[s17e9] | Nothing Tastes Better Than Five Hundred...

The episode title refers to the , where contestants bid their $500 starting cash on food and advantages.

In this episode, the (merged) tribe faces rising tensions as the social divide deepens. The episode is defined by a high-stakes auction, a masterful fake idol ruse, and one of the most vitriolic Tribal Councils ever aired. Original Air Date: November 20, 2008.

In an act of "utter contempt," Sugar buys a chocolate chip cookie specifically to keep it away from Randy, eventually giving it to Matty instead. [S17E9] Nothing Tastes Better Than Five Hundred...

This episode was voted the 18th best Survivor episode of all time in a major 2015 fan poll.

"You have made my life hell from day one! Forget you, go home, goodbye!" The episode title refers to the , where

Ken Hoang , who wins a mouse-trap style puzzle challenge. 🍪 The Infamous Survivor Auction

Randy Bailey , whose "Operation Strong-arm" (a plan to intentionally annoy everyone so they would vote for him while he played an idol) spectacularly backfires. Original Air Date: November 20, 2008

Randy famously spends $180 on three beers and a bowl of peanuts, which he initially offers to share before rescinding the offer in a fit of pique.