The explosive fourth series of The Traitors returned to BBC One on New Year's Day, immediately shocking fans with a brand new and devious game-changing twist.
The Mysterious Red Cloak
Host Claudia Winkleman introduced a secret fourth Traitor to the game, whose identity is concealed from everyone – including the other Traitors and the viewing public. This player wears a distinctive red cloak, setting them apart from the traditional green cloaks worn by the other Faithful-turned-Traitors.
In the dramatic opening episode, Claudia, 53, selected barrister Hugo, 51, communications head Rachel, 42, and cyber security consultant Stephen, 32, as the three known Traitors. The covert red-cloaked Traitor, however, remains a complete mystery with a powerful advantage: they know who the other three Traitors are, while their own identity is safe.
An 'Obvious Choice' or a Dark Horse?
Former contestant Paul Gorton, who was a Traitor in series two before being banished just before the final, has shared his exclusive early predictions on who might be under the red cloak.
Speaking to WhichBingo, Paul pinpointed two main suspects from the new cohort of players. "I think it's Amanda or Sam," he stated, referring to the detective and the enthusiastic young contestant who passionately pitched to be a Traitor.
He elaborated on Sam, saying, "Sam pitched himself in a way that I pitched myself in season two... He was saying loads of stuff like, 'I'll throw people under the bus. I can be evil.' So I think he'd be an obvious choice as a Traitor."
However, Paul also theorised that the secret role might demand a different approach. "A secret Traitor maybe could be the opposite, where it might be someone that we don't even know their name yet, and they didn't have a good pitch to be a Traitor."
Praise for a Game-Changing Twist
Paul heaped praise on the show's innovative new mechanic, which also reportedly allows the secret Traitor to provide the others with a narrowed list of contestants they can eliminate.
"I think the secret Traitor is the greatest inclusion of any game show that's ever happened," he proclaimed enthusiastically.
Reflecting on his other suspect, detective Amanda, Paul suggested her career in protection could make a turn to 'the evil bit' a compelling storyline. He also speculated that her confidence might make her an early target, but if she survives, it could signal her secret role.
With Claudia Winkleman having previously admitted she only picks those who desire the Traitor role, the theories are set to fuel intense speculation as the series continues on BBC One.
