In a dramatic turn of events on BBC One's hit reality show The Traitors, contestant Ross Garshong was banished from the Scottish castle, only to then reveal a major secret he had been hiding throughout the competition.
Banishment and a Bombshell Confession
The 37-year-old personal trainer and sales executive was voted out by his fellow contestants during the episode aired on Wednesday, 7th January 2026. Suspicion had mounted around Ross due to his odd behaviour around another faithful, Netty, who was an old friend from outside the game. His decision not to disclose their prior connection made him appear untrustworthy.
However, after his banishment, Ross confirmed swirling rumours by admitting he was in a secret romantic relationship with fellow contestant Ellie. The pair had pretended to meet for the first time on the train to the castle at the start of the series.
Ellie's Vow of Vengeance
On screen, Ellie was shown reacting to Ross's departure with a fiery declaration. "The traitors have done their work because they have framed Ross," she said. "I'm really sad to see him go, especially because Ross is actually my boyfriend!"
She then vowed to continue the fight, stating: "What I've got to do now is avenge his death. I've got to work a lot harder. I want to catch a traitor for him."
Speaking to The Mirror after the episode, Ross shared his own perspective on their covert alliance. He said hiding the relationship was easy, as Ellie became his "safe space" in the high-pressure game. Ironically, he confessed he suspected she might have been a Traitor because she often avoided speaking to him during the show to maintain their cover.
Real-World Clues and Future Hopes
The couple's real-life connection had already been hinted at by eagle-eyed fans, who discovered a photo of them together on a work trip in 2024. Furthermore, The Sun reported both had posted holiday snaps from the same location in Tenerife after filming wrapped in May 2025.
When asked if he wanted Ellie to win the prize fund, Ross was unequivocal: "Of course, I do! I am Ellie's biggest fan boy... I just also hope she does something to redeem me - I don’t want my death to be in vain."
Reflecting on his exit, Ross described it as "bittersweet" but said he was happy he went out in a "blaze of glory." He believed he represented himself well, particularly in how he handled the intense accusations at the Round Table.
The episode concluded with four contestants—Max, James, Reece, and the known Traitor Stephen—in danger of being murdered. As a Traitor, Stephen is immune, leaving the fate of one faithful to be revealed in the next instalment.
The Traitors continues on Thursday and Friday nights on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
