Dan Walker has predicted who he believes will make up the final three of The Celebrity Traitors, basing his theory on an apparent editing technique used by the show's producers. The newsreader, 49, is invested in Claudia Winkleman's BBC hit game show, which features a star-studded lineup of celebrities competing in the ultimate game of deception.
Walker thinks the final three will be Faithfuls Michael Sheen, Romesh Ranganathan and Joanne McNally, despite fans recently predicting McNally will be eliminated next. He claims his theory stems from the way the programme is edited.
Reverse editing theory explained
The former Strictly Come Dancing star said: "Someone told me last year that they edit Traitors in reverse order… so, they start with the final episode and then work back to the beginning."
He added: "I don't know if that is true but, with that in mind - based on airtime, narrative so far and the fact that it's good to keep someone who is so sure but wide of the mark - my stab in the dark is that Michael, Romesh and Joanne are there at the end. I will delete this if I'm wrong."
Leak concerns among BBC bosses
The show is pre-filmed before broadcast, with only a small number of people aware of who won the current series. On screen, the Traitors - Maya, James A and Hannah - face a big decision, having to murder one of four stars: Leigh Anne, Romesh, Rob and Ross.
This year, it has been reported that BBC bosses are concerned after talk of the finalists has circulated at high-profile parties. A source said: "Because of the leak, who makes the final is now a hot topic at showbiz parties. It's also spread how certain players get on, not helped by the fact that another source has been suggesting who's been placed for interviews around the final."
The source added: "It's vital the leaks don't make it to gossip forums online and on social media, where fans can find the information. The BBC is hoping that anyone happening upon the info or hearing it from friends will help keep the secrets of the castle and stay quiet."
Fan theories continue
As speculation grows, fans have been discussing the series and believe they have found a clue left by BBC bosses about who might make it all the way. Last year, many fans theorised that the two 'Big Dogs' - Jonathan Ross and Stephen Fry - would spearhead either side of the castle. Jonathan was a Traitor until he was voted out, and Stephen was a Faithful.
This theory has continued to affect this year's celebrities, with fans suggesting a similar pattern for Michael and his fellow Hollywood star Richard E Grant, who were named a Traitor and a Faithful respectively.
