Actress Celia Imrie, who became a fan favourite on The Celebrity Traitors last year, has described the reality of taking part in the BBC show, admitting it can be "cruel" and "very strict". The Calendar Girls star went viral after accidentally breaking wind during one of the programme's tense missions.
Advice for Richard E. Grant
Imrie shared her thoughts after 2026 contestant Richard E. Grant called her for advice before entering the Scottish castle. Speaking to The Sunday Times, she revealed: "Richard E. Grant, who is on this series, rang me up and asked what it was like."
She continued: "I said I didn’t quite know what I was letting myself in for, but it was good fun, although it’s very strict and there is an element of cruelty about the game."
Setting the record straight
Imrie added: "It’s hard always being on, keeping the brain working, but I’m pleased I did it, especially because I have a whole new fan base, lots of younger people." She also addressed her famous on-screen moment, insisting: "I am guilty of doing anything for a laugh, but I didn’t mean to fart. I was nervous. I can’t believe it became such a huge thing and I don’t want to be defined by it."
Grant's Traitor slip
Grant has already faced trouble on the current series after letting slip to fellow players that he is a Traitor, following host Claudia Winkleman secretly giving him the role alongside Maya Jama and James Acaster. Realising his error, he told the camera: "That may have been the biggest mistake I’ve made in my life. I was so thrilled to be chosen that in my excitement I said I was a Traitor. I need to defuse all of the heat coming in my direction."
During the first Round Table, which ended on a cliffhanger, the Saltburn actor found himself under suspicion from many celebrities who couldn't forget his confession. The Celebrity Traitors continues on Thursday from 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
