Season 49 of ‘Survivor’ Concludes as Champion is Revealed

After an intense season full of drama and unexpected twists, Survivor has crowned its 49th season winner.

The finale aired on December 17, revealing Savannah Louie as the new “sole survivor” and $1 million prize winner. The season included some shocking moments, like contestant Jake Latimer being medically evacuated after a venomous snake bite, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

The final tribal council saw Savannah competing against Sophi Belerdi and Sage Ahrens-Nichols. Kristina Mills and Rizo Velovic were sent to the jury, leaving the three finalists to face the people they had voted out throughout the game. After a tense discussion and tough questioning from the jury, Savannah emerged victorious.

“It feels incredible,” she told host Jeff Probst about her win. “It’s this larger than life feeling. I usually have the right words, I usually have some crap to say, but in this moment, I don’t even know what to say.” She added, “I’ve never experienced anything like this before. It’s just a crazy feeling.”

This season marked the first all-female final three since season 29 in 2014. During the final council, Kristina asked Savannah to name a family member or partner for each jury member, a challenge she couldn’t fully meet, but it didn’t stop her from claiming the title.

Earlier in the season, the jury lineup shifted with emotional blindsides, including Steven Ramm being voted out despite using his “Block A Vote” advantage, and Sophie Segreti being eliminated as part of Sage’s strategy.

With season 49 wrapped, fans are already looking ahead to the milestone 50th season, titled Survivor: In the Hands of the Fans. CBS announced returning favorites like The White Lotus creator Mike White, season 45 winner Dee Valladares, and season 48 champion Kyle Fraser. Survivor legend Cirie Fields, known as one of the greatest players to never win, will also appear.

She told E! News in July, “I can tell you one thing about season 50, and I haven’t said this about any other season. I’ve watched since Richard Hatch [won season one]. I’m a fan as well as a contestant.” She added with excitement, “Best season ever. Best. Not just because I was there. Best. Season. Ever.”

Savannah’s win closes an unforgettable season while building anticipation for what promises to be an even bigger and more fan-driven season ahead.

What do you think about Savannah’s win and the all-female final three? Share your thoughts in the comments.