Who was the winner of Survivor 45? Whereabouts, family, net worth and more explored 

Roshni
Winner of Survivor 45 in action (image via @roamwithdee)
Winner of Survivor 45 in action (image via @roamwithdee)

Survivor season 45 concluded with an intense finale on December 20, where Dee Valladares emerged as the Sole Survivor, winning the coveted $1 million prize. The flight attendant's strategic gameplay and resilience set her apart, earning her the ultimate victory.

However, Dee's post-Survivor journey wasn’t without its challenges. She faced public struggles with alcoholism and became a frequent guest on the Dr. Phil Show, openly discussing her battles.

Despite these hurdles, Dee has turned her life around, finding stability and fulfillment in managing a movie theater while maintaining her sobriety.


All You Need to Know About the Winner of Survivor 45

Dee Valladares emerged as the winner of Survivor 45, triumphing over fierce competition to claim the $1 million prize.

Dee's victory was the result of strategic gameplay, physical endurance and social prowess, which allowed her to outlast her fellow finalists Austin Li Coon, Jake O'Kane, Katurah Topps and Julie Alley in the December 20 finale.

Dee Valladares, a flight attendant, entered Survivor 45 with a determined mindset and a clear strategy. Throughout the season, she demonstrated exceptional adaptability, forming key alliances and making bold moves that kept her safe at Tribal Council.

Dee's ability to navigate the complex social dynamics of the game and strong performance in challenges were instrumental in her success.

After her win, Dee planned to use her prize money to see the world, a long-held dream that her career as a flight attendant had inspired but not yet fulfilled.

However, life after Survivor brought its own set of challenges. Dee publicly struggled with alcoholism, an issue she faced head-on with the support of her family and friends.

Dee’s battle with alcoholism was well-documented, including appearances on the Dr. Phil Show, where she sought help for her addiction. Despite the setbacks, Dee has shown resilience and a commitment to her recovery.

She has now become a strong voice that has become an advocate for mental health and addiction recovery, using her platform to raise awareness and support others facing similar struggles.

Today, Dee Valladares is "happy and sober" and manages a movie theater. She has now embraced a new role with the same determination that led her to victory on the show.

In her free time, Dee continues to travel and explore new places, fulfilling the dream that her Survivor winnings helped make possible.

Dee remains close to her family, who have been a source of strength and support throughout her journey.

Dee's participation in Survivor has strengthened her relationships with other contestants, creating a special connection. Her narrative is characterized by victory, strength and the persistent determination to conquer obstacles in life.

Dee Valladares' victory on the show and her subsequent journey serve as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with determination and support, it's possible to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.


Dee Valladares' journey on the show and beyond was a rollercoaster ride through good times and bad, is a proof to resilience, strategic thinking and growth. Her win in one of television's most difficult reality shows showed how well she could outwit, outshine and outlive her competitors.

Dee's dedication to conquering her obstacles and supporting others facing similar struggles highlights her resilience and fortitude, even in the face of personal difficulties post-win.

Her narrative remains a source of motivation for fans, underscoring the idea that real triumph transcends the competition, encompassing the daily challenges we encounter.

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