The Traitors finale: review calls series uneven as traitors Rachel and Stephen win

A Guardian review of the BBC's The Traitors finale said the two traitors, Rachel and Stephen, won the series and split the £95,750 prize.

The review argued the series showed growing cracks in the format, criticising mid-episode challenges as filler, saying tweaks such as an early reveal of the Secret Traitor and unresolved secret connections did not help, and concluding the show increasingly rewards the dull. It singled out several standout participants — James, Harriet and Fiona — who were banished when they displayed personality, and described the final five as Faraaz, Rachel, Stephen, Jade and Jack, with brief character notes on each.

The reviewer credited Rachel with driving the series’ drama, calling her ruthless and central to proceedings; Jade was banished in tears, Faraaz followed, and the traitors then ganged up on Jack. The review noted the other finalists did not join Rachel and Stephen at the end, suggesting this was possibly because they felt too betrayed.

Despite calling the series uneven, the review said the finale’s final 15 minutes were effectively stressful and made for a "properly sweaty watch." The reviewer hoped to see some contestants again and concluded, quoting the show, "It's easy to cheat your way to the top," calling it "a very 2026 lesson."

Key Topics

Culture, The Traitors, Rachel, Stephen, Jade, Faraaz