The latest series of the BBC's hit reality show The Traitors has been rocked by a series of stunning revelations, with viewers now convinced a complex web of secret relationships connects the contestants.
Exposed Relationships and Fan Theories
The drama escalated during the episode aired on Wednesday 8th January 2026, when the secret romantic relationship between contestants Ross and Ellie was finally exposed on screen. This bombshell followed the earlier reveal that Judy and Roxy were mother and daughter, before Judy's banishment from the castle.
These disclosures have led fans to speculate wildly that more players are covertly linked, potentially as part of an elaborate family tree twist orchestrated by the show. Many believe the 22 original contestants all entered the game with a pre-existing relationship to another player, possibly working in hidden pairs.
One fan theorised online: "Beginning to think that the 22 that went in each have a 'relationship' with one of the others. Maybe that's why they keep showing the who's who book. I think there is a mother and son, a father and son, at least one more couple as well."
Contestants Under Suspicion
Viewer scrutiny has now turned to several other pairs. A prominent theory suggests that Reece could be the secret son of fellow player Fiona. Supporters of this idea point to a perceived physical resemblance and note that Fiona only mentioned having a daughter during her introduction, leaving room for a son to be in the game.
Others speculate that Harriet and Hugo, both barristers, may be siblings or have a prior professional connection. This theory gained traction after Harriet spearheaded Hugo's banishment, an act some see as fitting the ominous Latin quote displayed beside the family tree portrait in the castle about betrayal from within.
Further connections pondered by the show's dedicated sleuths include:
- Maz and Faraaz possibly being related, though Maz's family has denied this.
- Jessie and Jack being brother and sister or in a relationship.
- Rachel and Matthew having a link through a shared Northern Irish background.
The Real-World Romance
The confirmed relationship between Ross and Ellie came as little surprise to eagle-eyed fans, who had spotted clues and even a photo of them together on a work trip from 2024 before the series aired. On the show, Ellie dramatically revealed their secret after Ross's banishment, vowing to avenge his departure.
Speaking to The Mirror after his exit, Ross admitted he had suspected Ellie might be a Traitor during the game. He said hiding their relationship was easy, as she was his "safe space," but confessed: "I thought she was a Traitor, because every time we had a moment together, she would not speak to me."
With the family tree mystery deepening and more episodes to come, fans of The Traitors are set for further twists as they continue to hunt for the show's most clandestine connections.
