The television series Survivor has firmly established itself as a mainstay on our screens over the past 25 years, featuring numerous contestants competing for a grand prize of $1 million.
This week, viewers experienced a brief delay in the release of Survivor‘s 50th season preview due to an address by President Trump, who took the opportunity to claim a reduction in inflation and criticize his predecessor during an extensive 20-minute speech.
The upcoming milestone season is anticipated to include a special appearance by Billie Eilish and is scheduled to debut late February next year. The creators of the show are promising fresh features and unexpected twists to keep the audience engaged.
Since its debut 25 years ago, Survivor quickly rose to become one of the most popular shows nationwide, but sadly, several of the memorable contestants have passed away over the years.
Seventeen participants have died since their time on the show, demonstrating that life’s challenges persist long after their pursuit of the million-dollar prize.
Jane was a standout contestant during her time on Survivor: Nicaragua. She made it to the last three days before being voted off due to her diplomatic strategies.
She finished sixth in the 21st season but also earned the Sprint Fan Favorite award, capturing the hearts of both her fellow contestants and viewers with her quirky and amiable nature.
After Jane’s passing at 71 in May 2025, Jeff Probst, the host of the CBS show, paid tribute by saying: “What stood out to me about Jane is that she didn’t let age be a barrier to adventure.
“She dove headfirst into Survivor with grit and heart. Jane embodied the spirit of Survivor and leaves a legacy that I hope will continue to inspire others to apply for the adventure of a lifetime.”
Kim Johnson was a runner-up in 2002’s Survivor: Africa, where she combined tactical acumen with impressive physical strength to reach the final two.
During her participation, she became the oldest woman to reach the final tribal council and the oldest contestant to win a final immunity challenge, allowing her to narrowly outmaneuver her competition.
The winner of her season, Ethan Zohn, expressed his sorrow over Kim’s passing last year at 79 in an Instagram tribute: “Rest in peace Kim Johnson.
“It was a blessing to call you my friend and a privilege to experience the final tribal council with you.”
Johnson’s death followed a battle with cancer.
Sonja Christopher, the very first contestant to be eliminated from Survivor, passed away at the age of 87 in April 2024, nearly 25 years after appearing on the popular show.
Her early exit followed a weak performance in a challenge, leading her teammates to vote her out, though she left a lasting impression on the show’s host.
Probst paid tribute by saying: “Sonja was one of the kindest people to ever play Survivor.
“Every interaction I had with her over the years was lovely. She would always greet you with a smile on her face and joy in her heart. I’m honored that our paths got to cross.”
Keith Nale participated in both Survivor: San Juan del Sur and Survivor: Cambodia. At first, he was perceived as a misfit due to his laid-back demeanor.
Nevertheless, he reached the final four on San Juan del Sur by showcasing a talent for immunity challenges and strategically positioning himself during votes.
Keith passed away at 62 on April 23, 2023.
The CBS series team expressed their condolences: “On behalf of the entire Survivor crew, we send our deepest condolences to the Nale family. Keith was a one-of-a-kind human.
“Completely unique in every way. He brought endless joy and laughter to Survivor fans and to those of us who made the show with him. He was adored by so many and will be greatly missed.”
His family disclosed that he had been diagnosed with cancer prior to his passing.
Roger Sexton, known for his strong opinions, competed in Survivor: The Amazon. He was a staunch supporter of his all-male team.
However, his beliefs led to his elimination after a campaign by female contestants who thought he would never allow a woman to win.
Roger passed away on October 26, 2022, at 76, having been diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia.
In remembrance, his family stated: “Confidence, discipline, and determination to succeed were all vital components to Roger’s character, which assisted him in being cast on Survivor.“
Dan Lembo secured a fifth-place finish in Survivor: Nicaragua, advancing through earlier rounds on sheer charisma.
Despite facing mobility issues from knee surgery prior to the contest, Dan’s personality carried him to the final five.
He passed away at his Manhattan home at the age of 75 in September 2022.
His obituary read: “Daniel was a charismatic, larger-than-life, outgoing bon vivant. He loved nothing more than spending time with his children and friends.”
Dan succumbed to progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare brain disorder affecting speech and motor skills, as revealed by his daughter-in-law.
