When did Survivor 2018 begin and how the season is identified
Survivor 2018 refers to Survivor: David vs. Goliath, the 38th season of the CBS reality competition series. It premiered on Wednesday, September 26, 2018, airing at the regular Eastern time slot. This season is notable for the thematic clash of David versus Goliath, returning players against new players, and filming took place in Fiji. If you are looking for the original air date of the 2018 season, this is the specific premiere and context you need.
Clear answer to the start-date question
To answer directly: Survivor 2018 (David vs. Goliath) started on September 26, 2018. Episodes aired weekly on Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on CBS in the United States. The season concluded on December 19, 2018, after 14 episodes, crowning a new Sole Survivor. If you are searching for when the 2018 season began, this premiere date is the definitive reference point.
2018 season details at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Season title | Survivor: David vs. Goliath | Official CBS |
| Premiere date | September 26, 2018 | CBS press release |
| Finale date | December 19, 2018 | CBS schedule |
| Total episodes | 14 | CBS episode list |
| Filming location | Fiji | Production notes |
| Host | Jeff Probst | CBS/Paragon Media Rights |
Weekly episode schedule and timing
Survivor 2018 followed the established Wednesday 8 p.m. ET/PT time slot on CBS for its entire run. Here is how the season broke down across fall 2018:
- September 26, 2018 — Episode 1: "The Greatest Tribe of All"
- October 3, 2018 — Episode 2: "I'm Gonna Start Killing"
- October 10, 2018 — Episode 3: "This Is Not My Forte"
- October 17, 2018 — Episode 4: "I'm Not as Dumb as I Look"
- October 24, 2018 — Episode 5: "A Snake in the Grass"
- October 31, 2018 — Episode 6: "I'd Like to Finally Play the Game"
- November 7, 2018 — Episode 7: "The Playing Field Is Never Level"
- November 14, 2018 — Episode 8: "I'm in Shady Survivor"
- November 21, 2018 — Episode 9: "I'm Glad I Don't Have To Draw Rocks"
- November 28, 2018 — No episode (Thanksgiving break)
- December 5, 2018 — Episode 10: "I'm the Glue Holding This Tribe Together"
- December 12, 2018 — Episode 11: "Fire Shall Come Forth and Devour You"
- December 19, 2018 — Episode 12 & 13 & 14: Reunion and Finale
Where to watch Survivor 2018 now
Survivor episodes are typically available on CBS.com and the CBS app with a cable login shortly after broadcast. Full episodes may also stream on Paramount+. For verified viewing options in your region, check the CBS Survivor hub or use a TV provider authentication guide. International viewers can refer to localized CBS Studios distribution partners for streaming availability.
Key context for long-term reference
Survivor: David vs. Goliath introduced the tribe dynamic named after the biblical story, with original-season ‘Davids’ competing against returning ‘Goliaths.’ The season is frequently referenced in discussions of strategic gameplay and memorable moments, such as early blindsides and emotional jury questions. Because Survivor follows an annual cycle in the United States, the 2018 season serves as a fixed reference point for comparing future twists, cast changes, and format evolutions. Understanding when it aired and how the season unfolded remains useful for analyzing the show’s longer-term narrative and meta-strategy trends.
Quick fact list for fast recall
- Season number: 38 (CBS official numbering)
- Theme: David (new players) vs. Goliath (returning players)
- Filming country: Fiji
- Host: Jeff Probst
- Premiere network: CBS
- Typical episode length: Approx. 60 minutes (with ads)
- Season type: Primarily original cast; limited returnee integration
- Notable cast alumni: Christian Hubicki, Gabby Pascuzzi, Karl Smith
Common questions about the 2018 season
- Did the 2018 season have a special subtitle or theme? Yes, it was titled David vs. Goliath, emphasizing new players versus returning players.
- Were there any casting changes from the plan? The season featured a mix of fresh contestants and well-known returnees, maintaining the David vs. Goliath narrative as announced.
- How can I rewatch the 2018 season? Full episodes stream on Paramount+ in most regions where Survivor is distributed; verify with your local Paramount+ or CBS app login.
- What makes this season distinct in Survivor history? David vs. Goliath is frequently noted for strategic depth and emotionally resonant stories, standing out in the show’s long-term legacy.