Jersey City Police Officer Tony Vlachos Is Back on TV

Two-time Survivor winner and Jersey City Police Department officer Tony Vlachos is back on television, this time on the international stage. Vlachos, who has served Jersey City for more than two decades, is competing on Australian Survivor: Australia v The World, an all-star season featuring top players from around the globe.

When I was 9, I got to meet Tony after he won his first season of Survivor, and that photo is shown above. I still remember being in awe of meeting someone I had just watched play on TV, and years later I am in awe again having the chance to interview him for this story.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest Survivor players of all time, Vlachos said the opportunity to return and represent his hometown made this new challenge even more meaningful. “Being a Jersey City Police Officer means to me now what it meant to me 25 years ago,” he said. “Serving the community I was raised in and helping people who look up to me is what makes the job special.”

His experience in law enforcement has helped define his gameplay. “You have to be extremely observant of your surroundings and be very adaptable,” Vlachos said. “My law-enforcement experience has sharpened my people-reading skills, which ultimately led to my success, twice.”

After winning Survivor: Cagayan and Survivor: Winners at War, Vlachos wanted to test himself against international competition. “I thought it would be amazing to try and win another season of the Australian version where the competitors are from all across the globe,” he said.

The new season has already premiered in Australia and will continue airing throughout the coming weeks on Channel 10. Unlike the traditional U.S. version, this edition is shorter and more intense. “It was very taxing physically and mentally,” Vlachos said.

For U.S. fans, however, episodes aren’t available on American television. “Unfortunately, it won’t be as simple as tuning in since it only airs on Australia’s Channel 10,” he explained. “I’ll try to post links on my Instagram for all to see.”

To everyone in Jersey City supporting him from home, Vlachos had one final message: “I appreciate the love and support and would love the opportunity to pay it back by supporting you as well… If you think you have what it takes, please apply. It is definitely an adventure of a lifetime!”