Meet the cast of Survivor 47

It’s time for a new batch of contestants to dig deep, as the cast for Survivor 47 has been officially revealed. After a series of promos teasing the faces and voices set to do battle for $1 million on the sandy shores of Fiji, CBS has finally released the names, photos, and bios of the competitors. And there are some striking similarities to be found.

There is both a flight attendant and a flight school owner in the new cast, as well as a sports reporter and an E-sports commentator. There is an ER doctor and a nurse, as well as a radio show host and a podcast host.  Ah yes, the podcast host. That would be comedian and former political speech writer Jon Lovett. Whether his face (or voice) will be recognized out on the island remains to be seen, but celebrities like Lisa Whelchel and Mike White still managed to make it to the final three on their seasons, so don’t count Lovett out yet.

Survivor 47 premieres Sept. 18 on CBS, but you don’t have to wait till then to meet the cast. Check out their photos and bios below.

Teeny Chirichillo

Age: 24
Hometown: Manahawkin, N.J.
Current residence: Manahawkin, N.J.
Occupation: Freelance Writer
Three words to describe you: Social, mischievous, introspective
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: Since I first saw the show in fifth grade, I’ve felt it was simply a calling. Throughout my life I’ve found ways to play the game, be it wearing a buff each day of high school, forcing my restaurant coworkers to vote each other out, balancing the large personalities of my friends. I’ve spent so many years fanatically entrenched and confident I’ll perform well. I’ve also overstayed my welcome as the pesky fan asking the players for photos.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? Elaine, Evie, [and] Tai are the players I identify most with. I’ll play most like Mike White with a dash of Fabio and a sprinkle of Courtney Yates. If you get it, you get it.
What will you value in an alliance partner? I tend to gravitate toward women, first of all. As far as abilities, I’ll look for intelligence, ability to do the mental math I can’t do, tendency to enjoy gossiping. I also like when people are super eccentric and have a cynical side. I honestly want to work with everyone.
Favorite hobbies: Writing, thrifting, reading nonfiction, the internet, Planet Fitness, legit Survivor (write/read about it/have played “mock” Survivor).
Pet peeves: When people are constantly late it makes me very angry and upset. There are no excuses!
What is something we would never know from looking at you? You couldn’t know I did an 18-mile unicycle race in fifth grade, or that I used to be fully addicted to the spicy snack Takis. Three years clean. Oh, and I feel like people think I like crafts. I’m sorry… I don’t like to do any crafts.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? I always read these and kinda yawn at the basic “mom,” ”dad” answers, but I’m adding to the dogpile. My mom. She is the most capable, caring, one-of-a-kind woman. Without her, I’d never have gotten here.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? Because people like me and I like people. My strategic and physical attributes will be underestimated, but sharp. My social game is going to be killer.

Rome Cooney

Age: 30
Hometown: Corvallis, Ore.
Current residence: Phoenix, Ariz.
Occupation: E-Sports Commentator
Three words to describe you: Charismatic, entertaining, cutthroat
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: It’s the greatest game you can play in real life, so as a lifelong gamer, this is the ultimate test for me. It’s the best chance I’ll have to win $1 million, while leaving a legacy that my future kids will be proud of. I need this game.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? Fully tearing my Achilles. It’s the greatest pain you can feel aside from childbirth. There’s no amount of pain and suffering I won’t be able to get through.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? I identify with Sean Rector and Todd Herzog the most. Sean told it like it is, gave great confessionals and was true to himself. Todd had the greatest final tribal of all time with his way with words. I will truly play the game most like Cook Islands Ozzy. I want to be known as one of the greatest challenge beasts of all time.
What will you value in an alliance partner? Someone bad at talking publicly so I can beat them easily at final tribal; blind loyalty.
Favorite hobbies: Playing video games while listening to podcasts.
Pet peeves: Ordering food with somebody, then when we get the food, they still want to take some of my fries, or what I got. If you wanted some, order some!
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Going from commentating as a hobby for fun to joining the biggest talent agency in E-sports in just two years, then being chosen to commentate a $2 million Fortnite tournament and live in Saudi Arabia just a week after joining.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I haven’t eaten a vegetable other than corn in over two decades. I want to be the next host of Survivor when Jeff retires. It’s the greatest job in the world, and I would be humbled to be his successor.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? My mom has always supported me in everything I’ve [been] through. She is the nicest, most caring person even when it’s not deserved. Letting her down isn’t an option. I have to make her proud.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I will play my idols. I will win at least four individual immunity challenges. I have a way with words to get people to do what I want. Having an “anyone but me” mentality.

Anika Dhar

Age: 26
Hometown: Santa Rosa, Calif.
Current residence: Los Angeles, Calif.
Occupation: Marketing Manager
Three words to describe you: Exuberant, curious, calculated
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: Being on Survivor is an instinctual need of mine. From the very first episode I watched (S28), I immediately googled “how to apply to get on Survivor.” I truly believe that Survivor is the most epic game to exist, challenging the human body both mentally and physically. I want the challenge. I believe I can win this game and I can’t wait to see how it plays out.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game?: My whole life is made up of moments that have prepared me for Survivor. One very impactful experience to note is when I unexpectedly lost my family home and all important mementos saved to the Tubbs, Calif., wildfire. The most important thing is that my family, thankfully, got out alive. During this time there was no place to call home and I learned how to live with nothing; therefore mentally preparing me for life on the island.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? In my day-to-day, I have a tendency to be blunt and straight-forward like Queen Sandra, and I can persuade people like Queen Parvati; however, I think I will play most like Queen Sarah in Game Changers. Someone who is socially aligned with most players. Someone who people will trust, who will get advantages in the games, and someone who is able to deflect being a threat to others.
What will you value in an alliance partner? Who I choose to align with will be purely based on my gut feelings and intuition. With that being said, I will value someone who is interested in cooperating to pool our information together. Someone who is considerate to share information with me even if we have to vote differently. Obviously, someone who I can trust and respect.
Favorite hobbies: Dancing, specifically hip-hop, ceramics/throwing on the wheel, cooking for the people I love, gardening and being a plant mom, yoga and meditation.
Pet peeves: When people leave the water running, people who aren’t spatially aware in crowded spaces, slow drivers in the left lane.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Genuinely… getting cast on Survivor. It’s not an easy feat, with a lot of barriers to entry… more applicants than any job I have gotten. Less than 1,000 people can say they’ve played this specific game. That’s a small community in the grand scheme of things. So, I am very honored and incredibly proud of myself for achieving this dream of mine.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I absolutely love to sing… anytime, any place! However, I am also painfully tone deaf. All to say, it doesn’t stop me from being the first volunteer at karaoke! I’m not afraid to embarrass myself if I’m having a good time.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? My mom is the biggest inspiration in my life. I watched her endure very difficult life challenges with absolute courage and kindness. She is the strongest person I know while also being the most empathetic person I know. She is never one to judge anyone or any situation and continues to put others’ needs before herself. I will always strive to be as good of a person as she is. I love you, Mom.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I am an all-round player. I am an extrovert who can also listen and remember very well. I can get people to open up about themselves comfortably. Strategically, I will make my small moves, such as keeping camp clean, look natural when I’m actually putting in the work. When I make big moves, I won’t boast about them. I am flexible and can adapt to various scenarios in life, two skills necessary in this game. I am a natural problem solver. I am no challenge beast but I do love a good puzzle. I am able to manipulate and deceive with a smile on my face. However, overall and most importantly, I believe in my intuition. I will outwit, outplay, and outlast my competitors.

Terran “TK” Foster

Age: 31
Hometown: Prince George’s County, Md.
Current Residence: Upper Marlboro, Md.
Occupation: Athlete Marketing Manager
Three words to describe you: Spontaneous, genuine, ambitious
Why do you want to be part of Survivor? I feel as if my entire life has led me to this moment to take on a challenge. From my dad going to prison at a very young age, to being diagnosed with a kidney disease that almost killed me in high school. Since I was born, I have been beating the odds; this beautiful game gives me the a chance to do that once again.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? Beating my kidney disease definitely prepared me for this game. I learned how to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. I experienced living in the intensive care unit for almost two months. That experience truly created a mental state that can’t be drained.  
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? My favorite player of all time is Tony. He was always unapologetically him, and I respect that. With that being said, I haven’t really seen a player on the show that I see myself in, but I typically gravitate towards the social and physical player. I see these things being huge parts of my game. Players like Kaleb, although I hope to make it much deeper in the game than he did.
What will you value in an alliance partner? I value authenticity and trust. I don’t want to be aligned with someone who is just being a character for TV. I want to align with someone that will stand on business for me!
Favorite hobbies: Watching football, going to the gym, playing my Xbox.
Pet peeves: Unmotivated people, people who think they know everything, someone talking over me when I am speaking, bad hygiene.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? My career. When football was taken away from me due to illness, I told myself that some way, somehow, I would work in professional football. I went to college and studied sports management, and many of my professors said that I would most likely end up in life insurance due to me picking that major. I now work as a marketing manager for NFL players. Once again beating the odds.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I’m kind of a nerd at heart LOL. I love video games, anime, and sci-fi films. I really like nature documentaries for some reason as well.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? Hands down my mom! Raising me as a single mother wasn’t easy. I’ve never seen her give up and my “go-get-it” mentality comes from her. She struggled most of my life raising me and never let it affect the attention and love she gave me. I love her so much.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? Because I put my mind to it. Once I get a goal in my sights, it’s rare that I don’t achieve it. I know the odds are stacked against me, but that has been the story of my life!

Tiyana Hallums

Age: 27
Hometown: Aiea, Hawaii
Current residence: Aiea, Hawaii
Occupation: Flight Attendant
Three words to describe you: Adventurous, multi-passionate, funny
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: OMG, why DON’T I want to be on Survivor??? I love challenging myself. I want to see who I am when everything is stripped away from me. I want to afford and thrive in Hawaii as a native Hawaiian. I want to support my family in ALL aspects. I LOVE adventure and am constantly pushing the envelope. I want to show out for Hawaii and let everyone know that Hawaii is MORE than “Aloha” spirit. I love this game!
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? One life experience that has prepared me for this game is being a D1 athlete. I played volleyball for Gonzaga University and sand volleyball for University of Utah. I learned key lessons during that phase of my life like teamwork, handling adversity, the value of hard work, that I’m capable of more than I think I am, and working on my leadership characteristics. I also learned (and am still working on) the ability to play with emotion but not let it overtake strategy and rational thought.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? I resonate a lot with Parvati (I feel like a lot of women do) because she used every part of herself to win. She was sensual, cunning, strategic, athletic, and was the master of her own destiny. I plan on playing hard and using everything that makes me, me! I also LOVED Gabler. He was constantly networking but knew when to take a backseat. He listened and observed before making a move, he won individual immunity challenges and could read situations/people really well. I think I’d be a stealthy chameleon, taking shape of/mirroring whoever I’m talking to.
What will you value in an alliance partner? Open communication is HUGE for me. There are going to be many times where I won’t be at certain conversations and I need to be able to trust that my alliance partner will tell me accurate information so we can protect each other and make moves together. I also value someone who’s willing to make big moves, who’s willing to play fearlessly with me. Someone who’s playing to WIN, not to lose.
Favorite hobbies: Reading, yoga, hiking, going to the beach, eating (everything), travel, sand volleyball, pickleball, trying new craft beer/breweries, making craft cocktails, journaling, rewatching The Office for the 1,000^th time, spin.
Pet peeves: Entitled people, people who don’t use their blinkers, when someone talks at me (not with me), people who make others feel lame for caring about things, pessimistic people, loud talkers in public spaces.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? The accomplishment I’m most proud of is the relationship I’ve built with my siblings. Building solid relationships takes time, patience, unconditional love, support, dedication. It means the promise to do anything for one another. My siblings mean the WORLD to me and our bond that we’ve created over the years is something I cherish more than everything.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? You wouldn’t know that I am a really deep thinker. I love asking people deep questions and am fascinated by the human psyche. I’m always the life of the party but when it comes to one-on-one conversations I put a lot of effort into truly understanding that person, their passions, and what makes them, THEM!
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? My biggest inspiration is my mormor. She is everything I believe a person should be. She is patient, loving, selfless, kind, funny, intelligent, and just the BEST grandma I could’ve ever wanted/needed in my life. When my mom and dad were busy making money for our family, she was the one that took care of us and never complained. Mormor inspires me every single day — I love and appreciate her so much.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I will be the Sole Survivor because I am smart, tenacious, cutthroat, socially aware, and have a magnetic personality. I have the ability to make people feel comfortable and can effortlessly make genuine connections with just about anyone. People have an easy time opening up to me and I plan on using that intel against others. I want this more than anyone and I’ll stay up finding 1,000 idols if I have to.

Rachel LaMont

Age: 34
Hometown: Dexter, Mich.
Current residence: Southfield, Mich.
Occupation: Graphic Designer
Three words to describe you: Down-to-earth, bubbly, determined
Why do you want to be part of Survivor? I discovered Survivor in 2017 when my husband Derek randomly put it on TV. I was immediately captivated by the game. I love people, I love pushing myself out of my comfort zone, I love games, and I love money. Why wouldn’t I want to be a part of Survivor!!
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? I was born in Thailand and lived there until I was seven, but I never spoke Thai. Then I moved to the U.S. and didn’t understand American culture. I was the youngest in my family by nine years. I’ve always been forced to understand social dynamics to assimilate from a young age, and I think I’m pretty good at it as a result.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like?
Kellyn Bechtold’s always resonated with me — her Midwest nice, her ability to trust her gut, and her smarts and charm. I just adore her. I would love to play like Omar Zaheer. He played such an incredible social/strategic game where everyone believed he belonged with them and trusted him. I’ll strive to play such a cunning and masterful game.
What will you value in an alliance partner? Someone that will not be intimidated by my sort of rapid fire way of thinking. Ideally someone that takes my word vomit and parses it back and can balance out my overreactive brain.
Favorite hobbies:  Pottery, traveling, golf, and yoga.
Pet peeves: Hot oil splattering me while cooking, balloons popping (especially intentionally).
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? I’m honestly just so proud of the life my husband Derek and I have built together. So many incredible friends and family loving and supporting us, good jobs, traveling adventures, a home with our dog Eva and cat Maeby. I just couldn’t ask for more and that makes me so damn proud.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I can house the majority of a Costco watermelon in a single sitting.
Who in your life is your biggest inspiration and why? This is such a cop out but it’s genuinely true that every single person in my friends and family are incredible, and they all give me a nugget of something special that inspires me to live my life authentically and to the fullest.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I think I am good at reading people’s motivations and desires, which you need in order to pander to a jury. I make fast friends and tend to gain people's trust quickly, and I’m sort of a goldilocks, not too weak but not too physical, smart but not the smartest in the room. I’m socially well off but never the leader or figurehead. I’ll ride the middle to victory!

Jon Lovett

Age: 42
Hometown: Long Island, N.Y.
Current residence: Los Angeles, Calif.
Occupation: Podcast host
Three words to describe you: Opinions for days
Why do you want to be part of Survivor: What I love about Survivor is, yeah, it’s about deprivation and endurance and puzzles and challenges, but at its root, it’s an experiment in democracy. It ends in a vote, and the players decide what it means to earn that vote. I want to be a part of that experiment.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? When I was 13, I got cut from the baseball team on the way to the game. Also, a career in politics.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? Penner with an Aubrey moon and Cochran rising.
What will you value in an alliance partner? Consistency, thoughtfulness, and a vibe that says, “I won’t panic and stab you in the back.”
Favorite hobbies: I love video games, crossword puzzles, hiking, and seeing movies in the theater while theaters still exist.
Pet peeves: Too many to count. Phones at stoplight, people who cut a line and then act confused. I’m constantly annoyed. I’m like a gay Larry David.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Co-founding Vote Save America, which lets people sign up to volunteer, donate, and register voters. We’ve helped raise tens of millions of dollars and signed up hundreds of thousands to volunteer.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? Astronaut Buzz Aldrin almost punched me in the face.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? Honestly? I love my family and friends. I’m inspired and motivated by the people I hate.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I’ve always felt like an outsider. In part that’s because I was gay. But if I’m being honest, that was never my largest problem! Social graces, fitting in, making friends — it’s never come naturally to me. I had to work at it. In that way, I’ve been training for Survivor my whole life.

Genevieve Mushaluk

Age: 33
Hometown: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Current residence: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Occupation: Corporate lawyer
Three words to describe you: Energetic, friendly, organized
Why do you want to be part of Survivor? I began watching the show when I was a pre-teen, and even back then I had this unearned sense of confidence, like, “I could do that!” I got older, but never lost that belief. So I’m here to test it out and challenge myself. (And prove myself, right?)
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? My extended family was always really close. I grew up sitting around a big table, conversing with kids and adults of all ages and personalities. Being able to appreciate and connect with people of all backgrounds and ages and ideas will come easier to me because of my upbringing.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? Let’s go with a combo of Eliza, Chrissy, and Lindsay. I identify with strategic women who are direct. I think saying “Lindsay” to people in the game will not raise any red flags. I plan to say I admire her because of her success in challenges (but will omit any reference to her amazing social game).
What will you value in an alliance partner? Predictability for obvious reasons; and a strong social game that is attractive to other players outside the group. Ideally, my partner would deliver me intel that I wouldn’t otherwise be able to get.
Favorite hobbies: Am I too old to say video games here? Aside from that, I like anything social — time with family or friends. I also love trying to cook any recipe I see on Instagram that involves a cheese pull.
Pet peeves: Airports. Or the combo of airports and people. People who line up at the gate way too early, as if the plane will leave without them if they don’t storm the boarding gate. People who hog the arm rest or take off their shoes then put their feet up. Yuck!
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Honestly, probably getting on Survivor because of my path to get here. I first applied the very night that Canadians could — so that’s what, five or six years ago? I’ve applied every year since and got progressively closer each time, but last year I got rejected when my hopes were up. It hurt. But I kept trying. It’s the longest I’ve failed at something repeatedly but kept trying and here I am!
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I wear my heart on my sleeve and my thoughts on my face, plus I talk a lot. So if you met me, you know me pretty well pretty quick.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? Tie between my mom and dad. (Parents say they can’t pick a favorite kid, well, I can’t pick a favorite parent!) They are distinctly different in their strengths and approaches to life, but both in very compassionate, generous, evolving ways — it inspires me to keep going forward.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I connect easily with others, so they won’t hate living with me, and I’m very objective-focused out here. Nothing — no bond, deal, fear, relationship — will stop me from doing what I think needs to be done to further my game. Killer instinct vibes in Fiji for me!

Gabe Ortis

Age: 26
Hometown: Baltimore, Md.
Current residence: Baltimore, Md.
Occupation: Radio show host
Three words to describe you: Opportunistic, resourceful, blunt
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: The new era opened a door to write yourself into a new set of history books. I wanted to make my mark before those books got written.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? I’ve worked tons of jobs many people were more qualified for, but I got very adept at selling people on ME, and those interviews translated great to getting on and succeeding at Survivor.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? I think there are bits of a lot of players I resonate with and will emulate, but to be honest, I don’t want people to watch me and say, “Wow, he’s like XZY!” I want people to look at players that come after me and be like “Wow, he’s like Gabriel!”
What will you value in an alliance partner? It’s cliché, but trust. I mean, what else, right?
Favorite hobbies: Live sporting events, poker, snowboarding.
Pet peeves: Passive aggression. Say what you mean!
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Hosting my own talk show in Baltimore on a major station. I sadly left that job to pursue Survivor, but best sad decision I ever made.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I own two cats, Chachi and Saba. I feel like I come off as a dog person, and no disrespect, I love canines, but those cats are my ultimate joy in life.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? It’s hard to pick one, but I’ll say my older brother. The guy has gone through his fair share of life’s trials and came out the other side as a fantastic father, husband, and brother.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I can read people better than anyone I know. Also, if I get an idol, I’m playing it!

Kyle Ostwald

Age: 31
Hometown: Cheyboygan, Mich.
Current residence: Cheboygan, Mich.
Occupation: Construction worker
Three words to describe you: Fun, ambitious, creative
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: I want to be a part of Survivor to help inspire my children to change their wildest dreams. I want to share some of my challenges in life to show others that just because life knocks you down does not mean that you are not worthy of journey. That happens more than we like, but it’s not about the knockdown. It’s about how we choose to get back up, no matter how hard it is. Because every single time you get back up, you end up a little taller and better than before.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? Hands down van life! Traveling around the country for over six years living in a van that I personally built has allowed me to submerse myself into so many different environments, culture, and different social classes of people, to the point I can be comfortable and get along with almost anyone. It helped teach me that being uncomfortable is not only a blessing but opportunity for personal growth. I’ve eaten dinner from a dumpster with a hippie and I’ve been out on million-dollar yachts.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? The player I identify with the most is probably Jesse from season 43. His main goal was to win that million-dollar prize for his family; that is one major reason why I applied. As far as who do I think I will play most like? Being that I am an old-school Survivor [player] with new-school abilities, I would say that JT if he was just a good person, doing his thing and climbing the ladder without making folks feel uncomfortable with his character remaining in the game.
What will you value in an alliance partner? To me, a valued alliance partner needs to be honest, even if it means I’m about to get the short end of the stick. Someone who can cut the s--- and give it to you straight. Someone who will stand aside even if it means there is a bumpy road ahead.
Favorite hobbies: I love to travel, and I love being a dad — it’s my absolute favorite. And when given the opportunity, I enjoy a good surf.
Pet peeves: People sneezing around me and hearing people chew food. Those two things drive me absolutely bonkers.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Building my family a house by myself with minimum to no help from anybody. It’s one of the only projects that made me question at times if I had bitten off more than I could chew.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? You would never know that the reason I strive to see people and help people be happy is because I don’t want anybody to feel the pain I felt in my life.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? I am the biggest inspiration in my life. I mean, look at how my life started and then look what I have done with it! Life straight up dealt me the recipe for disaster, and I baked a brownie with it. I am so proud of myself. I found the love of my life, I am a part of a family that loves me and I love that. I’ve experienced and accomplished more than anybody in my family ever has, and to think, I am just getting started.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I will be the Sole Survivor because I’m pouring every ounce of heart and soul into this game. I am not just playing for myself, I am playing for my family. And an opportunity to bring home enough money, that I can not only present them with financial freedom, but also an opportunity of generational wealth. Something that could take care of my family for generations to come.

Kishan Patel

Age: 28
Hometown: Fullerton, Calif.
Current residence: San Francisco, Calif.
Occupation: ER doctor
Three words to describe you: Nurturing, composed, adorable
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: I’ve been playing some form of Survivor for as long as I can remember. Whether it was knowing who to trust as a closeted, gay Indian-American, and waiting for the right moment to share my secret, to experiencing the hustle as a child of immigrant parents, raised in our family-owned liquor store. Survivor is the most chaotic, beautiful, complex reflection of each individual identity — and I want to show that every story deserves to be shared and heard. Plus, it’s obviously so fun!
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? As an ER doctor, going from caring for someone with cardiac arrest to somebody with a stubbed toe — experiencing emotional whiplash and staying composed, calm, and collected and in control is critical. It is equally important to navigating the complex, messy and chaotic social dynamics of Survivor.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? I identify and hope to play most like Spencer. A geeky nerd who had an authentic yet devious, charismatic while scheming, under-the-radar-until-it’s-too-late gameplay.
What will you value in an alliance partner? I will value someone who can disagree with me but can still work with me. I appreciate and trust folks who aren’t afraid to share their opinion but can still understand countering perspectives, and are open to having open conversations, weighing various points. Someone who is levelheaded and understands the nuances to emotional intelligence.
Favorite hobbies: Traveling and eating all the pastries and desserts of the world, binge watching Netflix and religiously playing Wordle and the other New York Times games with my partner.
Pet peeves: Slow walkers, loud chewers, and thinking salt and pepper are seasoning.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Becoming an ER doctor. My goal has always been to better care for the vulnerable and undeserved community that raised me. Growing up as a first-generation college student with my parents working triple jobs as motel maids, milkmen, and liquor store owners, I became the first doctor in my family as a testament to my parents’ sacrifice and unwavering love and support to a better life through education.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? Despite usually being a well-planned, cautious, and articulate person, I randomly will swing the pendulum too far and be super spontaneous. I did a last-minute solo trip to Guatemala to hike a volcano, went skydiving, and joined a competitive dance team in college all spontaneously. I also applied to be on Survivor on a whim, and here we are now!
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? No doubt my parents. From being farmers in small villages in India, and not even finishing high school, to working their butts off day in, day out, to caring for a physically and intellectually disabled child all while ensuring I had the tools and support I needed to focus on my education is nothing short of inspirational.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? As somebody raised with grit and nurtured to respect true hard work, I will never give up. Living a life in fear of being ostracized for being gay, I have an intuition on who to trust and share with. Thriving in chaos and remaining in control of any situation in the emergency department, I stay calm and focused with adversity. And with that, I will be the Sole Survivor.

Sam Phalen

Age: 24
Hometown: Schaumburg, Ill.
Current residence: Nashville, Tenn.
Occupation: Sports reporter
Three words to describe you: Passionate, stubborn, ambitious
Why do you want to be part of Survivor: Playing Survivor is a childhood dream. I love both mental and physical competitions. Survivor is the greatest game ever created, and I need to prove I have what it takes. Also… $1 million.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game?: My daily work life has built me for this game. Working in professional sports as a media member forces you to excel at ego stroking, asking the right questions, building relationships, and capitalizing on information.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? Michele Fitzgerald. So much more to her than her appearance and played the game (twice) with grit. Tough exterior with an emotional core. My game may also look similar to Devon Pinto. He built relationships, gave up control early, didn’t have to be the alpha, and made a late run!
What will you value in an alliance partner? Predictability. I want to know how my allies think, what they value, and what they need from me. I won’t deal with [erratic] people. I’d also love someone that presents more strategic than me to hide my own wit.
Favorite hobbies: Playing trivia, critiquing movies, working out.
Pet peeves: When someone leaves the door open too long entering the sauna and wastes the heat. When someone uses an accent to say a foreign word correctly when they’re not from there. Overly confident sports fans.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Landing a full-time job as an NFL beat reporter at 22 years old. My professors told me it would take years of “working my way up” to reach that level.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I did a lot of drama, musical theater, and slam poetry growing up. I love the arts. I’m way smarter than I look.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? My fiancé. She is my best friend. I’m inspired by her patience, loving nature, loyalty, and the joy she carries with her every day. She makes me want to be the best version of me.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I can gel with any group of people. I’m a physical, strategic, and social force that will never be perceived as the strongest, smartest, or loudest person in the room. I’m gritty.

Andy Rueda

Age: 31
Hometown: Buffalo, N.Y.
Current residence: Brooklyn, N.Y.
Occupation: AI research assistant
Three words to describe you: Frenetic, warm, creative
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: Playing Survivor has been a dream and a source of motivation for the last decade of my life. I don’t think my life makes as much sense if it didn’t include ultimately playing. I am so, so ready to scratch this itch and transition my role in this weird ecosystem from superfan to player.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? Can I say the casting process itself? I was a finalist last cycle, and it was a very emotional challenge to get so close and not know if I would ever get another shot. But I made the best decision possible. I gave myself back to my life, and lived my fullest, most substantial year so far. I thrived in my education and career, got to know myself in deeper ways, and fell in love with my amazing girlfriend, Shannon.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? I identify the most with Yul (wow, flattering myself) for being a triple threat Goliath and truly inspirational Asian representation. I think I’ll play most like Omar — though he didn’t win, I think he demonstrated the optimal, most respectable blueprint for a good New Era game; prioritizing social capital, information, and options in a way that sustains a manageable threat level.
What will you value in an alliance partner? I want someone who is not willing to win at all costs, and that is susceptible to true loyalty. I need this person to want to take me to the end, even if they’re not sure they can beat me. This can either be some moral compass they bring in the game, or because they just love me that much.
Favorite hobbies: Minesweeper, road trips even though I can’t drive, being a k-pop stan.
Pet peeves: Language prescriptivists, people walking directly behind me, cherry-picked statistics.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Leaving my data analyst job in big tech to get my masters in a field of AI that I am very passionate about. During my studies, I got a research paper published as a first author, and an award for Outstanding Achievement in Computational Linguistics.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I come across as very carefree, but underneath is an extremely intense, constant, and often excessive amount of hyper-active thinking. I’m able to overthink how to tie my own shoes. In the game, I will focus a lot of energy towards taking deep breaths and trusting my instincts.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? My maternal grandfather for serving in WWII, and for being one of the few Democrats on either side of my family.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I feel like I’m two good players smushed into one. My two great powers are my ability to charm and disarm people from all walks of life, and my ability to crunch numbers in a pinch. I’m confident I can always find the right vote-split/plurality option, and I can use my social bonds to execute on it.

Sue Smey

Age: 59
Hometown: Kirkwood, N.Y.
Current residence: Putnam Valley, N.Y.
Occupation: Flight school owner
Three words to describe you: Badass, fearless, adrenaline junkie
Why do you want to be part of Survivor? It has been a lifelong dream since the very first episode. I’m a competitor and want to see how I hold up under the most exciting adventure in my life. I want to be pushed to my limits. What a thrill. I WANT THE TITLE. I want to be a legend.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? I grew up spending my summers on an island with generations of family. We were poor, no drinking water, no hot showers, no heat. Had to schlep to the water well with jugs for water, jump in the river to bathe, start a fire for cold days. Grandparents only had an outhouse. This experience is far worse, but I have an idea of what to expect.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? Tony. I feel like I will be a combo of Tony and Cirie.
What will you value in an alliance partner? We all know alliances are only temporary so I’m not expecting much from anyone. We are all going to lie to each other. As a teammate, I’m hoping to learn a new language, maybe to dance, maybe learn about someone’s cultural or spiritual beliefs.
Favorite hobbies: Racket ball, tennis, snow skiing, ice skating, building stone fireplaces, making mantles or wood columns.
Pet peeves: “One-uppers,” people who talk too much about stuff that no one cares about (can’t read the room), energy drainers. People who are only negative and complain all the time.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Packing my bags, $20 to my name, and leaving a toxic, dysfunctional, abusive environment at 21 years old. That’s when my life truly began.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I’m a sigma female. An introvert. I thrive to be a champion, but I don’t want the pat on the back. I believe I am powerful, but I treat people with kindness and humility. I will always defend the underdog, even if I don’t know them. I love to live life and all it has to offer. I love the bad as much as the good because that’s where I grow as a person.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? My uncle. I grew up in a very dysfunctional environment. He always took the time to help me see it wasn’t my fault. He showed me pure, unconditional love.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? Because I’m a badass. I’m not afraid of anything or anyone. I will take the lead and follow my gut. I will take out the threats and work on manipulating the others to do what I suggest. They will see following me will help to get them far and all will respect how I played.

Caroline Vidmar

Age: 27
Hometown: Palos Verdes, Calif.
Current residence: Chicago, Ill.
Occupation: Strategy consultant
Three words to describe you: Adventurous, enthusiastic, supportive
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: It’s been my dream to be on Survivor since I was five years old. When I was younger, I loved watching Survivor and seeing how happy people were when they won a challenge, and as I grew older and began to understand how grueling and tough Survivor is, the more I fell in love with the show. Watching Survivors who were down on their luck still fight, persevere, and even thrive taught me the power of resilience. And now I’m ready to put my damn resilience to the test and play the most epic game there is.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game?: The day after my final Survivor interview, I flew to Chile to backpack the Patagonia W trek. It was fantastic endurance training.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? I resonate with Tori from season 42 and Emily from season 45. I love their honest takes and thought their insights were spot on. I’d love to play like Dee. Her strategy drove the game. She was smart, perceptive, and kept her best moves secret from most other players, until the final Tribal Council.
What will you value in an alliance partner? I want an alliance partner who thinks they can beat me in the final Tribal and who I also think I can beat, alliances with the dynamic are the ones that actually last and dominate the game.
Favorite hobbies: Trying new foods while traveling, biking along Lakeshore Drive in Chicago, hosting game show-themed competitions — some favorites include Chopped cooking contests, Hot Ones spicy nugget challenges, and Amazing Race themed-scavenger hunts.
Pet peeves: Incompetency. Loud chewers. People who ask you to complete something by a deadline and then send a follow-up before the deadline.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I grew up playing a ton of water sports, including water polo, swimming, kite boarding, surfing, and scuba diving.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? I have three biggest inspirations. My dad is the master of making people feel special, and he’ll show me that one of the most meaningful things you can do in life is help someone feel heard. My brother is the best human being I know, and he constantly inspired me to be a better person. (And it’s a good thing he’s not in Fiji; that’s not the energy I’m trying to channel.) My mom is my hero, she goes above and beyond for the people she cares about, and their lives are so much greater because she’s in it. She inspires me to go all out for the things in life that matter.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? The complete answer to this question is taking me too long to write, so I’ll just say this – I’ve been preparing for this experience for a long time. I have the grit, determination, and expertise needed to win.

Aysha Welch

Age: 32
Hometown: DeSoto, Tex.
Current residence: Houston, Tex.
Occupation: IT consultant
Three words to describe you: Overachiever, unique, joyful
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: I’ve watched Survivor since I was 12. My mom started watching season 1, so she put me on. I always thought that Survivor was too hard, but I’ve reached the point in my life where I’ve accomplished a lot personally and I’m ready for my next biggest challenge. Not only is this my dream, but my family’s too.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? In 2017, Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, Tex. My apartment got above one foot of water, ruining so many of my belongings and furniture. My dad drove down from Dallas, Tex., and I had to walk through waist-deep water at night to go get him. The water had snakes and all kinds of creatures. That night showed me that I can do anything I set my mind to.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? I identify the most with Cirie because of her ability to use her personality to connect with so many kinds of people. I plan to use my ability to form relationships to make sure people genuinely like me without thinking it’s strategy. So, I plan to have a social game like Cirie with the physicality of Natalie Anderson. I lost 10 pounds of fat and gained five pounds of muscle in preparation for Survivor by strength training.
What will you value in an alliance partner? Blind loyalty. I’d love for them to be loyal to me without realizing that I’m a threat to win. Too many people lately have been blindsided by their ally. I want an ally who is too loyal to even consider betrayal.
Favorite hobbies: Going to escape rooms, playing basketball, long walks with my dogs, watching TV (yes that’s a hobby), working out, drinking cider at a cidery or wine at a winery.
Pet peeves: People who are loud in quiet places, people who chew to the point where you can identify what part of the meal they’re on, people who don’t listen, people who oppose the idea that dogs can be someone’s children.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? I bought my first house all on my own at 29. I always thought I’d wait until I was married for that type of investment, but I had the means, and I went for it. I had to make sure I had enough space for Pepper and Cinnamon to run around. They’re my dogs and I call them my “spice girls.”
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I’m super competitive. If the objective is to win, my goal is to win. I don’t care if it’s trivia on FB messenger with my seven-year-old goddaughter. I even broke up with an ex because I beat him 1v1 in basketball and he threw a temper tantrum.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? My mom, she had a gastric bypass surgery where she lost 150 pounds after constant exercise post-surgery and has kept it off for 15 years. She had a kidney transplant after being on dialysis for six years. She is the embodiment of overcoming no matter what you go through.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I believe I will be underestimated. I will use my social game to push me through while unveiling my competitiveness when it matters most. Then, at final tribal council, I will be able to clearly articulate my strategy to get there.

Sierra Wright

 Age: 27
Hometown: Wilmington, Del.
Current residence: Phoenixville, Pa.
Occupation: Nurse
Three words to describe you: Ambitious, intuitive, hoot
Why do you want to be part of Survivor? I was born for the game of Survivor! My social and physical abilities are about to thrive. Survivor was such a big part of my upbringing, spending MANY nights with my fam, placing bets on our winners. Aside from that, your girl loves a good challenge! When I first applied five years back, people laughed at me and said “you could never!” I said, “oh, you watch.” Here we are! Plus, I’m getting sick of the monthly payments towards my $100,000 student debt. Could really use that mil!
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? Working in the service industry for [more than] 12 years, no doubt! It really armed me with the skills you need to effectively communicate. Things can always change, so learning to roll with them and adapt quickly are qualities I am bringing with me to the island. No matter how difficult of a customer, if you want to make money, you had to bounce back quick. That’s my Survivor mentality. Smile and wave, baby! Smile and wave.
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? Steph LaGrossa. We love a Delco girl! She just a blast and dominated Palau, becoming such an inspiration to young girls all over the world. She’s the perfect example of being able to achieve ANYTHING with resilience, perseverance, and toughness. We have a ton in common, but her love for sports and a good competition takes the cake! JT in Tocantins is how I see my game playing out the most, mixed with some Tony and Dee, of course.
What will you value in an alliance partner? I value laughter and a good time! We are freaking stranded on an island stripped of anything, we better be making the most of it! Show me you’re genuine and trustworthy, and we’ll dominate out here together.
Favorite hobbies: Pickleball, crabbing on the boat, and my newfound love for rock climbing. I’m also a big beer-pong girl — minus the beer, sub a seltzer. Heck, put water in them, I just love that damn game.
Pet peeves: Clapping when the plane lands, slow walkers, or saying “no offense” or “I’m kidding” when you’re not kidding.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Completing an accelerated nursing degree in 17 months and receiving my nursing license. I was NEVER a science girly. School just didn’t come easy to me. After many sleepless nights of studying, blood (literally), sweat, and tears, I did it! Phew.
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I can say the alphabet backwards in five seconds, I can touch my tongue to my nose, and I was an Irish step dancer for 10 years.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? I can’t just pick one, I have to say both my parents! They truly are two of the hardest working people I know. No matter what life throws at them, they take it, accept it, and always keep a positive mindset. When my dad was diagnosed with cancer two years ago, shortly after, my mom had a second heart attack as my dad was receiving home chemotherapy. Watching how the both of them tackled the devastation was nothing short of inspiring.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? If there is one thing I know about me, it’s that I work my ass off at everything I do. There is no such thing as 100 percent in my book, always 150 percent or nothing! I plan to follow suit here. Also, I like to say I’m a pretty good time! My friends tell me my laugher is contagious. I just hope my tribe feels the same. I practiced the last year, so I expect those 4 a.m. gym wakeup calls to shine through in the challenges.

Solomon “Sol” Yi

Age: 43
Hometown: Del City, Okla.
Current residence: Norwalk, Conn.
Occupation: Medical device sales
Three words to describe you: Witty, friendly, lucky
Why do you want to be part of Survivor?: Besides Oklahoma Football, Survivor is what I love to watch most. I have everything I’ve ever wanted in life now that I get to play my favorite game.
What’s one life experience you feel has prepared you for the game? Both of my parents worked two jobs and were rarely home. Since I was a boy, I’ve learned to “figure it out.”
Which previous player do you identify with the most? Who do you think you will play most like? Gabler. We are both in medical sales, we both have a strong ability to build bonds, and have self-awareness. Adam — I’m a strategist. Tyson — I hope to win people over with charm.
What will you value in an alliance partner? To keep your mouth shut! Sticking to the plan while also being adaptable if need be. Their ability to act.
Favorite hobbies: Poker, working out, personal growth, eating kimchi.
Pet peeves: Treating people in the service industry like crap. Be kind.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? Take a look at my wife!
What is something we would never know from looking at you? I used to live with international pop sensation Ryan Cabrera.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why? This will all come to an end. Once I recognized and accepted this, my second life started.
Why will you be the Sole Survivor? I have more than willpower. I have Sol Power.

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