Jeff Probst Reacts to Accidentally Spoiling Survivor Season 50 Finale

Spoilers for the season 50 finale of Survivor ahead.

Jeff Probst has officially spoken.

Oh my gosh, you will NOT believe what Jeff Probst did! I was watching the Survivor finale, season 50, on May 20th, and he totally messed up! He accidentally announced that Rizo Velovic had been voted out and welcomed him to the jury… BEFORE they even showed it on TV! I was completely shocked! I’ve watched every season, and I just kept thinking, ‘How could this happen?!’ I’m dying to know what he was thinking in that moment, seriously!

Jeff Probst explained on CBS Mornings that a Survivor finale involves two main parts. First, the show itself is being produced. Then, he does live interviews with one of the finalists.

As such, he admitted, “I’m not watching the show.”

Typically, the 64-year-old host spends his time behind the scenes preparing to interview the contestants on Survivor—and this time, he was getting ready to talk with Rizo.

I walked onto the stage and we were all ready to go. We’d left an empty seat for Rizo, and at the time, I didn’t think anything was unusual.

He didn’t even realize he’d made a mistake until he heard the entire audience of 1,200 people—along with the jury—gasp. He’s still trying to figure out exactly how it happened.

Jeff admitted that with a large team, errors are bound to happen, and in this case, they simply moved too quickly. He explained that no one anticipated the mistake. Rizo even pointed out afterward that he was right beside Jeff and thought, ‘I don’t understand why he’s sending me to the jury, I haven’t lost yet.’ Jeff concluded by acknowledging the unpredictable nature of live television.

The five-time Emmy winner revealed this information on the show’s final episode, shortly after letting the big news slip.

He shared on the show that he really enjoys live television. He explained the plan was to demonstrate fire-making, and then have Rizo, the person who didn’t succeed, come out and talk about himself.

He added with a laugh, ‘We decided to do something unexpected, like a twist from the show Survivor. It’s the final surprise of the season—we’re calling it a glimpse into what’s coming. Basically, we’re going to see Rizo defeated by Jonathan Young in the final challenge.’

Jonathan was among the final three contestants—along with Joe Hunter and Aubry Bracco—but Aubry ultimately won the season and its $2 million prize, and she already knows how she’ll spend it.

As a mom to a sweet 2-and-a-half-year-old, I’m always thinking about his future and making sure he has everything he needs to thrive. It’s just natural for me to want to set him up for success, and that’s a big part of how I approach life!

She also had a few things she wanted, like a dry, infrared sauna, but she prefers to keep things simple and not draw too much attention.

For a look at how more Survivor winners have spent their own cash prizes, keep reading. 

The very first winner of Survivor is now remembered by many as one of the show’s most controversial players. The corporate trainer was often seen as arrogant and played the game aggressively, and he also gained notoriety for walking around camp without clothes during the first season in 2000.

Oh my gosh, Richard! He wasn’t just the first to win Survivor, he totally revolutionized the game! And it didn’t stop there! He became a real TV star – radio host, everything! Of course, he had to come back for All-Stars, didn’t he? Another chance at that million dollars! Honestly, I loved seeing him on Celebrity Apprentice and even The Biggest Loser too – he’s just amazing and always entertaining!

In 2005, he faced tax evasion charges for not paying taxes on his $1 million prize and the money he earned from appearances after winning. He argued that CBS had promised to cover the taxes, but he was found guilty in 2006 and sentenced to over four years in prison. After his release in May 2009, he was sent back to jail because he hadn’t filed his tax returns for the years 2000 and 2001.

Once Tina won the second season, which took place in the Australian Outback, things returned to normal for her.

Despite her fame, she told TV Guide Network that her life remained largely the same. She did share that she’d finally built her dream cabin in North Carolina and, in 2006, published her book, Out Live, Out Laugh, Out Love. She also began working with the National Arthritis Foundation as a spokesperson and became a passionate advocate for adoption.

She continued on the show for two more seasons, being eliminated early in All-Stars and later competing alongside her daughter on Blood vs. Water. She also appeared on The Amazing Race.

Looking back on ‘Survivor,’ she described it as a stepping stone that opened doors to a lot of exciting opportunities. Speaking in 2018, she explained that her life now is pretty much what people see – a simple life in the woods where she enjoys activities like biking, swimming, kayaking, and riding motorcycles, plus she gets to play music and travel.

After spending 39 days competing on Sole Survivor in Marquesas, the winner quickly returned to her everyday life.

She admitted that appearing on Survivor didn’t really alter her life much. She explained that she and her husband made a conscious decision not to let the show change things, and she still lives a normal life, even shopping 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.”

Everyone loved the retired soccer player during season three, and the jury ultimately voted him the winner. He came back for the All-Stars season, but wasn’t as successful the second time around.

After winning in 2002, Ethan started Grassroot Soccer, an organization that combines his passion for soccer with charitable giving. It raises funds and awareness to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa.

Ethan received a Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis in 2009 and faced another challenge with the disease two years later. Fortunately, a stem cell transplant from his brother helped him recover and he is now cancer-free.

After ending his ten-year relationship with Jenna Morasca, also a winner on Survivor, Ethan found love again with interior designer Lisa Heywood. He credited meeting Lisa as the reason he overcame a two-time battle with cancer, saying she inspired him to build a beautiful, healthy future together.

The couple got married in 2016, and his representative described the event to TopMob News as a beautiful celebration of love and life.

A former adult film actor who became a top-performing used car salesman—ranked number one nationally during his season on the show—is one of the most debated and talked-about contestants, both during and after his time on the series.

Brian Heidik, the winner of Survivor: Thailand, faced legal trouble in 2006 when he was arrested for minor charges of battery and animal cruelty. His then-wife, Charmaine Costigan, reported to police that he had shot a puppy with a bow and arrow. Interestingly, Charmaine was also arrested in 2002, just before his season finale aired, for allegedly hitting him in the nose.

Charmaine told the Journal-Constitution that Brian never really adjusted to life after the show, especially after his arrest. She explained that he developed a belief he was capable of anything and felt untouchable. Later that year, they divorced, and Brian married Courtney Heidik.

In a 2009 TV Guide Network special, it was revealed that Brian, often considered a difficult winner to root for, used much of his prize money to buy sports cars.

At just 21 years old, this swimsuit model and college student won season six of Survivor, famously making the bold decision to disrobe in exchange for peanut butter. She remains the youngest woman to ever achieve victory on the show.

In addition to the $1 million prize, Jenna also won a romantic connection during the finale: a partnership with Ethan, the winner of season three. The two dated for ten years before separating in 2013.

Jenna took a break from her studies, but later finished school with a psychology degree. She then worked as a TV host for TV Guide Network and acted in a few films. Alongside her husband, Ethan, she competed on The Amazing Race and they both had their own show called Everyday Health.

Jenna received an invitation to return for another season of All-Stars, but she chose to leave the show to spend time with her mother, who was fighting cancer. Sadly, her mother passed away just eight days after Jenna came home.

In early 2018, Jenna was arrested for driving under the influence and drug possession. The police report stated she also bit an officer while being treated for a possible overdose. Her SUV had a personalized license plate reading “AMAZON,” which was likely a nod to her appearance on the reality show Survivor: Amazon.

Jenna finally spoke out about what happened, posting on Twitter that she was doing well and feeling stronger than before, jokingly calling herself ‘Jenna 4.0’.

This player is legendary – she’s the only one to win two seasons of the show! The former army specialist and mother of two earned a total of $2 million in prize money. While she tried for a third win on Game Changers, she was unfortunately eliminated before the merge by the other contestants.

Even though Sandra won two seasons of Survivor – season seven (Pearl Islands) and season twenty (Heroes vs. Villains) – her life remained pretty much the same afterward.

She explained that despite winning Survivor in 2009, she hasn’t changed her lifestyle much. She still shops at places like Walmart and K-Mart, uses coupons, and goes to afternoon movie showings.

Sandra and her husband continue to live in North Carolina, and their daughter recently earned her college degree.

Talk about the ultimate reality TV power couple.

Boston Rob is remembered as one of the most famous players in Survivor history. He competed on the show four times and ultimately won the $1 million prize on Redemption Island (Season 22).

He’d essentially already achieved victory by falling in love with Amber, a fellow contestant from The Australian Outback and his teammate on All-Stars. Amber actually won the million-dollar prize in the finale, right after he proposed to her on live television! It didn’t matter that some viewers booed or the jury was critical – they were in love!

Rob and Amber first gained fame as a couple on The Amazing Race, where they finished in second place. Two years later, they returned for the All-Stars season. They married in 2005 and later starred in their own reality show, Rob and Amber: Against the Odds, in 2007. Together, they have four daughters.

Following his victory in his fourth and final season – a performance host Jeff Probst called nearly flawless – Boston Rob announced his retirement from Survivor. He also won $100,000 from the viewers’ vote. He shared the news with Entertainment Weekly.

I’ve finally achieved all my goals. This time, the recognition meant more than the money. I can finally live openly and without feeling ashamed, and on top of it all, Amber will be taken care of financially.

Some people buy houses; the season 9 winner decided to build one instead. 

He confessed to one big purchase after his win: a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He told TV Guide Network it was something he’d dreamed of owning since he was a teenager, but couldn’t afford until now. It was the first thing he bought with his winnings.

After the show, he went back to his old job and planned to retire someday, hoping to travel afterward.

After everyone predicted big changes, things actually went back to normal for me,” said the Ohio resident in an interview with People magazine. “I still work as a project inspector for the Department of Transportation, and I’m happy with my life – I have the same friends and still live in the same town.

The firefighter from Long Island won season 10 of Survivor after a remarkably consistent performance. He set a record by winning five individual immunity challenges while also staying well-liked by other contestants, earning him a spot on host Jeff Probst’s list of all-time favorite winners. Later, Tom returned for the Heroes vs. Villains season as a popular player, but was eventually eliminated in fifth place.

After winning $1 million, Tom left his job as a firefighter and started working in insurance in New York City, focusing on life and disability policies. He described everything that followed as a positive turn of events, sharing this in a 2009 interview on the TV Guide Network.

A stealthy player, Danni flew under the radar to win Survivor‘s 11th season. 

Danni, a former Miss Kentucky USA and model, married NFL player Casey Wiegmann. They have two sons, Bo and Stone, who both play baseball. The family lives in Kansas City, and Danni says she loves being close to nature, often traveling on weekends to watch her sons compete.

As someone who’s always loved a good creative outlet, I’ve had the chance to explore a lot of different passions! Beyond what people might know, I actually launched my own clothing line, Sideline Chic, and spent some time as a sport reporter. Most recently, I’ve been thrilled to dive into the world of children’s literature as an author – it’s been a really fulfilling journey!

While winning a million dollars is amazing, she says she still lives a pretty ordinary life, according to an interview with People magazine.

After winning Survivor: Panama, the yogi used the prize money to follow his dream of making music. He explained in a 2009 TV interview that the money gave him the freedom to pursue his passions. He also shared that he bought cars for his father and brother and even started a business selling Russian hats.

During his time on the show, Aras became friends with musician Damien Rice, who then guided him as a mentor. Aras later started making music as Odd Us.

However, he later confessed that dealing with the sudden fame from the show was difficult. He even came back for another season, Blood vs. Water, with his older brother.

Everyone faces their own challenges. After winning Survivor, I struggled with depression because the experience was overwhelming – too much exposure to the harsh environment, my own thoughts, and the public eye. I couldn’t maintain that intense level of energy for an extended period. Later, I found balance by opening a yoga studio in Cape Town, South Africa, and in 2015, I married model Christy Petersen. We now have two children.

Yul Kwon is remembered as one of the most popular and well-liked players in Survivor history, especially after his victory on the racially divided Cook Islands season, which was known for its controversy.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve received since appearing on Survivor, he shared in a 2009 TV Guide Network interview. He’s been able to pursue passions like working with cancer, leukemia, and bone marrow organizations, focusing on increasing bone marrow donor registration. He also founded a nonprofit to support those affected by domestic abuse.

After appearing on Survivor, Yul transitioned into television hosting and became an FBI lecturer. He also opened multiple Red Mango frozen yogurt stores in San Francisco. He’d discovered Red Mango while searching for a healthy treat after the show, as he’d gained 25 pounds during his time playing.

He also had a significant personal experience on the show, meeting his future wife, Sophie, through a fellow contestant named Brad Virata. They now have two children together, he shared with EW.

The winner of Survivor: Fiji made history by receiving every single vote from the final tribal council – a first for the show in its fourteenth season.

As a lifestyle expert, I always advise people to invest in experiences, not things, and that’s exactly what Earl did after his win! Instead of buying stuff, he explored the world, visiting a remarkable 35 countries. He told me, ‘I wanted something truly priceless – a life full of memories.’ And it wasn’t just about seeing the world; he even treated himself to a return trip to Fiji, saying he wanted to enjoy the finer things in life after his big win – and who can blame him?

As someone who believes in giving back, I was really touched to learn about Earl Cole’s generosity. After achieving success, he established the Earl Cole Fund through the Perthes Kids Foundation. This was a deeply personal decision, as he himself battled Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease as a child – a condition affecting the hip joint. It’s inspiring to see him use his resources to help other kids facing the same challenge.

The winner of Survivor: China received a $1 million prize and initially intended to travel the world. However, after the show, he openly battled with alcohol addiction.

Oh my god, you will NOT believe this about my idol! He’s been on Dr. Phil a bunch of times, but the story behind his 2013 appearance is insane. Apparently, he told Stat and The Boston Globe that the show’s producers were actually giving him alcohol and Xanax before they dragged him onstage! Can you believe it? He blew a .5 on the breathalyzer! It just proves how messed up things were. And sadly, he was back in 2016, and he admitted he’d relapsed. It breaks my heart, but I still support him no matter what!

A spokesperson for the show has refuted the allegations, stating to TopMob News that a recent article in Stat misrepresents Dr. Phil, its practices, and its goal of informing viewers about substance abuse. They firmly denied claims that the show provides guests with drugs or alcohol, calling such suggestions false and baseless.

I’ll never forget what Todd shared during his Reddit AMA a few years back. He was so open about how Survivor actually helped him get the support he needed, and he called that a real gift. But he also admitted there were parts of the show he didn’t agree with, things that weren’t genuine. He was incredibly honest about struggling with alcohol, saying he should have been getting help in a hospital instead of having liters of vodka readily available in his dressing room. It was a really powerful thing to hear him say.

After winning in 2007, Todd, who previously dated fellow contestant Spencer Duhm, worked as a waiter in Orlando. He told People magazine in 2012 that he didn’t reveal his win to customers because he worried it would affect his tips. He explained that customers would often recognize him, and he feared they’d be less generous if they knew he’d won a million dollars.

Now “happy and sober,” Todd revealed in his Reddit AMA that he manages a movie theater. 

Parvati is considered one of the most successful players in Survivor history. She strategically used her social skills during her second season, Micronesia (Season 16), and won the grand prize by forming a strong alliance with the other women, known as the Black Widow Brigade.

According to Probst, Parvati embodies the strength of women and their ability to navigate social dynamics. He notes that watching her play is compelling because she transformed from someone who initially relied on charm to a more well-rounded player. While she still understood the power of her appearance, she ultimately won by focusing on building genuine connections and earning the trust of others.

Following her recent victory, she donated $50,000 to Knockout For Girls, an organization that combines her passions for boxing and giving back. She also visited Peru and is planning future travels.

Parvati Shallow, known for finishing second on Heroes vs. Villains, found both romance and companionship through Survivor. She married John Fincher from Survivor: Samoa in 2017, and they had a child in July 2018. However, Parvati filed for divorce in August of this year. In 2023, she publicly shared her relationship with comedian Mae Martin.

After appearing on the show, Parvati has trained to become a yoga instructor and now coaches people in personal and professional development, according to her Instagram profile.

Bob, known for his bow tie, made history as the oldest winner of Survivor at age 57, winning the top prize in season 17.

The other contestants underestimated the high school teacher because he was older, but he surprised them by winning immunity challenges many times. On top of the million-dollar prize, he also received $100,000 after being voted the season’s best player.

A retired Maine teacher used his prize money to launch Maine Forest Yurts, a family business offering environmentally friendly camping in the state he loves. He also founded Durham Warriors, a non-profit that provides free stays at the yurts for disabled veterans, active military personnel and their families, as well as other charitable organizations.

The rancher from Alabama easily won his first season, Tocantins, and went on to compete in two more: Heroes vs. Villains – where he made a famously bad decision – and Game Changers.

I was so happy to hear him talk about what he’d do with the prize money back in that 2009 TV Guide special! He said he planned to keep working hard at the cattle ranch to support himself, but he really wanted to use the money wisely and, most importantly, set up college funds for all his nieces and nephews. It was such a generous thing to want to do, and it showed what a good person he is.

After two years, he shared that he’d used the money to buy his sisters new cars, help his parents financially, and invest most of what was left over.

In 2015, J.T. married his long-time partner, and his close friend Stephen Fishbach, who was also a contestant on the show, performed the wedding ceremony.

Oh my gosh, I still can’t believe it! This 21-year-old surfer—he’s seriously amazing—made history by becoming the youngest ever to win Survivor! It was during the ‘Old vs. Young’ season, and honestly, I knew from the start he had what it took. Taking home the grand prize was SO deserved!

I’m so excited about what Fabio’s planning! Right after his last performance, he told me he’s starting his own production company and wants to make these really cool, 45-minute short films. He also mentioned he’d love to try stand-up comedy – I think he’d be hilarious! And get this – he’s a poet too! He said he’s written around 60 poems, and he promised me some of it is amazing. I heard things didn’t quite work out with the production company, but I did find out he was the drummer for a band called Space Funk Odyssey, which is pretty awesome!

Soon after winning, the model was arrested in Santa Monica in 2011 for skateboarding while intoxicated. After posting $37,000 bail, he was picked up from jail in a limousine with his friends and some beer – a rather extravagant and amusing display.

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.

Okay, so I’ve been telling everyone for ages how I’d totally crush it on Survivor – seriously, it looks way easier than it is! I was 22 at the time, and when I talked to CBS before going on, I just explained that winning would be life-changing. I’m in med school, and honestly, the money would let me pick a specialty I actually love, not just one that pays the bills. Plus, getting rid of all that student debt faster? Dream come true!

I was absolutely thrilled when she won Sole Survivor! It was amazing to watch her achieve that, and even more incredible to learn she went on to graduate from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in 2017. She’s truly an inspiration!

Kim won the $1.1 million prize on Survivor: One World and was also voted by fans as the season’s best player. This wasn’t unexpected, as she played a remarkably strong and dominant game throughout the 24th season.

Kim, the bridal shop owner, explained that because she didn’t have much money growing up, she was thrilled to be able to use her prize money to generously help her family.

She said she’s looking forward to using the money to pay bills and invest in a few small bridal shops, as well as making some personal improvements. Coming from a modest background, she’s excited to finally feel financially secure and be able to support her family and friends.

I’ve been following Kim since her days on Survivor, and it’s been amazing to see everything she’s accomplished! She’s now married with three kids and has built a really successful interior design business. It’s so cool that one of her biggest clients is actually her friend from Survivor, Chelsea Meissner – you might know Chelsea from Southern Charm! They’re both such inspirations.

Despite a losing streak throughout the season – including losing every immunity challenge and attending every tribal council after the merge – the winner of season 25 surprisingly took home the $1 million prize.

The sex therapist, who joined the show simply for the experience, told THR she hadn’t really thought about what she’d do with any prize money.

She explained that she and her husband needed time to carefully consider their options. Their top priority is ensuring their 9-year-old daughter has a fully funded college education, but they also want to help their nieces and nephews. She believes the $1 million prize could significantly improve their family’s future, and they’re taking a measured approach to deciding how to use it.

John Cochran, often called simply Cochran, first appeared on Survivor in season 23 and later won season 26. He’s a hugely popular player, and Jeff Probst, the show’s host and executive producer, has even called him his favorite winner. Probst told EW that Cochran perfectly embodies what Survivor is all about – the idea that anything can happen on any given day.

Mike Cochran was a huge fan of the show Survivor—he even ran a newsletter about it in high school—so winning the million-dollar prize wasn’t his main goal when he joined the competition.

He said he plans to use the prize money for practical things, like a down payment on an apartment, with maybe a small, fun purchase thrown in. He doesn’t want to spend it on anything too flashy. Once he gets the new place, he wants to fill it with the latest technology – lots of wireless gadgets. He also admitted he’s been wanting a Segway, even though he thinks it’s a bit silly. He’s not sure he’d use it often, but imagines enjoying riding it around, even if it’s just indoors.

After appearing on Survivor and earning a law degree from Harvard, Cochran pursued a career in television writing, contributing to CBS comedies like The Millers and Kevin Can Wait.

Tyson won Survivor: Blood vs. Water after trying out twice before. His girlfriend, Rachel Fougler, was also a contestant on the show.

Tyson said he plans to invest his prize money carefully to make it last, allowing him to relax and enjoy some downtime, according to ET.

The retired cyclist confessed he wasn’t interested in luxury cars, preferring bicycles instead. He admitted the only reason he’d consider buying a car would be to playfully annoy his friends who are car enthusiasts.

Despite being eliminated from the game early on, Rachel found happiness on another reality show. Tyson proposed to her during the finale of Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars. Their wedding was officiated by Tyson’s Tocantins castmate, Stephen Fishbach, in February 2015, and they now have two children.

From the very beginning of Cayagan, it was obvious that the police officer from New Jersey would be a strong contender throughout the season and the entire show. Although he eventually won the $1 million prize, he wasn’t able to win a second time, being voted off early in Game Changers.

Despite being a controversial winner – some viewers even booed him during the finale because of his gameplay – the champion of season 28 had practical plans for his winnings. As he told The Hollywood Reporter, his first priority was establishing a college fund for his two children, emphasizing the importance of education.

He admitted to one unnecessary purchase: a pink chandelier his wife had asked for. After the show ended, he told People magazine, “My wife really wanted it! She can choose one at a store like Home Depot. I might even need to get a bigger house to accommodate it!”

Oh my gosh, I’ve been following Nadiya Anderson forever! She and her twin sister were on The Amazing Race twice and didn’t win either time, which was SO unfair! But finally, on season 29, she absolutely crushed it and won the million dollars! I was screaming at the TV, I’m so happy for her – she totally deserved it, especially as she’s such a fitness fanatic and always gives 110%!

I plan to treat my parents to something special, and I’m going to give Nadiya a significant amount of money,” the CrossFit coach shared with The Hollywood Reporter. “I’m not one to splurge. When I first competed on The Amazing Race, I was saving up for physical therapy school, and this prize money could cover those costs. We’ve also always wanted to open a CrossFit gym, and now it’s within reach.

The winner of Survivor: Worlds Apart was from the blue-collar tribe. This oil driller quickly stepped up as a leader and proved to be a strong player, matching the record for the most individual immunity wins.

For Mike, achieving a lasting legacy was more important than the financial gain. He told TV Guide that he valued the title he earned more than any amount of money, explaining, “Money comes and goes, you can always make more. But a title? You can’t take that away.”

But he did have plans for the money, using it to start a t-shirt company, Sweet T’s Designs.

He plans to invest the million dollars he won on Survivor and grow it to twenty-five or thirty million, then retire to a beach and enjoy spear fishing. He wants to essentially live the Survivor lifestyle, but in his everyday life, as reported by TV Junkies.

After his win, Mike also started dating Meg Maley, who previously appeared on Big Brother, in 2015. They got married in 2021.

After a rough start to Season 29, he redeemed himself by winning Survivor: Cambodia—Second Chance. He shared the exciting news that his wife, Val Collins, was expecting a baby right before the final votes were tallied. The jury unanimously agreed that the firefighter and soon-to-be father was the most deserving winner of the $1 million prize.

He explained he’d already given the money to Val, who will use it to decorate the nursery. He plans to take her on vacation, but he’s also going back to work.

Life got even more beautiful for me and my partner when our son, Remy Bodhi, arrived in December 2015! And the joy just kept growing – we were blessed with another little one, our fourth child, in June 2017. It’s a full house, and we wouldn’t have it any other way!

Jeremy plans to use most of his winnings from Survivor to pay for his children’s college education. He told People magazine that supporting his family is his main goal with the prize money, saying, ‘That’s the top priority. There are a lot of things that I’ll do with the money, but it will be all about helping my family.’

During the 32nd season of Survivor, which divided contestants into groups based on intelligence, physical strength, and attractiveness, one of the beauty tribe members—a bartender—didn’t have grand plans for the million-dollar prize if she won.

Michele shared with The Hollywood Reporter that her initial financial goal was to pay off her car. After that, she planned to do some traveling, but ultimately wanted to focus on saving. She explained that being young gave her time to build a secure future and she preferred thoughtful spending over impulsive purchases, wanting to invest wisely.

Despite everything, she did enjoy spending some of the money and told Entertainment Weekly she was planning a trip to wine country with her friends.

Recently, Michele has been competing on the reality show The Challenge on MTV. She and fellow competitor Devin Walker started dating in June 2024.

The winner of Season 33 was a dedicated fan of Survivor who competed on the millennial tribe in the season’s battle between millennials and Generation X.

Following his recent win, the manager of a homeless shelter decided to use his $1 million prize to dedicate himself to fighting cancer, inspired by his mother’s battle with lung cancer. He’s already begun working with groups like Stand Up 2 Cancer (to which he’s donated $100,000), as well as the American Cancer Society and the American Lung Association.

Adam and his mother, Susie, both huge fans of the show, originally applied to compete together on Blood vs. Water. Sadly, Susie was diagnosed with an illness before they could appear. Adam went on to compete in the next season, and tragically, she passed away only nine months later – shortly after he returned home and shared the news that he had won.

I honestly didn’t know what to expect when I returned home. My mom had been incredibly strong all season, because she and the family had already decided to stop her treatment. She was determined for me to stay in the game as long as possible – she wouldn’t even consider me leaving. But they’d agreed that if I was voted off, even if I made it to the final jury, I’d be brought home right away. I truly believe she waited for me to come back.

Besides giving to charities he supports, Adam explained that he’s generally not a big spender. He plans to use some of his winnings for family travel, which they all enjoy, but will mostly save the rest to maintain his current lifestyle.

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2026-05-21 22:53