Survivor 50: 5 Notable Absences from the Cast List

In late May 2025, CBS and host Jeff Probst unveiled the cast for the milestone 50th season of Survivor, and reactions were immediate. Loyal fans quickly noticed that several iconic players were absent from the lineup, sparking debate about the selection choices.

That said, the season does feature some familiar faces who promise to make the competition exciting. Cirie Fields, widely regarded as one of the best players to never win the title, will return for her fifth appearance. Ozzy Lusth, a two-time veteran and challenge powerhouse, is also back, alongside notable players from earlier seasons like Stephenie LaGrossa Kendrick and Colby Donaldson. Additionally, three contestants from the beloved 37th season, David vs. Goliath Angelina Keeley, Christian Hubicki, and Mike White, the season's runner-up and creator of The White Lotus will attempt another run.

Criticism of the Survivor 50 cast centers on two issues: the absence of key strategic players and a heavy focus on newer additions to the show. Out of 24 contestants, 11 are from recent seasons, highlighting Probst's push for a new era of Survivor.

Amanda Kimmel (China, Micronesia, Heroes vs. Villains)

Amanda Kimmels record on Survivor is remarkable. In her first two seasons, she won the final immunity challenge only to lose at the final Tribal Council. In Survivor: China, she finished third, and in Micronesia Fans vs. Favorites, she chose Parvati Shallow for the final Tribal Council, a decision that cost her the win again. Despite her strategic brilliance and challenge wins, Kimmel was left off the Survivor 50 cast, though fans argue she deserves a spot.

Jerri Manthey (Australian Outback, All-Stars, Heroes vs. Villains)

After the cast list was released, Jerri Manthey expressed her disappointment publicly. A veteran from three seasons, including Heroes vs. Villains, Manthey is known for her cunning gameplay. She noted feeling disrespected after contributing decades to the Survivor community. While her reaction may be emotional, her absence is certainly notable given her significance in the show's history.

Jonathan Penner (Cook Islands, Micronesia, Philippines)

Jonathan Penner has competed in three seasons, displaying both social and physical skill. His run in Micronesia was cut short by injury, and he later finished seventh in Philippines. Penner expressed his disappointment on social media, praising the cast but acknowledging he was unexpectedly cut, making his absence from Survivor 50 regrettable.

Carolyn Wiger (Survivor 44)

Carolyn Wiger emerged as a breakout star in the show's recent era. Known for her honesty and social intelligence, Wiger initially was considered for Survivor 50 but ultimately was not included. Jeff Probst has suggested a certain reluctance to have veterans on other reality projects, which may have influenced the decision. Wigers omission leaves a noticeable gap in the new-generation roster.

Parvati Shallow (Cook Islands, Micronesia, Heroes vs. Villains, Winners at War)

Parvati Shallow is widely recognized as one of the games most strategic and savvy players. A winner of Micronesia and part of the infamous Black Widow Brigade, she has appeared on multiple reality projects recently. Although she has occasionally stated she did not wish to return, her deep connection to Survivor makes her a logical candidate for any all-star season. Her absence is keenly felt among long-time fans.

All seasons of Survivor are available for streaming on Paramount+.

Author: Zoe Harrison