Richard Osman has strongly criticized individuals he deems 'idiots' for their negative reactions to the final of "Celebrity Traitors," labeling their complaints as "pathetic."
The BBC show concluded with contestants Romesh Ranganathan and Sebastian 'Bash' Croft winning, each securing £41,500 for their chosen charities, Choose Love and the Refugee Council.
Osman, co-host of "The Rest Is Entertainment," addressed claims that the final was a "stitch-up" or demonstrated "BBC bias." He countered these accusations on Wednesday, stating that such critics fundamentally misunderstand how television programs are made.
"To accuse the BBC of bias in this shows, first of all, a fundamental misunderstanding of how you make a television programme," Osman said. "Even in a conspiracist culture, this is one too far. It's pathetic. Do you know what? I'm done with it. It's genuinely so pathetic."
He pointed out the show's significant viewership, noting that "15 million people watched" the season, while only "a thousand people are being t***s about it." He likened this to a football game with one unhappy spectator among 15,000 cheering fans.
Osman emphasized that successful individuals like Ranganathan and Croft, who demonstrated intelligence and empathy, earned their victory. He defended their right to donate their winnings to charities of their choice, highlighting Ranganathan's history of supporting various causes.
"Don't jump on the back of a show that's been made by incredibly talented people that has been a hit – something you've not been able to do in your lifetime," Osman stated. He urged critics to let talented people pursue their creative endeavors.
Osman also addressed concerns about the show's funding, asserting that "The Traitors" is a profitable venture for the BBC and not a drain on license fee payers. "You cannot be that stupid to not know that The Traitors makes a fortune for the BBC," he added.
Other finalists' chosen charities included the British Red Cross Society, Blue Marine Foundation, and Rethink Mental Illness. Among the winners, Romesh Ranganathan chose the Refugee Council, which aids those fleeing their homes, while Bash Croft selected Choose Love, an organization supporting refugees and displaced people, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
This prize money allocation comes as Choose Love has faced scrutiny for its stance on the conflict in Gaza. The charity has accused Israel of "genocide," while also receiving prize money from Croft. A Conservative MP, Jack Rankin, criticized the situation, suggesting that charitable funds should not be used to advance "extremist agendas" or "pro-migrant crusades."
In a separate gesture, "Celebrity Traitors" host Maya Jama donated £83,500 of her own money to Action For Children after narrowly missing out on the winner's prize. The charity expressed gratitude for Jama's significant contribution, noting its importance in supporting children facing poverty and hardship in the UK. Fans lauded Jama's action as a "class act."