Australian Survival Show Goes Viral for Shocking Racism: “She Was Calmer Than Me”

A viral moment from Australian Survivor Heroes v. Villains has sparked a significant online discussion, with many fans wishing for a more combative outcome following an incident between two contestants. This controversy transcended microaggressions, showcasing an overt act of racism.

Rubin, a resident of Melbourne, inquired about Nina’s origin in the US. Nina revealed that she hailed from North Carolina, stressing the distance by highlighting that it was located all the way on the East Coast. Rubin took objection to this clarification, asserting that she spends half her time in the US and did not require such an explanation “as if she’s an idiot.”

However, what followed was even more shocking. Rubin declared, “I’m more African American than you are. You need to understand that.” To escalate the situation, she claimed her roots were in Africa, which left onlookers—both her teammates and the social media audience—stunned and perplexed by her unexpected and racially charged attack on Twine.

@realityrealn355
“I’m more African American than you are” #australiansurvivor

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Social media responded vigorously, with many users expressing outrage over Rubin’s racist remark. One user commented on the TikTok video, “She kept her cool way better than I would’ve.” Another person wished, “I hope this could turn into a completely different kind of Survivor game.”

Rubin was born in Cape Town, South Africa. While her South African identity is notable, her employment in the US does not equate her to being African American. Her parents were of Lithuanian Jewish descent, undermining her assertion of being African American entirely.

Nina Twine shared her perspective

Nina Twine remarked that the episode featured “the most uncomfortable and regrettable moment” of her life. Although she had a response to Rubin, it was not aired. When Rubin made her rude comments, Twine could only manage a terse, “Good for you.”

I put my hand on her shoulder just like how she did me? JPL didn’t even stop my rant

— Nina Twine (@NinaTwine) October 22, 2024

After Rubin’s elimination, Twine confronted her about her unacceptable behavior, asserting that “someone more deserving” should have been the one leaving instead of Rubin. It was a sharp retort that likely would not have been suitable for broadcast on reality television.

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