What Is Rupert From Survivor Doing Now

If you’ve ever watched Survivor, you know exactly who Rupert Boneham is. He’s the big, bearded pirate who stole shoes, built shelter out of sheer willpower, and became America’s favorite castaway. But what’s the guy doing now? Grab a coconut and let’s dive in.

Rupert isn’t just sitting at home reliving his glory days. He’s busy, my friend. You might be surprised to learn he’s traded in his tie-dye for a suit—well, mostly a tie-dye suit, probably.

First up, the man runs his own nonprofit called Rupert’s Kids. It’s a mentorship program for at-risk youth, and it’s absolutely amazing. He helps kids build confidence and life skills, which is way harder than building a shelter from palm fronds.

Oh, and he’s still doing Survivor things, too. He pops up at fan events, charity appearances, and even the occasional reunion show. If you see a big guy with a beard and a pirate hat, that’s him. He’s like a mythical creature you can actually hug.

But Wait, There’s More Rupert

Rupert also dabbled in politics, believe it or not. He ran for governor of Indiana in 2012 as a Libertarian. He didn’t win, but he got enough votes to make people go, “Wait, that’s the pirate guy?” Imagine him in a governor’s mansion—state dinners with his famous tie-dye shirt.

Speaking of tie-dye, he’s still rocking it. That’s non-negotiable. He once said in an interview that he owns over 100 tie-dye shirts, and I believe him. You don’t just give up your brand after 16 seasons of Survivor.

Beloved ‘Survivor’ Contestant Rupert Boneham, 57, Opens Up About

And yes, he’s still married to the amazing Laura. You might remember her from Survivor: Blood vs. Water. They’re a power couple of grunge and grit, and they celebrate every anniversary by probably eating rice and beans out of a coconut.

What About Those Shrimp? And the Famous Raft?

Rupert’s legendary shrimp-catching skills are still going strong—mostly on his social media. He posts videos of himself cooking, fishing, and just being a joyful giant. It’s like a reality show, but with better lighting and no voting off.

He also works as a motivational speaker. That makes sense: the guy got voted out with a fake idol in his pocket and kept smiling. If that’s not inspiration, I don’t know what is. He talks about perseverance, kindness, and the importance of never giving up your dream of wearing a skirt made of leaves.

'Survivor' champ started charity pinball arcade, homeless shelter

Rupert even launched a line of survival gear and tie-dye merchandise. You can buy his stuff online and feel like a true pirate. Just don’t steal anyone’s shoes—that’s his thing.

Has He Changed? Nope.

Rupert is still the same lovable, loud, and slightly chaotic person we all fell in love with. He hasn’t gone Hollywood. He hasn’t gotten a fancy haircut. He’s out there, in Indiana, being Rupert.

He’s on social media a lot. Check his Instagram or Twitter and you’ll see him cracking jokes, posting throwback photos, and reminding everyone that “The hero never dies.” He’s practically a walking, talking meme generator.

Oh, and he still hates Jeff Probst? No, just kidding. They’re actually friends. But Rupert does love to tease Jeff about that time he voted him out with a fake idol. Classic.

Rupert Survivor

The Real Secret: He’s Happy

Rupert’s life now is all about giving back. His nonprofit, Rupert’s Kids, has helped thousands of young people. He’s a father figure to kids who need one, and he does it with a giant beard and a laugh that shakes the room.

He’s also written a book. Well, two books, actually. One is about his Survivor journey, and the other is a kids’ book. Because of course he wrote a kids’ book—he’s a big kid himself.

You know what’s wild? He still competes. He’ll appear on The Amazing Race or other reality shows just for fun. He’s like that friend who shows up to a pickup basketball game and immediately starts trash-talking in a pirate accent.

Survivor’s Rupert Boneham Explained What He Is Doing Now [Exclusive]

So, What’s the Verdict?

Rupert Boneham is out there, living his best life, spreading joy, and tie-dyeing the world one shirt at a time. He’s not just a Survivor legend—he’s a genuine human being who uses his fame for good. And he does it all without losing his sense of humor or his ridiculous beard.

Next time you’re feeling down, remember Rupert. Remember that a guy who got voted out three times still ended up as a beloved icon. He built a raft out of bamboo and hope, and now he builds futures out of mentorship and laughter. That’s the real victory.

So go ahead, put on a tie-dye shirt, eat some shrimp, and smile. Rupert would want it that way. And hey, if you ever see him in Indiana, tell him I said arrr—he’ll know what you mean.

Stay golden, Rupert. Stay tie-dyed and glorious.