Mark the Chicken was one of the most beloved non-human characters in the history of the hit reality show Survivor. The chicken first appeared on Survivor: Kaôh Rōng and quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his adorable interactions with contestant Tai Trang. But what exactly happened to this feathered reality star after his time on the island?
Mark’s Origin Story
Mark was found by Tai Trang on day 13 of Survivor: Kaôh Rōng. Tai discovered the chicken wandering alone in the jungle and decided to take him in as a pet. He named the chicken “Mark” as a tribute to Survivor host and producer Mark Burnett.
At first some of Tai’s tribemates were skeptical about keeping a chicken as a pet when they were severely lacking in food. However Tai was adamant about protecting Mark, seeing the chicken as a friend. Over time, Tai managed to convince even the most skeptical tribe members that Mark was more than just a meal.
Mark quickly bonded with Tai and would even perch on his shoulder from time to time Their unlikely friendship became one of the most memorable storylines of the season. Fans loved seeing Tai care for the chicken, building him a little shelter and keeping him safe from predators
Mark’s Survivor Fame
As the season progressed, Mark became something of a celebrity among Survivor fans who tuned in each week eager to see what the popular chicken was up to. There was even a campaign by fans calling for Mark to be named the winner of Survivor: Kaôh Rōng.
Host Jeff Probst remarked that Mark’s popularity was a testament to Tai’s social game. The fact that Tai could convince a group of starving castaways not to eat a chicken showed his strong interpersonal skills. Mark’s presence highlighted Tai’s compassionate nature.
Though Mark was ineligible to actually win Survivor, he remained on the island unharmed until the end of the season when he was able to leave the game along with Tai and the other remaining castaways.
Life After Survivor
So what became of Mark once he returned to civilization after his stint on the island? Luckily, Mark’s time on Survivor had a happy ending.
After the season wrapped, Mark was adopted by Tai and went home with him to live on his farm in San Francisco. Photos that Tai posted on social media after the show depicted a happy and healthy Mark settled into his new home.
Tai remarked that Mark appeared comfortable with his new living situation and got along well with the other animals on the farm. It seems the bond that began on the island remained strong even after their time on Survivor ended.
Mark lived out the rest of his life in comfort thanks to the friendship he formed with Tai. Their unique story is one of the most heartwarming in Survivor history and a testament to the compassion that can form between man and animal. Mark truly was the breakout star of Survivor: Kaôh Rōng.
Why Mark Resonated with Fans
Looking back, there are a few key reasons why Mark resonated so strongly with fans:
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He humanized Tai – Their friendship made Tai more relatable and highlighted his kind spirit.
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He was an underdog – Viewers loved rooting for a vulnerable chicken surviving against the odds.
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He added unpredictability – Having an animal on the island made the season more fun and amusing.
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He brought levity to a tough season – Mark’s antics provided lighthearted moments in an intense season marked by evacuations.
So although Mark was just a humble chicken, he brought immense joy and entertainment value to Survivor. For one brief season, Mark was a reality TV sensation, reminding us that unlikely heroes can emerge in unexpected places!
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| “ | The castaways reunite in Los Angeles to discuss the season. Jeff Probst hosts. | ” |
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—Episode Synopsis[2] |
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- Australian pop superstar Sia donated $50,000 to Tai Trang personally and another $50,000 for a charity of his choice.
- Comedian and game show host Drew Carey appeared to promote the upcoming The Price Is Right primetime Survivor special airing on May 23, 2016.
- Host Jeff Probst revealed that Mark the Chicken was named after the shows Executive Producer Mark Burnett. He also revealed that there, too, was another chicken called Jeff named after him but was eaten.
Trivia[]
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Survivor – Learn The Story Of Mark The Chicken
FAQ
Did Tai keep Mark the Chicken?
At the end of the Final Tribal Council, Tai finally let Mark go.
What happened to Mark the Chicken from Survivor season 32?
Comments Section Mark was wrongfully robbed of a win in Kaoh Rong. And he was denied an appearance at the reunion, AND he was denied a cameo on Edge of Extinction when Wendy released the chickens. Here’s a conspiracy theory from Kaoh Rong.
What happens to the chickens on Survivor?
The players are allowed to kill the chickens for food if they so choose. Or they can just eat the eggs they produce. Probst adds that they “haven’t had chickens in the new era because we’re very committed to the idea of very little food.”
What happened to Mark and Sam Survivor?
Wales separated from Samantha Gash in 2024. In 2025, he was reported to be in a new relationship with Phoebe Timmins. He has a son from a previous relationship with Samantha Gash, named Harry Locke Wales. Wales was selected as the Liberal Party candidate for the federal seat of Tangney in April 2024.