Celebrity Traitors fans were left confused during the first episode of the new series after only two traitors were chosen, a change from the usual three. The format shift prompted complaints from viewers, who took to social media to question the decision.
Two traitors selected in opening episode
The second series of Celebrity Traitors returned to BBC One and iPlayer on Thursday (October 1) with an extra-long opening episode, during which host Claudia Winkleman made her big decision. The game follows 21 celebrity contestants – most of whom are known as Faithfuls – as they try to uncover the murderous traitors among them, who eliminate players at night. Stars compete to win a cash prize of up to £100,000 for a charity of their choice.
In the opening episode, Claudia greeted the stars in a coffin as they arrived at the Traitors chapel. After the first roundtable, the contestants were blindfolded while Claudia paced around the room, indicating who had been chosen. Maya Jama was the first traitor selected, followed by Richard E. Grant.
Viewers question the change
With only two traitors chosen instead of the usual three, viewers were confused. On X, @saffsmiless wrote: "ONLY TWO TRAITORS???" and @aprilgracesreads added: "Why are there only two?? What's she planning for seducing and recruiting?"
However, Claudia answered the question for viewers as she announced that another traitor will be added once the two claim their first victim.
Last year's finale recap
Last year's first installment of Celebrity Traitors featured an intense final as Nick Mohammed turned on Joe Marler at the last minute and voted him to be banished, with everyone else in agreement, meaning Joe walked away from the prize pot. In a turn of events, traitor Alan Carr remained undetected and swept the entire amount, £87,500, for his chosen charity, Neuroblastoma UK.
Joining host Claudia Winkleman this year are Amol Rajan, Bella Ramsey, James Acaster, James Blunt, Jerry Hall, Joanne McNally, Joe Lycett, Julie Hesmondhalgh, King Kenny, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Maya Jama, Michael Sheen, Miranda Hart, Myha’la, Professor Hannah Fry, Richard E. Grant, Rob Beckett, Romesh Ranganathan, Ross Kemp, Sebastian Croft and Sharon Rooney.
