The Traitors Contestants Expose Behind-the-Scenes Breakfast Rule
Two former stars from the hit BBC series The Traitors have lifted the lid on a secret production rule enforced during the show's tense breakfast scenes. Jessie Stride and Amanda Collier, who both participated as Faithfuls in the most recent series, disclosed that contestants were explicitly forbidden from hugging each other when entering the breakfast room after nightly murders.
Strict Instructions from BBC Staff
According to the duo, BBC staff issued clear directives to avoid physical contact during these critical moments. Amanda Collier explained to Birmingham Live, 'Before you go in for breakfast, they say just go to your seat - what you mustn’t do is hug anyone, you just have to go and sit down because there’s a lot to do.' The rule was implemented to streamline filming and maintain the show's dramatic pace, but not everyone adhered to it strictly.
Amanda revealed that Jessie Stride was the one Faithful who consistently broke the ban, saying, 'As soon as Jessie walked in the door, she just grabbed everybody! It was so sweet.' Jessie responded with her characteristic enthusiasm, adding, 'I can’t help it - I just love everyone! I was so pleased.' This behind-the-scenes insight highlights the personal dynamics that viewers rarely witness on screen.
Off-Screen Pact and Friendship
Beyond the breakfast rule, Jessie and Amanda shared details of their off-screen bond. Amanda disclosed that she wore an orange item of clothing every day as a subtle tribute to Jessie, showcasing the genuine friendships formed during the intense competition. Their revelations add a layer of humanity to the high-stakes game of deception and strategy.
Winner Stephen Libby Reflects on 'Mistakes' and Surprise Victory
In a separate development, series winner Stephen Libby has opened up about his unexpected triumph on The Traitors. The 32-year-old, who split the prize money with fellow Traitor Rachel Duffy, admitted he was 'shocked' to take home the substantial cash prize of £47,875 each. Speaking on This Morning, Stephen confessed to making several key errors during his time as a Traitor.
Catastrophic Errors and Stressful Moments
Stephen detailed the immense pressure of maintaining his deception, particularly during breakfast scenes where he had to feign shock at murders he orchestrated. He recalled, 'It's very stressful in there, like at breakfast I knew who isn't coming but you've got to act shocked.' Reflecting on a pivotal moment, he said, 'When Jessie pulled me up on the final five theory, it's the first time I'd realised I'd made a catastrophic error as a Traitor.'
Despite his self-perceived shortcomings, Stephen's consistent demeanor—characterized by perpetual shock, sweating, and wide eyes—ironically helped him blend in. He noted, 'I don't think I looked like a skilled liar... but consistency is key. I was consistently shocked and looking scared so I don't think anyone thought there was anything weird about it.'
Final Showdown and Future Plans
The dramatic finale saw Stephen and Rachel successfully banish their competitors, including Jack Butler, to claim victory. Stephen emphasized the camaraderie among contestants, stating, 'We all get on so well, all of us - the [Faithful] were just so supportive and were so proud of me and Rachel.' He credited Rachel for his success, saying, 'At the end of the day, I was only standing at the final fire pit because of Rachel.'
With the prize money yet to hit his account, Stephen has already left his job and plans to 'enjoy life' with the winnings. He shared, 'I've left my job so really it's just allowing me to just survive for the next wee while as well,' echoing co-host Ben Shephard's sentiment to simply savor the moment.
These revelations from Jessie, Amanda, and Stephen provide fans with a deeper understanding of the emotional and logistical complexities behind The Traitors, blending personal anecdotes with the show's competitive edge.
