Comedian Joanne McNally Reportedly in Talks for Celebrity Traitors Series Two
Irish comedian Joanne McNally, aged 42, is reportedly among the next stars being lined up for the highly anticipated second series of The Celebrity Traitors. The popular comedian, known for co-hosting the podcast My Therapist Ghosted Me with best friend Vogue Williams, is said to be one of several big names that producers are eyeing for the star-studded cast.
Bridging Old and New Media Appeal
A source close to the production told The Sun that Joanne's substantial social media following and popular podcast appeal to younger viewers who might not typically watch mainstream BBC shows. The insider explained, 'Joanne has a popular podcast and a substantial social media following, which will appeal to the younger viewers who, at one time, wouldn't be religiously watching a mainstream show on the BBC. But people like Joanne are the bridge between old and new media.'
The source added that her comedic style, which often focuses on navigating the dating world as a single woman, particularly resonates with younger audiences. Joanne has established herself as a regular on British and Irish television, with appearances on programmes including Taskmaster (where she finished second in Series 17), The Big Fat Quiz of Everything, and The Jonathan Ross Show.
Production Details and Additional Cast Rumours
Filming for the reality spin-off's second series is scheduled to begin in the Scottish Highlands during May, with Claudia Winkleman, 54, returning to host the show at the historic 19th-century Ardross Castle. The Daily Mail has contacted Joanne's representatives for comment regarding her potential involvement.
Other notable names reportedly being considered for the second series include comedian David Mitchell and actor Steve Pemberton, best known for his work on The League of Gentlemen. Steve, 58, is said to have been in discussions with producers since publicly expressing his admiration for the show following its 2022 debut.
A television insider revealed, 'Signing Steve would fill the slot for a celebrity who is obsessed with the mechanics behind the programme. It was a role filled last year by Jonathan Ross, who was a long-time devotee and became one of the programme's "big dogs." As an award-winning actor who can transform himself from one character to another, Steve would be a similar figure and a formidable contestant for the players to contend with.'
Amanda Holden's Potential Scheduling Conflicts
Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden is another name being touted for the series, particularly after her close friend Alan Carr won the 2025 run of the show. Having initially encouraged Alan to participate, Amanda is now reportedly keen to join the cast herself. However, she may face significant scheduling challenges.
A television insider explained to The Sun, 'Filming for The Celebrity Traitors takes place in the Scottish Highlands at the same time that BGT semi-finals are filmed live in London on a Saturday night. It's not impossible for her to be given some time off, but it isn't the only work she'd have to juggle.' Amanda would need to balance her Britain's Got Talent responsibilities alongside her radio presenting commitments.
Additional Contenders and Production Status
ITV presenter Alison Hammond, 51, is also reportedly in talks with BBC executives about appearing on the next series. According to sources, the BBC believes she could provide 'comedy gold' similar to Alan Carr's performance. A source stated, 'The Beeb thinks she could be comedy gold, just like Alan Carr. The pot of talent wanting to take part is overflowing, so they have a lot to weigh up.' Contracts are not expected to be finalised until later in the year, but producers are reportedly keen for Alison to sign.
Other A-list celebrities rumoured to be on the potential participant list include actor Danny Dyer and Gavin & Stacey star Ruth Jones. A representative for the BBC declined to comment on the speculation, stating, 'We're not commenting on speculation but details about series two of The Celebrity Traitors will be announced in due course.'
Background and Previous Success
Hosted by Claudia Winkleman, The Traitors has captivated audiences since its 2022 debut with its ultimate game of deception. The first Celebrity Traitors series saw Alan Carr emerge victorious, remaining undetected throughout the game and ultimately claiming the £87,500 prize. The grand finale attracted an average audience of 11.1 million viewers, peaking at 12 million, making it the BBC's biggest overnight audience since the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special.
Viewers watched as Alan successfully deceived fellow contestants Nick Mohammed and David Olusoga into believing he was a Faithful. His surprise win resulted from Nick and David turning on fellow Faithful Joe Marler at the last moment, despite Joe correctly identifying Alan and Cat Burns as the remaining Traitors. This shocking twist left audiences reeling and demonstrated the show's compelling psychological gameplay.
