'Survivor' 50 drops intense five-minute first look at premiere episode and here’s where to watch it early
It's not every day that a reality television show reaches the 50th season landmark. For 49 of its previous seasons, 'Survivor' on CBS has delivered some of the most awe-inspiring and memorable moments to have ever transpired on reality television. Thus, ahead of the release of 'Survivor' Season 50, also known as 'Survivor 50: In The Hands of the Fans,' on February 25, 2026, CBS has released the first five minutes from the massive three-hour premiere episode. As is widely known, the 50th installment of the show will feature 24 returning contestants and will pit them against each other in Fiji, as they compete for a whopping $1 million.
On the eve of the release of 'Survivor' 50, the reality television show's official Instagram profile treated fans to the first look at the opening of the premiere episode. The video includes some of the most memorable moments across the last 49 seasons and amps up the excitement for Season 50. It takes viewers on a walk down memory lane with rapid flashbacks from previous installments. From an iconic throwback to Season 1 filmed in Borneo, to the nostalgic music and the magnificent scenery, the preview gets down to business right away.
The clip features “Johnny Fairplay” Dalton lying about his grandmother, and Sue Hawk's iconic "snake and rat" speech. This is followed by two-time show winner Sandra Diaz-Twine's characteristic yelling. Moreover, Eliza Orlin’s "it’s a f***ing stick" line also finds its place in the preview. The clip also sees the contestants battle it out in some of the toughest challenges and hunt for food and immunity idols, all while navigating shifting alliances and tribal politics.
The five-minute clip also features epic gameplay strategies that will be remembered for years to come. Fans will definitely recall the Black Widow Brigade alliance from 'Survivor Micronesia' and what they did to Eric Reichenbach. From 'Survivor China,' we are reminded of James Clement’s unexpected blindside, as he was eliminated while having two immunity idols in his pocket, which he chose not to play. That isn't all. Since the terrain and the natural obstacles of the backdrops have consistently played a determining role in past seasons of 'Survivor,' the preview refers to dangerous medical evacuations and the extreme physical and emotional hardships faced by the contestants. All in all, if one were still on the fence about whether to watch 'Survivor' Season 50 or not, this preview would have more than convinced them to join in on the fun. 'Survivor' Season 50 will air new episodes exclusively on CBS and Paramount+.