Survivor 49 Finale: A Historic Night in Fiji, Who Won the $1 Million Prize?

Survivor 49 Finale: The torches have been snuffed, the jury has spoken, and a new champion has been crowned. After 26 days of backstabbing, blindsides, and brutal challenges in the Mamanuca Islands, Savannah Louie has officially been named the Sole Survivor of Season 49!

In an epic three-hour finale that was briefly interrupted by a presidential address, Savannah outmaneuvered a high-stakes Final Five to claim the $1 million prize and her place in the Survivor history books.

The Road to the Final Three

The finale began with five remaining players: Savannah Louie, Sophi Balerdi, Sage Ahrens-Nichols, Rizo “RizGod” Velovic, and Kristina Mills.

• Final Five: Savannah secured her fourth individual immunity win of the season, tying the record for most wins by a woman in a single season. In a strategic move to eliminate a fire-making threat, the alliance turned on Kristina Mills, sending her to the jury.
• The Final Immunity Challenge: In a dramatic “worst to first” comeback, Sophi Balerdi won the final immunity necklace.
• The Fire-Making Showdown: Sophi chose to take Sage to the Final Three, forcing the two biggest threats—and close allies—Savannah and Rizo, to face off in fire. Despite Rizo’s “RizGod” persona, Savannah’s flame hit the rope first, ending Rizo’s journey in heartbreaking fashion.

A Historic Final Three

For the first time in 20 seasons (since Survivor: San Juan del Sur), fans witnessed an all-female Final Three: Savannah, Sophi, and Sage.

The Final Tribal Council was a battle of resumes. Sophi leaned on her social survival, Sage highlighted her “covert operation” gameplay, and Savannah stood by her physical dominance and strategic adaptability. Even a tough question from juror Kristina—challenging Savannah to name the family members of the jurors—couldn’t stop her momentum.

The Final Vote:

• Savannah Louie: 5 votes (Winner)
• Sophi Balerdi: 2 votes (Runner-up)
• Sage Ahrens-Nichols: 1 vote (2nd Runner-up)

What’s Next: Survivor 50

If you’re already feeling withdrawal, don’t worry. During the after-show, Jeff Probst dropped a massive bombshell for Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans, which premieres February 25, 2026.

The upcoming milestone season will feature 24 returning legends, including Season 49’s own Savannah Louie and Rizo Velovic. CBS also announced a nationwide scavenger hunt starting January 30, where fans can find 50 hidden immunity idols hidden across all 50 states!