James Acaster has opened up about why he agreed to take part in BBC's Celebrity Traitors, describing the experience as "unique". The comedian is currently one of three Traitors still in the game, alongside Maya Jama and King Kenny, and the trio have so far managed to avoid detection by the Faithfuls.
Initially entering the castle as a Faithful, the 41-year-old was later recruited by Maya Jama and Richard E. Grant in a dramatic twist that saw him and Amol Rajan plead for the chance to become the third Traitor.
Why James Acaster joined the show
Speaking to Chris Hawkins on BBC Radio 6 Music, the comedian said he'd wanted to experience the show from the inside after enjoying it as a viewer. He also said friends who had done the programme told him it was "a laugh", which helped convince him to give it a go.
Reflecting on his time on the show, James said appearing on the series was an experience he would never forget. When pressed for more details about his experience, James pointed to the show's strict non-disclosure agreement (NDA), which prevents contestants from revealing exactly what happened behind the scenes.
Secret task and Round Table setback
His time on the programme also made headlines last week after he refused to get involved in a secret task that could have added £9,000 to the prize pot. The comedian was positioned between Faithfuls Michael Sheen and Sebastian 'Bash' Croft and, fearing any noise could give him away, decided it was safer to sit the challenge out.
The failed mission came as the Faithfuls suffered another setback at the Round Table, voting out Jerry Hall after mistakenly deciding she was a Traitor.
Welfare concerns on set
Away from the game, The Sun has claimed James became "very anxious and panicked" during a tense moment while filming, with a source alleging other contestants asked for cameras to stop so he could take a breather.
"Everyone looks out for each other and there is a proper sense of camaraderie. It was good for James to have a breather, as everyone felt it was for the best," a source said.
A spokesperson for the show also addressed the importance of contestant welfare, saying: "The Traitors is a unique and immersive game, and we recognise that taking part can be intense at times.
"Our highest priority is always the safety and welfare of everyone taking part. Players are closely monitored and supported throughout by production, which includes a dedicated and experienced welfare team."
Meanwhile, Miranda Hart became the latest contestant to fall victim to the Traitors, who was murdered for being "a good detective".
The famous faces are playing the game at Ardross Castle in the Highlands, with a cash prize of up to £100,000 for a charity of their choice up for grabs. The Celebrity Traitors continues tonight at 8pm on BBC One.
