Mike Gabler was crowned winner of Survivor (Picture: CBS)
Mike Gabler had a prize of his own to offer when he was crowned winner of Survivor season 43, giving up the jackpot to charity.
Wednesday’s finale culminated in the 52-year-old beating out castmates Karla Cruz Godoy, Owen Knight, Cassidy Clark and Jesse Lopez for the title.
Throughout the competition, the heart valve specialist had been vocal of his plans to donate the $1million prize to those in need, but made good on his promise in emotional scenes after his win.
‘It feels bigger than you know. We made history this season in 43. I am only the second winner in Survivor history who is over 50…,’ he said.
‘But season 43 is a special season because of these special people, and because we’re going to make history another way.
‘We all had the chance of a lifetime out here, the adventure of a lifetime, what we all learned from each other is priceless. It all made us better.
He confirmed his plans to give up the jackpot on Wednesday’s finale (Picture: CBS)
‘And there are people who need that money more, and I’m going to donate the entire prize in my father’s name to Veterans In Need, [for those] who are recovering from psychiatric problems, PTSD, and curb the suicide epidemic.’
He insisted: ‘We’re going to save lives and do something good.’
Speaking of taking part in the competition, Mike added: ‘We all have the chance of a lifetime out here, the adventure of a lifetime.
‘What we all learned from each other is priceless. It all made us better.’
The Survivor finale ended in emotional scenes (Picture: CBS)
Viewers were moved over Mike’s decision, and rushed to Twitter to unpack the scenes.
‘Gabler said he will donate the money to his charity, That’s amazing by him! #Survivor,’ a fan praised.
‘”I’m gonna donate the entire prize to Charity” Gabler you have a heart of gold #Survivor,’ a follower agreed.
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‘Although I wasn’t rooting for Mike Gabler to win #Survivor 43, congrats to him,’ one replied.
‘What an amazing gesture for him to donate his entire $1,000,000 win to the Veterans in Need Foundation! #SurvivorFinale #Survivor43.’
A Twitter user added: ‘Gabler donating 100% of his winnings to veterans. My gosh. Gabler is the winner I didn’t know I needed!!!’
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A huge moment!
