James Acaster sparked concern among Celebrity Traitors fans after he was absent from the Uncloaked finale, which saw Faithfuls Romesh Ranganathan and actor Sebastian Croft crowned as the winners of the 2026 series.
James made programme history on Thursday after revealing himself as a Traitor; however, the comedian failed to appear at Broadcasting House for the Friday evening recording. One cast member who did address their absence was Michael Sheen, who was murdered at the start of Friday's finale.
Cast Absences Explained
The actor sent a video message from rehearsals to explain his absence, while Love Island presenter Maja Jama received a brief mention later in the episode.
Fans voiced their concern over James, claiming he had been largely overlooked, with one writing on social media: "No mention of James A at all in Uncloaked, obviously trying to edit him out of existence as the producers know he knocked the game off course."
Fans Question Acaster's Absence
Another commented: "Uncloaked completely avoiding mentioning James A," while a third added: "Loved the finale of Traitors. Great endgame; James B shot himself in the foot. What was noticeable was no mention of James Acaster in Uncloaked."
One viewer wrote: "I hope James Acaster is ok. No appearance and not even mentioned on the Uncloaked show," as another simply asked: "Is James Acaster ok?"
Winners Crowned
The Uncloaked finale traditionally brings the celebrities back together to reflect on their experience throughout the series. Yet this year, it appeared that several cast members opted not to attend the recording.
James reportedly didn't attend alongside Maya, Sharon Rooney, Rob Beckett, and Bella Ramsey, who are all occupied with various filming commitments. It was also disclosed that Joanne McNally was in America filming her comedy tour but apologised for missing the reunion.
Numerous fans were delighted to see Romesh and Sebastian crowned the 2026 champions; however, some insisted that no comedians should participate next year. One fan protested on social media, "This series has been ruined by the comedians." Another person stated: "Next year we need more variety in contestants, not just actors and comedians."
"The next series needs FAR less comedians," someone else concurred as another continued, "No more comedians next year. They can't be trusted #CelebrityTraitors.
While this series of Celebrity Traitors may have concluded, the BBC has confirmed which programme will replace it in the TV schedule next Friday. Death in Paradise spin-off Return to Paradise will broadcast two episodes from series three.
Celebrity Traitors is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
