Survivor birthday: Yau-Man Chan (Fiji, Micronesia) turns 65
Yau-Man Chan showed that you don’t need the biggest muscles, the harshest one-liners or a class clown attitude to win the hearts and minds of Survivor fans.
Player: Yau-Man Chan
Occupation: Computer Engineer
Hometown: Fresno, CA
Seasons: Survivor Fiji, Micronesia
Tribes: Ravu (Orange Buff), Moto (Green Buff), Bula Bula (Purple Buff) in Fiji, Malakal (Magenta Buff) in Micronesia
Finished: 4/19 in Fiji, 18/20 in Micronesia
Sometimes the brightest stars burn out the quickest in the world of Survivor. There was once a point where Yau-Man Chan was the most popular castaway for the show’s fandom due to the man’s honest attempts at winning a game built for the strongest, most charismatic players. A computer engineer should not have been as liked as he was, but here we are.
He used the basics of physics to comprehend and excel in physical challenges, besting the jocks and bullies of Survivor Fiji. He knew to align with Earl Cole, who did his best to help take him and his Syndicate Alliance far to the end. He did this all using the power of science, a modest outlook at life and perseverance.
People sometimes forget that Yau-Man Chan won two Individual Immunity Challenges in Survivor Fiji, plus provided one of the most unintentionally hilarious idol discovery moments. Everyone loved Yau-Man Chan, and it got to a point where his all-around appreciation worked its way towards his ultimate demise.
The reason cars aren’t given out as rewards anymore is because Yau-Man Chan broke the system. He traded his 2008 Ford Super Duty truck to Dreamz in order for him to give the Final Four immunity necklace to Yau-Man, should Dreamz win it. Since he didn’t have a car at the time, Dreamz gladly took it. When it came time for him to return the favor, Dreamz reneged on his side of the deal, sending Yau-Man home.
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What made America fall in love with Yau-Man was the honesty of his character. Instead of showing anger or hatred towards Dreamz, Yau-Man forgave him. His warm-hearted spirit shined throughout the season, making him such a lovable character. We at Surviving Tribal would like to with Yau-Man a happy 65th birthday!