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41
Joe Hunter Season: Survivor 48
Age: 46
Hometown: Vacaville, Calif.
Current Residence: West Sacramento, Calif.
Current Occupation: Fire captain
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
I came back to play Survivor 50 to finish the promise I made to my sister. I left some things on the table and want to finish what I started and honor her. I also want to show my kids that you should always go after your dreams. I am so honored and thankful to be chosen. This is one of the most proud moments of my life.
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
The turnaround from my season on season 48 and season 50 has been very close together. However, one thing that has happened to prepare me for season 50 is my recent reconciliation with my ex-wife. We went through a painful divorce and have been legally divorced for three years. The road back together has been painful, hard, and also the most wonderful thing. I’m proud of us. If I can do that, I can do season 50.
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 most proud of playing a game that I am proud of, and most of all, playing a game my kids and family are proud of. I was able to be vulnerable and show the world what kindness and leading with your heart feels like. I am proud of my four immunity wins but only because I was able to see my family so proud of “old man dad.”
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
I feel my Survivor reputation is a loyal, good guy. At least, I have been told that’s what it is LOL. That is who I am, it was real. My plan is to be that same person, lean into that, and play the same way. Because that’s who I am and that’s all I know.
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
My strategy going into 50 is simple. Just be me, and be a person that hopes real relationships, loyalty, and being authentic will get me to the end. You have to see what the people you play with are doing, and what the vibe is for the season you are on. But at the end of the day, all I can be is the real me!
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?
Honestly, all of the options I would be okay with, but truly I don’t want anything to change. I only know season 48 and I think Survivor does a great job. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it! But if I had to choose, I would say… no more beware advantage, just straight Idol!
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why? This is difficult because I have been through a divorce, lost my sister, I lost my dad, and this has made my true inspiration expand a bit. My true inspiration is truly this: the loss of my sister and dad, and the love for my wife and kids. Basically my loss and family motivates and inspires me to never quit and keep pushing in life.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
This is a group of some of the best to ever play the game. You have more than one player that this will be their fifth time playing, several have played four times. More than one has won 5 immunity challenges and a few that changed the game of Survivor! I just know that my own pain in life, suffering, and my “why” will push me to be the No. 1.
42
Kyle FraserSeason: Survivor 48
Age: 31
Hometown: Roanoke, Va.
Current Residence: Brooklyn. N.Y.
Current Occupation: Defense Attorney
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
My last season was more about learning life lessons and about who I am (or want to be) as a person. This season I really just want to play. I’m honored to be a part of this group of insane people, and I hope I outplay them all.
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
It hasn’t even been a year since I last played. But since I heard Jeff read my five votes and announce me as the winner of season 48, I’ve officiated a wedding, moved back to New York, changed jobs, and most importantly, gotten married. My life hasn’t stopped since I last left Fiji, and I think I’m prepared for the fast pace of the game because of it.
Coming into this season, what is the Survivor accomplishment you are most proud of?
And what are you eager to have another shot at? Winning. I’m eager to win again.
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
I am not so sure. I think that I came across as someone who cared about the people around him, but wasn’t afraid to do what I needed in order to win. I wasn’t overpowering in any category but was well-rounded. I hope people remember the caring parts of me but forget about my “shady parts.”
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
Funny enough, even though I won I think that people will still underestimate me. I plan to put my ego aside and play a character that people won’t see as threatening to their game. If people see me for the threat that I am, then I’m screwed.
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?
Hot take, but I hope that there’s as many twists in the game as possible. I think that I’m more adaptable than most players. The tribe swap was my coming out party in season 48, and it allowed me to build key relationships that led to my win. I like shake ups.
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?
Andre 3000 or my dogs. Andre 3000 because he’s a renaissance man who is not afraid to try new things. My dogs, Samantha and Roo, bring a positive attitude everyday and are really cool.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
Because I think I can develop a connection with literally every single person on this cast. If they give me a chance to actually play during the first two days, then I like my chances.
43
Genevieve MushalukSeason: Survivor 47
Age: 34
Hometown: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Current Residence: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Current Occupation: Lawyer
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
My “why” is the same as it's been for the past many years as I applied and dreamed of getting the opportunity to play - I love the game of Survivor. I feel extremely honored to have been chosen for season 50, and a bit in shock. (Imposter syndrome at an all time high right now!)
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
Getting to hear the perspectives of the players from my season (season 47 – woo!) gave me firsthand experience and a deeper understanding of the fact that there are so many individual stories and motivations at play within one shared game of Survivor. Keeping that in mind and never becoming blind to it or too self-centered in the game will make me better prepared for success this time.
Coming into this season, what is the Survivor accomplishment you are most proud of? And what are you eager to have another shot at?
Again about season 47 (I know, I’m obsessed), but the accomplishment I’m most proud of from my Survivor experience is something you all didn't get to see when I played – I made friends! When the game was over, I got to know the incredible people I had played with. My hope for myself this time around is that I can let my guard down (difficult to do for me in a game of deception), and get to know and appreciate the people here, before it’s over.
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
“Genevieve the person” vs “Genevieve the player”. Two distinct versions of me, one infinitely colder than the other. I think people expect me to be standoffish and calculated. I hope to manage this by forcing myself out of my shell a bit to show people more of my goofy or vulnerable sides to connect with them so they don’t feel like they are just getting Genevieve the player (until I vote them out).
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
In addition to trying to open up more, I also need to market myself as useful. I am the only one out here from my season. Many people have former castmates and or friends out here. I don’t. That‘s something I didn't have to mitigate last time and will certainly impact my game. I also intend to be more discerning when it comes to trust vs target. I.e., just because I don't trust you, that doesn’t mean I need you gone.
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?
1. If there isn’t a live reunion after the airing, I will riot.
2. Please tell me you all voted to scrap fire making (because I’m still bad at it).
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?
Last season 47 mention, I promise. Going into season 50, it is so important to me that I represent my crew well. Of course I’m biased, but it’s a fact that my season was filled with the best Survivor players. The puzzle queens will inspire me to calm down and focus. The idol finders inspire me to take risks. The social stars inspire me to be more empathetic. And the amazing people I clashed with in the game who I now trust and admire inspire me to pause and go beyond my frame of mind.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
Oh gosh. Okay last time I played I embodied the hope for the best, plan for the worst mindset. It’s a coping strategy that I use a lot in everyday life. Coming out here, a dear friend of mine (who knows me well and my tendencies) said, “Genevieve, that's a great mindset to help you manage and brace for if you're voted out, but it won't help you win.” And they are right. So this time, I’m all in. I’m going to be bold enough to want it with my whole heart! It may leave me extra heartbroken, but if I give it my all and stay true to myself and all that I’ve learned, I really think I can win!
44
Tiffany ErvinSeason: Survivor 46
Age: 34
Hometown: Franklin Township, N.J.
Current Residence: Los Angeles, Calif.
Current Occupation: Artist/Creative Producer
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
Being chosen for season 50 is an honor, and an opportunity that I do not take for granted. There were hundreds of amazing people that could’ve been chosen. And yet, here I am. It’s a blessing. And I want to come back and play a game that's rooted in trusting myself above all else. A game I can be proud of.
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
A few months ago I made the decision to move to L.A. after basically living in N.J. my whole life. The entire move was planned and executed on my own in two weeks. If I can do that, I can do anything, truly.
Coming into this season, what is the Survivor accomplishment you are most proud of? And what are you eager to have another shot at?
Ironically, they are both the same thing. Lol. I’m so proud of the risk I took and the way I found the idol on day 2. This time around, I’d like to find another one and ACTUALLY play it correctly, or at all for that matter.
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
If I had to guess, I’d say that people might think I’m a good strategist, always speak what's on my mind, and a bit too trusting. To be honest, I don’t think I need to manage any of these perceptions. They’re all things I can use to my advantage if I play my cards right.
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
My strategy going into 50 is to play each day like the next one doesn’t exist. Because all that matters is LASTING another day. Last time I spent so much time focusing on the days ahead that I missed what was right in front of me. I won’t let that happen again.
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?
I would LOVE the opportunity to play Simmotion and to be a part of the LIVE reunion. I’ve been watching the show for years and I’ve always wanted to attend the live reunion. If the first time I get to go, I’m a part of the cast?? ICONIC.
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?
I think my older sister will forever and always be my biggest inspiration. She’s the epitome of grace and mental fortitude. Even in the most insane situations she’s level-headed and a force to be reckoned with.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
This is a heavy question, but I have a pretty simple answer....I’m God’s favorite. Lol.
45
Charlie DavisSeason: Survivor 46
Age: 27
Hometown: Manchester, Mass.
Current Residence: Boston, Mass.
Current Occupation: Attorney
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
Beyond honored, and as cheesy as it is, I feel a sense of duty. You’ve got to show out for season 50. It’s historic.
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
Studying for the bar exam. I just about drove myself insane doing 10-hour study days with my study buddies. Although we were barely buddies by the end (shoutout Jonathan and Fiona). It did feel like Survivor in a way. Luckily, we all passed and are still friends! Although, Fiona is my sister, so I guess I’m stuck with her...
Coming into this season, what is the Survivor accomplishment you are most proud of? And what are you eager to have another shot at?
Tough to choose but probably winning back-to-back immunities. What a RUSH! After that second win, I felt like the second coming of Tom Brady, and that I was obviously going to sweep the rest of the challenges. Ha! Stupid of me! But it was still awesome.
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
I’m hoping it’s just that of a solid, smart player. I’m hoping it’s NOT that I am a two-timing hypno-strategist that I can’t be trusted. But did Parvati freaking Shallow care that her pregame perception in Heroes vs. Villains basically had her D.O.A.?! NO! She dealt with it and finished second.
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
“The perfect is the enemy of good” - one of my favorite sayings lately. In 46, I think I chased perfection. For 50, I’ll be a little rougher around the edges. Not to say I’ll be reckless, but definitely riskier – dangerous.
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?
Food and supplies! Although not necessarily for the case of living. I don’t know why but my inner menace is calling me to make something happen for them if the situation is right. We’ll see...
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My parents are always my biggest heroes, but I have to shoutout my girlfriend Judy, who is just the best human in the entire world.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
Let’s start with what a tall task that will be. There are 24 players here. And no one is a slouch, I think. I believe I can do it. And maybe that’s half the battle. I’ll take it day by day, moment by moment, and try to help make a great season on the way. But make no mistake, I am always focused on winning. I didn’t come out here for second place again.
46
Quintaviuis "Q" BurdetteSeason: Survivor 46
Age: 31
Hometown: Senatobia, Miss.
Current Residence: Germantown, Tenn.
Current Occupation: Real estate broker
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
I did not get the job done the first time. I like to win, I play to win. This is my opportunity to fix the things I did wrong and make it to the end and win. To be one of the 24 chosen to play in this milestone season feels like winning the Super Bowl. Out of over 700 players, I’m one of the chosen ones.
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
Becoming a dad. It has taught me being in control is overrated. I would much rather predict the future than be in control of the future. My son has taught me patience, and he’s taught me that being in control only lasts so long. A baby doesn’t understand control, I had to learn that.
Coming into this season, what is the Survivor accomplishment you are most proud of? And what are you eager to have another shot at?
The Survivor accomplishment I am most proud of is giving fans of the show something to cheer about, something to complain about, something to love, and something to hate. I am proud that I could come out here and be myself. Most people loved that.
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
My reputation is being chaotic and unpredictable. They don’t know what I will do in any given moment. I have to manage this by laying low and being reliable from the start. I cannot start trying to control things.
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
My strategy is to get all the people that have sat at the end (regardless of the outcome) out of the game + have people that have never had the opportunity to plead their case to the jury. I want to work with everyone and let them make the moves up until about 18. After that, it’s my game.
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?
Swaps. I need a swap to happen to grow my influence. I want multiple people very comfortable with me.
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My son. I want him to grow up understanding you can do anything in life. Just work hard, believe, and take a leap of faith.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
I will get people to see things the way I want them to see it while making sure they know it’s in their best interests. I will stay two to three days ahead of everyone when making moves. I will stay alert this time and play my idol when I need to.
47
Dianelys "Dee" ValladaresSeason: Survivor 45
Age: 28
Hometown: Miami, Fla.
Current Residence: Miami, Fla.
Current Occupation: Entrepreneur
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
This isn’t just a return. It’s a responsibility. Being 1/24 players chosen from hundreds that have played feels... surreal. Survivor legitimately changed the trajectory of my life and being able to be part of season 50 is something I’ll never take lightly. I’d even come and play for free. That’s how much I love this game and the people surrounding it.
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
Does gaining 10 pounds and eating an excessive amount of chicken tendies count as a life experience?
Coming into this season, what is the Survivor accomplishment you are most proud of? And what are you eager to have another shot at?
Co-hosting the On Fire pod with Jeff and Jay Wolff was sooo fun. Definitely top three accomplishments. I’m proud of the relationships I’ve made and maintained (Julie, Brandon, Kellie) and also so grateful Survivor brought us together. I’m eager for the challenges. I’m a natural competitor and I can already feel in my bones that these challenges will be LEGENDARY!
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
People say I’m cutthroat and the most dominant winner in the new era. Which makes me laugh sometimes because I think I could’ve been more ruthless. The thing is, you see me from a screen but when you meet me I’m kind and make sure everyone is comfortable. I’m going to use my charisma and easy-goingness to make sure it’s anyone but me. Either way, I don’t care about reputation. I care about results.
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
Chill the F out. That’s my strategy. On season 45, I played like I had something to prove. On season 50, I’m playing like I have nothing to lose.
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, please, please just give us rice *crying emoji face*. But another part of me wants to watch these oldies suffer in the new era.
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?
Last time I said my dad, so if I don’t say my mom now she will probably cry. All jokes aside, this year has been a whirlwind. Not many people know this, but three months ago (Feb. 2025) my dad had to rush my mom to the hospital. Turns out the blood she peed was due to a cancerous tumor in her colon – my best friend sat me down and told me my world came crashing down. I became paralyzed hearing the word “cancer.” As soon as I got to the hospital, my mom was so calm, even in the midst of chaos. Four days later, the surgeon called and let us know the cancer hadn’t spread. Coincidentally, it was on my grandma’s birthday who passed from cancer (mom’s mom). Te amo mami! This one is for you.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
Why not me?
48
Emily FlippenSeason: Survivor 45
Age: 30
Hometown: McKinney, Tex.
Current Residence: Laurel, Md.
Current Occupation: Investment Analyst
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
I never thought I would play again, and it is surreal to be chosen and in Fiji. While I felt content with my journey on Survivor 45, the longer I had to reflect on it, the more unhappy I was with the note I left on. I’m back for season 50 to prove that yes, I did learn something the first time, but also you don’t have to change who you are to learn to be “soft” or “complacent” to do well.
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
I got married! The fact that someone agreed to spend the rest of their life with me has given me a bit of social confidence that I’ll probably need out there.
Coming into this season, what is the Survivor accomplishment you are most proud of?
And what are you eager to have another shot at? There wasn't a lot I was proud of on season 45, but if I had to choose I’d say the amount of self-reflection and course correcting I did. As for what I want another shot at, well, first impressions of course!
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
Depending on who you ask, I think one could view me as either loud-mouthed and aggressive or loyal and direct. Smart ones will know I am both! I won’t “manage” that perception. If I could change who I am I would’ve done it a long time ago.
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
One of my biggest mistakes in season 45 was being too close-minded and failing to be flexible. This time around, I want to seize opportunities to align with people on the outs while still trusting my gut.
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?
No rice. No supplies. If we had to suffer they ALL should suffer.
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?
As with season 45, I’ll continue to say my Dad. He has always taught me that you have to be willing to put yourself out there, take risks, and seize life by the horns.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
I probably won’t be. If I am, something crazy has happened. Which means...if I’m gonna win I’ll need to cause some chaos!
49
Jonathan YoungSeason: Survivor 42
Age: 32
Hometown: Godsden, Ala.
Current Residence: Gulf Shores, Ala.
Current Occupation: Beach service owner
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
Survivor is the greatest game ever played! Survivor 42 opened my eyes to different things that helped me grow as a person. When I came home from 42, I was very thankful for everything I had waiting for me at home. Being on an island starving is very humbling. It is such an honor to be chosen for this huge season.
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
Mr. Rob (Boston Rob) is one of my good friends now. He has been such a huge help. Every chance I get, I go listen and learn from the legend himself.
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 how I left the game, with nothing left in the tank. I felt like I fought the good fight. My social game is going to be a little different this time.
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
My reputation is that I will be good at challenges, fishing, and helping a lot around the camp. That’s all I want them to think of me. I want them to think I don’t have a strategic bone in my body.
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
1. Try to see the game through my opponents’ eyes, not just my own.
2. Smile!
3. No one is here to help me win. Never trust anyone too much.
4. Keep it simple, worry about what I can control.
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?
I hope everyone voted for no rice so the contestants will need me to catch them some food.
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?
Mr. Lex Luger because he shows me how to live for God through the way he lives. My dad, because of his courage and strength. Mr. Rob (Boston Rob); he is so successful in the entertainment world but comes home to his beautiful family with arms wide open. He is a great dad and a great friend. I want to be like that someday.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
Most of the players have played with at least one other person out here. Not me – I am a free agent and don’t have that target on my back. I don’t think my strategy was shown in season 42, which is great now that I am back for season 50.
50
Rick DevensSeason: Edge of Extinction
Age: 41
Hometown: Blacksburg, Va.
Current Residence: Macon, Ga.
Current Occupation: Director of Communications at Middle Georgia State University. Go Knights?
Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?
It was such a gift to play Survivor once and I’m beyond grateful to play again. Being chosen to participate in such a landmark season is a dream and knowing all the castaways that did not make it here is humbling. Survivor has given me so much. I'm back for more.
What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?
I lost my father-in-law, my grandmother, and my uncle. Life is precious and nothing is guaranteed. It’s so important to find joy in everything. For a long time, I felt immense pressure to play again and do well. Now, I feel I have a much healthier perspective. I’m going to play HARD and play to win, but joyfully and with a joyful spirit.
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 won four individual immunities, and the Edge of Extinction challenge. I also hold the Survivor record for Hidden Immunity Idols played in a season. I played two for myself and two for friends. I’d love to win more immunities and find more idols, but I also look forward to showing I have a strong social/strategic game and look forward to working with some of these Legends to control the vote here and there.
What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?
I believe I’m seen as a scrappy player who relies on advantages and immunities to make it through the game. The healthy egos on this cast probably won’t see me as a challenge threat despite my record. Good. I’ll need to be careful searching for advantages. I played a very loyal game the first time around and hope I can use that to my advantage.
What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?
My dad assures me that I’m better at suffering than others. So, I don’t care about food and shelter. I want to build strong relationships with everyone and never close doors or burn bridges the way I almost did my first time playing. I’d like to be someone other castaways have fun playing the game with. That being said, I also want to be clever, chaotic, and bold with advantages whether they’re real or fake.
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?
Let’s not do fire making this time, okay?
At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why? My wife, Becca, is the most generous and thoughtful person I’ve ever known (her and my mom). She gives so much without asking for anything in return. People are drawn to her because of her kindness and because she’s very funny. My kids are also incredibly funny and teach me something new every day.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor?
Why not? With the big players (many are literally huge) and a cloud of Old School vs New School hanging over this season, I feel I’m in a terrific spot to plot my way to the end. I’ll need to hustle, be clever, use my guile, and find some luck but that’s exactly what I came to Fiji to do.
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