The second series of The Celebrity Traitors has begun, and the opening episode featured a heartwarming moment between Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh and American actress Myha'la.
The star-studded version of the popular BBC game show aired its first episode tonight (October 1), giving viewers a proper look at the 21 famous faces taking part. This year's line-up includes Love Island presenter Maya Jama, singer-songwriter James Blunt and actor Bella Ramsey.
Julie rushes to greet Myha'la
Before entering Ardross Castle, the celebrities made their way into a church individually before settling into the pews. This seating arrangement gave them a short window to speak with one another.
Julie Hesmondhalgh, 56, was the fifth celebrity to arrive and found herself positioned on the far side of the room from the other four participants. After Myha'la, 30, made her entrance, Julie promptly rose from her seat and hurried across the aisle to welcome her.
She immediately lavished praise on the star, disclosing she had recently binged all of her BBC drama Industry, which left Myha'la clearly delighted.
Industry confession
The series follows a cohort of fresh graduates navigating the ruthless realm of investment banking, with Myha'la playing the driven lead character Harper Stern. To date, four seasons of the show have been broadcast, with production on a fifth and concluding series commencing this year.
"It's lovely to meet you, I'm such a big fan Myha'la," Julie gushed. "I've just watched all of Industry."
"Thank you," Myha'la giggled, "Oh my God."
Julie's game plan
In a separate piece to camera, Julie opened up about her gameplay strategy, admitting: "I think that playing characters like I've played for many years - because I'm always goodies - could definitely stand me in good stead in the game."
She continued: "But, I do get a little bit starstruck and I do get a little bit hungry for friendship with people that I know off the telly, so I'm hoping that I can really, really pull that bit of myself back."
The 'goodies' she's referring to include her Coronation Street character, the much-loved Hayley Cropper, a part she portrayed from 1998 until 2014. Her additional television credits feature appearances in Mr Bates vs The Post Office, The Pack, Broadchurch and Cucumber.
The Celebrity Traitors continues tomorrow night at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
