Avi Shushan Sparks Controversy After Heated Survivor Elimination and TV Clashes
Reality star and former Ichilov Hospital spokesperson Avi Shushan sparked controversy after a heated televised clash on Survivor and a sharp interview on Reshet 13 regarding his elimination and Sabbath observance.
Avi Shushan, a prominent Israeli media personality, publicist, podcaster, and former spokesperson for Ichilov Hospital, has recently captured headlines following a heated televised confrontation on the reality show Survivor.
Survivor Clash and Sharp Exchanges
Following extensive online discourse regarding his elimination from the show, Shushan gave an interview to Reshet 13, reflecting on his island experience, his relationship with fellow contestant Lir Oz, and exchanging sharp remarks with the interviewer. "I was surprised by my elimination. Lir is the one to blame for it. She plays the victim, but when you look at her, you see someone who is far from a victim—she is Job. We got along at first because I pitied her," Shushan stated.
Addressing one of his key moments on the show, the reality star noted, "I am mostly proud that I upheld the dignity of the Sabbath. Whoever does not keep the Sabbath, the Sabbath does not protect him." Challenging the communications consultant and regular panelist of Channel 14's The Patriots, the interviewer asked, "But you yourself do not keep the Sabbath, do you?" This prompted a sarcastic retort from Shushan.
"That is irrelevant, so what? Who stopped anyone else from doing it? It was Lir," Shushan replied. When pressed further about whether he felt his remarks hurt others, Shushan looked directly into the camera and declared that "the truth hurts." As the interviewer reiterated her question about his personal Sabbath observance, Shushan snapped back, "Do not lecture me on morality, Alina. Let it go."
Professional Background and Media Career
Shushan served as the spokesperson and head of communications for the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) from 2010 to 2023, becoming one of Israel's most prominent spokespersons, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He concluded his tenure in November 2023 amid public controversy surrounding a press conference held at the hospital with released hostage Yochved Lifshitz.
He began his professional career as a journalist, publicist, and music critic for Ynet, where he championed Mediterranean music. He later served as a music editor at Galgalatz—becoming the first editor recruited from outside the station—and hosted programs on regional radio, including Radio Tel Aviv.
Today, Shushan serves as a regular panelist in Israeli media programs, primarily The Patriots, and hosts the independent podcast It's All Open, where he interviews media, political, and cultural figures.
