Survivor 49 Winner Revealed: Finale Ends With Narrow Victory

The winner of Survivor season 49 has been crowned. The finale aired tonight, concluding the intense competition. The final vote was remarkably close.

“A Fever Dream” – Castaways must find where X marks the spot when a boat arrives containing instructions for an advantage for the final five immunity challenge. It’s anyone’s game during this season’s fire-making showdown. Then, one castaway will be crowned Sole Survivor and awarded the $1 million prize, on the season 49 finale, followed by the After Show hosted by Jeff Probst, on SURVIVOR, Wednesday, Dec. 17 (8:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ Premium plan subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)*. Jeff Probst serves as host and executive producer. Pictured: Jeff Probst. Photo: CBS ©2025 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Highest quality screengrab available.

Sophi Balerdi, a standout underdog, made it to the final tribal council. She ultimately finished in a strong second place. Her emotional journey captivated viewers all season.

Underdog Sophi Balerdi Falls Just Short in Final Vote

Sophi Balerdi did not win Survivor 49. The 27-year-old entrepreneur received two jury votes. This secured her position as the season’s runner-up.

Her path was incredibly difficult. Her original Kele tribe failed to win early challenges. According to CBS broadcast details, she endured 12 days without fire or a consistent food supply.

This hardship defined her resilient gameplay. She fought from the bottom for the entire season. Her social maneuvering allowed her to reach the final five.

The final tribal council was tense. Jury questions focused on strategy and personal growth. The vote reflected a deeply divided jury.

A Grandmother’s Inspiration Fuels an Unforgettable Journey

Sophi’s love for Survivor began with her grandmother. Her late grandmother was a Cuban immigrant. She watched the show to learn English, as reported by the Miami New Times.

Sophi started watching with her at age seven. She first applied to be on the show a decade later. This was after her grandmother’s dementia diagnosis.

Her grandmother passed away in 2020. Sophi continued applying to honor her memory. Landing a spot on season 49 was a full-circle moment.

She even channelled her grandmother during a critical decision. This was when deciding who to target with a stolen advantage. The move was risky but demonstrated her strategic heart.

The Survivor 49 winner earned the title through a grueling social and physical game. The narrow margin proves every vote and relationship matters. This season will be remembered for its dramatic finish and resilient players like Sophi Balerdi.

Info at your fingertips

Who actually won Survivor season 49?

The season 49 winner’s identity was revealed in the live finale. They won by a narrow jury vote margin, securing the million-dollar prize and sole Survivor title.

How many votes did Sophi Balerdi get?

Sophi Balerdi received two votes from the season 49 jury. This was enough to secure second place but not enough to claim the ultimate victory.

What was Sophi Balerdi’s key inspiration for being on the show?

Her late grandmother was her biggest inspiration. She watched Survivor to learn English, and Sophi applied for the first time to honor her after a dementia diagnosis.

What was a standout moment for Sophi in the game?

A key moment was her decision to steal an advantage at a critical tribal council. While the move did not pay off strategically, it showcased her willingness to make bold plays.