Richard E Grant has been banished from Celebrity Traitors after the Faithfuls finally uncovered his identity as a Traitor. The actor, who had been determined to become the greatest Traitor the castle had ever seen, was eliminated in the latest episode after failing to keep his secret role concealed.
Grant's downfall
Grant appeared to understand everything about being a Traitor except the need for secrecy, behaving like someone who had already won the game rather than a player quietly eliminating others at night. The penny dropped for the Faithfuls after episodes of frantic speculation, bringing a satisfying end to his time in the castle.
His departure leaves a hole in the show, as he made brilliant television. However, the game has shifted from Grant essentially waving a giant flag saying "I am a Traitor" to something more interesting: people who are actually quite good at lying trying to work out who else is lying.
Hannah Fry recruited
Shortly after Grant's exit, Hannah Fry was recruited as a Traitor. Known for being analytical, observant and trusted by others, she now faces the challenge of lying to all the other contestants. It did not take long before people began noticing something was not quite right, with Joanne McNally in particular showing suspicion toward her.
Other players' tactics
Maya Jama is proving that being a Traitor is not about making friends, learning quickly that Richard was expendable. James Acaster is also becoming increasingly comfortable with the dark side, while Ross Kemp has turned paranoia into an art form, wandering around the castle looking suspicious of everybody.
The joy of Celebrity Traitors lies in watching celebrities, accustomed to cameras and public scrutiny, behave as if handed a magnifying glass to investigate a murder when told someone is lying. With Hannah Fry replacing Grant as a Traitor, the series promises a more subtle and compelling game.
