Eva Erickson: The First Openly Autistic Contestant on Survivor

Categories: Breaking NewsHealthNewsSport

Contestants showcase their skills in a spirited group challenge on Survivor.

News Summary

Eva Erickson, a 24-year-old graduate student, is making history as the first openly autistic contestant on Survivor. Competing in Fiji, she exemplifies resilience and inspires others on the autism spectrum. Diagnosed at age one, Eva overcame significant challenges and is dedicated to promoting autism awareness through her participation in the show and a unique merchandise line supporting athletes with disabilities.

Providence, Rhode Island – Eva Erickson, a 24-year-old graduate student at Brown University, is making history as the first openly autistic contestant on the popular reality television show “Survivor.” The season premiered on February 26, 2025, showcasing Erickson’s journey on Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands as she competes for a chance to win a $1 million prize.

Diagnosed with autism at the age of one, Erickson initially faced daunting challenges. Doctors informed her parents that she may never hold a job or live independently. However, with persistent support and various treatment options, her family helped her to overcome obstacles and thrive in her education and pursuits.

Erickson earned her undergraduate degree from the renowned Georgia Institute of Technology before moving to Providence to pursue a Ph.D. in fluids and thermal sciences at Brown’s School of Engineering. In addition to her academic accomplishments, she serves as captain of the Brown men’s club hockey team. She joined this team after discovering there was no women’s club hockey option available at the university, emphasizing her passion for the sport and her commitment to inclusivity.

A lifelong ice hockey player, Erickson has also gained experience as a hockey referee. It was after a hockey practice in January 2023 that she filmed her audition video for “Survivor,” illustrating her dedication to both her academics and her athletic interests.

Throughout the competition, Erickson’s athletic skills played a key role in her team’s success during high-stakes challenges. During an emotionally taxing episode, she opened up to a teammate about her autism and later made the decision to share her story with the entire cast. This reflective moment became a pivotal point in the season, particularly after an intense immunity challenge that left her feeling overstimulated. Her emotional speech about autism resonated strongly with viewers and participants alike, marking a significant moment in the series’ history.

Erickson perceives her autism as an essential part of her identity rather than a hindrance. She aspires to inspire others on the autism spectrum to embrace their uniqueness and view autism as a potential strength instead of a limitation. Her journey aims to create awareness and acceptance surrounding autism within mainstream culture.

In addition to her participation in “Survivor,” Erickson has launched a line of merchandise related to her experience on the show, with proceeds benefiting Minnesota Special Hockey, a program dedicated to supporting athletes with disabilities. Currently residing in Providence, Rhode Island, she hails from Eagan, Minnesota, where she developed her passion for hockey and personal growth.

Erickson has expressed immense pride in her achievements, which include excelling in hockey, officiating, and pursuing advanced studies, as well as cultivating strong friendships. During a critical moment on “Survivor,” host Jeff Probst became visibly emotional, underscoring the profound impact of Erickson’s advocacy for autism awareness.

As the season continues, Eva Erickson’s journey on “Survivor” exemplifies resilience, strength, and the importance of representation for individuals with autism. Her story serves as an empowering reminder of how the challenges faced can be transformed into platforms for inspiration and understanding.