Greek broadcaster SKAI TV has put a pause on the Greek version of the show Survivor following an incident where contestant Stavros Floros sustained severe injuries in a boating mishap while filming in the Dominican Republic.
The accident occurred while the 21-year-old contestant was spearfishing near Saona Island during a break from filming. Stavros, who was diving without a surface marker buoy in an area frequented by tourist boats, was hit by a vessel, leading to critical injuries to both his lower limbs. His left leg required amputation below the knee, and his right ankle was also significantly harmed.
Emergency services provided immediate care at the scene before transferring Stavros to a hospital in La Romana, located on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic. Acun Medya, the production company, stated that Stavros is currently in a stable condition and out of danger. He has regained consciousness and is under intensive care observation.
The production company emphasized that the incident occurred outside the show’s competitive activities, clarifying that it happened when a tourist boat accidentally injured Stavros while he was spearfishing. Plans are being made to potentially move Stavros to a specialized medical facility in the United States once his condition allows. Family members are en route to support him, and the producer, Acun Ilıcalı, is already in the Dominican Republic.
Authorities in the Dominican Republic, including the police and coast guard, have launched an investigation into the collision involving the tourist boat named “Adrien III.” The vessel returned to the shipyard following the incident. The boat’s captain explained that the collision occurred unintentionally while en route to Saona Island for a tourist excursion.
SKAI TV has halted the broadcast of the 13th season of the show until the investigation concludes. The broadcaster has committed to assisting Stavros and his family during his recovery, including covering medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.
The incident has sparked significant concern on Greek social media, with an outpouring of supportive messages for Stavros and his family. Stavros expressed gratitude to his supporters in a post on Instagram, acknowledging the overwhelming love and describing the situation as a miracle.