Russell Hantz

Russell Dennis Hantz (born October 10, 1972) is an American television personality, best known for his appearances on the reality show, Survivor. He was the runner-up on Survivor: Samoa, and the second runner-up on Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains. He also competed on Survivor: Redemption Island and Australian Survivor: Champions vs. Contenders, where both times he was the first player from his own tribe and the second overall to be eliminated. Hantz's performance on Survivor was very polarizing. This controversy has resulted in ongoing media attention and appearances, along with acknowledgement that his particular brand of ruthless gameplay can result in wins for those who employ it. Most have strongly criticized his strategy, naming him one of the biggest villains in Survivor history. Nevertheless, on both Survivor: Samoa and Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains, Hantz was voted by viewers the "Sprint Player of the Season", which came with a $100,000 cash prize. Hantz was nominated in the 2010 Teen Choice Awards for his performance on Heroes vs. Villains. In the CBS Watch "Greatest Castaways" viewers poll, Hantz came in second for "being willing to do anything to win. His villainous nature always made for great TV." After Survivor, Hantz starred alongside his older brother, Shawn, on the A&E reality documentary, Flipped Off.