Topic: S50: Savannah Louie (Cila)

[RealityFreakWill]

Savannah Louie

Season: Survivor 49
Age: 31
Hometown: Walnut Creek, Calif.
Current Residence: Atlanta, Ga.
Current Occupation: Marketing Specialist

Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?

Survivor 50 is the only scenario I would play in a back-to-back season!! I kind of feel like this is a Fan v Favorites season (where I am the singular fan and these people are some of my favorites.) I feel so humbled to have the opportunity to play with some legends I grew up cheering for! It is a little intimidating, but I know that will make it all the more rewarding when I vote them out of the game…hehehe.

What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?

Well to be honest, nothing too crazy happened in the ten days I had between Survivor 49 and 50. I had a lot of quality time and phone/Facetime calls with friends and family, which helped fill my emotional cup and remind me that I can do this! My younger brother told me I inspired him by pursuing my dream. My dad reminded me I came from a family of warriors. My best friends shared that there is nothing stronger than a woman’s intuition and that backstabbing will be essential to win this time. And my mom and partner listened to my insecurities and fears, reassured me I deserve to be here and reminded me that I am built for this!

Coming into this season, what is the Survivor accomplishment you are most proud of? And what are you eager to have another shot at?

I am proud of being one of the winningest women in Survivor history – with my 4x individual immunities, 1x reward, fire-making, and title winner for 49! I can’t wait to test out my strength, smarts, and social game against the pros.

What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?

I think people fear the unknown, and because season 49 hasn’t aired yet, I think I already have a target on my back. I think people already assume I won 49, which makes me even scarier. These people probably won’t trust me, but I want to show them early on that I can be loyal and a good ally. I’m going to say I’ve already won, now I’m just here for the experience. If I can come across as a fun-loving, non-serious player, I think it reduces my threat level and opens up opportunities.

What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?

Unfortunately, I think I have to be honest about winning 49 because people are already suspicious – however, I think I can frame this in a less-threatening way. Other than that, I have no strategy. Prior to 49, I thought I was going to be a strategic, chaotic villain, but quickly realized that Survivor is about adaptability and according to the hand you’ve been dealt. This time, I am going in open-minded to anything – but always proceeding with caution.

Survivor fans have had the opportunity to help shape the game this season by voting on various elements – what are you hoping makes the cut and why?

Please, for the love of God, let there be rice. This has nothing to do with strategy, I just want to eat anything besides coconut and breadfruit. If I’m in the final four, I hope to play Simmotion! Again, this is not strategic. It’s just one of the challenges I’ve always wanted to play! One of the things on my Survivor bucket list I did not accomplish in 49 was finding an idol, so I hope those are in play this season as well!

At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?

My mom. She has the biggest heart and always gives people the benefit of the doubt (not good qualities for Survivor necessarily, but that’s ok). She is incredibly strong – physically, mentally, and emotionally. I think she is a badass business woman with great intuition. She leads by example and leads quietly – without boasting or asking for the spotlight. She is strong in her faith and convictions but will always hear anyone out and is constantly looking for ways to grow and improve. I love her so much!

Why will you be the Sole Survivor?

I mean – why wouldn’t I?! I know I will be targeted early on, and I know winning with this group won’t be easy, but I have proven that I excel when my back is up against the wall. I am calm, I am confident, and I know I can make Survivor history on the first-ever back-to-back winner!