The latest series of the BBC's hit reality show The Traitors has been plunged into controversy after eagle-eyed viewers uncovered photographic evidence suggesting two contestants had a prior connection.
Social Media Sleuths Uncover The Evidence
Online investigators have unearthed a picture from 2024 that appears to show contestants Ross and Ellie together on a work trip, long before they entered the Scottish castle. The image, shared on an Instagram account for @damospersonaltraining, has since been deleted but not before being captured by fans.
In the photo, Ross is seen with his hand on Ellie's back as they pose with colleagues during what was described as a 'team outing'. This discovery has sent the show's fanbase into a frenzy, with many questioning whether the pair are a couple, friends, or simply former work associates.
A Familiarity That Raised Eyebrows
The revelation comes after viewers noted an unusual level of familiarity between Ross and Ellie from the very first episode of series four, which aired last week. Both hailing from London, they were shown chatting comfortably on the train journey to the game's remote location.
Fans on Reddit were quick to comment on the dynamic, with one noting: 'Their initial scene did have a fake energy. If you live in London and someone else says they do too, especially when you're young, you wouldn't be that surprised!'
Further digging by the show's dedicated online community uncovered more potential links. It was revealed that both had holidayed at the same hotel in Tenerife, and Ross had 'liked' a post on Ellie's LinkedIn profile back in July, though the timing relative to the May filming schedule remains unclear.
History Repeating on The Traitors
This is not the first time The Traitors has faced allegations of contestants concealing relationships. The format, which relies on strangers forging alliances and rooting out deception, is fundamentally challenged when players have a hidden history.
Just last week, the show saw the dramatic banishment of Judy, who was secretly the mother of fellow contestant Roxy. Judy received a staggering 16 votes in a display of herd mentality, despite being bravely defended by both her daughter and another player.
The emergence of the Ross and Ellie picture has led to widespread accusations that such secret connections provide an unfair advantage, undermining the core premise of the game. As one fan speculated online, observing Ellie's glances towards Ross during key moments: 'It looks really obvious to me there!'
The BBC and the show's producers, Studio Lambert, have yet to comment on the latest fan theories. With the prize fund standing at £120,000, the stakes for maintaining a truly level playing field could not be higher.
