New Season of Survivor to Feature All Returning Players, Confirms Jeff Probst
Rapid Formation of Survivor 50 Plans
During a recent Survivor Q&A event with Jeff Probst, the host and showrunner revealed exciting news about the landmark fiftieth season of Survivor. Probst, in the presence of EW Editor in Chief Patrick Gomez, announced that Survivor 50, slated to begin filming around Memorial Day 2025 and air in the spring of 2026, will be a special installment featuring all returning players. With details of the upcoming 47th and 48th seasons already being determined, the news of Survivor 50 marks a pivotal moment in the show’s history.
A Surprise Announcement
On-stage, Probst deliberated with the audience on the direction that Survivor 50 should take. After gauging the crowd’s response and receiving an overwhelmingly positive reaction to the idea of incorporating returning players, Probst made a decision. “In the spirit of, sometimes letting the game be in the hands of the fans, I feel like we should just commit and make this the moment where we decide that Survivor 50 will be returning players. I don’t know what is going to happen after this, but I’m pretty sure we’re committed,” he proclaimed.
New Era of Survivor
Survivor, already in the midst of its longest stretch featuring all new players, has not included returning all-stars since Season 8’s Survivor: All-Stars. In the show’s current season, Survivor 46, which is airing on CBS, Bruce Perreault is the only exception. Perreault, who joined the cast due to replacement circumstances after suffering an injury in his initial season, doesn’t fall into the typical category of a returning player. According to Probst, neither Season 47 nor Season 48 will feature returning players. However, Survivor 49 remains designated for a cast of all new players.
The Awaited Theme
While Probst confirmed that Survivor 50 will consist entirely of returning players, he kept the specific theme under wraps. Among the variety of ideas proposed by viewers, choices such as a Second Chance season based on fan voting, an Old Era versus New Era battle, or a season exclusively featuring runner-ups have circulated. Fans will have to wait for the unveiling of the season’s theme, all the while engaging in the speculation surrounding the show’s most substantial installment yet.
Building Anticipation
As Survivor enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, discussions around potential castaways and the potential impact on the show’s legacy will undoubtedly flourish. Stay tuned to discover what Survivor 50 will ultimately bring to the table.
Stay Updated with Entertainment Weekly
For the latest TV news, exclusive first looks, recaps, reviews, interviews with your favorite stars, and more, sign up for Entertainment Weekly’s free daily newsletter.
Related Content: