Errol James “EJ” Snyder, Jr. is a distinguished American survivalist and television personality whose career spans military service and reality television. Snyder’s journey began in the United States Army, where he served with distinction, participating in both the Gulf War and the Iraq War. His exemplary service earned him two Bronze Stars and the Legion of Merit, showcasing his leadership and dedication. As a drill sergeant, he was affectionately nicknamed “Skullcrusher,” a testament to his formidable presence and expertise in training soldiers. Snyder’s military background laid a strong foundation for his subsequent ventures in survival and outdoor challenges.
Transitioning from military life to television, Snyder made his debut on the show “Lost,” where he portrayed the character Redfern. His charisma and survival skills quickly caught the attention of producers, leading to his participation in the documentary series “Patton 360°” in 2009. However, it was his appearance on the reality series “Naked and Afraid” in 2013 that truly launched his television career. Partnered with Kellie Nightlinger, Snyder showcased his survival prowess by enduring three weeks in the Tanzanian wilderness, setting the stage for future challenges.
Snyder’s remarkable achievements continued as he competed in various survival-themed shows, including “72 Hours” and “Naked and Afraid XL.” Notably, he became the first male contestant to successfully complete two challenges on “Naked and Afraid,” solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the survivalist community. His role as a mentor in the 2022 season of “Naked and Afraid: XL in the Amazon” further exemplified his commitment to sharing knowledge and skills with aspiring survivalists.
In addition to his reality television success, Snyder hosted the ninth season of “Dual Survival,” where he collaborated with fellow survivalist Jeff Zausch. His engaging personality and extensive experience in survival tactics made him a favorite among viewers. Snyder’s contributions to the genre extend beyond entertainment; he has inspired countless individuals to embrace the outdoors and develop their survival skills, making him a prominent figure in the world of survivalism.