The former Survivor contestant takes home $750,000 and America’s Favorite Houseguest title
Category: Arts & Culture
Rick Devens emerged victorious in the finale of Big Brother 28, which aired on October 1, 2026, winning $750,000 and the title of America’s Favorite Houseguest. The season, which lasted 87 days, featured intense competition among three finalists: Devens, Taylor Brown, and Drew Campbell, all of whom faced numerous evictions and strategic gameplay.
The finale featured a thrilling three-part Head of Household competition, culminating in Devens’ decisive victory. After dominating the game for nearly three months, he made a bold move by evicting Campbell, who had been his ally throughout the season, to secure his place in the final two alongside Brown.
Devens, 42, originally from Macon, Georgia, had previously participated in two seasons of Survivor without winning. This time, he capitalized on his experience to outmaneuver his competitors. Throughout the season, he formed alliances and executed strategic moves, which included orchestrating evictions and winning key competitions.
Brown, 27, faced a challenging path to the finale. She was nominated for eviction six times during the season but managed to survive each time. Her resilience and ability to adapt to the shifting dynamics of the game were evident. In her final speech, she proclaimed, “I’m still here,” highlighting her determination to overcome the odds.
In the final competition, Devens and Brown faced off against each other after winning their respective rounds. Devens secured his spot in the final two by winning a quiz round based on jury members’ statements, where he correctly identified five out of six false claims, compared to Brown’s three correct answers.
Devens’ decision to evict Campbell was a turning point in the finale. Initially, he planned to take Campbell to the final two, but after a conversation with Brown the night before, he realized that his chances of winning against Campbell were slim. This strategic pivot proved successful, as he gained the jury's favor, culminating in a 6-1 vote in his favor.
The season of Big Brother 28 was marked by dramatic twists and turns, including alliances that shifted and unexpected evictions. The inclusion of three reality TV icons added to the intrigue of the game. Devens, a familiar face from Survivor, was joined by Brown and Campbell, both of whom brought their own unique gameplay styles to the house.
Throughout the season, viewers witnessed intense rivalries and emotional moments, including the emotional toll of betrayal and loyalty. The dynamics among the contestants were complex, with strategic discussions often leading to last-minute changes in plans. The competitive nature of the house led to a series of memorable moments, including heated arguments and heartfelt reconciliations.
As the season progressed, the stakes escalated, culminating in the finale that showcased the contestants’ strategic prowess. The final three were competing for the grand prize and for the admiration of the audience and the jury, who would determine the ultimate winner. The finale was a culmination of nearly three months of gameplay, where every decision counted.
With the completion of Big Brother 28, CBS has confirmed that the series will continue, with casting already open for Season 29, set to premiere next summer. This renewal indicates the show's enduring popularity and the network's commitment to providing viewers with more reality television content.
As for Devens, his victory earned him a substantial cash prize and solidified his status in reality television history. With a total of $810,000 in winnings, including $50,000 for being America’s Favorite Houseguest and an additional $10,000 from the Pharaoh’s Curse, his win is historic. Fans are already speculating about his next steps and whether he might return for future seasons.
Meanwhile, Brown and Campbell, both of whom showcased impressive gameplay, will likely remain in the spotlight as fans discuss their performances. Brown’s resilience and Campbell’s strategic alliances will be analyzed as part of the season’s legacy.
As the audience anticipates the next season, the impact of Big Brother 28 on the franchise continues to resonate, with viewers eager to see how future contestants will navigate the challenges of the game. The finale highlighted the competitive spirit of the players and the emotional stakes involved in reality television.