Who Was Vince Costello? All About the Crew Member Honored During the “Survivor ”Season 49 Premiere

Vince Costello: Remembering the Beloved ‘Survivor’ Crew Member

The recent season 49 premiere of the popular reality show “Survivor” paid tribute to one of its own crew members, Vince Costello. Hailing from Fiji, Costello had been an integral part of the show’s production team since 2015. Tragically, he passed away in 2025, just after the filming for Survivor’s season 50 had concluded. The touching dedication that appeared on screen after the episode ended read: “In loving memory of Vince Costello, forever in our hearts.”

Costello’s journey with Survivor began in 2015, and he shared in an interview with PEOPLE in September 2025 that he had never anticipated the immense impact the show would have on his life and that of his family. Working on Survivor was not just a job for Costello; it was like being part of a close-knit family. This sentiment was particularly poignant as his own children eventually joined him in working on the show alongside him.

Originally from Fiji, Costello was deeply rooted in his culture and values. He cherished the opportunity to work on Survivor in his home country, stating, “Fiji is very much into culture and into respect, and it’s been great working for Survivor in that respect.” As a locations manager for the show, Costello was responsible for scouting and securing the picturesque locations in Fiji where the iconic Survivor challenges and Tribal Council scenes were filmed.

Before his time with Survivor, Costello had worked on numerous other productions, but it was his stint with the show that truly became a family affair. Three of Costello’s children followed in his footsteps and became part of the Survivor crew. His daughter, Aline Costello, started as part of the Survivor Dream Team before moving on to work as a locations assistant alongside her father. His son, Patrick Costello, initially worked in post-production before transitioning to become a camera operator on the show.

Tragically, Costello’s time with Survivor was cut short as he passed away after the completion of filming for season 50. At 61 years old, he succumbed to late-stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma, also known as Liver Cancer. To support Costello and his family during his illness, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated, raising over $86,000 AUD to assist with his medical treatment and living expenses. Survivor executive producer Jesse Jensen spearheaded the fundraiser, highlighting Costello’s warmth, humour, and generosity that had endeared him to many across Fiji and beyond.

Costello’s legacy lives on through his invaluable contributions to Survivor and the lasting impact he had on those who had the privilege of working alongside him. His dedication to his work, love for his family, and unwavering spirit will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. As Survivor continues to entertain audiences around the globe, Vince Costello’s spirit remains an indelible part of the show’s rich history, forever cherished and celebrated.