The new series of The Traitors has introduced a major twist, with a fourth Secret Traitor whose identity is unknown to both the three main Traitors and the audience. The addition has sparked debate among fans, with some praising the show's bold new direction while others question the point of a hidden antagonist.
Host Claudia Winkleman announced the surprise change at the start of the series, telling viewers: "I'm also going to pick a Secret Traitor, nobody will know who that is, not the Traitors and not even you. It's naughty isn't it." The mysterious figure, clad in a dramatic red hooded cloak, has been operating solo since the opening episode.
Social media quickly filled with contrasting reactions. One enthusiastic fan wrote: "Omg I love the concept of the Secret Traitor," while another said: "WE WONT EVEN KNOW THE SECRET TRAITOR?! Ooh Claudia, you got us good this year." However, some viewers were less impressed, with one asking: "If WE the audience don't know who the Secret Traitor is then what's the point?"
Fortunately for curious fans, the identity of the Secret Traitor is set to be revealed in Wednesday's episode, earlier than many expected. The reveal follows the dramatic banishment of barrister Hugo, the first Traitor to be voted out, and a successful mission completed by remaining Traitors Stephen, 32, and Rachel, 42, which unlocked the information.
Speculation is already mounting. Some eagle-eyed viewers have pointed to psychologist Ellie, who mentioned a "Secret Traitor" during a confessional before the Faithful were officially told about the twist. Meanwhile, television presenter Richard Osman has suggested crime novelist Harriet could be the one, noting: "I think the Secret Traitor may be Harriet... She wasn't in the first episode much."
