The wildly popular reality TV series The Traitors, which has captivated audiences globally with its themes of manipulation and betrayal, is set to make a dramatic leap from screen to stage. Producers have announced a "bold and surprising" theatrical adaptation, scheduled to open in London in 2027, marking a significant expansion for the franchise that already includes immersive experiences, board games, and branded merchandise.
Creative Team and Production Details
This exciting development comes hot on the heels of the conclusion of series four in the UK, which was won by Rachel Duffy and Stephen Libby. The stage version will be written by John Finnemore, a renowned comedy writer and crossword setter familiar to Radio 4 listeners, and directed by Robert Hastie, the deputy artistic director of the National Theatre. The collaboration involves Studio Lambert, the maker of the TV series, and Neal Street Productions, co-founded by Sam Mendes, known for works like Call the Midwife and The Lehman Trilogy.
Vision for the Theatrical Experience
Stephen Lambert, the chief executive of Studio Lambert, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating it allows them to reimagine the show as an intense and joyful night out for faithful fans. Caro Newling, co-founder of Neal Street Productions, highlighted that the live medium will bring a bold, structural twist to the format, curated by a team of brilliant theatre-makers. While few specifics have been revealed, the format is understood to be a play, promising to deliver a thrilling new hunting ground for traitors in a live setting.
Global Phenomenon and Audience Impact
The Traitors originated on Dutch TV in 2021 as De Verraders and has since become a worldwide phenomenon, with at least 30 versions across countries from Australia to Ukraine. In the UK, hosted by Claudia Winkelman, the series has achieved remarkable viewership; the recent season four finale peaked at 9.6 million viewers, making it the most-watched finale of the civilian version. A celebrity edition, won by Alan Carr, even reached a peak of 15.2 million viewers over 28 days, underscoring its broad appeal in an era dominated by digital platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
Cultural Resonance and Future Prospects
Contestants like Rachel Duffy, hailed by some as the most accomplished traitor yet, have noted the show's cultural impact, with fans in her home city of Newry playfully shouting "you big traitor!" at her. As the franchise continues to grow, this stage adaptation represents a creative evolution, leveraging the talents of figures like Finnemore, known for his work on Cabin Fever and cryptic crosswords, and Hastie, with credits including Hamlet and Operation Mincemeat. With its blend of suspense and live performance, the theatrical version aims to captivate audiences anew, building on the show's legacy of intrigue and entertainment.
