Survivor Celebrates 25 Years as TV's Greatest Adventure Series

The iconic reality show returns for its 50th season, proving it's still must-see TV.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Survivor, the long-running CBS reality series, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this month with the premiere of its 50th season. The show has remained a hit over the years, thanks in large part to its brilliant casting department that has brought in a new group of captivating players season after season. After a brief pandemic-related hiatus, Survivor has found its groove again in its "New Era," delivering several memorable seasons in a row with quirky, cutthroat gamers who have created a new kind of chaos and drama for the show. The 50th season will feature a cast representing all 49 previous installments, including players from the most recent seasons as well as a contestant from the very first season.

Why it matters

Survivor's ability to remain a top-rated, must-watch TV series for a quarter-century is a remarkable accomplishment in the ever-changing entertainment landscape. The show's longevity and continued success speak to the strength of its core format, the brilliance of its casting, and its ability to evolve and adapt while still maintaining the elements that have made it a beloved classic.

The details

Survivor 50 will feature a cast of 24 contestants representing all 49 previous seasons of the show. The season will include players like Jenna Lewis-Dougherty from the very first season, as well as Savannah Louie and Rizo Velovic from the recently aired Season 49. The new season promises to be a celebration of Survivor's 25-year history, showcasing the best and most memorable players from across the show's iconic run.

  • Survivor 50 will premiere with a three-hour special on February 25, 2026.
  • The show first debuted on CBS in the year 2000.

The players

Jenna Lewis-Dougherty

A contestant from the very first season of Survivor, who is returning for the 50th season.

Savannah Louie

A contestant from the recently aired Season 49 of Survivor, who is also returning for the 50th season.

Rizo Velovic

Another contestant from the recently aired Season 49 of Survivor, who is returning for the 50th season.

Cirie Fields

A legendary Survivor player who is returning for the 50th season.

Ozzy Lusth

Another iconic Survivor player who is returning for the 50th season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Survivor is entering a major milestone this month, as the show prepares to release its 50th season on CBS. Survivor 50, debuting with a three-hour premiere on February 25, will bring back 24 contestants representing the 49 previous installments.”

— Charlie Ridgely, Author (Collider)

“You may not believe a show can remain great into its 50th season, and that wouldn't be the case for most shows — especially scripted programming. But Survivor isn't most shows, and it has the benefit of a brilliant casting department that brings in a new group of players almost every season.”

— Charlie Ridgely, Author (Collider)

What’s next

Fans will have to tune in to the three-hour premiere of Survivor 50 on February 25, 2026 to see how the show celebrates its 25-year legacy and which of the 24 returning players will emerge victorious.

The takeaway

Survivor's ability to remain a top-rated, must-watch TV series for a quarter-century is a testament to the strength of its core format, the brilliance of its casting, and its willingness to evolve while still maintaining the elements that have made it a beloved classic. The 50th season promises to be a celebration of the show's iconic history and its continued relevance in the ever-changing entertainment landscape.