Where Are They Now? 10 Most Popular Survivor Players Who Got Snubbed

Survivor has been on our screens for almost a quarter of a century, with literally hundreds of competitors battling it out for a huge cash prize.

Here, we look at some of the popular but ultimately unsuccessful players and find out what they're doing these days.

1. Xander Hastings

Xander Hastings appeared in Season 41 in 2021. He faced an uphill battle from the start, but his enthusiasm and determination kept him in the game. He established himself as a fan favorite, with his infectious energy winning over the audience. He was eliminated at the Final Tribal Council with no votes, but fans haven't given up on a return to the show. These days he's putting his skills to use as a tech entrepreneur.

2. Jonny Fairplay

At odds with his name, Jonny Fairplay is best known as being the show's resident bad guy. His infamous lie about his grandmother's death earned him a reputation as a master manipulator. But it also sparked a fair amount of hate among viewers. Whether you appreciate his cunning or despise his tactics, he was undeniably entertaining. Outside of the show, he's now a pro wrestler.

3. Aubry Bracco

Aubry Bracco was an exceedingly calculating player in Survivor: Kaôh Rōng. Despite starting the game as a timid member of the Brains tribe, she went on to virtually control the entire game and looked like a sure winner. It was a shock for fans when the jury at the Final Tribal Council chose Michelle Fitzgerald as the victor, and many still believe Bracco was robbed. She was back for Game Changers and Edge of Extinction, but never gained the same traction. Aubry is now a marketing consultant in Boston.

4. Ozzy Lusth

Ozzy Lusth was an early competitor who came close to winning the title on four occasions. Ultimately, though, he's never taken home the crown. His character was put to the test when he was voted out three times in one season but came back thanks to the Redemption Island twist. His determination made him a fan favourite and he's still a much-loved competitor. Since leaving the show, he's gone on to become a promoter for adult content.

5. Kelley Wentworth

Kelley Wentworth's first appearance on the show ended in defeat, although there were signs she might have something to offer the spectacle. She returned with a vengeance in Survivor: Cambodia – Second Chance and Edge of Extinction, playing an exceptionally strategic game that saw her come agonisingly close to reaching the Final Council. She'll go down as one of the most resilient and impressive castaways in the show's history. She put her fame to good use and is now a social media influencer.

6. Rob Cesternino

Cesternino invented the now-popular strategy of befriending whoever was most convenient at the time. Despite his charisma and intelligence, this flip-flopping between allies led to a lack of trust among other players and, ultimately, led to his elimination just before the final council. Cesternino is often referred to as 'the smartest player to never win.' Rob is now a commentator on reality TV and has his own podcast.

7. Spencer Bledsoe

Spencer Bledsoe appeared in two consecutive seasons of Survivor, showcasing his strategic thinking and social skills. He formed strong alliances and made lasting connections, using his quick thinking and adaptability to navigate the game. Although he didn't win, he impressed fans with his intelligence and charisma, and he remains a fan favourite. After Survivor, Spencer travelled and created a podcast to talk about mental health.

8. Malcolm Freberg

Malcolm was a master of strategy and a genuinely nice guy. In his first season, he made it all the way to the final four but was ultimately eliminated. He didn't let that put him off and he was back for two more seasons which, sadly for him, also ended in defeat. His legacy is one of strength, determination and almost winning. He won $100,000 on Snake in the Grass in 2022.

9. Russell Hantz

Russell Hantz was a master manipulator who almost won Survivor. He gained sympathy by lying about his life and seemed to just love playing mind games with his fellow competitors. He was also pretty good at finding hidden immunity idols. In the end, though, his lies caught up to him and he was voted out. Despite his underhand tactics, Hantz is still remembered as a legendary Survivor villain. He lives in Dayton and works for the family business.

10. Cirie Fields

Cirie Fields defied the stereotype that physical fitness is essential to succeed on Survivor. Instead, she relied on her intelligence, charm, and wit to become a fan favourite and formidable competitor. She finished fourth in her first season on the show after losing a challenge but remains one of the most beloved players in Survivor history. More recently, she was on Big Brother with her son Jared.