Australian reality TV personality David Genat has made history on American television, winning a staggering US
$5.8million (approximately $A9.17 million) on the game show Deal or No Deal Island. This marks the largest cash prize ever awarded on a US network television game show.
Here’s the Lowdown: Hosted by Joe Manganiello, Deal or No Deal Island combines elements of physical challenges in a remote setting with the classic briefcase-based game of chance. Genat, known as the ‘Golden God’ from his Australian Survivor appearances, beat fellow contestant Alexis in the final challenge to face the banker, revealed as Chrissy Teigen, for a potential prize pool over $12 million. He ultimately secured the $5.8 million win after turning down several significant offers.
What This Means Now: This monumental win adds another major title to Genat’s reality TV resume, which includes winning Australian Survivor: All Stars ($500,000 prize) and hosting Rush. His strategic and social gameplay, honed on Survivor, proved effective in the Deal or No Deal format. The full season is available to stream on 10 Play in Australia.
The Bigger Picture: Genat’s victory raises his international profile significantly. His success underscores the transferability of skills developed in competitive reality formats. Fans won’t have to wait long to see him again; Genat is set to appear in the upcoming Australian Survivor: Australia vs. The World season, which has already filmed and will air soon on 10 and 10 Play, alongside fellow Deal or No Deal Island contestant Parvati Shallow.
