A former contestant from the hit BBC reality show The Traitors has given an exclusive insight into the true character of its iconic host, Claudia Winkleman.
Fozia Fazil's Traitors Journey
Fozia Fazil, the 51-year-old social value and inclusion manager from Birmingham, became a memorable figure during her time on Traitors series four. She made an immediate impact from the very first moment, famously leaping from the contestant train and later accurately predicting the downfall of a fellow player, labelling her a "slippery snake" in a dramatic exit.
"Exactly How We See Her On TV"
In an exclusive chat with BirminghamLive, Fozia has now shed light on what the famously fringe-sporting presenter is like behind the serious facade seen during challenges. According to Fozia, the reality is refreshingly straightforward.
"She's exactly how we see her on TV," Fozia revealed. "She's very down to earth." The contestant did note that while warm, hosts must maintain a degree of professional distance, adding, "You can't really get to know them [though] can you? Because they've got to remain neutral and not biased."
A Personal Moment Before The Cage
Fozia shared a specific, personal moment that highlighted Claudia's considerate nature. It occurred just before she, along with contestants Alexander and Jack, were placed into cages in the show's foreboding forest.
"She [Claudia] said 'I want to make sure I get your name right, it is Fozeea or Fozia,'" Fozia recalled. "I went Fozia." The host then diligently repeated her name to ensure perfect pronunciation for the upcoming filming.
Despite her brief time on the show, which meant she missed out on a longer one-to-one chat with Winkleman, Fozia was full of praise. She described the experience of being around such an "iconic celebrity" as "amazing," cementing the view of Claudia as both a professional and genuinely approachable figure.
