Gordon Ramsay and Tom Hiddleston have pulled out of the upcoming series of The Celebrity Traitors at the last minute, leaving producers 'frustrated' according to a show insider. The television chef, 59, had signed a lucrative deal to appear on the show, currently filming in the Scottish Highlands, but was forced to withdraw due to 'scheduling issues' related to other TV commitments.
Last-Minute Chaos for Producers
Tom Hiddleston, 45, also cited scheduling conflicts, causing last-minute chaos for producers who lost their two biggest signings. A show source told the Daily Mail: 'Gordon pulled out due to scheduling issues. He had other TV work to do. Producers are frustrated that Gordon and Tom both had to pull out. They know those names would have drawn more international interest to the show.'
While the remaining line-up has been widely praised, the source added: 'They're annoyed because it was due to be even better before Gordon and Tom had to cancel. They are hoping both of them will be up for the next series in 2027.'
Ramsay's Prior Commitments
On Thursday, Ramsay was pictured at the launch party for his new premium olive oil brand, Krude, alongside Emma Bunton, Nicole Appleton, and Holly Willoughby. This prior commitment highlighted the conflict that led to his withdrawal from The Traitors.
Hiddleston's Disappointment
Hiddleston, meanwhile, was left devastated after his movie commitments clashed with his plans to head to the Highlands. Earlier this year, discussing the series on BBC Radio 2, he said: 'I mean, the celebrity one would be amazing. I think the whole show, the format is just the most ingenious thing, isn't it? It's completely compulsive. Maybe the best television I've ever seen.'
The Show Format
The Traitors, hosted by Claudia Winkleman, is a high-stakes game that favours deception and betrayal, often uncloaking the darker side of a contestant's nature. The celebrity format sees 21 famous faces playing games to win £100,000 for a chosen charity, while 'traitors' secretly sabotage them, trying to avoid being exposed and 'killed'. It is notorious for provoking blazing rows and encouraging even close friends to backstab each other.
Increased Budget and A-List Line-Up
The BBC has increased the budget for the upcoming series, with stars arriving in Inverness via planes and private jets, unlike last year when many travelled by train. The A-list line-up was officially announced when the broadcaster dropped the first teaser trailer earlier this month, featuring names like Maya Jama, Richard E Grant, Jerry Hall, Romesh Ranganathan, and Ross Kemp, currently filming at a Scottish castle.
Other contestants include Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Michael Sheen, Bella Ramsey, Amol Rajan, James Blunt, Rob Beckett, Joe Lycett, Miranda Hart, and James Acaster.
Previous Success and Contestant Fears
Last year's show was a smash hit for the BBC, with 15.4 million viewers watching the finale, boosting the careers of fan favourites like Alan Carr and Joe Marler. Each contestant receives a flat fee of £40,000 for the series, a major pay cut for many, reflecting their eagerness to participate.
However, the Daily Mail revealed that some in this year's line-up are 'terrified' of how they will appear in the final edit, putting pressure on the BBC to ensure a positive portrayal. An insider said: 'As it's the second time round, they've seen just how big a boost it can give to a personal brand but it needs to be orchestrated carefully. Last year, there were a few celebrities who were not best pleased with how they came across. But this year they are adamant they will come out positively and the BBC is under pressure to make sure they do. One foot wrong, and it could become a PR nightmare.'
The Daily Mail has contacted the BBC and Ramsay's representatives for comment.
