Australian Survivor is heading into its finale week with more than just the winner still to be revealed, as TV Blackbox understands Network 10 has quietly walked back plans to film back to back seasons later this year.
It marks a shift from plans first revealed by TV Blackbox in December to film two seasons back to back, with the network now adjusting its approach as the current season plays out.
Multiple sources with knowledge of the production have confirmed to this website the decision to scrap the second planned season, with performance and audience reception understood to be key factors.
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When approached for comment about the latest developments, a Network 10 spokesperson rejected the claims, after previously declining to address similar questions last year and instead directing attention to the then yet to premiere Redemption season.
Life imitating art as Jonathan LaPaglia snuffs David Genat’s torch last year, before 10 handed him the keys to the franchise (image – 10)
It has been a challenging run for the long running franchise, with the twelfth season under new host David Genat seeing linear overnight ratings fall year on year, even as streaming audiences continue to grow.
Viewer reaction has also remained mixed following the departure of Jonathan LaPaglia, with some viewers still calling for his return, while others believe Genat has begun to settle into the role.
Despite the change in plans, the next season remains in active development, with casting underway and filming currently slated from mid July through to early September 2026.
However, there are increasing suggestions the network could yet opt to rest the format or shift its position within the schedule.
Attention now turns to next week’s grand finale, which will be taped this Friday in front of a live audience on Sydney Harbour for the first time in several years, before airing Tuesday night up against the Australian Idol finale.
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The broadcast is also expected to reveal key details about the next season, likely confirming a production location move first reported by TV Blackbox, believed to be to Malaysia.
Australian Survivor continues Sunday at 7.00pm, with the final week rolling into Monday and Tuesday at 7.30pm on 10.
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