Survivor retrospective: Ranking returning player seasons

Screengrab via CBS
Screengrab via CBS /
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Dear Russell Survivor Heroes vs. Villains
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1. Heroes vs. Villains

Often considered one of the best seasons in Survivor’s history, Heroes vs. Villains is a shining example of how a returnee season should be executed.

The cast was comprised of 20 former castaways who were all easily recognizable to fans and fit into the show’s theme well. On the hero’s tribe, J.T., Cirie, and Rupert fit perfectly as fans cheered them and their fellow do-gooders on. On the flip side, notorious villains like Boston Rob, Russell Hantz, and Parvati gave viewers a tribe full of veteran players they loved to hate.

As the season played out, we were treated to exciting gameplay, including Parvati using two idols at one tribal, the Boston Rob/Russell feud and J.T. giving his idol to Russell (a move rumored to be included in the upcoming Ghost Island). A stellar season was capped off when Sandra Diaz-Twine became the only person to be crowned Sole Survivor twice.

Must Read: Survivor Winners: Ranking 34 Sole Survivors By Season

Heroes vs. Villains proved the right mix of former players, exciting challenges and well-thought-out twists can result in an all-star season worthy of praise.