Survivor Season 25 Episode 1

Contestants are divided into three tribes and meet the returning players. The Matsing tribe arrive on their beach and right away, Russell states he doesn't want to be the leader but still gives order to his tribemates. The tribe quickly get fire and water and Malcolm decides to let Russell have his way around camp...for now. Over on Kalabaw, Jeff fears he may have injured his knee, but doesn't want anyone to know. Behind his back, the tribe discuss how Jonathan should be the first to go since he is a returnee. Tandang arrive at their beach and RC and Abi click right away and start thinking about an alliance with Peter and Michael.

Back on Kalabaw, Dawson knows that Jeff is really a former professional baseball player. Meanwhile on Tandang, RC doesn't trust Lisa and Michael knows who she really is, but doesn't tell the others. On Matsing, Zane puts himself in an alliance with everyone the tribe and when Malcolm reveals this to Denise, they create a bond and start a real alliance. Back on Kalabaw, Jonathan begins his search for the hidden immunity idol and finds the first clue. On Matsing, Russel also finds a clue, but doesn't know that Zane saw him take it.

After the first Immunity/Reward Challenge, Matsing must go to Tribal Council. Back at camp, Zane tells the others he is the weakest and wants to go, in reality just a ploy. But some of the others on the tribe prefer to vote out Russell, especially when they suspect he has an idol.