The Season 28 finale of Big Brother has sparked fresh debate among fans after Rick Devens made history by winning both the competition and America’s Favorite Player (AFP), prompting many viewers to call for changes to the long-running fan-voted award.

Devens, 42, became the first former Survivor contestant to win Big Brother, taking home a record $810,000. His winnings included the show's $750,000 grand prize, a $10,000 bonus from the "Pharaoh's Curse" twist, and $50,000after being voted America’s Favorite Player by viewers.

With nearly 30% of the public vote, Devens became only the second contestant in the show's history to claim both the championship and the AFP award, joining Taylor Hale, who accomplished the feat in Season 24.

While many fans celebrated Devens' impressive run, the outcome reignited a long-standing discussion over whether the AFP prize should automatically go to another contestant when the season's champion also wins the fan vote.

Several viewers argued on social media that awarding both prizes to the same player limits recognition for other popular houseguests.

Some suggested the AFP title should instead pass to the runner-up in the fan vote, while others said the award should be reserved exclusively for contestants who do not win the game.

The debate also focused on the participation of returning reality TV personalities. Because Devens entered the season with an established fanbase from Survivor, some viewers questioned whether players with existing national recognition hold an unfair advantage in fan voting.

During the live finale, host Julie Chen revealed that Drew Campbell and Yash Patel were among the top vote-getters for America's Favorite Player, further fueling calls from fans who believed one of them should have received the $50,000 prize.

Speaking after the finale, Devens acknowledged that his previous television exposure likely helped attract votes but said he believed his aggressive gameplay and enthusiasm throughout the season also resonated with viewers.

He explained that he approached every challenge with maximum effort, avoided playing a quiet game, and focused on making bold strategic moves while keeping competition separate from personal relationships.

Devens also said he hoped audiences connected with his positive attitude and enjoyment of the experience, adding that he was grateful viewers appreciated his journey inside the Big Brother house.

Although CBS has not indicated any plans to modify the America's Favorite Player rules, the Season 28 finale has renewed discussion about whether the fan-favorite prize should continue to be available to the overall winner or be used to recognize another standout contestant.