Fans of Celebrity Traitors season 2 are convinced they have worked out who will be the first celebrity murdered, following a cliffhanger in the opening episode. The episode ended with Traitors Richard E Grant and Maya Jama deciding whether to recruit or murder either James Acaster or Amol Rajan.
Richard E Grant's early blunder
Minutes into the episode, Richard E Grant told the other contestants that he was a Traitor, smiling gleefully before realising his possible catastrophic mistake. The cliffhanger left viewers wondering who would be the first celebrity to be murdered before a full roundtable debate.
Some believe they already know who will stay, following reports that filming on the BBC series was temporarily halted. The answer will be revealed on Friday night's episode.
Reported pause in filming
Ahead of the series launch, The Sun reported that the production team at Studio Lambert paused the game to check on James after his castmates raised concerns about him becoming 'visibly distressed'. An insider said: 'The show is incredibly intense, and during one particular scene at the castle, James became very anxious and panicked. Some of the other celebrities on the show spoke up and said cameras should stop rolling so he could calm down, and production were in agreement as well.'
A BBC spokesperson told Metro: 'The Traitors is a unique and immersive game, and we recognise that taking part can be intense at times. Our highest priority is always the safety and welfare of everyone taking part. Players are closely monitored and supported throughout by production, which includes a dedicated and experienced welfare team.'
Fan theories divide
Some fans think the reported pause has not yet happened, suggesting James will be saved by Richard and Maya, with Amol murdered instead. One X user called Wandoful said: 'I will be shook if they don't recruit James,' while Madelyn added: 'He must last longer!'
Other fans interpret the report differently, believing it was the moment James became distressed. Mariah speculated: 'I'm starting to think this was the moment production got halted,' while Megan wrote: 'Is this the part James got distressed at so essentially we know he's gonna get murdered?'
Diehard fans have also noted that picking James would be a smart move for Richard and Maya, as the comedian has been one of the only people pointing the finger at the Withnail and I actor. This could allow them to throw James under the bus later, helping the Faithfuls find at least one Traitor.
Celebrity Traitors airs on Thursday and Friday nights at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
