Claudia Winkleman returns to prime time with shocking new twists in The Traitors

In 2023, Claudia Winkleman was recognized for her work on The Traitors, winning her first BAFTA for hosting the popular BBC gameshow. As anticipation builds for the third series set to premiere on New Year's Day 2025, Winkleman speaks about moments in the show that have left her emotionally impacted, describing instances that caused her to shake with excitement. Despite its success, Winkleman initially hesitated to continue the series after the first season aired in 2020, believing it might be better to leave the audience wanting more. The BBC's leadership, however, insisted on renewing the show. Winkleman later authored an email to BBC executives expressing her eagerness to return after becoming captivated by the original Dutch format. Throughout the upcoming series, she has teased that there have been significant changes designed to enhance the psychological and gameplay aspects of The Traitors. Filming continues at Ardross Castle in Scotland, where this gripping social game unfolds under the theme of trust and deception. Behind the scenes, Winkleman reflects on the emotional intensity of the show’s events and how they resonate with both participants and viewers alike, generating genuine responses of tension and excitement that ultimately take her breath away. As the upcoming series draws nearer, Winkleman expresses a mix of gratitude for its success and nervous anticipation regarding audience reception.