Celebrity Traitors Faces Chaos Amidst Leak of Finalists
BBC bosses are reportedly in damage control after a friend of a contestant allegedly revealed who reached the final stages of the popular show.
The BBC show "Celebrity Traitors" is reportedly in disarray following a leak of the show's finalists, allegedly disclosed by a friend of one of the contestants. The breach of confidentiality has prompted concern among show executives who have gone to significant lengths to keep the outcome under wraps.
Viewership for the most recent episode on Friday night reached an estimated 9.6 million, highlighting the show's popularity and the sensitivity surrounding its unrevealed conclusion. All participants reportedly signed non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) before filming began earlier this year, with actor Ross Kemp describing the document as "longer than the Bayeux Tapestry."
Despite these strict measures, a source told The Sun that the identities of those who made it to the final are now a topic of discussion in celebrity circles, with further information circulating about contestant dynamics and interview placements related to the finale. The BBC is said to be concerned about this information spreading to online gossip forums and social media.
"The BBC is hoping that anyone happening upon the info or hearing it from friends will help keep the secrets of the castle and stay quiet," the source stated. "The problem is a small group will be aware of The Celebrity Traitors’ secrets, including those who work on the show, the celebrities who ran the course and possibly their close family and friends."
The Daily Mail has contacted the BBC for comment.
Several contestants have spoken publicly about the stringent NDAs. Joe Lycett, a Faithful on the show, admitted on Hits Radio Breakfast that he had "told everyone" about his involvement, including "Uber drivers," despite the agreement.
Joanne McNally, another Faithful, also confirmed on her podcast that she knows who the winner is.
During Friday's episode, Faithful contestant Julie Hesmondhalgh was banished. Hesmondhalgh, a Coronation Street veteran, received the most votes during a tense roundtable discussion, despite her assertion that she was a Faithful.
Fellow contestants reacted to her departure with surprise; Miranda Hart expressed anger, while James Blunt apologized for his role in voting against her. Host Claudia Winkleman commented on the outcome, suggesting the remaining Faithfuls were inadvertently aiding the Traitors.
Hesmondhalgh's banishment followed the revelation on Thursday that actor Bella Ramsey had been "murdered" by the Traitors, removing them from the competition. Ramsey is known for their role in "Game of Thrones."