James Acaster and Maya Jama Absent from Celebrity Traitors Special After Tense Finale
The absence of the comedian and host from the live 'Uncloaked' special followed a dramatic finale where two Traitors were banished.
James Acaster and Maya Jama were notably absent from the live "Celebrity Traitors Uncloaked" special on Friday night, occurring after a tense season finale that saw the remaining Faithfuls emerge victorious. The absence of Acaster and Jama, who played significant roles throughout the season, followed a climactic final episode.
Romesh Ranganathan and Sebastian Croft, both identified as Faithfuls, were crowned the winners of "Celebrity Traitors" and split the £83,000 prize. Their victory came after a nail-biting conclusion that led to the banishment of Traitors Maya Jama and "King" Kenny. Viewers praised Ranganathan and Croft for successfully outmaneuvering Jama and Kenny, whose Traitor identities were only revealed late in the game.
Acaster and Jama, along with Michael Sheen who was murdered in the final episode, were not present for the "Uncloaked" live special. Reports suggest that prior work commitments prevented their attendance. Maya Jama, for instance, has been occupied with filming the second series of "The Gentlemen" this week.
In the penultimate episode, "The pressure of the show got too much for James" as he admitted to being a Traitor and was subsequently banished. Filming was paused during this segment as Acaster became visibly anxious. An insider noted that the pressure had been evident on Acaster throughout the series, making his struggles difficult to watch. He ultimately received all the votes from the other contestants.
During his exit, Acaster expressed that he had wished to be a Faithful and aimed to help catch Traitors, stating, "I am, reluctantly, a Traitor," adding that a "weight has been lifted off his shoulders."
Ranganathan and Croft are set to receive £41,500 each for their chosen charities: the Refugee Council for Ranganathan and Choose Love for Croft. Speaking after their win, Ranganathan highlighted the formation of a friendship with Croft as a significant part of his experience. Croft described the moment Ranganathan declared him a Faithful as "incredible" and possibly the "best day" of his life.
Fans reacted positively to the finale, with many commending Ranganathan and Croft's strategic play and their decision to donate their winnings to charitable causes. Viewers also lauded the duo's "excellent loyal game" throughout the series.