Celebrity Traitors Under Fire for Sexism Amidst Banished Female Contestants

The reality television show "Celebrity Traitors" is facing accusations of sexism, with viewers observing that a disproportionate number of female contestants have been banished. This controversy emerges shortly after contestant Myha'la claimed the show harbored "unconscious racial bias."

In the latest episode, the game's suspense heightened as Traitor King Kenny held the deciding vote to banish either Irish comedian Joanne McNally or Scottish actress Sharon Rooney. This potential banishment of another woman has fueled social media discussions among viewers who perceive a pattern of men targeting women.

Of the six contestants eliminated thus far, only two have been men. The women banished include Myha'la, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Jerry Hall, and Traitor Professor Hannah Fry. The two men banished were Richard E. Grant, who admitted to being a Traitor, and Joe Lycett, who had publicly requested to be recruited as a Traitor.

Social media users on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have voiced their observations, with one commenting, "They’ve only banished two men at the table, one who told them he was a traitor and one they knew wanted to be a traitor. I’ve honestly never noticed the sexism as much in the past." Another user noted, "the way the two men banished are the ones who literally told everyone and theyre like hmm suspicious. meanwhile the women are out here playing chess while the men think theyre playing checkers. the workplace patterns bit is so real though."

Some viewers have also suggested that elements of racism and classism are present in the voting dynamics. One post read, "It’s the same as the ‘racism’ it’s not plain and obvious straight racism and sexism but it’s a reflection of society where it’s just unconsciously ingrained in the majority of people."

However, not all viewers agree, with some pointing out that women have also voted to banish other women. One comment stated, "oh my God les turn everything into sex and race, give me a break, absolute nonsense."

This is not the first time "The Traitors" has faced scrutiny for bias. In previous seasons, fans have raised concerns on platforms like TikTok about microaggressions toward contestants of color. Myha'la's banishment reignited these discussions, with one fan on Instagram writing, "Unfortunately you were banished because you are BLACK."

Myha'la herself addressed these claims, defending her fellow contestants while acknowledging the existence of unconscious bias. She stated, "I do agree that unconscious racial and cultural bias exists in this game where my authenticity or honesty or the ways in which I choose to express myself look suspicious to people who are unfamiliar with people like me." She also expressed a belief that shows like "The Traitors" should foster more conversations about unconscious bias.

Show bosses reportedly expressed bewilderment at the accusations, having made efforts to ensure a diverse cast. The current season features 28.5 percent contestants of color, an almost equal gender split, and an openly non-binary contestant, Bella Ramsey.

Despite the controversies, "Celebrity Traitors" has remained a ratings success, with its most recent episode attracting a peak audience of 9.7 million viewers. The show continues to air on BBC One and iPlayer on Thursdays.