Who is Kyle Fraser? Former juvenile detention teacher wins 'Survivor' season 48 with "people first" strategy

Kyle Fraser has won Survivor season 48, defeating fellow finalists Joe Hunter and Eva Erickson to claim the title of Sole Survivor and the $1 million prize.

Fraser, 31, is an attorney based in Brooklyn, New York, originally from Roanoke, Virginia. Before entering the legal profession, he worked as a teacher, including time spent teaching at a juvenile detention centre.

Fraser’s background as an educator informed the “people first” strategy he brought to the game. He told Survivor producers that his teaching experience—ranging from a private boarding school to a detention centre—shaped his ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

During the season, Fraser shared that he had been incarcerated in the past for non-violent misdemeanours. He also chose not to disclose his current legal profession to other contestants, instead identifying as a former teacher to avoid strategic targeting.

The season marked Fraser’s first appearance on the show. He began watching Survivor during the COVID-19 pandemic and cited former winners Wendell Holland and Jay Starrett as inspirations.

Fraser’s win comes after a year of personal milestones, including his 2024 marriage to Maggie Turner. He is expected to return for media appearances following the finale.