Hosted by Joel Dommett, this brand new series of the ultimate physical and psychological game promises viewers a compelling test of brains, brawn and betrayal as players compete to outwit, outplay and outlast their rivals to be crowned the Sole Survivor.
18 people, carefully selected from across the UK, are marooned in a tropical location where they are divided into two tribes, competing against each other in a range of physical and mental challenges for reward or immunity.
One by one, players are voted out of their tribes at the iconic Tribal Council until the two tribes eventually merge and the game becomes a head-to-head battle. Ultimately only one person can triumph, winning the cash prize of 拢100,000 and the title of Sole Survivor.
LW
Meet the Survivor contestants
Ashleigh
Age: 34
From: London
Occupation: Brand Strategist
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I love every opportunity to live life to the fullest and to challenge and push myself. Whether it鈥檚 in work e.g. starting my own business, in fitness with my boxing or in life and taking on skydiving, I have always wanted to test my limits. I suffer from imposter syndrome and struggle to believe in myself, so this is why I push myself, to try and find my limits. What better test to understand what I鈥檓 really capable of than the ultimate challenge - Survivor!
What qualities did you think you could bring to the game?
In life I鈥檓 generally a very upbeat and positive person, I鈥檓 proactive and determined and I like to be there for people and to step-up when others maybe don鈥檛 feel like they can. I鈥檓 always happy to put myself forward and to do it with a positive attitude. I鈥檓 also willing to push myself to the end for my team and I try to be a strategic thinker, so I was keen to bring not just strength, strategy and determination but also a smile!
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I have coeliac disease and I actually had a gluten flare-up three weeks before the show started which massively impacted my training. I usually run three times a week and weight train or box twice a week, but I had to cut right back during my coeliac recovery so I was not at my peak fitness when I started. I did try and eat lots to make sure I was ready for the calorie deficit though - thank god for gluten free pizza!
Did you have a strategy for how you were going to play the game?
I wanted to take my time to get to know the other players a bit better before making any moves. Sometimes having a big game plan from the beginning can be a sure-fire way to get yourself voted off early! So I wanted to try and steer the game subtly, leading from below rather than trying to place myself in a leadership (and therefore more risky!) position.
How competitive are you?
A little healthy competition never hurt anyone! I have always had a strong drive to succeed and a willingness to work hard to achieve my goals. I鈥檓 highly self-motivated, resilient, determined and am always looking for ways to improve and outperform others. I always have a clear sense of what I want to achieve and I鈥檓 willing to take the risks and face challenges to get there. I also have no issue with bouncing back from setbacks and failures, seeing these as new opportunities to learn and grow.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
I knew I wouldn鈥檛 be the most physically fit, but I work well in a team and enjoy more mental and strategic challenges. I was excited about the team games and puzzles!
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
Not well, but better than I expected in some ways. It really made me realise how much I don鈥檛 need certain things, and I really enjoyed not being attached to my phone all of the time. I will never forget sleeping under the stars or learning how to build and maintain a fire. There are some incredible, seemingly basic things that can be the most meaningful and comforting. Surprisingly not being able to shower wasn鈥檛 as bad as I thought, the sea is a great alternative! But things like not having a towel to dry-off, not being able to brush our teeth, and of course no Prosecco brunches, were not my favourite!
How did you cope with the hunger?
I am mega grumpy when I鈥檓 hungry! So not well, I was so tired and desperate for food all of the time! It definitely made me realise how privileged I am at home to be able to eat what I want at home and was a reminder not take that for granted.
What did you learn from being on the show or what is the biggest takeaway?
That I am more capable than I give myself credit for and to believe in myself.
Christopher
Age: 36
From: Bridgend
Occupation: Singer/Songwriter
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I wanted to be a contestant on Survivor because I wanted to take myself out of my comfort zone and face my fears. I wanted to undertake the hardest challenges, on land, in the air or in the sea. I want to prove to myself that I have got what it takes, that I can achieve anything. The idea of having nothing but the clothes on my back seemed a million miles away from what I do in real life. Having all luxuries taken away and food restricted whilst having to undertake the toughest game show on earth just excited me. I thought it鈥檚 the best way to push myself, to learn how to survive and do challenges as I鈥檓 extremely competitive. I am at the stage in my life where I am more confident and determined to do something which I feel I can do well with the determination and competitive spirit to outwit, outplay, and outlast.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
In a social game I can work very well as a team and look out for people if we click and care for each other. I love the sense of adventure and I think I bring the sense of warmth, openness and fun. I want people to feel comfortable around me and know that they can talk to me about anything. Equally, I think I have a very mischievous side, a side that wants to have fun and do my very best!
I am extremely determined and knew that I would give it my all to do my best with no regrets. I believe I can adapt to any situation, I work well under pressure and I鈥檓 very easy to get along with which brings a good team spirit when working well as a tribe or as an individual.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I am generally into my gym, fitness and being outdoors, but in my opinion there is not a lot you can do that prepares you for the Survivor experience as it鈥檚 totally unique and there are so many things to deal with. There鈥檚 the lack of food, building your own shelter, having no shower or bath, doing challenges, all whilst sleeping on hard bamboo next to people that you have no idea whether they are your friend or want to see you voted off. I didn鈥檛 really do anything drastic to prepare myself for the show apart from continue to do my normal routine but maybe doing a bit more cardio and swimming than I usually would.
Did you have a strategy for how you were going to play the game?
I didn鈥檛 have a big master plan but I did have the strategy to keep my eyes and ears open and to do my best. That way I can just adapt and make moves when needed, take it day by day and never give up even when things turn really tough.
How competitive are you?
I am extremely competitive, I will just keep going even when I feel like I can鈥檛 give anymore. I will do whatever it takes to outlast the biggest strongest contender. I am one not to be messed with, I play to win!
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
I was most looking forward to the obstacle courses, the physical challenges and the challenges that really push you. The under-water challenge was exciting because it鈥檚 really a mental game and you have to tap into a place where you will either keep going or you crumble.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
I struggled with the thought of sleeping on a beach with creepy crawlies and the unknown terrified me and I wasn鈥檛 sure I would be able to cope. But I surprised myself and managed to adapt and got used to having no phone, no spare clothes and no home comforts. I adapted very quickly and started to enjoy being around nature and sleeping under the stars. It was tough, and very uncomfortable, but it was also incredible.
How did you cope with the hunger?
The hunger was probably the thing I found the hardest. I love food, all sorts of food and I eat a lot. I really did struggle with the lack of food. It ended up pushing me even harder to try and win the rewards because I just wanted to eat even though you feel drained from being so hungry!
What did you learn from being on the show?
I learned that I am a lot more resilient and stronger than I thought. Before I went on the show I was a little unsure about it all, there was a lot of fear and many doubts in my head. I wanted to push myself and make sure that if I can do my best, then I have zero regrets. I can honestly say that I have zero regrets because I really did give it my all!
Doug
Age: 32
From: Isle of Mull
Occupation: Flood Risk Consultant
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
When I was younger I vividly remember watching the original UK Survivor back in 2002. As a family we loved the show, even going as far as re-enacting some of the original challenges. When I saw that it was returning to TV in the UK I wasted no time in putting my application in. Next thing I know 鈥� I鈥檓 on a desert island building a shelter from bamboo! I came on Survivor to make my family back home on Mull proud, and have the adventure of a lifetime.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I was hopeful I could put my height (I鈥檓 6ft 4鈥�) to good use and help my tribe get to those hard to reach places, get the shelter up, and hopefully be a useful asset for the challenges. I also enjoy making people laugh so hopefully I made everyone鈥檚 experience a little more enjoyable on the island and spread a little joy.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I try and keep fairly active back home, so as part of my preparation for the show I did a lot of sled work at the gym. I鈥檇 load the sled up with my bodyweight and push and pull it 50 times a session. That, and Pilates!
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy coming into the game comprised of 2 key elements; firstly establish myself as an indispensable member of the tribe during the early phase of the game by performing well at Challenges and working hard around the camp. Then secondly was to find myself a 鈥淪hield鈥� player, or failing that, to create one. Someone ideally who would take a real leadership role within the tribe and more importantly, is regarded as a bigger target than myself. I鈥檒l sit right behind them as long as I can!
How competitive are you?
One of my main hobbies growing up was playing rugby, so I guess I鈥檇 regard myself as a fairly competitive person! I鈥檝e also got a twin sister back home on the Isle of Mull who is fiercely competitive and kept me on my toes as a youngster.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
All of them! Especially the challenges that involved physical strength and were team based. There鈥檚 no feeling quite like grinding out a victory against the odds with your tribe by your side.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
Although we were without food, internet and a bed, being away from the comforts of home was incredible. Living on the bare essentials and being away from everyday distractions was an amazing experience.
How did you cope with the hunger?
Back in Scotland I鈥檇 usually eat between 3000-4000 calories a day, so hunger and a real lack of food was a huge concern coming onto Survivor! To prepare I went on a strict 鈥渟ee-food鈥� diet where I鈥檇 try and eat as much food as possible (my final weight before entering the game was 107kg 鈥� the heaviest I鈥檝e ever been.) Limited rations at camp was tough, especially after the gruelling challenges but we found some creative ways to keep it varied and bulk it out as much as we could.
What did you learn from being on the show or what is the biggest takeaway?
Being on Survivor was an adventure of a lifetime. Full of twists, turns, highs and lows. During the low points of the game it was my tribemates who gave me the strength I needed to keep fighting. It鈥檚 amazing how complete strangers who you鈥檝e never met before can lift your mood even during the dark times living on a desert island. That, and I鈥檒l never eat rice and beans again!
Hannah
Age: 30
From: London
Occupation: Semi-Professional Footballer
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
Survivor really became my go-to TV show to watch during lockdown. I got totally hooked, binge-watching season after season and the more I watched, the more I thought: "I'd absolutely love to be on that show!"
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I saw myself as a strong physical player, but I also thought my positive energy, authenticity, and social skills could be real game changers. Survivor is as much about strategy and alliances as it is about physical prowess, so I wanted to bring a well-rounded approach to the game.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
In preparation I focused on increasing my physical fitness by dedicating more time to the gym. Mentally, I constantly reminded myself of my blessings, even when faced with challenges.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy was all about using my communication skills, authenticity and social charm to build strong alliances. I wanted people to trust me and feel comfortable working with me. At the same time I didn't want to be underestimated physically so I aimed to showcase my strength when necessary.
How competitive are you?
I'm incredibly competitive and football has been a huge part of fuelling that fire. Competing at a semi-pro level has given me a taste for competition and the drive to succeed. I brought that same spirit to Survivor, ready to battle it out in every challenge.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
I was most looking forward to assault courses that test numerous strengths.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
Living on that beach was so tough, that's for sure. The lack of food and seasoning was tough for someone like me who loves their flavours. Plus, having sand stick to you constantly and dealing with those flies made it quite jarring but I knew what I'd signed up for and I was determined to tough it out.
How did you cope with the hunger?
Hunger was probably one of the most challenging aspects of the game. To manage it I often reminded myself of the people in the world who have it much worse. That perspective helped me keep my hunger in check but I won't lie, there were moments when I felt absolutely drained and weak due to the lack of sustenance.
What did you learn from being on the show?
Survivor taught me a lot about myself and life in general. It reminded me of the importance of putting myself first at times, recognising my own worth, and having faith that even in the darkest moments things can turn around. Embracing my emotions was another big takeaway 鈥� they're not a weakness but a strength, showing my realness, vulnerability, and helping others relate to me on a deeper level.
Jess
Age: 38
From: London
Occupation: Fitting Model
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
It鈥檚 the ultimate challenge of a lifetime and I fancied doing something wild as I approach 40. I also thought the 100K might come in handy!
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
Fun, laughter and positivity!
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I increased my gym sessions and did more weightlifting to get physically stronger. Mentally, I just dug deep!
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
I never really had a game plan I just always said I would be true to myself and follow my heart and my gut instinct.
How competitive are you?
I鈥檓 quite competitive but it鈥檚 more a case of me being someone who will never give up.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
Anything to do with jumping in the sea and swimming, so much fun!
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
Everything about it was my literal worst nightmare, I was so out of my comfort zone but I did it.
What did you learn from being on the show or what is the biggest takeaway?
The biggest thing I learnt was that I鈥檓 stronger than I thought! 鈥�
Laurence
Age: 29
From: London, born in Vienna, and raised in Costa Rica
Occupation: Entrepreneur, currently doing an MPhil in Artificial Intelligence Ethics at Cambridge
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
Coming across Survivor and getting chosen to be one of the contestants was an enormous coincidence as I run a health-tech start-up selling anti-hangover capsules with the same name as the show! The show hit the spot as I felt I鈥檇 become too comfortable in life and I鈥檝e come to depend on all sorts of unnecessary creature comforts. It was time to shake things up a bit and prove to myself that I could live on bare necessities, in order to appreciate the luxuries of life. I wanted to see whether my character would remain the same when put to the test, or whether I would crack under pressure like most other fellow soft millennials.
I also celebrate absurdity - and instead of doing the rational thing and working in some dull accountancy firm towards buying an overpriced house and a boring retirement, I would much rather do something absurd like this. I crave new experiences. As George Mallory said, on why he wanted to climb Everest: 鈥淏ecause it is there.鈥� And finally, I thought I could at least make a big enough fool of myself on national television to amuse myself for the next few years.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I鈥檓 no Arnold Schwarzenegger in terms of biceps, or Machiavelli in cunning - nor did I know much about the show itself before starting. So, all I could rely upon is being the source of good morale through buffoonery, and the ability to adapt to everything and everywhere as a product of globalism and having worked in 11 countries. Crucially, the hidden ace up my sleeve was having the home field advantage, having grown up just around the corner in Costa Rica 鈥� consequently speaking fluent Spanish, and knowing the geography, flora, and fauna like the back of my hand. What was for some a foreign and hostile environment was for me my childhood although admittedly with less air conditioning and food!
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I bought a flint and proceeded to practice setting fire to the kitchen, much to my family鈥檚 horror. I asked a friend to join me at a Thai restaurant famous for serving bugs and forced myself to eat every creepy crawly in sight. I went all-out on sports 鈥� convincing a terrifying Austrian Schwarzenegger-lookalike to be my coach. He nailed it by brutalising me daily with cruel and unusual forms of exercise. On top of this, I did a fair amount of rock climbing, allowed my father to thrash me thrice at squash, a lot of long-distance running, and some strange balancing acts in the garden.
I had not watched a single full episode of Survivor, so I set about absorbing Survivor highlights and strategy reels on YouTube, and reading forums and Quora articles chock-full of advice, with questionable results. I did, however, absorb various books on survival skills, and very geographically specific books on flora and fauna.
Did you have a strategy for how you were going to play the game?
My aim was to play the role of harmless buffoon or village idiot (comes naturally!), and get along with my fellow tribemates, building strong relationships all while having a laugh. I aimed to avoid politics and would play a neutral Switzerland. The goal was to avoid coming across as a threat, and thereby placing a target on my back. Consistency and integrity 鈥� before bringing out the dagger when necessary!
How competitive are you?
Though I鈥檇 hate to come across as competitive, I secretly am. To compare myself to a swimming duck 鈥� I鈥檇 always want to appear cool as a cucumber on the surface, while paddling like a madman underneath the water.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
All looked intimidating to me. I looked at the endurance challenges with a combination of fascination and dread 鈥� a chance to prove oneself through pain. I was certainly keen to avoid the puzzle challenges as that risked quickly puncturing any perception of me as a clever cookie.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
Living on a beach with none of the comforts of home combined many things I hate 鈥� excess heat bordering on 40 degrees at 90% humidity (I鈥檓 a particularly 'sweaty Betty鈥�), no booze, no lip balm (you鈥檇 be surprised), clouds of mosquitoes, and severe sleep deprivation. However, experiencing these was part of my motivation for joining Survivor in the first place 鈥� testing myself.
Two coping mechanisms proved to be crucial bits of self-care. A strong morning routine, which involved going to the far edge of the beach at sunrise, away from the others, offering up a cheeky prayer, doing some improvised yoga, and finishing it off by pulling down my underpants, and going for a liberating skinny dip amidst the azure waves. And secondly, sneaking off for a nap whenever I could in a hidden cave I had to myself.
How did you cope with the hunger?
At first, I felt triumphant as I knew hunger was going to be a big problem so I had prepared through some fairly intense intermittent fasting beforehand, thereby getting my body used to not eating at regular mealtimes, and capable of enduring long stretches without food. I was surrounded by some world-class athletes who were used to eating 4,000 calories a day, and were suddenly operating on nothing, and they were really suffering. However, their advantage kicked in when they had big stores of energy in their muscles (or fat), while skinny beanstalk Laurence had nothing left. Either way, throughout I was always a professional bottom-of-pot scraper, and became an expert forager and even caught one particularly large hermit crab, which we cooked and ate with shell and all 鈥� resulting in me chipping a tooth.
What did you learn from being on the show or what is the biggest takeaway?
Though I came out weak, bedraggled and wearing rags, I came out considerably stronger. I achieved the impossible for a Brit - lasting more than a day without tea, coffee, or a drink 鈥� the latter of which was certainly a whacking surprise to the liver. I learnt not only how to set aside comforts, but actively embrace discomfort 鈥� be that enduring six wasp stings in a row, starvation or swarms of mosquitoes,.
Ultimately, I came to realise that I don鈥檛 need very much at all to be broadly happy 鈥� keeping busy, a well-cooked batch of rice and beans, good friends, a roof over one鈥檚 head, quality sleep, and perhaps a solid sunset. Everything else we have is a bonus and yet often in our day-to-day lives we are weighed down and made miserable by all these add-ons. I certainly came out with a very real appreciation for life 鈥� and learnt some new skills along the way, such as how to crack a coconut and cook a hermit crab.
Lee
Age: 28
From: Belfast (originally Limerick)
Occupation: Professional Boxer
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I thought it was a great opportunity to test myself and let the world see me for who I really am. Survivor shows people at their most vulnerable selves and I was excited for the Irish and British public to see me as my true authentic self.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I wanted to bring teamwork, a positive mental attitude, good energy and competitiveness to the game!
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
Physically, I like to keep myself in good shape and I train often so I maintained that before the show. Because of boxing, I feel that mentally I have the strength you need to have in the challenges, to persevere and push yourself to your limits.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My plan was to just to be myself and perform well in challenges, I felt like that鈥檚 where my strengths would lie. In terms of a proper strategy, I came in blind as I haven鈥檛 seen the show before 鈥� I鈥檓 an idiot!
How competitive are you?
I am massively competitive, I work well as a team but I was in it to win it.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
I thought I would excel in physical head-to-head challenges, where it鈥檚 a similar discipline to boxing, it鈥檚 just you and one other.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
I embraced it and loved it! It鈥檚 made me more grateful for the luxuries I have back home.
How did you cope with the hunger?
It鈥檚 a test of mental strength, which I handled well so for me it was grand.
What did you learn from being on the show or what is the biggest takeaway?
I loved pushing myself physically and mentally, and testing my body to see how resilient it could be. I loved being part of an iconic show like Survivor and being within the world of TV.
Leilani
Age: 45
From: Hertford
Occupation: Barista and cleaner at a yoga studio
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
A friend saw the application and said I should apply, I was at a crossroads in my life and looking for a new direction so it came along at the perfect time.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
Tongue in cheek humour, general immaturity and ignorant bliss mixed with lots of love, cuddles and unity.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I practice yoga and I go to the gym. I did struggle mentally to leave my son so I just had to take it day by day.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
I haven鈥檛 watched Survivor so I didn鈥檛 realise there was a psychological aspect to the game. I thought it was just about living right on the beach and competing in physical challenges, so I had no game plan whatsoever!
How competitive are you?
I didn鈥檛 think I was competitive, my fella says different...
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
I thought I would be fine at the challenges but oh my god, they are on an insane level of difficulty.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
I didn鈥檛 mind at all living with no comfort, it鈥檚 a beautifully simple existence which I have always wanted to experience and I鈥檓 very grateful for being given this opportunity. I will say though that your bum constantly hurts from sitting on trees, rocks and rolls of bamboo though!
How did you cope with the hunger?
I imagined I would cope better with the hunger however with absolutely no other distractions its all-encompassing and every day you last your huger becomes more and more compounded. All you do is fantasise about food.
What did you learn from being on the show or what is the biggest takeaway?
I learnt just how resilient and adaptable I am. My mental strength is super strong to be able to bear the pain of leaving my child at home during filming. I left Survivor a much more powerful woman.
Matthew
Age: 21
From: Cumbria
Occupation: Hospitality
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I wanted to be a contestant on Survivor because I knew this was the ultimate challenge! An amazing chance to really get stuck in and see what I鈥檓 made of. I turned 21 a few months ago and I couldn鈥檛 think of a better way to spend my summer, I鈥檓 so thankful for the opportunity. I really wanted to push myself to the limits and I genuinely mean that 鈥� this is a dream. I was looking forward to playing the game of Survivor because there鈥檚 so much to think about, it tests you physically and mentally and I was ready for both challenges!
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I鈥檓 very passionate and have a glass half-full perspective on life, so I wanted to bring my positive energy into the game! I鈥檝e got some cool party tricks up my sleeve鈥� I can juggle knives and can balance anything on my head so I thought hopefully I can keep the tribe entertained. I love to laugh and am very determined.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I was keeping fit by going running, plus me and my mates go swimming in lakes and rivers quite often and I live an active lifestyle, so I was excited and ready for the physical side! To prepare mentally I knew that I would need a game plan that could be easily adapted whenever needed. I expected emotions to run high and for there to be some tough decisions I was going to have to make, so I practiced staying calm and trying not to lose focus.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
I love being around people, so my strategy was to play the social game. As the youngest player I knew people would underestimate me but I used that to my advantage. I needed my strategy to be adaptable because I never knew what was going to be thrown at me next. I was there to play and wanted to play with no regrets by being true to myself.
How competitive are you?
Honestly, I put 100% into everything I do, I just want to make my friends and family proud. I鈥檝e played lots of team sports in the past, so when working as a tribe I feel very comfortable. I wanted to do well for myself but also for the tribe in challenges. But I do play chess against my Grandad quite often and we both like to win!
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
Definitely the water challenges, I love jumping from heights and swimming. I was also looking forward to trying an endurance challenge, something that pushes the mind and body to see how I鈥檇 cope.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
I just embraced the dirt and the conditions and I wasn鈥檛 scared to get my hands dirty, I just wanted to get stuck in! I realised that in everyday life I take all my home comforts for granted but the fact I have a comfy bed to sleep on and food in the fridge is such a privilege. But on the beach not having these home comforts brought everyone in the tribe together because all we had is each other and we were all living in the moment. One of the home comforts I missed most was definitely a cup of tea鈥� I drink so much of it at home, it was a big shock to my system!
How did you cope with the hunger?
I was craving every food you could imagine! Even foods I don鈥檛 like. My hunger cravings were going from one extreme to another鈥� one minute I was craving loads of ice cream next minute I fancied fish and chips! There was just no taste or flavour in my mouth. We were trying every possible way to get flavours in our food!
What did you learn from being on the show?
I learned that being able to adapt to situations even at the last minute is so important. I made some amazing connections and learned that I鈥檓 much more independent than I ever knew. I was so present, living in the moment I learned to take everything in and appreciate every day because I never knew which was going to be my last. I played with no regrets. My biggest takeaway was that when all my home comforts were taken away from me, I realised what was important in my life and what wasn鈥檛. It was the longest I鈥檝e ever been without my family and friends and I couldn鈥檛 wait to see them and tell them about the crazy adventure I鈥檇 been on! But sleeping outdoors is something I can鈥檛 wait to do again! I鈥檓 a proper 鈥淚slander鈥� now!
Nathan
Age: 35
From: Manchester (originally London)
Occupation: Fitness Instructor & Operations Manager
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I very much believe in the concept of Kaizen (a Japanese term for continuous improvement) and I try to apply this concept to every part of my life. When I reflect on when I鈥檝e grown the most, it has always been on the back of significantly challenging times, adversity, or hardship. So, when the opportunity to be a part of one of the most challenging experiences someone can face, I needed no convincing.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I feel I brought my mental attributes of determination, resilience, positivity, optimism and humility and physical attributes of strength and power. Used effectively these were perhaps inspiring for the rest of the camp to observe.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
Mentally, it was a case of daily positive affirmations, reminding myself that if I鈥檓 able to get through the things I have got through so far in life, that I will be able to get through anything the game would be able to throw at me.
On the physical side, prior to confirmation of my involvement in the show, I already had a fairly intensive training programme, however, I introduced more cardio and calisthenic exercises into my training and undertook swimming lessons.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy for the show was simple, to be an asset to the tribe and build strong relationships. I didn鈥檛 want to be the strongest player, but equally didn鈥檛 want to be the weakest, as both scenarios would put me at risk.
How competitive are you?
On a scale of 1-10, I鈥檓 9 out of 10 competitive. I would describe myself as good competitive and most of the time the competitions are with myself. The reason I wouldn鈥檛 say I鈥檓 a 10 competitive, is because there are certain things I wouldn鈥檛 do just to win.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
I was most looking forward to the challenges that allowed me to best leverage my strengths: physical strength and endurance, determination, resilience, and problem-solving skills. I think there were a couple of challenges that allowed me to showcase what I can do.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
In all honesty, I believe I thrived in this environment. It was great to be stripped back to nothing and not have to worry about all the things the modern world has taught us we need. The main thing I missed was my toothbrush.
How did you cope with the hunger?
This was quite possibly the toughest part of the experience. If there was anything that would have seen me tap out early it would have been starvation.
What did you learn from being on the show?
There are so many things I took from the game. I learnt to take more risks 鈥� nothing great happens from playing it safe. To be present 鈥� I thoroughly enjoyed having no technology and found that I was much more present in my social interactions and my connections with people were so much stronger as a result. To have more gratitude 鈥� all of the things that we take for granted, family and friends, food and drinks on demand, washing machines etc. There was a time before the show where I might pick out certain things of my dish that I didn鈥檛 like eating such as onions or peppers whereas in the show I would have killed for those flavours! It has meant that since coming out I don鈥檛 take them for granted. I鈥檝e also learnt to say no to things that don鈥檛 align with my values or the direction I want to head in.
Pegleg
Age: 54
From: St Agnes
Occupation: Surf School Owner
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
Life experience as a 54yr old; a Gen X attitude for just getting on with it and not whining and moaning about the hardship of it all.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I built a couple of challenges in the garden and doubled my normal training schedule.
Mentally I knew I had what it takes as a lifetime of overcoming preconceived ideas of disability has prepared me well.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
To try and be Mr middle-of-the-road; I didn鈥檛 want to be seen as a threat but also didn鈥檛 want to be a weak link in the chain who wasn鈥檛 worth keeping around. As an older one-legged guy I had to prove I could hold my own.
How competitive are you?
Totally when I commit to something. Going into the show I was World Champion in my surf division and I gave up the opportunity of retaining the title to be on Survivor as I had to miss three competitions whilst we were filming.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
All ocean-based ones, the ocean is my home and I knew no one in the cast could beat me.
Also the obstacle course as I'm built for it; fast, light, good upper body strength and anything that involved climbing.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
I loved it, I felt totally at home living, building and existing on that beach.
How did you cope with the hunger?
Just sucked it up buttercup! It was part of the expectation of living on rice and beans. No amount of moaning was going to change it so what's the point of focusing on it.
What did you learn from being on the show?
That I can bite my lip and not tell people just how stupid they are, that I could go more extreme living and surviving than this and that I can still give the youngsters a run for their money.
Rachel
Age: 40
From: Whitstable
Occupation: Insurance Claims Handler
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I have always been an adventurous, strong, outdoorsy, sporty person who loves a challenge and my mum knew I had wanted to take part in a show like this for years so when she saw an advert for contestants online she tagged me in it. My motivation was that I wanted my children to know that not having a dad around does not mean that one parent isn鈥檛 enough and to show them that anything can be achieved if you put your mind to it.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
Strength, being a team player, honesty and encouragement.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I am already very sporty, I play and coach football and take part in park runs on a weekly basis. My life experiences have already given me a lot of mental strength and coping mechanisms.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
No, I was only ever going to be open, honest and myself.
How competitive are you?
Very! Everyone wants to win right?
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
All of them, head-to-heads especially so I can showcase my strengths and attributes to the team especially as an older and bigger person.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
The lack of a decent bed was painful most nights, but you do get used to the sand in everything after a few days.
How did you cope with the hunger?
Supporting each other as a team and making sure we were eating what rations we did have. Attempting to set bait traps, foraging for coconuts, sugar cane and any other food available to us on the island.
What did you learn from being on the show?
That I am capable of anything and my gut instinct is always right. Also, I need to stop putting everyone else鈥檚 needs before my own! I have met some amazing people and cannot wait to try new adventures with them.
Rach
Age: 23
From: Glasgow
Occupation: Personal Trainer
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I had actually never heard of Survivor until the start of this year when I watched the Australian series and immediately knew that this would be something that I would enjoy. My boyfriend and I binge-watched every single series and I fell in love with the show. I love challenges and adrenaline rushes so taking part in Survivor was a perfect match for me.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I knew going in that my physical strength would be my strongest attribute. I have a really strong mindset and that is something you need in Survivor. I think people think that it is all about physical strength, but it鈥檚 really not. If you don鈥檛 have a strong mindset you will struggle, it is one of the most gruelling game shows on earth.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I had just actually come out the back of preparation for a photoshoot, so my body was fatigued from dieting for 15 weeks. I was told that I needed to gain more body fat, so my coach Claire adjusted my plan to help me prepare. I train 5 days a week so I knew I would be physically capable. I wouldn鈥檛 say there was much that I did to prepare mentally because you don鈥檛 actually know what it鈥檚 going to physically be like until you鈥檙e there. One thing I did actually practice was throwing and catching. My mum ordered bean bags to my house and I would spend some evenings with my friend Lewis, throwing and catching them.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
The most important thing to me going into the game was to be myself and to know my strategy - you鈥檒l have to tune in to find out more!
How competitive are you?
I am quite competitive. I am competing for the first time in bodybuilding next year which you need a competitive mindset for. I鈥檝e always had quite a competitive side which I'm sure you鈥檒l see on the show!
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
Physical strength challenges - I love feeling and looking strong, especially as a woman I find it empowering. I think people were surprised at how strong I was because I'm quite small.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
I actually feel like I coped really well. I moved to Glasgow when I was 17 so I am used to not seeing my family for long periods of time but I was nervous about not knowing what my friends and family were up to. I was slightly scared of the wee creepy crawlies to begin with, but you honestly get used to it and forget they are even there.
How did you cope with the hunger?
I coped with hunger really well, I probably ate more on the show than I did when I was preparing for a photoshoot. There were definitely a few times when some of us were scraping the pot and licking the spoon.
What did you learn from being on the show?
I learned from the show that I really am capable of anything. If someone had told me at the start of the year: 鈥榶ou will live on a beach in the Caribbean this summer鈥�, I would have laughed in their face. Being so young and giving up everything in my life to take part in Survivor was huge for me and I was so grateful to have been given the opportunity. It also encouraged me to visit my family a lot more than what I did, I think being away for such a long time made me realise how much I missed them.
Ren
Age: 28
From: London
Occupation: Network Data Scientist
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
Survivor has been my all-time favourite show since I found it when I was 14, 鈥榦bsessed鈥� is an understatement. It combines so many things I love into this intense and awesome package where you get to do stuff you don鈥檛 get to regularly as an adult. I also just love the mental and social aspects of the game 鈥� it's not about playing the game you want to play, it鈥檚 about playing the game the jury wants to see you play.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I love the outdoors, so wanted to help people feel at ease while living with next-to-nothing so they鈥檇 keep me around. I enjoy getting to know new people and forming real connections, so I hoped tribemates would see I developed genuine relationships that weren鈥檛 centred around game-play. But most importantly, if it came down to it, I was willing to separate those relationships from the game 鈥� I'd blindside anyone in a heartbeat!
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I had a serious programme! I have spreadsheets about which elements are most often featured in Survivor challenges in the US and Australia and tried to train for those. I 3D printed the more popular puzzles to practice, worked on knot untying techniques, and even tried to improve my swimming (this went less well...).
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My goal was to lie low until the merge, and then show off my game in the later stages. I wanted to keep enough players that were more threatening than me around as shields in the early game. The most important thing to me was working out what other players wanted to see in a winner, and tailoring my game to fit that so I could get the votes at the end.
How competitive are you?
Very.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
I was really excited for the Survivor classic 鈥� an epic obstacle course where you have to use each other to get through different elements, ending in a solid equalizer puzzle (which I鈥檇 reluctantly volunteered to do, and then dominate, duh).
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
Controversial, but I loved camp life! To wake up every day in such a remote and beautiful location and to not have to deal with the repetitive home pressures of washing up and laundry was a huge luxury to me.
How did you cope with the hunger?
Poorly. Turns out I really hate rice and beans, and even though I was literally starving it always took me a full hour to eat a single scoop of food...
What did you learn from being on the show or what is the biggest takeaway?
Good company and connections are worth so much more then home comforts. Also that it鈥檚 not possible for me to avoid talking about Survivor at even the most impractical moments...
Richard
Age: 36
From: Dalkeith, Scotland
Occupation: Pensions Manager / RAF Reservist
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I am always looking for a new challenge and this gave me the opportunity to challenge myself physically and mentally.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
Great communication, good team player and empathy.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I am generally a resilient person so life set me up mentally. I continued to walk the Scottish Munro's, run, gym and swim.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
I wanted to try to be in the middle of the pack and look for opportunities that I could use to my advantage. All the while enjoying the game and experience.
How competitive are you?
Very competitive. I always play to win.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
I was looking forward to all challenges and being tested in different ways.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
I wasn鈥檛 worried about this element of the show as I have had experience with this before.
How did you cope with the hunger?
It was a struggle early on but then you get used to it.
What did you learn from being on the show?
It was an amazing experience and one that not very many people will get the chance to do. My biggest takeaway is that I am more resilient than I thought.
Sabrina
Age: 45
From: Stroud
Occupation: Ultramarathon Runner, Charity Founder, Author, Mum of 4 and Grandmother of 3.
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
It hit me at the right time! If you were told on a cold UK winters night about a show that was highly likely to be filmed on a tropical island, involved physical and mental challenges, and meant you couldn鈥檛 be contacted for the whole time you were there - wouldn鈥檛 you be interested?!
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I believed my social skills would help me immensely in the game, also my nurturing maternal side and my fearless ability to rough it with the best of them!
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
In the months before I ran two multi-stage 300K off-road trail ultramarathons. One of them being in the remote Scottish highlands. I camped out. I ate rations. I gladly put myself in a deep dark hole physically and mentally.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy was to try not to be a threat, to dull my personality and to not assume a lead role or be bossy. To be silent!
How competitive are you?
I鈥檓 competitive with myself more than anyone else. If I am on a team, I will be the biggest and loudest cheerleader for the people who are in my tribe. I make no apologies for using all the skills I have to build my people up for the benefit of whatever side I am on or cause I am fighting for.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
Agility challenges, puzzles and anything that included the act of running or endurance.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
I took to it like a duck to water. I surprised myself with how much I enjoyed it, it felt like home! I have a massive snake phobia and that is something I was absolutely terrified of, I really didn鈥檛 want to see a snake or have one on me.
How did you cope with the hunger?
I鈥檓 an ultra-runner and once upon a time I ran an 89K race (as part of a 250K stage race) in the Sahara desert on little more than a bag of mini-cheddars because I couldn鈥檛 heat my food. Suffice to say, I didn鈥檛 have an issue with hunger.
What did you learn from being on the show?
To never EVER change myself or dull my shine to make others feel comfortable being around me or in order for me to fit in. I am the woman I have survived to be and thrive being. And to ALWAYS to trust my gut instinct... If someone, or something, feels off, it probably is.
Shai
Age: 33
From: London
Occupation: Finance Risk Manager
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
Being a super fan! I remember watching the show as an 11 year old in Sri Lanka where I grew up till the age of 17 and have watched most previous seasons across the 23 year period. When the opportunity arose, I jumped at it! Who wouldn鈥檛 want to be stranded on a random island with nothing but basic rations against a bunch of random strangers, competing in the best game ever!
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
Given my knowledge of the game, I believe I can help my tribe thrive in challenges physically and strategically.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
Mentally I made sure to sharpen my mind with puzzle books to help with any challenges on the island. While physically I did put on some weight heading into the game to have some energy reserves due to the lack of food on the island.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy before going into the game was to lay low at the beginning, not drawing any attention to myself and then try and seize control in the mid game. Which it turns out is much easier said than done!
How competitive are you?
I am a very competitive individual and always want to win within the rules of the game, although being very competitive can have its downside as it puts a target on yourself!
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
I was most looking forward to the reward and immunity challenges and testing myself physically and mentally with the challenge of living on a remote beach.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
It was tough but I felt like I became accustomed to it and enjoyed it thoroughly, although maintaining my hair in the process wasn鈥檛 ideal!
How did you cope with the hunger?
The first few days were tough but I managed to get through it with the whole excitement of being on a remote island with random strangers. Eventually my body got used to my new reality of living on the island. Post the island experience I will never take food for granted!
What did you learn from being on the show?
I have always thought I am a risk averse person, but I have realised that am open to taking a lot more risks! Go BIG or go home was my philosophy! You only get one shot at playing the greatest game in the world.
Tinuke
Age: 30
From: London
Occupation: Professional Roller Skater & Adventurer
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I have always loved the show alongside all other survival shows since I was a kid. I was so excited when I saw it was coming to the UK. I want to go on the show for my late parents and to prove to myself that I am so much stronger than I thought I was. This is a complete game-changer for me, I am ready to change my life and fill it with adventure and challenge and this is the first stepping stone to get me there. I am ready to leave behind the troubles and grief of my past and prove that anyone can turn around any dark experience. You always have more in the tank than you think you do, and I am ready to show that! I want to be a massive inspiration for anyone who has also experienced deep loss and sadness.
What qualities did you think you鈥檇 bring to the game?
I鈥檓 a disco dynamite London babe, always up for a good laugh and can brighten up a group with vibes, singing, twerking, a cartwheel and laughter! I can also bring a calmer side and enjoy talking about spirituality and grounding anyone in a stressful moment. I am a good mediator of people in arguments and recognise that keeping a positive mindset will get you a long way, nothing is impossible when you believe in yourself! You don鈥檛 always have to be the strongest person in the group, you just need to be able to know how to use your body.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
To prepare I have watched every season of Survivor and I read FBI interrogation persuasion techniques and body language books to give me the upper-hand. I also lived in the woods for four days learning all the basic bushcraft and survival skills which was WILD. From my real life I already had a lot of general resilience and life skills to get me through the show.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
Find my ride or die and take them to the end with me. I have also noticed that people react well when I share my life experiences and spiritual wisdom with them. I also know that people like it when I feed into their egos! So I hoped that a little sweet talking would get me a long way.
How competitive are you?
Definitely 8 or 9 out of 10! I have always been a sporty person my whole life and it鈥檚 impossible not to be competitive. I love a challenge and I love the glory that comes with winning... I am an Aries after all.
What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?
Anything to do with balance I knew would be good for me being a professional roller skater! Any of the physical challenges involving water I knew I would be really good at as I used to be a swimmer and high diver growing up.
How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?
I was in my element. I loved waking up on the beach and watching the sunrise every day, meditating and breathing in how beautiful the stars were at night - they were BEAUTIFUL. It was so incredible to be that immersed in nature. The tarantulas and snakes in the bed were a bit much and the hornets were massive, they definitely kept me up at night, but in general I would just get into bed when it got dark and didn鈥檛 get out till the morning.
How did you cope with the hunger?
It was hard but once we had fire and food regularly, I managed to cope okay. Better than most of the boys who turned seriously savage for food. It definitely caused a lot of tension in camp when people were hungry.
What did you learn from being on the show?
I totally aced it! I crushed those crazy physical and mental challenges like a boss, and it turns out, my limitations were all just in my head. My self-imposed bar was already sky-high, but now it's off the charts! No more limits, baby! I'm all set to take on any challenge that comes my way, with a whole new level of swagger and resilience. Hard work pays off man. I am so so proud of myself.