Michael Sheen Set to Bring Acting Skills to Celebrity Traitors
Welsh actor Michael Sheen, aged 57, has reportedly signed up for the upcoming second series of Celebrity Traitors on the BBC. This news comes after his recent portrayal of former Prince Andrew in the 2024 Amazon Prime Video three-part drama A Very Royal Scandal, where he demonstrated expertise in playing characters described as 'a string of lying and scheming' figures.
According to a source speaking to The Sun, Sheen's experience in these roles should make the game show a straightforward challenge for him. The insider stated, 'Michael has had a lot of practice playing lying, duplicitous and scheming men - the Traitors should be a breeze. He is very much seen as a ‘big dog’ signing. Behind the scenes, everyone is hugely excited. Michael is a massive fan of the show so it makes total sense that he would want to be a part of it.'
Claudia Winkleman's Excitement Over the Lineup
Host Claudia Winkleman revealed on Thursday that the lineup for Celebrity Traitors series two has been finalized, and she expressed astonishment upon seeing the list of participants. During an appearance on The One Show to promote her new BBC chat show, Winkleman confirmed that more 'big dogs' are set to join the series, following the high-profile names from the first season.
Winkleman remarked, 'There certainly are. The people who make it are extraordinary and they had to repeat the people twice to me because I was like, "Huh, are you joking? Come again". So, we’re incredibly lucky.' She added that she hopes famous faces continue to line up for the show, given the success of the initial celebrity edition, which aired in late 2025 and saw comedian Alan Carr win as a Traitor.
Other Rumoured Participants and Denials
Ahead of the official lineup announcement, several other notable names have been linked to the upcoming series. The Mail on Sunday reported that award-winning actor Stephen Graham, aged 52, is being considered by BBC bosses as a potential contender. An insider noted, 'They are absolutely desperate to nail down Stephen for the show. He would be their star signing. He is one of the most formidable actors of our generation, and the nation adores him, but no one really knows what he's like as a person, so there is a definite hunger among viewers to see what he is like in a more reality-based setting.'
Additionally, actor Danny Dyer, aged 48, was revealed in January to be reportedly set for the series after initially having 'zero interest' but changing his mind following the success of the first season. Other rumoured participants include Richard E. Grant, Hugh Bonneville, Angela Scanlon, Joanne McNally, David Mitchell, Steve Pemberton, and Liam Gallagher.
However, not all speculated names will be taking part. Gavin and Stacey star Ruth Jones denied her involvement, citing concerns about outdoor challenges and preferring to watch from home. Similarly, This Morning's Alison Hammond confirmed she cannot participate due to scheduling conflicts with Bake Off.
The Daily Mail has contacted Michael Sheen's representatives and the BBC for comment on these developments.
