It’s been a long time coming, but Survivor UK is finally returning to our screens this autumn on BBC1 for a brand new season, complete with a fancy new host and 18 fresh-faced castaways.
Inside Survivor can now officially reveal the 18 cast members participating in the upcoming season. Carefully selected from across the United Kingdom, these 18 castaways will be marooned on a tropical island in the Dominican Republic, where they will compete to outwit, outplay, and outlast their rivals to be crowned the Sole Survivor.
Hosted by Joel Dommett, Survivor UK will see players voted out of their tribes at the iconic Tribal Council until the two tribes eventually merge and the game becomes a head-to-head battle. Ultimately, only one person can triumph, winning the cash prize of £100,000.
Meet the new castaways below.
ASHLEIGH
Age: 34 | From: London | Occupation: Brand Strategist
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I love every opportunity to live life to the fullest and to challenge and push myself. Whether it’s in work e.g. starting my own business, in fitness with my boxing or in life and taking on skydiving, I have always wanted to test my limits. I suffer from imposter syndrome and struggle to believe in myself, so this is why I push myself, to try and find my limits. What better test to understand what I’m really capable of than the ultimate challenge – Survivor!
What qualities did you think you could bring to the game?
In life I’m generally a very upbeat and positive person, I’m proactive and determined and I like to be there for people and to step-up when others maybe don’t feel like they can. I’m always happy to put myself forward and to do it with a positive attitude. I’m also willing to push myself to the end for my team and I try to be a strategic thinker, so I was keen to bring not just strength, strategy and determination but also a smile!
Did you have a strategy for how you were going to play the game?
I wanted to take my time to get to know the other players a bit better before making any moves. Sometimes having a big game plan from the beginning can be a sure-fire way to get yourself voted off early! So I wanted to try and steer the game subtly, leading from below rather than trying to place myself in a leadership (and therefore more risky!) position.
CHRISTOPHER
Age: 36 | From: Bridgend | Occupation: Singer/Songwriter
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I wanted to be a contestant on Survivor because I wanted to take myself out of my comfort zone and face my fears. I wanted to undertake the hardest challenges, on land, in the air or in the sea. I want to prove to myself that I have got what it takes, that I can achieve anything. The idea of having nothing but the clothes on my back seemed a million miles away from what I do in real life. Having all luxuries taken away and food restricted whilst having to undertake the toughest game show on earth just excited me. I thought it’s the best way to push myself, to learn how to survive and do challenges as I’m extremely competitive. I am at the stage in my life where I am more confident and determined to do something which I feel I can do well with the determination and competitive spirit to outwit, outplay, and outlast.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
In a social game I can work very well as a team and look out for people if we click and care for each other. I love the sense of adventure and I think I bring the sense of warmth, openness and fun. I want people to feel comfortable around me and know that they can talk to me about anything. Equally, I think I have a very mischievous side, a side that wants to have fun and do my very best!
I am extremely determined and knew that I would give it my all to do my best with no regrets. I believe I can adapt to any situation, I work well under pressure and I’m very easy to get along with which brings a good team spirit when working well as a tribe or as an individual.
Did you have a strategy for how you were going to play the game?
I didn’t have a big master plan but I did have the strategy to keep my eyes and ears open and to do my best. That way I can just adapt and make moves when needed, take it day by day and never give up even when things turn really tough.
DOUG
Age: 32 | From: Isle of Mull | Occupation: Flood Risk Consultant
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
When I was younger I vividly remember watching the original UK Survivor back in 2002. As a family we loved the show, even going as far as re-enacting some of the original challenges. When I saw that it was returning to TV in the UK I wasted no time in putting my application in. Next thing I know – I’m on a desert island building a shelter from bamboo! I came on Survivor to make my family back home on Mull proud, and have the adventure of a lifetime.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I was hopeful I could put my height (I’m 6ft 4”) to good use and help my tribe get to those hard to reach places, get the shelter up, and hopefully be a useful asset for the challenges. I also enjoy making people laugh so hopefully I made everyone’s experience a little more enjoyable on the island and spread a little joy.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy coming into the game comprised of 2 key elements; firstly establish myself as an indispensable member of the tribe during the early phase of the game by performing well at Challenges and working hard around the camp. Then secondly was to find myself a “Shield” player, or failing that, to create one. Someone ideally who would take a real leadership role within the tribe and more importantly, is regarded as a bigger target than myself. I’ll sit right behind them as long as I can!
HANNAH
Age: 30 | From: London | Occupation: Semi-Professional Footballer
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
Survivor really became my go-to TV show to watch during lockdown. I got totally hooked, binge-watching season after season and the more I watched, the more I thought: “I’d absolutely love to be on that show!”
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I saw myself as a strong physical player, but I also thought my positive energy, authenticity, and social skills could be real game changers. Survivor is as much about strategy and alliances as it is about physical prowess, so I wanted to bring a well-rounded approach to the game.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy was all about using my communication skills, authenticity and social charm to build strong alliances. I wanted people to trust me and feel comfortable working with me. At the same time I didn’t want to be underestimated physically so I aimed to showcase my strength when necessary.
JESS
Age: 38 | From: London | Occupation: Fitting Model
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
It’s the ultimate challenge of a lifetime and I fancied doing something wild as I approach 40. I also thought the 100K might come in handy!
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
Fun, laughter and positivity!
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
I never really had a game plan I just always said I would be true to myself and follow my heart and my gut instinct.
LAURENCE
Age: 29 | From: London, born in Vienna, and raised in Costa Rica | Occupation: Entrepreneur/Masters Student
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
Coming across Survivor and getting chosen to be one of the contestants was an enormous coincidence as I run a health-tech start-up selling anti-hangover capsules with the same name as the show! The show hit the spot as I felt I’d become too comfortable in life and I’ve come to depend on all sorts of unnecessary creature comforts. It was time to shake things up a bit and prove to myself that I could live on bare necessities, in order to appreciate the luxuries of life. I wanted to see whether my character would remain the same when put to the test, or whether I would crack under pressure like most other fellow soft millennials. I also celebrate absurdity – and instead of doing the rational thing and working in some dull accountancy firm towards buying an overpriced house and a boring retirement, I would much rather do something absurd like this. I crave new experiences. As George Mallory said, on why he wanted to climb Everest: “Because it is there.” And finally, I thought I could at least make a big enough fool of myself on national television to amuse myself for the next few years.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I’m no Arnold Schwarzenegger in terms of biceps, or Machiavelli in cunning – nor did I know much about the show itself before starting. So, all I could rely upon is being the source of good morale through buffoonery, and the ability to adapt to everything and everywhere as a product of globalism and having worked in 11 countries. Crucially, the hidden ace up my sleeve was having the home field advantage, having grown up just around the corner in Costa Rica – consequently speaking fluent Spanish, and knowing the geography, flora, and fauna like the back of my hand. What was for some a foreign and hostile environment was for me my childhood although admittedly with less air conditioning and food!
Did you have a strategy for how you were going to play the game?
My aim was to play the role of harmless buffoon or village idiot (comes naturally!), and get along with my fellow tribemates, building strong relationships all while having a laugh. I aimed to avoid politics and would play a neutral Switzerland. The goal was to avoid coming across as a threat, and thereby placing a target on my back. Consistency and integrity – before bringing out the dagger when necessary!
LEE
Age: 28 | From: Belfast (originally Limerick) | Occupation: Professional Boxer
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I thought it was a great opportunity to test myself and let the world see me for who I really am. Survivor shows people at their most vulnerable selves and I was excited for the Irish and British public to see me as my true authentic self.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I wanted to bring teamwork, a positive mental attitude, good energy and competitiveness to the game!
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My plan was to just to be myself and perform well in challenges, I felt like that’s where my strengths would lie. In terms of a proper strategy, I came in blind as I haven’t seen the show before – I’m an idiot!
LEILANI
Age: 45 | From: Hertford | Occupation: Barista and cleaner at a yoga studio
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
A friend saw the application and said I should apply, I was at a crossroads in my life and looking for a new direction so it came along at the perfect time.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
Tongue in cheek humour, general immaturity and ignorant bliss mixed with lots of love, cuddles and unity.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
I haven’t watched Survivor so I didn’t realise there was a psychological aspect to the game. I thought it was just about living right on the beach and competing in physical challenges, so I had no game plan whatsoever!
MATTHEW
Age: 21 | From: Cumbria | Occupation: Hospitality
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I wanted to be a contestant on Survivor because I knew this was the ultimate challenge! An amazing chance to really get stuck in and see what I’m made of. I turned 21 a few months ago and I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my summer, I’m so thankful for the opportunity. I really wanted to push myself to the limits and I genuinely mean that – this is a dream. I was looking forward to playing the game of Survivor because there’s so much to think about, it tests you physically and mentally and I was ready for both challenges!
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I’m very passionate and have a glass half-full perspective on life, so I wanted to bring my positive energy into the game! I’ve got some cool party tricks up my sleeve… I can juggle knives and can balance anything on my head so I thought hopefully I can keep the tribe entertained. I love to laugh and am very determined.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
I love being around people, so my strategy was to play the social game. As the youngest player I knew people would underestimate me but I used that to my advantage. I needed my strategy to be adaptable because I never knew what was going to be thrown at me next. I was there to play and wanted to play with no regrets by being true to myself.
NATHAN
Age: 35 | From: Manchester (originally London) | Occupation: Fitness Instructor & Operations Manager
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I very much believe in the concept of Kaizen (a Japanese term for continuous improvement) and I try to apply this concept to every part of my life. When I reflect on when I’ve grown the most, it has always been on the back of significantly challenging times, adversity, or hardship. So, when the opportunity to be a part of one of the most challenging experiences someone can face, I needed no convincing.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I feel I brought my mental attributes of determination, resilience, positivity, optimism and humility and physical attributes of strength and power. Used effectively these were perhaps inspiring for the rest of the camp to observe.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy for the show was simple, to be an asset to the tribe and build strong relationships. I didn’t want to be the strongest player, but equally didn’t want to be the weakest, as both scenarios would put me at risk.
PEGLEG
Age: 54 | From: St Agnes | Occupation: Surf School Owner
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
Life experience as a 54yr old; a Gen X attitude for just getting on with it and not whining and moaning about the hardship of it all.
How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?
I built a couple of challenges in the garden and doubled my normal training schedule. Mentally I knew I had what it takes as a lifetime of overcoming preconceived ideas of disability has prepared me well.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
To try and be Mr middle-of-the-road; I didn’t want to be seen as a threat but also didn’t want to be a weak link in the chain who wasn’t worth keeping around. As an older one-legged guy I had to prove I could hold my own.
RACHEL
Age: 40 | From: Whitstable | Occupation: Insurance Claims Handler
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I have always been an adventurous, strong, outdoorsy, sporty person who loves a challenge and my mum knew I had wanted to take part in a show like this for years so when she saw an advert for contestants online she tagged me in it. My motivation was that I wanted my children to know that not having a dad around does not mean that one parent isn’t enough and to show them that anything can be achieved if you put your mind to it.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
Strength, being a team player, honesty and encouragement.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
No, I was only ever going to be open, honest and myself.
RACH
Age: 23 | From: Glasgow | Occupation: Personal Trainer
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I had actually never heard of Survivor until the start of this year when I watched the Australian series and immediately knew that this would be something that I would enjoy. My boyfriend and I binge-watched every single series and I fell in love with the show. I love challenges and adrenaline rushes so taking part in Survivor was a perfect match for me.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I knew going in that my physical strength would be my strongest attribute. I have a really strong mindset and that is something you need in Survivor. I think people think that it is all about physical strength, but it’s really not. If you don’t have a strong mindset you will struggle, it is one of the most gruelling game shows on earth.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
The most important thing to me going into the game was to be myself and to know my strategy – you’ll have to tune in to find out more!
REN
Age: 28 | From: London | Occupation: Network Data Scientist
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
Survivor has been my all-time favourite show since I found it when I was 14, ‘obsessed’ is an understatement. It combines so many things I love into this intense and awesome package where you get to do stuff you don’t get to regularly as an adult. I also just love the mental and social aspects of the game – it’s not about playing the game you want to play, it’s about playing the game the jury wants to see you play.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I love the outdoors, so wanted to help people feel at ease while living with next-to-nothing so they’d keep me around. I enjoy getting to know new people and forming real connections, so I hoped tribemates would see I developed genuine relationships that weren’t centred around game-play. But most importantly, if it came down to it, I was willing to separate those relationships from the game – I’d blindside anyone in a heartbeat!
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My goal was to lie-low until the merge, and then show off my game in the later stages. I wanted to keep enough players that were more threatening than me around as shields in the early game. The most important thing to me was working out what other players wanted to see in a winner, and tailoring my game to fit that so I could get the votes at the end.
RICHARD
Age: 36 | From: Dalkeith, Scotland | Occupation: Pensions Manager / RAF Reservist
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I am always looking for a new challenge and this gave me the opportunity to challenge myself physically and mentally.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
Great communication, good team player and empathy.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
I wanted to try to be in the middle of the pack and look for opportunities that I could use to my advantage. All the while enjoying the game and experience.
SABRINA
Age: 45 | From: Stroud | Occupation: Ultramarathon Runner, Charity Founder, Author
BBC/Remarkable
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
It hit me at the right time! If you were told on a cold UK winters night about a show that was highly likely to be filmed on a tropical island, involved physical and mental challenges, and meant you couldn’t be contacted for the whole time you were there – wouldn’t you be interested?!
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I believed my social skills would help me immensely in the game, also my nurturing maternal side and my fearless ability to rough it with the best of them!
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy was to try not to be a threat, to dull my personality and to not assume a lead role or be bossy. To be silent!
SHAI
Age: 33 | From: London | Occupation: Finance Risk Manager
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
Being a super fan! I remember watching the show as an 11 year old in Sri Lanka where I grew up till the age of 17 and have watched most previous seasons across the 23 year period. When the opportunity arose, I jumped at it! Who wouldn’t want to be stranded on a random island with nothing but basic rations against a bunch of random strangers, competing in the best game ever!
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
Given my knowledge of the game, I believe I can help my tribe thrive in challenges physically and strategically.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
My strategy before going into the game was to lay low at the beginning, not drawing any attention to myself and then try and seize control in the mid game. Which it turns out is much easier said than done!
TINUKE
Age: 30 | From: London | Occupation: Professional Roller Skater & Adventurer
What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?
I have always loved the show alongside all other survival shows since I was a kid. I was so excited when I saw it was coming to the UK. I want to go on the show for my late parents and to prove to myself that I am so much stronger than I thought I was. This is a complete game-changer for me, I am ready to change my life and fill it with adventure and challenge and this is the first stepping stone to get me there. I am ready to leave behind the troubles and grief of my past and prove that anyone can turn around any dark experience. You always have more in the tank than you think you do, and I am ready to show that! I want to be a massive inspiration for anyone who has also experienced deep loss and sadness.
What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?
I’m a disco dynamite London babe, always up for a good laugh and can brighten up a group with vibes, singing, twerking, a cartwheel and laughter! I can also bring a calmer side and enjoy talking about spirituality and grounding anyone in a stressful moment. I am a good mediator of people in arguments and recognise that keeping a positive mindset will get you a long way, nothing is impossible when you believe in yourself! You don’t always have to be the strongest person in the group, you just need to be able to know how to use your body.
Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?
Find my ride or die and take them to the end with me. I have also noticed that people react well when I share my life experiences and spiritual wisdom with them. I also know that people like it when I feed into their egos! So I hoped that a little sweet talking would get me a long way.
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