Filming of the new series of The Celebrity Traitors was paused after comedian James Acaster reportedly became 'visibly stressed' during a scene at Ardross Castle. A source told The Sun that the psychological demands of the show became overwhelming at one stage, prompting his fellow celebrities to raise concerns with the Studio Lambert production team, who stopped the game to check on him.
Co-stars raise concerns
'The show is incredibly intense, and during one particular scene at the castle, James became very anxious and panicked,' the insider said. '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.'
The source added that 'everyone looks out for each other', creating a 'proper sense of camaraderie', even though the stars are forced to lie, scheme, and backstab their way through the process. 'It was good for James to have a breather, as everyone felt it was for the best.'
Thankfully, the break 'didn't affect the outcome of the game at all', but it did prove 'just how passionate and tense everyone on set was'.
BBC statement on welfare
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.'
James, 41, is best known for co-hosting the Off Menu podcast with Ed Gamble, who hosts The Traitors: Uncloaked. He has also appeared on shows like Taskmaster and released several books. In his 2019 book, Perfect Sound Whatever, he opened up about his 2017 mental health breakdown, which stemmed from a breakup, parting ways with his agent, and career uncertainty. He experienced 'serious suicidal thoughts for the first time' and sought professional help, rebuilding himself through therapy and music.
Comedian's Traitors concerns
James admitted to having reservations about joining the series after Alan Carr's award-winning win last year. With more comedians than before—including Rob Beckett, Joe Lycett, and Joanne McNally—he called it 'a concern'. He said, 'There will be suspicions that it's going to be at least one of these guys, that we might form an alliance if we're not broken apart. I think we're going to be the first ones under the magnifying glass, being looked at, particularly at the beginning when you have absolutely nothing to go on.'
He quipped that Alan's win 'tainted [them] all' after he famously 'disarmed everyone with jokes'. Despite this, he said he is a 'huge' Traitors fan: 'I really loved the first Celebrity series and instantly became jealous that I wasn't doing it. I had to get in here!'
Series 2 of The Celebrity Traitors begins on October 1 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
