David Genat, a former contestant on Australian Survivor, has made history by winning a staggering AU$9.2 million (US$5.8 million) on NBC’s Deal or No Deal Island, marking the largest cash prize ever awarded in reality television history. The 45-year-old model and reality TV star, known for his charismatic presence and strategic gameplay, previously won AU$500,000 on the All Stars series of Australian Survivor in 2020.
Genat's monumental win was celebrated on Thursday, March 27, 2025, during an appearance on the morning show Sunrise, where he expressed his disbelief and joy. "It was incredible, man. I mean, something very special was happening in that temple, and it’s just such a staggering amount of money. Staggering," he told hosts Nat Barr and Matt Shirvington.
His journey on Deal or No Deal Island was not just about the money. Genat chose case number 18, a decision steeped in personal significance. He explained, "All my kids were born on the 18th. My youngest son is on the 14th, but three of them are born on the 18th. And my dad passed away two years ago on the 18th, my stepdaughter’s birthday." This connection to his family and late father added a deeply emotional layer to his victory.
Genat's win comes after a series of successful appearances on reality TV. He first gained recognition by winning Search for a Supermodel in 2002 and later appeared on shows like Celebrity Apprentice, Rush, and Getaway. His reputation as the "Golden God" of Survivor was solidified when he won Australian Survivor: All Stars, demonstrating his skill in the competitive realm of reality television.
In the finale of Deal or No Deal Island, Genat faced a tense decision between two cases: one containing a mere US$75 and another valued at US$12,232,001. After careful consideration, he opted to take the deal offered by the mystery banker, revealed to be model and television personality Chrissy Teigen. Genat reflected on his decision, stating, "The offer came in at $5.8 million and I started thinking about it, and that is just so much money. I was having a spiritual experience, man. I just knew where that money was. I knew which cases to open."
His gameplay on Deal or No Deal Island was influenced by his experiences on Australian Survivor. Genat emphasized the importance of building relationships and maintaining a sound strategy in competition. "You can’t plan what’s going to happen, but you can plan your relationships and being close with people and making sure that if they do have to send someone home, it’s not you," he explained.
As the news of his victory spread, Genat received congratulations from fellow reality stars and fans alike. His former Australian Survivor castmate, Luke Toki, humorously remarked, "Dammm son… Sending networks broke." Genat's win not only makes him a multimillionaire but also solidifies his status as a prominent figure in the reality TV landscape.
Looking ahead, Genat is not resting on his laurels. He is set to compete in the upcoming season of Australian Survivor: Australia V The World, scheduled to air later this year. "I’m going to definitely buy a new motorcycle, a new Harley," he joked in an interview, also mentioning the need to purchase vehicles for his children, who are about to start driving.
Genat's journey from a reality TV contestant to a multimillionaire serves as an inspiration to many aspiring reality stars. His ability to connect with audiences and navigate the complexities of competition has made him a beloved figure in the realm of entertainment. As he prepares for his next challenge, fans eagerly anticipate what this dynamic personality will achieve next.
In a world where reality television often blurs the lines between competition and entertainment, David Genat stands out as a testament to the power of strategy, luck, and emotional connections. His recent triumph on Deal or No Deal Island not only highlights his gaming prowess but also reflects the personal significance of his choices, making it a moment to remember in the annals of reality TV history.
