Norwalk Resident To Compete On 47th Season Of 'Survivor'

NORWALK, CT — Last year, Norwalk residents got to cheer on one of their own as Jared Fields competed with his mom, Cirie, on the CBS reality competition show "Big Brother."

This year, they can once again tune in weekly to see another city resident compete for a top reality competition prize.

Norwalk resident Solomon "Sol" Yi, 43, was one of 18 new "castaways" announced to be competing on the 47th season of fellow hit CBS game show "Survivor."

The two-hour season premiere episode aired Wednesday night featuring Yi and his fellow competitors, including Jon Lovett, co-host of "Pod Save America" and former speechwriter for Hilary Clinton and Former President Barack Obama.

In a statement sent to Patch, Mayor Harry Rilling wished Yi the best of luck as he competes on "Survivor."

"It's not surprising that Norwalk residents continue to be part of these big and exciting television series," Rilling said. "The city of Norwalk has a broad and diverse population with an array of talents and interests, including in the television and film industries. We are also home to a growing performing arts community, including the annual Norwalk Film Festival that was founded by a grassroots group of filmmakers and community cultural leaders and supports emerging actors, as well as a new conservatory designed to prepare students with the skills and tools needed for a career in musical theatre."

According to his bio provided by CBS, Yi grew up in Oklahoma and currently works in medical device sales.

In his video introduction, Yi said he helps people with neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease.

He also noted he has won over $200,000 playing in poker tournaments.

"When I make a move, I'm not lying to you, I'm bluffing you," Yi said. "I can take that emotion out because, in the end, this is a game; the best game ever."

Yi also related how his experiences growing up in Oklahoma shaped him into the person he is now.

"Obviously there aren't many Koreans in Oklahoma, so I stood out right away," Yi said. "It was rough. I got picked on a lot, but I also always stood up for myself. It turned me into the man I am today."

Contestants on "Survivor" not only have to survive the outdoor elements of the island they are marooned on, but also take part in competitions for safety and other perks, as well as engage in the social and strategic aspect present in any reality competition show.

Though he will likely be tested to his limits as he competes for the $1 million grand prize, Yi shed some light on how he intends to endure the physical and mental challenges that come with competing on "Survivor."

"In order to be the best you can be, you're going to suffer," Yi said, "and so I think if I embrace how difficult it's going to be here, it's going to make it that much easier."

"Survivor" aired its first season back in 2000. Season 47 airs weekly on CBS and on the Paramount+ steaming service.