Liputan6.com, Jakarta Vince Costello, a highly respected location manager who played a crucial role in the production of Survivor in Fiji, passed away in 2025 at the age of 61.
Costello was known for his dedication and in-depth knowledge of the Mamanuca Islands filming locations.
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In a recent People article highlighting the families who work together behind the scenes to make Survivor happen, it was announced that Vince passed away shortly after filming Survivor 50.
However, his legacy on the show won't end anytime soon as his daughter, Aline Costello, 28, and son, Patrick Costello, 21, also worked on the production.
As a final tribute, the premiere episode of Survivor season 49, which aired on September 24, 2025, was dedicated to Vince Costello's memory.
A card reading "In loving memory of Vince Costello, forever in our hearts" appeared at the end of the broadcast, immortalizing his name in the history of the show he loved.
Vince Costello's Crucial Role in Survivor Reality Show
Vince Costello joined the Survivor team around 2016, coinciding with the show's filming move to Fiji.
As location manager, his primary responsibility was to scout and secure strategic locations in the Mamanuca Islands, used for tribal camps, thrilling challenge locations, and the iconic Tribal Council.
His extensive knowledge as a native Fijian was an invaluable asset to the production.
He was able to identify remote and beautiful locations that met the show's needs while ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment.
His local expertise significantly assisted the production team in navigating the geographical and logistical challenges of the region.
Professional Journey and Family Involvement
Before committing himself to Survivor, Vince Costello had a long and impressive track record in the film and television industry, by worked on approximately 50 different productions.
His colleagues always remember him as a generous individual who brought a positive atmosphere to the set.The experience of working on Survivor changed not only Vince's life, but also his family's.
His daughter, Aline Costello (28), followed in her father's footsteps by working as a location assistant.
Aline was previously part of the "Dream Team" tasked with testing challenges, demonstrating her talent early on.
Not only Aline, but her son, Patrick Costello (21), also contributed to Survivor as a camera operator and began his career in post-production before moving into a more hands-on role on set.
Passing and Final Tributes
Vince Costello passed away in 2025, shortly after production on Survivor's 50th season concluded.
While the official cause of death was not publicly announced, Survivor executive producer Jesse Jensen revealed touching details.
Jensen launched a GoFundMe page explaining that Vince was diagnosed with late-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) in early 2025.
This diagnosis required Vince and his family to temporarily relocate from Fiji to Australia for better medical care.
The fundraising campaign raised over AUD 86,000, demonstrating the immense support and love of the Survivor community.
As a fitting tribute, the premiere episode of Survivor's 49th season, which aired on September 24, 2025, concluded with a special dedication card.