When Survivor legend Ozzy Lusth strides onto the iconic beaches of Fiji for the game’s landmark 50th season, he's not just another returning player. At 44, Ozzy is stepping back into the spotlight with a story of resilience and redemption that no one saw coming. Once renowned for his physical prowess and signature flowing hair, he's now bringing a refreshed perspective shaped by overcoming personal challenges and facing public scrutiny.
"I’m surprised CBS asked me back after everything. I dabbled in some pretty hardcore stuff. It was pretty dark for a while," Ozzy candidly shared with The U.S. Sun.
Ozzy's journey back to Survivor wasn't a straight path. After his last appearance on the show, he took a dramatic turn by launching an OnlyFans account in 2021, sharing explicit content during what he describes as a financial and personal low point. Yet, against the odds, CBS extended an invitation for him to return. Survivor casting director Jesse Tannenbaum reassured him, "They know everything. They know it all. It’s not a deal breaker," allowing Ozzy to breathe a sigh of relief and embrace the opportunity to rewrite his narrative on the beloved reality series.
With his spot secure, Ozzy took bold steps to transform his life. He moved from Venice Beach to the vibrant city of Guanajuato, Mexico, leaving his OnlyFans days behind. There, he invested his energy and dwindling finances into opening Xolazul – a music venue, restaurant, and cocktail bar – marking a fresh start. "I went to a dark place and realized that I had to make a huge change," he explained to Entertainment Weekly, describing his decision to leave Los Angeles and build something meaningful.
Now, Ozzy connects with fans through reality TV viewing parties alongside other Survivor alumni. This shift signifies both personal growth and a new strategic approach to the game. With four previous Survivor attempts under his belt, including near victories, Ozzy is determined to play smarter, focusing on building genuine relationships and forming unexpected alliances.
Survivor 50 kicked off on February 25, 2026, with an epic three-hour premiere, throwing 24 returning players into the mix – the largest cast in the show's history. The season, titled "In the Hands of the Fans," lets viewers directly influence the game, adding a new layer of excitement and unpredictability.
In a dramatic early twist, Ozzy found himself on Exile Island with fellow player Q after a tense "fight for supplies" challenge. Rather than relying on physical strength, Ozzy, now playing as "Oscar," struck a strategic deal with Q, securing an extra vote in exchange for supplies. Back at camp, the potential for a "legends alliance" with Cirie Fields and other iconic players hinted at the possibility of making Survivor history.
As the season unfolds, Ozzy's new strategy and alliances position him as a formidable contender. With a Billie Eilish Boomerang Idol in his pocket and a fresh perspective, the question remains: Could this finally be Ozzy's time to claim the coveted Survivor title?