Celia Imrie has revealed what contestants really face on The Celebrity Traitors, describing the experience as "very strict" and containing "an element of cruelty", after Richard E Grant telephoned her for advice before entering the Scottish castle for the 2026 series.
Advice before the castle
Speaking to The Sunday Times, the Calendar Girls star disclosed: "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."
Imrie, who became a firm favourite with viewers last year and went viral after accidentally breaking wind during a tense mission, 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."
Addressing the viral moment
Celia also seized the chance to address her notorious on-screen moment, clarifying: "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."
Richard has already encountered difficulties on the programme, after inadvertently revealing to fellow contestants that he is a Traitor, following host Claudia Winkleman secretly assigning him the role alongside Maya Jama and James Acaster.
Mistake admitted
Upon recognising his mistake, Richard 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 opening Round Table of the series, which concluded on a cliffhanger, the Saltburn actor came under suspicion from numerous celebrities, who remained focused on his unexpected admission. The Celebrity Traitors continues on Thursday from 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
