The Traitors shifts to a harsher tone as producers amp up drama

The Traitors has shifted toward a harsher, more confrontational tone in 2026 after producers sought to match the success of The Celebrity Traitors, with on-screen clashes described as “hardcore” and “brutal” by Claudia Winkleman. Critics say the celebrity run “blew the previous regular season out of the water” by delivering instantly engaging television when viewers were already rooting for familiar faces, and producers have responded by deliberately amping up drama in the main series.

That change has produced open warfare in the castle: contestants including James and Jade have been repeatedly tetchy, Matty was refused a hug, and Fiona went head-to-head with Rachel in an ill-tempered confrontation. Harriet’s attempt to target Rachel deteriorated into a loud breakfast row, and she told the Times: “It was awful watching it, I lost my temper and it’s not nice to see that … It was so intense, the pressure just got to me.

That was insane behaviour. I’d never normally shout at someone I only met two weeks ago over breakfast.” The show’s earlier seasons were praised as a breath of fresh air—relatable, understated and “the most British reality show imaginable”—even when players were strategic. Past contestants such as Paul Gorton and Wilf provided cut-throat moments that remained tempered by likeability, and season two’s finale included the notable betrayal of Mollie by Harry.

Key Topics

Culture, The Traitors, Claudia Winkleman, Rachel, Paul Gorton, Wilf