Sue Smey’s journey on Survivor 47 was a testament to resilience, determination, and the spirit of overcoming adversity. Despite finishing in third place at the Final Tribal Council with zero votes, Sue made an indelible mark on the season. At 59 years old, she not only secured an Individual Immunity win—setting a record as the oldest woman in Survivor history to do so—but also managed to find a Hidden Immunity Idol and battle through unimaginable physical challenges.
Sue’s Survivor story began with a significant hurdle: severe stomach issues and relentless migraines that struck her within the first few days on the Tuku tribe. While this wasn’t prominently featured in the episodes, Sue opened up about the ordeal in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. “It was tough and incredibly worrisome,” she shared, noting how devastating it was to fear being pulled from the game for something beyond her control.
Her condition was so dire that other tribes witnessed her vomiting in the field before competing in challenges. “I was severely sick and almost in a zombie state for easily two days,” Sue recounted. Despite these struggles, she pushed through with grit, exemplifying the resilience that defines Survivor contestants.
Interestingly, Sue’s training for Survivor was rooted in injury prevention rather than brute strength. “I was taking weighted vests and running four miles to strengthen my joints,” she explained, emphasizing her focus on endurance and avoiding setbacks. Yet, her preparation couldn’t have anticipated the health crisis she faced.
Amid the hardship, Sue found solace in her Tuku tribemates, who rallied around her with care and support. A standout moment for Sue was when her tribe threw a heartfelt birthday party for her daughter, showcasing the camaraderie that Survivor often fosters even in the most cutthroat environments.
Sue’s ability to persevere through sickness and remain a significant player until day 26 is nothing short of remarkable. While she ultimately didn’t claim the title of Sole Survivor—an honor that went to Rachel LaMont—Sue’s legacy is one of strength, resilience, and an enduring spirit.
For fans eager to relive Sue’s journey and spot hints of her struggles, the entirety of Survivor 47 is now streaming on Paramount Plus. Her story is a reminder of the human spirit’s ability to rise above adversity, even in the most extreme conditions.