The Traitors has been accused of copying a French card game by its creator, who claims the BBC show is an illegal copy breaching copyright law. Philippe des Pallières, co-creator of Les Loups-garous de Thiercelieux, known in English as The Werewolves of Miller's Hollow, said the popular reality programme has stolen his creation.
Game creator's claims
Des Pallières told The Times: "It's an illegal copy of our game. In my opinion it's a breach of copyright. The TV show has spoilt the game. It's terrible that they're still using our game. It's hell for us." He said he would have pursued legal proceedings but found himself powerless after he and co-creator Hervé Marly sold the publishing rights to the Asmodée group, who opted against litigation.
The card game, released in 2001, follows villagers living in a settlement, some of which turn into werewolves when darkness falls. During each night phase, the predators select their prey. Throughout each day, the villagers discuss who they believe might be a werewolf and vote to banish someone. The parallels between the two are hard to overlook. The Traitors echo the werewolves, while the Faithfuls assume the part of the villagers, and both parties have to work to unmask those lurking in their midst.
Legal hurdles
Alexandre Alonso, chief of Zygomatic, the Asmodee studio behind the game's publication, said that starting legal action would have been doomed to failure. He told the publication: "Under French copyright law you can protect a brand, or a logo, but it's much more difficult, or even impossible, with an idea. The Werewolves of Miller's Hollow might have inspired TV shows, but that doesn't mean you can sue."
Since its debut in 2022, The Traitors has become one of the BBC's most popular shows. With over 35 international adaptations now broadcasting worldwide, The Traitors has truly evolved into a global sensation. However, the French version of the show, which premiered on channel M6 in 2022, has faced criticism after a French games creator alleged that the popular reality programme owes its success to a card game he helped develop.
