Following the dramatic conclusion of The Traitors series 4, which captivated a peak audience of 9.6 million viewers, attention has swiftly turned to the future of the BBC's hit psychological reality competition. The nail-biting finale saw Traitors Rachel Duffy and Stephen Libby successfully maintain their secret alliance, securing the entire prize pot of £95,750 and leaving host Claudia Winkleman visibly emotional.
Series 5 Confirmed and Application Process Open
Buoyed by the programme's phenomenal success, which has garnered Bafta and National Television Awards, the BBC has officially greenlit a fifth series. Applications are now open for members of the public who believe they possess the strategic cunning and emotional resilience required to navigate the game's intense social dynamics.
Prospective contestants must be aged 18 or over and available for up to four weeks during the anticipated filming period in the summer or autumn of 2026. The application, available via the BBC website, includes a crucial question asking applicants whether they would choose to be a Traitor or a Faithful, requiring a detailed explanation for their preference. The deadline for submissions is currently set for May 31, 2026.
Filming Location and Broadcast Schedule
Production will return to the iconic and atmospheric Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands, located approximately 25 miles north of Inverness. This 19th-century estate has become synonymous with the show's tense atmosphere and dramatic fire pit ceremonies.
Given the established pattern of January premieres, it is highly likely that The Traitors series 5 will grace our screens at the start of January 2027, continuing the tradition of providing winter television thrills.
The Celebrity Traitors Series 2: What We Know
Fans will not have to wait a full year for their next fix of deception, as The Celebrity Traitors is confirmed to return for a second series. The inaugural celebrity edition proved a massive hit, with comedian Alan Carr emerging victorious as a Traitor, winning £87,500 for his chosen charity. The final attracted an impressive 11 million viewers.
While the official cast list remains under wraps, several high-profile names are reportedly in discussions to participate. Rumoured celebrities include television personalities Alison Hammond and Danny Dyer, actress Daisy May Cooper, and comedian Ruth Jones. Actors Steve Pemberton, Amanda Holden, and Tom Hiddleston have also publicly expressed interest in taking part.
An industry insider suggested that the production team has an "overflowing" pool of talent to consider, emphasising the pressure to match the explosive success of the first series. Contracts are expected to be finalised closer to the production start date. Based on previous filming schedules, the celebrity edition could premiere as early as October 2026.
Where to Watch Other Traitors Series
For those seeking immediate content, multiple international versions are available to stream:
- The Traitors US: Hosted by Alan Cumming, with four seasons available or airing on BBC iPlayer.
- The Traitors Australia & New Zealand: Two seasons of each are available, with third seasons confirmed.
- The Traitors Ireland: Hosted by Siobhán McSweeney, available on iPlayer, featuring a €50,000 prize.
The enduring appeal of The Traitors lies in its masterful blend of strategy, betrayal, and human psychology, ensuring its place as a cornerstone of British television. With a fifth series on the horizon and a star-studded spin-off imminent, the game of deception is far from over.
