The high-stakes deception of The Traitors claimed its first victim via banishment on Friday night, as the BBC's hit reality show returned for its highly anticipated third series. With host Claudia Winkleman back presiding over the psychological battles at Ardross Castle, the 21 contestants were quickly thrust into a web of suspicion following the first 'murder' of the series.
The First Banishment Unfolds
During the tense round table vote, the group aimed to uncover a hidden Traitor amongst them. Child liaison officer Judy, 60, found herself in the firing line after fellow players became convinced of her guilt. Receiving the most votes, she was sent home. Standing before the anticipating group, Judy remained gracious, stating, 'I'd just like to say you've been absolutely amazing. I've had an absolute blast and I'm just me', before delivering the crucial reveal: 'I am...a Faithful'.
Daughter's Vow and Accusations of Herd Mentality
The drama was deeply personal for one other contestant: Judy's 'secret' daughter Roxy, 32. The pair, who shocked viewers by revealing their mother-daughter relationship in the opening episode, had hoped to keep it hidden as a strategy. After the banishment, Roxy did not hold back her feelings about how the vote was swayed.
She pointed the finger directly at account manager Sam, suggesting he spearheaded the campaign against Judy. 'I think there are some people who have been swayed perhaps by others,' Roxy stated to the group. In a later confessional, she was more forthright: 'I really feel that Sam played quite a pivotal role in mum's banishment and if Sam's a Faithful, he's done the Traitors a favour tonight.' She then vowed, 'Mum's game might be over... but mine is only just starting and it's gonna spur me on.'
This sentiment contrasted with the view of Traitor Stephen, who argued that not everyone simply followed the herd. Meanwhile, Judy, now out of the castle, told The Sun that while she wanted to distance herself from Roxy in the game, her daughter kept gravitating towards her. 'She had my back. I’m willing her on,' Judy said.
Challenge, Shields, and a Tense Cliffhanger
Earlier in the episode, the contestants faced a physical challenge across the castle grounds, hauling chariots to earn gold for the prize fund. Those who managed to remain seated on thrones upon returning to the castle won a shield, granting them immunity from the next murder.
The instalment closed on a major cliffhanger, leaving three Faithfuls in grave danger. The Traitors—Stephen, Hugo, and Rachel—received a fresh list of potential victims from the mysterious Secret Traitor, putting Ben, Reece, and Maz directly in the crosshairs for the next elimination.
