BBC The Traitors fans react to end of ‘boys club’ in major series debut gender twist

WATCH HERE: Trailer for the previous series The Traitors

BBC
Marcus Donaldson

By Marcus Donaldson


Published: 02/01/2025

- 00:14

Fans drew comparisons to accusations of a ‘boys club’ in last year’s series

BBC The Traitors have been left overjoyed after host Claudia Winkleman, 52, unveiled a major change to her selection of who will betray their fellow contestants.

The popular show returned to screens on New Year's Day with Winkleman leading a selection of contestants from across the UK to Ardross Castle near Inverness.


However, the first twist of the show came as the contestants travelled by train to the picturesque Scottish castle.

As the train stopped and began to reverse, Winkleman announced over tanoy that three of the passengers must be ousted to continue their journey.

After the allotted 10 minutes of tricky negotiations, Fozia, a 50-year-old outreach manager, 24-year-old market trader Jack and ex-diplomat Alexander, 38, were evicted.

Despite the huge change, it was a moment later in the show that sent fans into a frenzy.

The Traitors returned to TV on New Years Day

BBC

Viewers were shocked as the host chose three female traitors to betray their fellow contestants.

Winkleman picked 27-year-old financial investigator Armani, retired 70-year-old opera singer Linda and call centre manager Minah, also 27, for the secretive task.

Fans were quick to draw comparisons to the previous series, where three male traitors were chosen.

“From the boys club comment last series to 3 women as traitors ... oh Claud I just have to stan #TheTraitors,” one glowed.

The Traitors traitors

Winkleman chose three female traitors

BBC

Another celebrated: “Last season the traitors was mainly the boys club now it’s all women I loveee this #TheTraitorsUK

“Knew Claudia would go for three women to be The Traitors after last year's boy's club,” a third agreed.

“After last years boys club, it will be interesting to see the dynamic of 3 female traitors and no men. #TheTraitors,” a fourth considered.

Other fans simply embraced the twist with heightened enthusiasm.

“ALL WOMEN TRAITORS??? LETS GOOOOOO,” one viewer exclaimed.

Another cheered: “YESSSS BABY!! 3 female Traitors!! Haooy New Year”

Yin The Traitors

Yin was the traitor's first victim

BBC

However, one fan slammed: “f*** this show, girl power tower and they IMMEDIATELY kill an 'intelligent women' don't p*** me off.”

The comment came after the female traitor trio chose to 34-year-old Doctor of Communication Yin as their first victim.

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