An entire series of the reality competition show "The Traitors" was scrapped due to an unbroadcastable conversation that prevented filming from continuing, according to author and TV personality Richard Osman. Osman revealed the incident during a podcast with host Jack Dean, admitting he was likely not permitted to share the information.
"There is one series in one territory where something was discussed at length in the castle. It led to the show not being able to continue," Osman explained. When asked by Dean if the production had "lost the whole thing," Osman confirmed with a nod, "Yeah!"
Osman, 55, also commented on his preference for participating in the show, stating he would only appear as a "Traitor." He expressed a dislike for the uncertainty of not knowing who the traitors are or having suspicions that others do not share. As a traitor, he noted, one has at least some control from the game's outset and can be present for all filming.
He further discussed his thoughts on the first Australian season of "The Traitors," calling it the "best ever" but also the "single most frustrating series." He described a scenario where a clear traitor existed, but the other contestants were easily manipulated, while the few perceptive players were eliminated early.
Separately, Osman seemingly let slip the premiere date for the upcoming Celebrity Traitors series. Former rugby player Joe Marler, who appeared in the first celebrity season, indicated the show would return on September 23. Osman then confirmed this date, noting it was embargoed information.
The BBC has released a trailer for the new celebrity season, featuring participants such as Maya Jama, James Blunt, and Richard E. Grant. Osman mentioned speaking with some of this year's stars and described the season as "quite intense." Marler contrasted this with his own experience, characterizing the first celebrity season as more lighthearted and focused on contestants catching up rather than intensely playing the game. He suggested that the current cast might feel additional pressure to perform well, given the success of the initial celebrity season.