Dedicated fans of the hit BBC reality series The Traitors are convinced they have cracked the code on the show's latest mystery, suggesting the much-hyped 'secret traitor' might be an elaborate ruse.
The Tense Cliffhanger
The theory erupted following the nail-biting third episode, broadcast on Saturday night and hosted by Claudia Winkleman. The instalment saw faithful contestants successfully banish traitor Hugo Lodge in a heated roundtable. However, the drama was far from over.
In a final twist, the two remaining traitors, Rachel Duffy and Stephen Libby, were instructed to uncloak a secret traitor who had been sabotaging their schemes. The episode ended on a classic cliffhanger just as this revelation was imminent, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats.
The Double Bluff Theory Gains Traction
Instead of simply waiting, a compelling fan theory has taken root online. Many speculate there is no separate secret traitor at all. Instead, they believe the twist is a double bluff designed to test the existing traitors or even to facilitate Hugo's potential return to the game.
"Could it be a double bluff on two of the traitors and on the TV audience, and the secret traitor is actually one of the three already-selected traitors?" pondered one viewer on X, formerly Twitter. Another added, "What if the secret traitor was actually one of the traitors we already knew about? Maybe that's why Hugo is acting so opposed to it."
The consensus among these theorists is that the 'secret' identity could be either Rachel or Stephen themselves, adding a layer of psychological complexity to the game.
A Potential Fatal Error
The episode also featured a high-pressure task where Rachel and Stephen had to select murder targets in plain sight, using red paint on a family tree in the castle foyer. The pressure seemed to get to them, leading to a moment that fans believe could be their undoing.
The duo were briefly left alone at the tree with fellow contestant Reece. Viewers quickly noted that this private conversation could appear highly suspicious. If Reece mentions it, it might expose the traitors' plotting. However, an alternative theory suggests Reece himself could be the secret traitor, which would explain why he conveniently gave them space to conspire.
All will be revealed when the show returns on Wednesday, promising to unmask the red-cloaked figure and show whether Reece has rumbled his fellow contestants' plans.
