Viewers of BBC One's The Traitors are on high alert, convinced they have deciphered the show's next major move following a dramatic cliffhanger. The latest episode, which aired on Friday, 11 January 2026, ended with Faithful contestant Matt making a stunning proposition to the hidden Traitors, offering himself up for recruitment.
The Cliffhanger That Changed Everything
After the tense banishment of Fiona, only two Traitors remain: Rachel and Stephen. In a new twist, challenge winners were granted the chance to ask the Traitors questions. Matt used his opportunity to not only ask who they planned to murder next but to directly negotiate his own defection. "I'm taking a massive risk here," he stated, before laying out a deal: the Traitors should reject their next chance to recruit, murder fellow contestant Jessie, and then recruit him at the following opportunity.
This bold strategy has left the game hanging in the balance as fans await the next episode on Wednesday at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. However, many enthusiasts believe the Traitors will look elsewhere for their new ally.
Why Harriet Is The Fan-Favourite Prediction
On platforms like Reddit and X, a compelling theory has gained traction. Fans are speculating that Faithful player Harriet, a crime writer who has yet to have her questions to the Traitors aired, is the more likely candidate for recruitment—or murder.
One detailed Reddit post argued that Harriet has been the most astute Faithful this series, having "clocked Hugo and dismantled him so quickly." The fan theorised she is now keeping a close eye on Rachel as a shield and may already suspect Stephen. "She’s too clever for the game so far," they wrote, suggesting she is the perfect recruit to strengthen the Traitors or the obvious murder target to weaken the Faithfuls.
Others echoed this sentiment, calling her "the best traitor hunter we have EVER seen" and praising her methodical, modest approach. Her professional background as a crime writer also leads some to wonder if she would relish the chance to switch sides and outwit everyone from within.
Uncloaked Podcast Sparks Spoiler Backlash
The speculation comes amid growing frustration from some viewers towards the show's official companion podcast, Uncloaked. Fans have pleaded with the BBC to stop what they see as spoilers, after noticing a pattern where guests on the podcast appear to hint at or reveal upcoming eliminations.
One viewer took to X to express their dismay, writing that they had worked out a theory about a banishment which then came true, and directly appealed to the show: "Regarding #Uncloaked, their guests keep spoiling the show, and I’m tweeting this so they hopefully see it and stop it!!"
As the tension mounts, all eyes are on the next roundtable. Will the Traitors accept Matt's risky deal, or will they set their sights on the formidable Harriet? The only certainty is that the game is more unpredictable than ever.
