Thu Feb 27 02:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Survivor Season 50 to be an All-Star Anniversary Special, Fans to Influence Gameplay

**LOS ANGELES** – While Survivor Season 48 premieres this Wednesday, February 26th, on CBS, longtime fans are already eagerly anticipating the show’s 50th season, a milestone anniversary celebration promising an unforgettable experience. Season 50, titled “Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans,” will feature an all-star cast of former contestants from across the show’s 25-year history.

Host Jeff Probst revealed a rigorous casting process, narrowing down over 700 applicants to a shortlist of approximately 50. The final cast, numbering between 18 and 20 players, aims to represent the diversity of past seasons and players. Probst acknowledges that the final selection will inevitably please some fans while disappointing others.

A unique element of Season 50 is fan involvement. For the first time, viewers will directly influence key aspects of the game, voting on the inclusion or exclusion of features like hidden immunity idols, the final four fire-making challenge, and even the live reunion episode. Probst encourages viewers to participate thoughtfully, considering the impact of their choices on the overall gameplay. However, he confirmed that fans will not be voting on the cast itself, unlike Season 31.

Despite its longevity, Survivor continues to maintain popularity, with recent seasons receiving positive feedback. Probst promises Season 48 will continue this trend, boasting a faster pace and a cast of engaging players.

Season 48 introduces 18 new contestants from diverse backgrounds, including a flight attendant, a surgeon, a P.E. coach, and a stunt performer. Meanwhile, Probst, who has never played the game himself, shared his perspective on his own hypothetical participation, suggesting his strategic skills might not be quite up to par with today’s highly skilled players. He also declined the opportunity to compete in a theoretical “Traitors” all-hosts season.

To provide fans with a taste of the Survivor experience, a new card game, “Survivor: The Tribe Has Spoken,” developed in partnership with Exploding Kittens, is now available. Probst believes the game captures the social manipulation and strategic decision-making that define the television show.

Season 48 premieres Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET on CBS and will stream on Paramount+. Past seasons are available for streaming on Paramount+.

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