Survivor Season 46 winner announced as Michigan salon owner Kenzie Veurink

Veurink emerged victorious over fellow tribe members Charlie Davis and Ben Katzman.

After enduring 26 intense days in Fiji, marked by grueling challenges and strategic blindsides, "Survivor" Season 46 concluded with Kenzie Veurink emerging as the champion. 

The hair salon owner from Michigan secured the title of the "sole survivor" during the gripping Wednesday finale, besting fellow tribe members Charlie Davis and Ben Katzman in a decisive jury vote.

Veurink, the last standing member of the Yanu tribe—known for their record-setting days without flint—skillfully navigated the social dynamics of the game. 

Despite being marked as a social threat, she aligned correctly for most of the votes, only missing out during the Tiffany Ervin blindside. Her gameplay was nicknamed "Mermaid Dragon" by fellow contestant Bhanu Gopal.

In a dramatic turn of events, underdog contestant Ben won the final immunity challenge, which led to a fiery showdown between Kenzie and Liz Wilcox in a fire-making duel. 

Demonstrating resilience, Kenzie prevailed, securing her spot in the final tribal council where she clinched a 5-3-0 victory in the final jury vote.

During the final council, Veurink articulated how her strategic social interactions paved the way to her victory, emphasizing the genuine bonds she formed. 

Off the island, Kenzie, 29, resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, and runs her own salon, where she supports other stylists by allowing them to work rent-free. She highlighted during the council that the $1 million prize would significantly aid her personal and professional life.

Adding to her personal joy, Kenzie recently shared on Instagram her excitement about expecting her first child with her husband, Jackson. 

Throughout the season, Veurink also showcased her competitive spirit by winning two critical individual immunities, crucial for her path to the finale.

Season 46 of "Survivor" is set to premiere this September on Wednesday nights, with the exact date still to be announced.