London – January 2, 2026 – The Traitors has returned to BBC One, and this season’s launch delivered a major twist: the introduction of a “Secret Traitor” alongside the three initially selected players, Stephen, Hugo, and Rachel.
Among the 22 contestants vying for victory are a bestselling crime writer and a retired police detective, adding layers of intrigue to the already complex game of deception.
The new format change has left the original trio of Traitors feeling particularly paranoid and bewildered as they attempt to navigate the game.
A Family Affair and Early Eliminations
Adding another layer of drama, contestant Roxy revealed she is the daughter of fellow player Judy, immediately creating a dynamic of familial loyalty and potential suspicion.
The first episode saw Judy become the first player banished, revealing herself as a Faithful. Her departure wasn’t without emotion, as her daughter, Roxy, visibly reacted to the outcome.
- The introduction of a Secret Traitor adds a new dimension of uncertainty.
- Roxy and Judy’s familial connection creates immediate tension.
- Judy was the first contestant eliminated, revealing herself as a Faithful.
Meanwhile, Stephen has already begun to focus his suspicions on Judy and former detective Amanda, signaling an early strategic focus.
Shields and Shortlists: The Game Begins
As the game progresses into its second episode, Stephen, Hugo, and Rachel are actively deploying strategies to identify their covert overlord.
It’s already confirmed that James and Maz are safe, having been selected by the Secret Traitor to appear on the initial murder shortlist alongside Netty, who unfortunately became the first contestant to be “murdered.”
Contestants are already vying for the coveted shields, with Amanda, Faraaz, and Jade successfully securing them in the first round, adding £8,750 to the prize pot.
- The Secret Traitor’s selections for the murder shortlist provide a degree of safety for those chosen.
- Securing a shield offers protection from being selected for elimination.
- Early alliances and suspicions are forming among the contestants.
The roundtable discussions are already proving intense, with contestants employing airquotes and carefully chosen words as they attempt to decipher truth from deception. Fiona, in particular, has already made a memorable impression, and some viewers are hoping she might be the Secret Traitor.
What is the role of the Secret Traitor in this season of The Traitors? The Secret Traitor operates independently, adding an extra layer of complexity to the game and making it even more difficult for the Faithful to identify all the Traitors.
