Survivor 48 feels like it could be anyone's game at this point. Alliances are blowing up, advantages are still in pockets, and no one person has deemed themselves the front-runner in individual challenges yet.
So while, yes, it seems like it could literally be anyone's name read out when Jeff says, "the winner of Survivor 48 is," I also fear there are some people who are less likely than others. And unfortunately, I'm worried Kamilla Karthigesu is going to fall just short of being crowned this season's Sole Survivor.
I will be the first to admit that I underestimated the bubbly, bright member of the Civa tribe before the game even began. But you know what? A huge part of her strategy is being underestimated in certain aspects of the game, and it's been working very well for her.
Under the radar and off the cuff
While Kamilla and Kyle Fraser aligned on day 1, her first big appearance on our screens was after the tribe swap when she so casually implemented a plan to pretend the two of them weren't working together—she was on the outs, she was a free agent for the three Lagi—without having time to strategize any of it with Kyle.
The number of situations she was put through where she had to temper herself to ensure their trust in her was authentic was heart-pounding for viewers (and surely her!). When they finally went through Kyle's bag in front of her and she didn't flinch, she knew she was in and he was the vote.
Her skills during that period manipulated the circumstances, moving her and Kyle from the bottom to the top, and sending home a major strategic threat. Kyle's the one who played the idol, but she masterminded that camp and came off so genuine while doing so.
That gameplay hasn't ceased since.
While her social strategy isn't flawless, she is authentically herself, which means she has yet to come off as deceptive to her tribe mates—a strategy that seems to be very taboo this season. She says what she's thinking, but she is able to very quickly filter it to match the needs of the person she's speaking to, and that's a very important skill to have in Survivor.
Kamilla's greatest strength will be her downfall
Her secret alliance with Kyle has been a huge factor in both of their ability to run the game so far. But episode 8 proved Kyle doesn't have the same stoicism Kamilla does when it comes to rolling with the punches. As David Kinne suggested they vote her out, Kyle flinched, which revealed the savvy strategist to be the crack in his armor.
Now, going into episode 9, it seems Kamilla might be the pawn used in their game of physical strength chess. While she might be the decoy set up while they aim the cannons at the bigger players, it still shines a spotlight on someone who has so far played in the shadows.
This could be the moment Kamilla's game is forced to come to light, and if they learn of her and Kyle's deception with their secret alliance, it could be bye-bye for both of them.
Watch a new episode of Survivor 48 this Wednesday at 8 pm ET on CBS and Paramount+ to see if Kamilla is the next casualty in this season's war of strength, or if she survives another day.