Former Pointless host and best-selling author Richard Osman has disclosed a personal connection to a contestant on the smash-hit BBC show The Traitors, which returned for its fourth series last week.
Osman's Insider Knowledge
Speaking on his podcast The Rest is Entertainment, the 55-year-old Thursday Murder Club novelist revealed he 'sort of knows' fellow crime writer Harriet, who is among the 22 new contestants vying for the prize in the imposing Scottish castle. Osman, a self-confessed fan of the Claudia Winkleman-hosted series, speculated that Harriet could be the mysterious 'Secret Traitor'.
"I think the Secret Traitor may be Harriet. I was delighted to see her in there," Osman said. He highlighted their shared profession, noting: "Harriet is a million-selling author, like a real-deal big name crime author - and brilliant as well." He also pointed out her limited screen time in the opener, suggesting her compelling character made her a standout in the non-celebrity version.
The 'Secret Traitor' Twist Unravels
This series introduced a major new twist: a fourth Secret Traitor whose identity is hidden not only from the other players but also from the three main Traitors and the viewing audience. The enigmatic figure is depicted in a red, hooded cloak.
However, by the third episode, sharp-eyed viewers believe the twist may have been accidentally exposed. During a confessional, contestant Ellie, a psychologist, referenced the 'Secret Traitor', asking: "People will question whether you are sitting and watching as a kind of Secret Traitor..." This has led fans to question how she knew about the role if the Faithfuls were supposedly kept in the dark, with many now suspecting Ellie herself.
Drama Unfolds in the Castle
The new series has already delivered high drama, with one Traitor, Hugo, being banished after just three episodes following a betrayal by fellow Traitor Stephen. The main Traitors—Rachel, Stephen, and Hugo—were revealed early on, but the power dynamics have shifted with the introduction of the secret fourth player.
The show's return follows the climax of The Celebrity Traitors in November, where Alan Carr famously deceived the final Faithfuls, and public anticipation for the latest round of psychological gameplay is at a peak.
