Eva Erickson and Joe Anglim from Survivor 48 formed one of the most memorable and heartfelt alliances in recent memory. The duo, from entirely different backgrounds, formed a trusting, tight partnership amid paranoia, chaos, and shifting tribal loyalties.
However, Survivor friendships don’t always survive the game due to betrayals, pressure, and competition that can strain even the strongest bond. Ever since, fans have been eager to know whether Eva and Joe are still friends after Survivor. Here is what we know about their friendship.
Eva and Joe’s bond formed in the wilderness
Eva and Joe clicked from the moment they met on Survivor 48. Their alliance was based on game strategy, mutual respect, trust, and emotional support.
Eva, who is openly autistic and a PhD student, confided in Joe about her condition early on, a moment that showcased the depth of their connection.
Joe, a California firefighter known for his “good dad vibes”, immediately took on a protective, steadying role in her life, pledging to be there for her no matter the personal cost to his game.
This bond quickly evolved from a strategic partnership into something resembling family. Eva called Joe her “superhero”, while Joe saw her almost like a daughter, emblematic of unfiltered devotion rather than calculated alliance.
Their relationship was unique in the brutal social game of Survivor, characterised by compassion and genuine care. Their authentic friendship helped the connection last.
The Challenges Eva and Joe faced on-screen
Their friendship wasn’t without obstacles, as the tribe split them up into different groups, making it difficult to support each other openly.
In addition, other contestants targeted Eva for being “Joe’s sidekick”, which put both allies in difficult social spots. Despite the competitive environment, their commitment to each other held firm.
What happened to Joe and Eva after the game?
Eva and Joe’s friendship has thrived in real life, though the cameras stopped rolling months ago.
They communicate regularly, with weekly calls bridging the geographical distance.
Their conversations often focus on much more than the game, reflecting a genuine and lasting friendship.
The two reunited in person for the first time since the show’s filming, during the premiere of Survivor 48. A video Eva shared on Instagram on August 17, 2025, featured warm embraces and heartfelt conversations.
“Together again at last!! Huge thank you to @kulturecity for arranging the best surprise and most amazing celebration, bringing us to Birmingham for an unforgettable weekend (more coming soon on that!!). But for now, just enjoy the pure joy of 2 Survivor day 1 allies reuniting,” she wrote.
Eva has publicly expressed her eagerness to meet Joe’s family, indicating a desire to strengthen their personal ties, while Joe has referred to Eva as family.
What they say about each other
Eva and Joe speak candidly about the impact they’ve had on each other’s lives. Eva credits Joe with helping her navigate the game’s stress and manage her challenges, noting that his steady presence was a lifeline.
Joe, on his part, has emphasised that his loyalty to Eva was about basic human decency, saying that he wanted to support someone the way he’d want someone to care for his own daughter.
Their story has resonated with viewers, who see in Eva and Joe a rare and refreshing example of genuine kindness and loyalty in reality television, which is often marked by conflict and rivalry.
What’s next for Eva and Joe?
While Joe plans to return to compete in Survivor 50, Eva has not confirmed any immediate plans to return to the show. Their paths may diverge as their lives evolve, but the strength of their friendship suggests it will endure even outside the Survivor spotlight.