The new series of BBC One's hit reality show The Traitors has unveiled one of its most intriguing contestants yet: a high-flying barrister who has represented clients accused of murder and drug smuggling.
From the Courtroom to the Castle
Hugo Lodge, 51, was selected by host Claudia Winkleman as one of the initial three Traitors in the show's dramatic launch on Thursday night. While he modestly revealed his profession as a barrister in his introduction, the full extent of his successful legal career has now come to light.
Reports indicate Lodge operates at the pinnacle of his field. He is based in the tax haven of the Cayman Islands and splits his time between the Caribbean, London, and Dubai, where he appears in the DIFC courts. His expertise lies in complex financial crime, including targeted financial sanctions advice, anti-money laundering, and financial regulation.
A Legal Expert with a Published Pedigree
Lodge's professional stature is underscored by his authorship. He released a book titled Sanctions Handbook in June 2025, following two previous publications on similar topics. The handbook is described as offering practical guidance on navigating targeted financial sanctions.
According to his firm's website, his practice involves defending clients in cases of serious and complex crime and representing individuals facing regulatory allegations. He was called to the Bar in 1998 by Gray's Inn and maintains a pro bono commitment, supporting Amnesty International.
The Secret Traitor Twist Grips Viewers
The series premiere, set at Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands, delivered a major surprise. After selecting Lodge, Rachel, and Stephen as Traitors, Winkleman revealed a fourth, secret Traitor whose identity was concealed from both the other players and the audience.
This new twist means the known Traitors must murder from a shortlist provided by the secret player, altering the game's dynamic entirely. The revelation left contestants reeling and sparked immediate reaction on social media, with fans praising the "riveting" new layer of strategy.
Lodge himself commented on the twist, noting, "The whole point of being a Traitor is having perfect information. And now there is somebody above us in the chain." The 22 contestants are competing for a £100,000 jackpot.
The Traitors continues on January 2 at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
