Ardross Castle, near Inverness, a Highland location now instantly recognisable to viewers, is welcoming a new set of A-listers for the second series of The Celebrity Traitors. Producers of the hit game show are adding final touches as filming gets underway.
Set Preparations and Budget Increase
The BBC crew has already hauled a wreck of a ship into the nearby loch, with seven black Land Rovers lined up in front of the castle to ferry the Faithfuls and Traitors to their daily challenges. Two outdoor seating areas have been set up with comfortable colourful sofas, while production team members walk around the grounds. Sources suggest the broadcaster has doubled its initial £1 million budget for the star-studded series.
Star-Studded Line-Up
The line-up includes American model Jerry Hall, former EastEnders star Ross Kemp, and veteran actor Richard E. Grant. They are joined by television personality Maya Jama, comedian Romesh Ranganathan, and singer-songwriter James Blunt. Claudia Winkleman returns as host, with the series due on TV later this year.
Additional Cast Members
Coronation Street actress Julie Hesmondhalgh, comedians Joanne McNally, Rob Beckett, Joe Lycett, Miranda Hart, and James Acaster, plus singer Leigh-Anne Pinnock of Little Mix fame, are also competing for a cash prize for charity. Broadcaster Amol Rajan, Game of Thrones star Bella Ramsey, and Scottish actor Sharon Rooney will enter the scheming hallways of the castle alongside actor Michael Sheen, boxer King Kenny, actor-singer Sebastian Croft, American actor Myha’la, and maths professor Hannah Fry.
Production Details
The celebrities have touched down in Inverness, with private jets indicating extra cash being poured into the series, while security has been stepped up. A source told the Sun: 'Although most of the stars are British, so many of them are used to working in America that their teams are used to the treatment. The number of A-listers taking part in this year’s show makes it exceptional.'
