Drop your buffs because it’s time to head to the buffet.
It’s easy to imagine how exhausted Survivor contestant Rizo Velovic must have felt after filming seasons 49 and 50 back-to-back for CBS, with only a week’s break in between.
I lost around 25 pounds during season 49, and I’ve only gained about two pounds back since then,” Rizo shared with TopMob News at the live finale on May 20th. “That meant I started season 50 feeling really weak. Just making it to the end after losing that much weight feels like a huge accomplishment to me.”
Surprisingly, the New Yorker only had nine days to prepare with carbohydrates before heading back to Fiji to film the show’s landmark 50th season last autumn.
The 26-year-old said he used his few days off to relax, enjoy some comfort food, and be with his family.
I was absolutely rooting for Rizo throughout Survivor 50! He played such a strong game and made it all the way to the final four with Jonathan Young, Joe Hunter, and ultimately, winner Aubry Bracco. But honestly, watching him, I was also worried! It meant two more months of enduring that harsh jungle environment with barely any food, and he lost another 25 pounds just getting to that point. It was incredible, but tough to watch!
Today, the self-proclaimed “Rizgod” is happy to report he’s gained back those 50 pounds.
He told TopMob he was feeling good and healthy. He explained that recovery times vary, but he personally felt back to normal around four or five months after filming finished.
He chuckled and said he still struggles with puzzles, but otherwise feels fantastic and full of energy.
In retrospect, Rizo thinks getting back to playing quickly was actually beneficial for staying focused.
I definitely played up a big ego with the Rizgod character,” he explained. “Coming off a strong performance in season 49 and joining a season with so many amazing players – like Cirie Fields, Colby Donaldson, and Dee Valladares, all winners – I never had any self-doubt. I figured if I could succeed in season 49 and Jeff Probst asked me to return just nine days later, I could deliver another great performance. And I think I have. I’ve made it to the finale of Survivor 50.
Ever wonder how past Survivor winners spent their million-dollar prize? Keep reading to find out.
–Reporting by Daryn Carp
The very first winner of Survivor is now often remembered as one of the show’s most controversial players. Richard Hatch, a corporate trainer, was a divisive figure due to his boastful attitude, cutthroat strategies, and habit of walking around camp without clothes during the show’s first season in 2000.
Richard first gained fame by winning the reality show Survivor. He then became a TV and radio personality before returning to compete again for the $1 million prize on Survivor All-Stars. He also appeared on Celebrity Apprentice and The Biggest Loser.
In 2005, he faced tax evasion charges for not paying taxes on a $1 million prize and related appearance fees. 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 said her life remained largely the same. She did, however, achieve some personal goals, including building her dream cabin in North Carolina and publishing her book, Out Live, Out Laugh, Out Love, in 2006. She also dedicated her time to advocating for adoption and became a spokesperson for the National Arthritis Foundation.
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 many new adventures. ‘It allowed me to live the life I always wanted,’ she explained in 2018. ‘I live simply in the woods and spend my time doing whatever I enjoy – biking, swimming, kayaking, riding motorcycles, and traveling whenever I can.’
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 drastically alter her life. She explained that she and her husband intentionally kept things normal, and she still does everyday things like 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.”
I was a huge fan of this player way back in season three – he quickly became everyone’s favorite! He really connected with the jury and deservedly won. It was exciting to see him come back for All-Stars, but honestly, his second time around wasn’t quite as successful. I was still rooting for him, though!
Following his victory in 2002, Ethan started Grassroot Soccer, an organization that combined his passion for soccer with his desire to help others. It raised 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. Thankfully, after a stem cell transplant from his brother, he was able to overcome cancer and is now cancer-free.
After ending his 10-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 two battles with cancer, saying she gave him the chance to build a wonderful, healthy life together.
The couple got married in 2016. A spokesperson described the wedding as a beautiful and heartwarming celebration of their love.
A former adult film actor who became a successful used car salesman (and was ranked number one in the country during his season on the show!) is one of the most debated and talked-about people connected to the series, both during filming and in his personal life.
Brian Heidik, the winner of Survivor: Thailand, faced legal trouble in 2006 when he was arrested for simple battery and animal cruelty. His then-wife, Charmaine Costigan, reported to police that he had shot a puppy with a bow and arrow. Prior to this, in 2002, Charmaine was arrested for allegedly hitting Brian in the nose, just before his Survivor season concluded.
Charmaine explained to the Journal-Constitution that Brian never really adjusted to life after being on the show, especially after his arrest. She said he developed a sense of invincibility and believed he could do whatever he wanted. Later that year, they divorced, and Brian married Courtney Heidik.
As a lifestyle observer, I’ve always found it fascinating how people handle sudden wealth. Back in 2009, TV Guide Network did a piece on Brian, a winner who, let’s just say, didn’t exactly win fans with his spending. Apparently, a big chunk of his prize money went towards a collection of sports cars – a choice that raised a few eyebrows, to say the least!
At just 21 years old, this swimsuit model and college student famously won season six of Survivor, even becoming known for a daring move – stripping for peanut butter! She remains the youngest woman to ever claim the title of Sole Survivor.
In addition to the $1 million prize, Jenna also gained a romantic connection during the finale: Ethan, the winner of season three. The two dated for a decade 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 also had their own show called Everyday Health.
Jenna received an invitation to return for another season of All-Stars, but she decided to leave the show to care for 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 possessing drugs. Police reports say she also bit an officer while being treated for a possible overdose. Her SUV had a personalized license plate that said “AMAZON,” 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 refreshed. She jokingly referred to herself as a new and improved ‘Jenna 4.0’.
This incredible player is the first and only person to win two seasons of the show, earning a total of $2 million! While she tried for a third win, she was unfortunately eliminated early in the Game Changers season 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. After appearing on the show four times, he finally won the million-dollar prize on Redemption Island (Season 22).
He’d essentially already won by falling in love with Amber, a fellow Survivor contestant (originally on The Australian Outback), during All-Stars. Amber actually won the million-dollar prize in the finale, right after he proposed to her on live television. Who cares if some viewers booed or the jury criticized them? It was still a win for both of them!
Rob and Amber first gained fame as a couple competing on The Amazing Race, where they finished in second place. They returned two years later for the All-Stars season. The couple 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 financial reward. I can finally live openly and without shame, and on top of it all, Amber will be taken care of financially as well.
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 afterwards.
After everyone predicted my life would be different, things actually went back to normal,” the Ohio resident shared with People magazine. “I’m still working my job as a project inspector for the Department of Transportation, I’m with the same friends, I live in the same place, and I’m truly happy with my life right now.
The firefighter from Long Island won season 10 of Survivor after a remarkably consistent game. He set a record by winning five individual immunity challenges and remained well-liked by other contestants and viewers alike—host Jeff Probst even considers him one of the best winners ever. After finding success as a motivational speaker, Tom returned for the Heroes vs. Villains season but was eventually voted out in fifth place.
After winning $1 million, Tom left his job as a firefighter and started working in insurance in New York City, where he sold life and disability policies. He said in a 2009 TV special that everything good that happened after that was a bonus.
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 every weekend so her sons can compete in baseball.
Danni has pursued a variety of creative endeavors, including launching her own clothing line called Sideline Chic, working as a sports reporter, and recently, writing children’s books.
While winning a million dollars is amazing, she says she still lives a pretty everyday life, according to People magazine.
After winning Survivor: Panama, the contestant used his prize money to finally focus on 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. Later, Aras 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—it was simply overwhelming. The constant exposure to harsh conditions, intense self-reflection, and public attention became too much to handle, I explained to Irvine News in 2012. Eventually, I found balance by opening a yoga studio in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2015, I married model Christy Petersen, and we now have two children.
Yul is remembered as one of the most popular and kind contestants in Survivor history, especially after his victory on the highly debated Cook Islands season – a season that began with contestants divided into racial tribes.
I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve gotten since being on Survivor, he shared in a 2009 TV Guide Network interview. He’s been able to focus on causes he cares about, working with groups dedicated to fighting cancer, leukemia, and promoting bone marrow donation to get more people registered as donors. He also founded a nonprofit organization to support those affected by domestic abuse.
I’ve been a huge Yul Kwon fan ever since his amazing run on Survivor. It’s incredible how much he’s done since then! He didn’t just disappear after the show; he became a TV host and started lecturing for the FBI! But honestly, one of my favorite things is that he opened a bunch of Red Mango shops in San Francisco. He told me he found them while looking for a healthy treat after gaining a little weight – about 25 pounds – when he got back from filming. It just shows how down-to-earth he is, even after everything!
You know, being on Survivor led to something truly amazing for me – I actually met my wife, Sophie! It’s funny how life works, because it all started through a connection with my teammate, Brad Virata. Now, Sophie and I are parents to two wonderful children. It just goes to show, you never know what adventures – or who – you’ll find when you step outside your comfort zone!
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.
Instead of buying things, Earl used his winnings to travel the world, visiting 35 countries. He said he valued these experiences above material possessions, calling them ‘priceless.’ He also revisited Fiji, wanting to enjoy a more luxurious stay after his win.
He donated the money to the Perthes Kids Foundation, establishing the Earl Cole Fund to support research and treatment for Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease – a childhood bone condition he himself experienced.
The winner of Survivor: China received a $1 million prize and initially hoped to travel the world. However, after the show, he openly battled with alcohol addiction.
He became well-known as a repeat guest on Dr. Phil, but in 2017, he claimed to Stat and The Boston Globe that show producers had given him alcohol and Xanax before his memorable 2013 appearance – the one where he registered a .5 on a breathalyzer test. He also returned to the show in 2016 and shared that he had experienced a relapse.
A spokesperson for the show refuted the allegations, telling TopMob News that a recent Stat article misrepresented Dr. Phil, the program itself, and its goal of informing viewers about substance abuse. They stated that the show never provides guests with drugs or alcohol, and any claims suggesting otherwise are false and baseless.
In a 2018 Reddit Q&A, Todd expressed gratitude for the show Survivor, explaining that it helped him access excellent treatment facilities – a real gift, he said. However, he also admitted to issues with the show’s portrayal of events and his own behavior, stating he should have been hospitalized rather than having easy access to large amounts of alcohol, like the liters of vodka he found in his dressing room.
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 never revealed his win to customers because he worried it would affect his tips. He explained, “Customers say, ‘I know you from somewhere,’ but I never tell them where. They’re gonna leave a lousy tip if they know I 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 famously used her social skills and charm to her benefit, especially during her second season, Micronesia (Season 16). She won the season 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 points out that watching her play is compelling because she developed from someone who initially relied on charm to a more well-rounded player. While she understood the impact of her appearance, she ultimately learned to build genuine connections and earn the trust of others to win the game.
Following her recent victory, she generously donated $50,000 to Knockout For Girls, an organization that combines her passions for boxing and giving back. She also visited Peru and is looking forward to doing more traveling in the future.
Oh my gosh, Parvati! She was so close to winning Heroes vs. Villains, and it wasn’t just about the money for her, you know? She actually found love through Survivor! She married John Fincher from Samoa back in 2017, and they had a baby in 2018 – it was so sweet! Sadly, they divorced last August, but I’m so happy for her now! She’s with Mae Martin, the comedian, and they seem amazing together. I’ve been following her journey since day one, and I’m just thrilled she’s found happiness!
After appearing on the show, Parvati has transitioned into a new career as a yoga instructor and coach, helping people with personal and professional growth, 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 everyone 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.
As a Maine native and former teacher, I decided to put my lottery winnings to good use by creating something special with my family: Maine Forest Yurts. We offer a unique, eco-friendly way to experience the beauty of our state. But it’s more than just a business for me; it’s about giving back. That’s why I also founded Durham Warriors, a non-profit that provides stays at the yurts – a little bit of peace and nature – for disabled veterans, active military families, and other deserving organizations. It’s incredibly rewarding to share this place I love with those who have served our country and those doing important work.
The rancher from Alabama easily won his first season, Tocantins, and returned to play two more times. He’s remembered for a particularly bad decision during Heroes vs. Villains, and also competed on Game Changers.
He said he planned to continue working and supporting himself by running the cattle ranch. He hoped to invest the prize money wisely and create college funds for all of his nieces and nephews, as he shared in the 2009 TV Guide special.
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.
I was so thrilled when J.T. finally married his girlfriend in 2015! What made it even more special was that his best friend and fellow Survivor castaway, Stephen Fishbach, actually performed the ceremony. It was a really touching moment for those of us who followed their journey.
At 21, he made history as the youngest winner of Survivor, claiming the top prize in season 21, titled Old vs. Young.
So, after wrapping up my recent project, I’m excited to share what’s next! I’m diving into filmmaking – I’m envisioning these really focused, 45-minute short films. I’m also toying with the idea of trying stand-up comedy, which honestly sounds like a blast. And, you might be surprised to learn I’m a bit of a poet – I’ve actually written around 60! It’s a creative outlet I really enjoy. Now, the production company didn’t quite take off as planned, but I did spend some time as the drummer for a band called Space Funk Odyssey, which was a fun experience!
Soon after winning, the model was arrested in Santa Monica in 2011 for skateboarding while intoxicated. After posting a $37,000 bail, he was picked up from jail in a limousine full of friends and beer – a rather showy 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.
Before competing, I’d been telling my friends for ages how simple Survivor was and how well I’d do,” the 22-year-old explained to CBS. “I’m hoping to be able to afford to choose a medical specialty I truly love, rather than one just for the money, and to pay off my student loans faster.
She followed through on her promise, winning Sole Survivor and later earning her medical degree from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in 2017.
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 surprising, as she played a very strong and dominant game throughout the 24th season.
Kim, the owner of the bridal shop, explained that because she didn’t have much growing up, she was thrilled to be able to use her prize money to generously support her family.
I’ve got some bills to take care of, and I’m really looking forward to investing in a few small bridal boutiques. I also want to do a little redecorating and just enjoy having some financial freedom. I didn’t grow up with a lot of money, so being able to get myself financially stable is a big deal. Plus, I’m excited to be able to help out my family and friends.
Since appearing on Survivor, Kim has gotten married, had three children, and launched a successful interior design business. One of her biggest clients is actually a fellow Survivor contestant and close friend, Chelsea Meissner, who later became known for her role on Southern Charm.
Against all odds, the winner of season 25 turned things around after a long string of losses – they lost every immunity challenge and attended every tribal council after the merge – to win the million-dollar 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.
Okay, so she said she’s going to really think things through, take a deep breath, and then figure everything out. She and her husband are going to sit down and plan it all. Honestly, the sweetest thing is she said their 9-year-old daughter is her top priority – making sure that college fund is completely set for her. And it’s not just that, she mentioned all her nieces and nephews too! She said winning a million dollars in Iowa could totally change lives, and they just want to make smart choices and take their time with it all. I’m just so happy for them!
John Cochran, often called simply Cochran, first appeared on Survivor in season 23 and later won season 26. He’s incredibly popular with fans, and Jeff Probst, the show’s host and executive producer, has even called him his favorite winner. Probst explained to EW that Cochran embodies everything Survivor set out to be – a show where anything can happen on any given day.
Mike Cochran loved Survivor – he was a huge fan even in high school, running a newsletter dedicated to the show. 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 anything too flashy. Once he gets the new place, he’d like 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 how often he’d use it, but imagines riding around on it, even if it’s just inside his apartment.
After appearing on Survivor and earning a law degree from Harvard, Cochran pursued a career in television writing, contributing to CBS sitcoms 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.
Oh my gosh, when they asked Tyson what he was going to do with all that prize money, he was so humble! He basically said he’d be smart about it, invest it so it lasts, and then finally, finally relax a little. It’s just…so him. He deserves to kick back, honestly!
The retired cyclist confessed he isn’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.
Even though Rachel didn’t win her original reality competition, she found happiness on another show. Tyson proposed to her during the finale of Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars. Their wedding was officiated by Tyson’s Tocantins teammate, Stephen Fishbach, in February 2015, and they’ve since had two children.
From the beginning of Cayagan, it was obvious the New Jersey police officer would be a strong contender throughout the season and the show as a whole. Although he eventually won the million-dollar prize, his attempt to win a second time failed when he was eliminated 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. A father of two, he told The Hollywood Reporter that his first priority was establishing a college fund for his 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 wanted it, so I got it. She can choose one at a store like Home Depot. I might even need to buy a new house to accommodate it!”
After appearing on The Amazing Race twice with her twin sister, Nadiya Anderson, and falling short of the win each time, the fitness enthusiast finally succeeded on season 29, taking home the $1 million prize.
I plan to treat my parents to something special, and I’m going to give Nadiya a significant amount of the prize 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 could help me achieve that. We’ve also always wanted to open a CrossFit gym, and now that’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 played a very strong game, matching the record for the most individual immunity wins.
For Mike, achieving a lasting reputation 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, but a title is forever.”
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 to enjoy spear fishing. He wants to essentially live the Survivor lifestyle, but in his everyday life, he explained to TV Junkies.
After his win, Mike found romance with Meg Maley, who also appeared on Big Brother. They began dating in 2015 and 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 counted. 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.
The couple’s son, Remy Bodhi, arrived in December 2015, and they had another child in June 2017, bringing their total to four.
As a little lifestyle planning tip, I always advise people to think long-term with any unexpected financial windfall. I recently spoke with Jeremy, and he’s doing just that with his winnings from Survivor. He shared with People that his biggest priority is securing his kids’ future – he’s putting most of the money towards their college funds. It’s wonderful to see him focusing on family and making such a smart investment in their education. He plans to use the rest to help them out, but college is definitely number one!
During the 32nd season of Survivor, which divided contestants into groups based on intelligence, physical strength, and attractiveness, one of the castaways—a bartender—didn’t have grand plans for the million-dollar prize if she won.
Michele shared with The Hollywood Reporter that her initial plan was to pay off her car, then perhaps do some traveling. Ultimately, though, she intended to focus on saving. She explained that being young meant time was on her side, and she wanted to be thoughtful about where she invested her money rather than spending it impulsively. She later became a travel agent and business development manager.
She did enjoy spending some of the money, mentioning to EW that she was planning a trip to wine country with her friends.
Lately, I’ve been following Michele’s exciting new chapter! She’s traded the academic arena for the competitive world of MTV’s The Challenge, and she’s absolutely crushing it. Plus, she’s found love with fellow competitor Devin Walker – they confirmed their relationship in June 2024, and they’re super cute together!
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 Gen X.
After winning a million dollars, the manager of a homeless shelter decided to dedicate his prize money to fighting cancer, inspired by his mother’s battle with the disease. He’s now working with groups like Stand Up 2 Cancer (to whom he’s donated $100,000), the American Cancer Society, and the American Lung Association to support cancer research.
Adam and his mother, Susie, were both huge fans of the show and applied to be contestants together for the Blood vs. Water season. Sadly, Susie was diagnosed with an illness before they could appear together, but Adam was later cast on the following season. He won just nine months after her diagnosis, and was able to share the good news with her shortly before she passed away.
I didn’t know what to expect when I returned home. My mom had been incredibly strong all season, but it was because she and my family had already decided to stop her treatment. She was determined for me to stay in the game, and didn’t want me to leave under any circumstances. However, they agreed that if I was voted out, even if I made it to the jury, I’d be sent home right away. I truly believe she waited for me to come back.
Adam plans to use his winnings primarily for travel, something his family has always enjoyed. He doesn’t typically spend a lot of money and intends to save the rest to maintain his current lifestyle, rather than making large purchases. He also supports charities he cares about, but sees the winnings as a way to secure his family’s future and experiences.
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2026-05-21 22:01