Review: Survivor, “Cherry on Top” | Season 49, Episode 11

From the moment Sophie betrayed Sage and Jawan last week, she put a target on her back. Sure, people already wanted her gone; she’s Season 49’s version of a “challenge beast,” along with the only contestant left who has voted correctly at every tribal council, as multiple people bring up this week. But what ultimately seals her fate isn’t Rizo’s usual crafty maneuvering, though he’s instrumental in making that vote unanimous. What tips the scales is Sage’s thirst for revenge—her choice to ignore her long-standing personal animus toward Savannah and prioritize a newer enemy.

It reminds me of one of the most famous moments in Survivor history: Sue Hawk’s “snakes and rats” speech from the final tribal council of Borneo. She likened Richard Hatch to a snake, likened her old ally Kelly Wiglesworth to a rat, and suggested that the tribe “let it be the way Mother Nature intended it to be: for the snake to eat the rat.” From her perspective and ultimately the perspective of the jury, Richard’s devious intelligence and open deceptions made him a better winner than his sweet yet two-faced opponent.

Again, I hesitate to compare Season 49 to Season 1, because it doesn’t do the former any favors. But it’s worth pointing out the way Sue’s speech still echoes 48 seasons later. By shifting targets from Savannah to Sophie, Sage is essentially choosing the snake over the rat. Sophie’s betrayal hurts more than Savannah’s consistent evil presence, much like Kelly hurt Sue more than Richard.