The BBC has confirmed the shows that will replace the highly coveted prime-time slot currently occupied by The Traitors on BBC One, as the television schedule undergoes a significant shake-up. With just hours remaining until the winner or winners of the popular series are revealed, hosted by Claudia Winkleman during the final round table, viewers are on the edge of their seats.
Final Episode Tension and Replacement Schedule
Last night's tense episode concluded on a cliffhanger, with Traitor Rachel and Faithful James both receiving three votes for banishment from the castle, leaving their fates hanging in the balance. Tonight, their destinies will be unveiled as they open the Chests of Chance, determining who proceeds to the final on January 23.
While fans may be disheartened to see the scheduling slot for the BBC series, which airs from Wednesdays to Fridays, become vacant, the broadcaster has now officially announced the replacements. Following the finale at 8:30pm on BBC One and The Traitors: Uncloaked at 9:45pm, the schedule will feature a variety of returning favourites.
New Programming Line-Up Details
Next Wednesday, The Repair Shop will broadcast from 8pm, shifting from its Tuesday slot that it has occupied since returning to screens earlier this year. On Thursday, a new series of Dragons' Den will commence at 8pm, followed by a fresh episode of The Apprentice at 9pm, as reported by Radio Times.
Friday's programming will see Celebrity Traitors winner Alan Carr join Amanda Holden for the next instalment of their property series, Amanda and Alan's Greek Job, at 8pm. This will be succeeded by a brand-new episode of Would I Lie To You? at 8:30pm, moving an hour later from its current 7:30pm Friday slot.
Celebrity Traitors Return and Casting Rumours
Fans of The Traitors will not have to wait long for more content, as it was confirmed that Celebrity Traitors will return this year. Last November, the BBC announced that the popular spin-off format would be back for more on BBC One in 2026, following its successful debut. Once again hosted by Claudia Winkleman and filmed at Ardross Castle, its companion show Celebrity Traitors: Uncloaked will also return.
The series finale of the first Celebrity Traitors attracted an average of 11.1 million viewers, making it the biggest live audience for any TV show last year. This was the highest audience since the Gavin and Stacey finale aired on Christmas Day 2024, which drew a massive 12.3 million live viewers.
Potential Contestants for Upcoming Series
Reports indicate that Steve Pemberton is being lined up for the second series of The Celebrity Traitors. The 58-year-old British actor is said to be a huge fan of the hit BBC spin-off and is one of several high-profile names that producers are keen to sign. The League of Gentlemen star has reportedly been in discussions with producers since publicly expressing his admiration for the show when it first launched in 2022.
A TV insider revealed that signing Steve would fill the role of a celebrity obsessed with the programme's mechanics, a position previously held by Jonathan Ross. As an award-winning actor capable of transforming between characters, Steve is viewed as a formidable contestant and a sought-after candidate by executives.
Aside from Steve, Amanda Holden is also reportedly being considered for participation after her close friend Alan Carr won the 2025 run of the show. The 54-year-old Britain's Got Talent judge is another big name approached for the flagship spin-off. However, Amanda may face scheduling challenges, as filming for The Celebrity Traitors occurs in the Scottish Highlands concurrently with BGT semi-finals in London, alongside her radio presenting duties and other projects.
Additionally, Alison Hammond is in talks with BBC bosses to appear on the next series, with executives convinced she could be comedy gold, similar to Alan Carr. Other A-listers such as Danny Dyer and Gavin & Stacey star Ruth Jones are also said to be on the list of potential celebrities for the show, though contracts are not expected to be signed until later in the year.
