Australian Survivor star David Genat has done it again this time on an international stage! The 45-year-old model and reality TV champion has officially walked away with a staggering $5.8 million USD (approximately AUD $9.2 million) after winning the American competition show Deal Or No Deal Island.
This victory marks the biggest cash prize in US reality TV history, and Genat is reveling in his success. “I’m rich… I am the Golden God of Deal Or No Deal Island,” he told The Daily Telegraph.
From Survivor Strategist to Multi-Millionaire
Genat, who first made waves on Australian Survivor: Champions v Contenders in 2019, went on to win Australian Survivor: All Stars in 2020, taking home AUD $500,000 at the time. Now, he’s outdone himself in spectacular fashion with this latest triumph.
No one from Australia has done what I’ve done, and no one from Australia has crossed over into American (reality) television. Not only have I crossed over, but I’ve won the biggest amount of money ever on American reality television.
he said.
The skills he honed in the Australian outback paid off once again, helping him navigate the high-stakes world of Deal Or No Deal Island. The NBC series puts contestants through intense mental and strategic challenges, combining elements of luck, negotiation, and psychological gameplay.
How Will He Spend His Fortune?
Genat already has big plans for his winnings, with his four children whom he shares with wife Pearl Christensen at the top of the list.
I probably shouldn’t be saying this out loud because they’re gonna hold me to it, but like, all my kids are coming up to driving age. So I’m probably gonna have to buy a fleet of new vehicles. I mean, hey, that’s what I’m gonna do.
he joked
As for himself?
I’m gonna buy myself a new motorcycle ‘cause I love motorcycles. That’ll be my little fun spend.
From Fashion to Reality TV Dominance
Genat’s rise to fame started back in 2002 when he won Search for a Supermodel after taking a $50 bet to enter. His modeling career quickly took off, leading to features in Vogue and Vanity Fair, with legendary photographer Mario Testino capturing his work.
After transitioning into reality TV, he proved to be a force to be reckoned with, outlasting competitors on Australian Survivor before trying his hand at The Celebrity Apprentice in 2021 and later hosting Channel Nine’s Rush in 2023.
Now, with his latest win, Genat has cemented his place as one of the most successful Australian reality stars of all time. And with millions in the bank, the “Golden God” might just be getting started.
Source: Daily Mail