Reality TV star Maura Higgins has ignited screens and won over audiences following a blistering confrontation with actor Michael Rapaport on the latest season of The Traitors US. The fiery exchange, which occurred during a tense roundtable discussion, has led fans to brand the Love Island alum the undisputed highlight of the new series.
A Heated Roundtable Exchange
The clash unfolded during the show's third episode, which returned to US screens last week featuring a cast of notable personalities including Mark Ballas, Donna Kelce, and Lisa Rinna. The drama centred on the language used by Rapaport, best known for his role as Phoebe's boyfriend Gary on Friends. When discussing contestants who had been 'murdered' in the game, the 55-year-old actor used the phrase 'we got rid of'.
Higgins, 35, immediately seized on his choice of words. 'Why did you say, "we got rid of"? Does that mean you're a Traitor?' she challenged. As Rapaport began to defend himself, stating 'I'm as faithful as a faithful-', the Irish model interrupted. 'Why did you say "we"? We didn't - the Traitors did,' she retorted. Later, fellow contestant Kristen Kish also questioned his phrasing, prompting Rapaport to reply, 'And I've said a lot of things.' Higgins was heard muttering in response, 'Maybe just stop talking.'
Viewers Crown Maura the Season's Favourite
The confrontation resonated powerfully with viewers, who swiftly took to social media platform X to express their support for Higgins' direct approach. One fan wrote, 'Maura being unafraid and standing up to Michael is so far my favoritest part of the new season of #TheTraitorsUS.' Another added, 'It was at this moment that Maura Higgins spoke for all of us #TheTraitorsUS.' Many criticised Rapaport's demeanour, with one viewer stating producers may have misjudged his appeal, calling him 'quite literally insufferable'.
Higgins had previously hinted at her combative game plan before entering the Scottish castle. She told producers, 'If someone comes for me at the round table, God love them. Sounds a bit traitor-y to me. I speak my mind. I'm not really a shadow kind of girl.' Her bold style was matched by her fashion choice for the episode—a striking dark green latex catsuit with a short cape.
Maura's Strategic Move to Crack America
This appearance marks a significant step in Higgins' bid to build her profile in the United States. In June 2025, it was reported she had agreed to join The Traitors US cast. A source at the time noted, 'Maura is becoming a huge star across the pond and her slot on The Traitors is just part of that.' Since finding fame on the 2019 series of Love Island, Higgins has steadily worked on US television, serving as social media presenter for Love Island USA and Love Island Games before hosting the Love Island USA: Aftersun show.
Her role on the Alan Cumming-hosted The Traitors US differs from the original UK format, as the American version has primarily featured celebrities and known figures. However, a fully civilian US edition is slated for the future, having been announced in August 2025. Meanwhile, Higgins continues to capitalise on her reality TV success, having also been a late entrant into the 2024 series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! and landing a lucrative six-figure brand deal with L'Oreal thereafter.
