James Acaster has spoken about his time on Celebrity Traitors, describing the BBC show as “a unique experience” and revealing he felt panic during filming. The comedian is one of three remaining Traitors alongside Maya Jama and King Kenny, who have so far avoided detection by the Faithfuls.
Why James Acaster joined the show
Speaking to Chris Hawkins on BBC Radio 6 Music, the 41-year-old said he had wanted to take part after watching the first series. “Quite a bit yeah, I had watched the first series and I just thought that looks like so much fun,” he said.
“I talked to some of my friends who went on it and they told me it was a laugh. And I wanted to see what it was like when you're on the show,” he added. “When you're watching it at home, you're screaming at the TV, 'How can you guys not see?!' and I wanted to be like well, let's find out why people react that way while they're in there.”
A memorable but intense experience
Reflecting on his time in the castle, Acaster said: “It was absolutely one of the most unique experiences of my life and I don't think I'll forget it in a hurry.” Asked whether he meant that in a positive way, he replied: “Yeah!”
He joked about the show's non-disclosure agreement, saying he had to keep quiet “or they'll look me in the castle forever”.
Panic on set and a refused mission
Reports have emerged that Acaster became “very anxious and panicked” during an intense moment while filming. A source told The Sun: “Some of the other celebrities on the show spoke up and said cameras should stop rolling so he could calm down, and production were in agreement as well. 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 show spokesperson said: “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.”
Last week, Acaster refused to take part in a secret shield-building mission that offered the Traitors a chance to add £9,000 to the prize fund. He was positioned between Faithfuls Michael Sheen and Sebastian Croft, known as Bash, and chose not to participate for fear that any noise could give him away. The failed mission was followed by the Faithfuls banishing Jerry Hall at the Round Table after wrongly suspecting her of being a Traitor.
Celebrity Traitors continues tonight at 8pm on BBC One.
