BBC Survivor contestant finds 'game-changer' secret weapon in huge show first

05 November 2023 , 22:36

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Survivor UK first as contestant finds 'game-changer' Hidden Immunity Idol in major twist (Image: BBC)

A Survivor UK first unfolded on tonight's episode of the BBC reality show, after one tribe member came across the series' iconic Hidden Immunity Idol.

Making its debut on Survivor: Guatemala in 2005, the pocket-sized ornament protects its finder from elimination at Tribal Council and typically comes in the form of a necklace or talisman. Once found by a player, the Hidden Immunity Idol cannot be stolen from them, but other contestants are allowed to rummage through their possessions to check if they have it.

Doug Swinbanks, 32, became the first contestant in Survivor UK history to discover the coveted idol, after beating La Nena tribe mate Pegleg in the hunt to find it.

"I'm going high, I'm going low, I'm looking around branches, I'm putting my hands in things...it's a race against time, but he doesn't even know he's in a race," the flood risk consultant recalled. Seconds later, Doug saw a package in a tree branch and quickly used his backside to block the idol and prevent Pegleg from noticing it. He even coyly faked ignorance, asking the 54-year-old, "What am I looking for?" despite having already secured the 'lifeline'.

Doug discovered the Hidden Immunity Idol on tonight's episode of Survivor UK (BBC)

Delighted with his treasure, he proceeds to recite the instructions which are attached to the idol. "When played at Tribal Council, any votes cast against you will not count. You may keep it a secret or tell others that you have it," he reads. He then discovers that the hidden immunity idol, which he calls a "game-changer" is valid for the next three Tribal Councils only.

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"Having this idol gives me a bit more confidence to play a more aggressive game," the Isle of Mull native said. "I can go to Tribal Council a bit less nervous."

Doug then decides to confide in La Nena teammate Ren that he's discovered the idol, explaining: "You need to have people that you can put your trust with." He also likely had the 28-year-old to thank for finding it, after explaining that they had previously shared a clue of where it might be.

Doug shared his secret treasure with Ren (BBC)

Ren is visibly chuffed when Doug shares the good news, calling it "really, really exciting" and vowing to keep it "100% secret" between the pair. They also admitted, however, that they "would have been happier" if they had been the one to find it.

Survivor viewers were quick to take to Twitter to share their reaction to the twist, with many delighted over the major win for fan favourite Doug.

"A great play from Doug. He's a smart gameplayer...physical but understands the social dynamics," one person on Twitter wrote, while another said, "Doug has the idol and has shared with Ren good move for Doug honestly."

Emma Dooney