Survivor 48 is finally here and there’s a lot to unpack. The season premiere was shocking from start to finish, with a good amount of twists for the first episode. During the premiere, several castaways emerged as key players. These five contestants have a good chance at making it far this season, and possibly even securing the million-dollar prize.
Eva Erickson – Lagi
Eva Erickson immediately stood out as a prominent member of the Lagi tribe for her physical strength. During the initial challenge, Eva established an early reputation as a challenge beast. Later on, she continued to prove her value to the tribe when she collected a record amount of bamboo for camp.
However, what really made Eva stand out during the premiere was her vulnerability. Eva opened up about having autism, which she also confided in her number one ally Joe Hunter. While Eva felt that her autism could affect her social game, she couldn’t have picked a better ally than Joe. Joe was understanding and instantly assured Eva that he had her back. Between her strength and already impressive social game, Eva has a great chance of making it far this season.
Joe Hunter – Lagi
Speaking of Joe, he also has a decent chance of winning the season. Like Eva, Joe is one of the stronger members of the Lagi tribe. Joe is also playing a strong social game right off the bat, with two key alliances. Apart from his alliance with Eva, Joe has also built strong bonds with Shauhin Davari and Thomas Krottinger.
If there’s one thing the New Era of Survivor has taught us, it’s that a good social game can win you the season. If Joe keeps this up, he could have a decent shot at the million. Sometimes, being likable on Survivor is enough to win you a jury vote. It’s too early to say, but I could see a jury voting for Joe based on his character alone.
Kevin Leung – Vula
Kevin Leung had a difficult start to the episode but quickly redeemed himself. After hurting his shoulder during the first challenge, the Vula tribe chose Kevin to go on the journey. By taking his time, Kevin excelled and won his tribe’s supplies.
Later on in the episode, Vula lost the immunity challenge which resulted in them being sent to tribal council. Kevin found himself in the middle of two alliances, which is a great starting position. He formed an individual alliance with Mary Zheng while also being a part of a group of four including Justin Pioppi, Cedrek McFadden, and Sai Hughley. Ultimately, Kevin was one of two swing votes that resulted in Stephanie Berger being sent home.
Kamilla Karthigesu – Civa
Kamilla Karthigesu didn’t have a ton of screen time in the premiere, however, she already has a strong spot on the Civa tribe. It’s clear that Kamilla is a strategist. Kamilla is working to make alliances, however, she isn’t playing too hard yet. Looking at you Sai!
When Kyle Fraser returned from the journey, Kamilla formed an instant connection with him. It turns out they both have Guyanese roots and both love the movie Holes! Anyway, Kamilla proved that she had Kyle’s back when she let him know that Charity Nelms was throwing his name around. Having a loyal number-one ally is always a critical first move in Survivor.
Kyle Fraser – Civa
Along with Kamilla, Kyle stands out as one of the key players on the Civa tribe. Kyle showed strong character during the journey when he helped Kevin after breaking one of his own materials. Sometimes when playing Survivor, having a good heart is just as important as having a strategic mind. Kyle’s kindness could also help him secure an alliance with Kevin if they both make it to the merge.
Back on the Civa beach, Kevin is also making smart game moves. He decided to withhold the fact that he’s a lawyer from the tribe, and instead told them he’s a high school English teacher. This was a good move on Kyle’s part, as lawyers sometimes get a target put on their backs for being strategists. Kyle’s alliance with Kamilla is also a good start to the game, which could help him make it far this season.
Survivor is currently available to stream on Paramount +.
TELL US – WHICH PLAYERS STOOD OUT TO YOU DURING THE SURVIVOR 48 PREMIERE?
