Claudia Winkleman has revealed she once feared her career was over before taking on the role that would become one of her biggest successes. The presenter, best known for hosting Strictly Come Dancing, admitted she had serious doubts about The Traitors before it became a hit.
Speaking to Closer magazine, Winkleman said: 'Traitors was not supposed to be what it was. I remember phoning my husband and saying, “I think it’s over”.' She explained that she was encouraged to watch an international version and take a risk, which ultimately paid off.
The UK version of The Traitors debuted in 2022 and quickly became a success, running for multiple seasons and a celebrity spin-off. The show has cemented Winkleman's status as one of the UK's most popular television personalities.
Despite her achievements, Winkleman admitted the experience still makes her feel uncomfortable. She said: 'It makes me want to scratch myself, but in a weird way. I am incredibly lucky.'
Winkleman also discussed her recent chat show, The Claudia Winkleman Show, which received a mixed reception. She described the role as 'nerve-wracking' and something she initially 'didn't like'. However, she remains grounded, insisting: 'I don’t think I’m famous. I take the tube everywhere.'
Away from work, she lives with her husband Kris Thykier and their three children. She joked that none of them are interested in showbiz, despite her encouragement to embrace 'nepo baby' labels. Winkleman also revealed plans to watch the new Strictly series with co-host Tess Daly, saying: 'We’re having jacket potatoes and salmon.'
