ultimately triumphing on Survivor: Cambodia—Second Chance. Just before the jury announced their final votes, he shared that his wife, Val Collins, was expecting a baby. The decision was unanimous – as a firefighter and soon-to-be father, he richly deserved the $1 million prize.
He mentioned that he had handed over the check to Val, who will use it for renovating their baby’s room. As for himself, he plans a vacation but intends to return to work afterwards.
In December 2015, the couple’s son, named Remy Bodhi, made his arrival, and they were blessed with their fourth kid in June 2017.
Jeremy mentioned that he intends to primarily use his winnings from Survivor for their college tuitions, saying to People, “Family comes first. I have many plans for the money, but ultimately, it will be dedicated towards supporting mine.
In the 32nd season, a contestant was part of the “Beauty” group, where the castaways were divided into three categories: Brains, Brawn, and Beauty. Contrary to expectations, the bartender didn’t have grand plans for her $1 million winnings.
Michelle, who eventually became a travel agent and then a business development manager, expressed her plans to The Hollywood Reporter. She first intends to settle her car payments, followed by some traveling, though she’s undecided about that. However, her ultimate goal is to accumulate savings. Being young now, she believes this strategy will serve her well in the future, as she aims to be mindful with her spending and invest wisely.
She enjoyed herself somewhat with the funds, sharing with EW her intention of taking a girls’ vacation to a vineyard region instead.
Currently, I find myself immersed in a unique kind of rivalry, regularly participating in MTV’s The Challenge. Last June in 2024, I publicly acknowledged my relationship with another esteemed Challenge competitor, Devin Walker.
The winner of Season 33 was a dedicated “Survivor” enthusiast, who happened to be part of the Millennial group during the competition that pitted the Millennials against Generation X.
Following his victory, the manager of a homeless shelter decided to utilize his $1 million winnings to champion cancer research, in memory of his mother who was afflicted with lung cancer. He has collaborated with various organizations, including Stand Up 2 Cancer (donating $100,000 from his prize money), American Cancer Society and American Lung Association.
Adam and his mother Susie, an ardent co-enthusiast, attempted to participate in the show ‘Blood vs. Water’ together before she fell ill. Later on, Adam got selected for the show, continuing as a cast member in the subsequent season. Sadly, Susie passed away nine months later, not long after Adam had the chance to return home and share with her that he had emerged victorious.
He shared with Entertainment Weekly after his emotional victory, “I had no inkling of what awaited me at home. Remarkably, she remained strong throughout the entire season because they chose to halt treatment. My mother refused to take me out of the game; it wasn’t an option for her. However, they decided that if I were voted off, even if I ended up on the jury, I would return home immediately…I feel she held on until I got back.
In addition to contributing funds to causes and charities he supported, Adam mentioned, “I don’t typically splurge on expenses, but a passion my family and I share is traveling. So, some of my winnings will certainly be allocated for that purpose. The majority of the money, however, will be saved to maintain the lifestyle I prefer.
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2025-05-22 05:53