Dirk Been

Dirk Been is still considered the first Christian reality contestant for his role on the original "Survivor" show on CBS. Long before appearing on the hit show Dirk learned key survival skills including responsibility and commitment while growing up on his parent's Wisconsin dairy farm. "Sub-zero weather and strenuous work can teach a child many lessons about survival," Been agrees, "You survive the work under any circumstance and trust God to provide for your family."

Through high school and college Dirk continued to work as a sports coach and counselor with young people with organizations including The Boys & Girls Club and YMCA. Basketball has always been a part of Dirk's life especially during college where he was quickly promoted to team captain and Academic All Conference for 3 years. Dirk became a Christian at a young age and attended church regularly. For many years Dirk worked in the youth group and decided to major in theological studies. Shortly after graduating from Seattle Pacific University in 1998, Dirk decided to explore the world and while visiting a friend in Los Angeles in 1999 his ATM credit card was stolen and his bank account depleted. The incident did not force Dirk to return home but instead motivated him to seek God's will even closer. Dirk, who rarely watched television, caught the end of a news program when he spotted an ad for a new series titled "Survivor." The day before the deadline Dirk sent in his audition tape and out of 6,000 submissions Dirk soon learned he was one of the first selected to partake in this new adventure.

Dirk was one of 16 individuals placed on a remote island and forced to use his own skills combined with teamwork to survive the unknown. Although he did not walk away with the million-dollar prize, Dirk gained new insight to life that cannot be measured in dollars. His new found celebrity status has come as a surprise to Dirk who has recently been featured on multiple entertainment and news programs across the country including national shows such as Late Night With David Letterman, The Tonight Show, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood, Extra and E! Entertainment.

Features in publications including TV Guide and People Magazine have recognized Dirk as "The Christian Survivor," Dirk is flattered stating, "I admit I needed the Bible with me on that island and when you are on an island with nothing else you re-assess your relationship with others and God." Dirk continues to speak to today's youth encouraging education, and living a life abstinent of sex, drugs and alcohol. Dirk remained a virgin until his wedding day in 2004. He resides near Madison, WI with his wife and two children. His hobbies include spending time with his family, playing basketball and reading.