James Acaster revealed his Traitor identity to the Faithful in the penultimate episode of Celebrity Traitors and was promptly banished, marking the second time this series a Traitor has come clean. The move, while making for dramatic television, has raised concerns about the integrity of the game.
A Reluctant Traitor Comes Clean
Acaster, who was recruited as a Traitor against his wishes, admitted in the diary room that the game was up before the roundtable reveal. He told a circle of shocked faces, plus James Blunt, who appeared to suspect a double cross: 'I was made a Traitor without wanting to be.'
The comedian had previously made a limp defence to the Faithful, promising 'I can promise you that I didn't spray him,' but he could not bring himself to deny murdering Ross Kemp, a crime he did commit.
Game Integrity Under Scrutiny
This is the second time this series a Traitor has revealed their identity, following Richard E Grant's earlier admission. The Traitors are explicitly told they cannot reveal their identity to the Faithful, a core tenet of the game. The writer argues that such moves risk breaking the game, even if they make for superb TV once or twice.
Acaster's approach was unique: he told the Faithful, almost verbatim, conversations that had occurred in the conclave. In his final moments, he said, 'I got to play this game on my own terms.' The writer gives him a pass because he would have folded under a legitimate inquisition, but warns his and Grant's moves cannot set an example for future unwilling Traitors.
Maya Jama Under Pressure
The episode also saw Michael Sheen turn his line of enquiry back to the murder in plain sight, focusing on Maya Jama and Acaster specifically. Maya, who has coasted through the game with little suspicion, now faces intense interrogation in the final act. She even grew tearful when Joanne McNally said goodbye.
It currently looks inconceivable that Maya makes it through the final, with even Blunt suspecting her now. Her 'OG Traitor' status could be her downfall, as she has let her outfits do the talking at the roundtable and is now being forced to defend herself for the first time in the game.
The Celebrity Traitors finale airs on Friday at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
