Celebrity Traitors Stars Remain Tense Off-Camera, Insiders Say

The intense competition and 'utter paranoia' on the BBC One show Celebrity Traitors are continuing to affect contestants even when the cameras are off, according to insiders. Unlike the previous year's celebrity edition, which was reportedly more lighthearted, this season has become 'extremely stressful behind the scenes.'

Sources suggest that crucial decisions made at the round table, leading to the banishment of two Faithful contestants, have heightened the tension. The show's format, which requires participants to be cut off from the outside world, makes it difficult for them to disengage from the game, leading to constant preoccupation with the strategy and stakes.

On-Set Stress

The high-pressure environment has led to strained interactions among cast members. Comedian Rob Beckett's energetic demeanor, while often humorous, was reportedly challenging for some co-stars to navigate during filming in Scotland. "They were all making each other more stressed out," a source told The Mail on Sunday. "A lot of them just couldn’t hack it."

Some participants have struggled to maintain perspective, blurring the lines between the game and reality. Comedian James Acaster, who was revealed as a Traitor, experienced significant distress on set, leading to pauses in filming. Acaster reportedly became 'very anxious' and expressed that he was 'not good at lying,' wishing to remain a Faithful.

BBC bosses have stated that contestant welfare is a priority, especially after incidents like Acaster's struggles on set at Ardross Castle. Viewers have seen Acaster's on-screen distress, with him repeatedly stating his difficulty with deception.

Banished and Paranoia

The tension was evident when US actress Myha’la, known for her role in BBC One’s Industry, was banished on Thursday. The following day, former Coronation Street actress Julie Hesmondhalgh was sent home in a surprising decision, with many viewers expecting mathematician Professor Hannah Fry, a Traitor, to be eliminated instead.

Ross Kemp, a Faithful on the show, has become notably paranoid, with viewers observing his increased suspicion when other cast members interact with him. The pressure has also extended to the contestants' support teams, who were kept uninformed and had no contact with their clients until they were eliminated from the game.

Sources indicate that agents and publicists had no influence over the show's editing and could only hope for a favorable portrayal of their clients. The show features other celebrities such as Miranda Hart, Maya Jama, and Jerry Hall.