Survivor's David Genat: From $9.2M Winner to New Host

David Genat, a familiar face from three previous seasons of Australian Survivor, is embracing his new role as the show's host. Genat, 45, also known as the self-proclaimed 'Golden God,' expressed that this opportunity feels surreal and is the "cherry on top" of an "insane" 2025. His appointment as host replaces Jonathan LaPaglia, who led the series for a decade.

Genat's journey to hosting comes after a historic win of $9.2 million on the US game show Deal Or No Deal Island earlier in 2025. He admitted that transitioning to hosting was challenging, particularly resisting the urge to share strategic advice with the current contestants during their challenges and tribal councils. Maintaining neutrality was also a hurdle, especially with his close friends competing.

The upcoming season, "Survivor: Redemption," is set to premiere on Monday, February 23, 2026, on Channel Ten. It will feature returning contestants alongside a new group of hopefuls, including a former Big Brother star and an international competitor from New Zealand's The Traitors.

Genat shared advice for aspiring "Survivors," emphasizing that strong social play and emotional control are key to longevity in the game. He noted that being "annoying" is the quickest route to elimination, particularly in high-stress situations.

He also highlighted the surprising strategies employed by this season's castaways, describing the gameplay as "carnage" at times, with contestants seemingly letting "waves crash into them" rather than navigating the strategic shifts.