Claudia Winkleman has drawn inspiration for her wardrobe on the latest series of BBC One’s "The Celebrity Traitors" from an unexpected source: the weathered aesthetic of a Charles Dickens character. Speaking about the new season, Winkleman revealed she adopted a style reminiscent of the Artful Dodger, which led to a unique approach involving requests to age garments by dipping them in tea—a move that surprised the show’s wardrobe designers. The filming took place in the Scottish Highlands, primarily inside Ardross Castle, providing a dramatic backdrop for the series.
Winkleman, who previously embraced fashion nods to Cruella de Vil in the inaugural series, acknowledged the challenge of maintaining composure while surrounded by a line-up of comedians. "They all made me laugh," she said, describing the cast as "utterly brilliant and the funniest people on earth." She highlighted comedian Rob Beckett as particularly amusing, noting that a remark from him had her hiding in a bush to regain her composure. The host credits her “overly long fringe” for helping to conceal any unintended expressions during filming.
Despite her prominent role, Winkleman aims to keep a low profile on the show, expressing excitement about working alongside a high-profile group of celebrities. She said she was impressed by her bosses repeatedly naming the participants, emphasizing how fortunate the production was that so many agreed to take part.
The celebrity cast includes several stand-up comedians, which some have acknowledged adds a layer of complexity to the dynamics. James Acaster, a familiar face from the comedy circuit, pointed to the suspicion that alliances might form among comedians if they remain together. He noted the challenge of competing with last year’s winner, Alan Carr, whose humor effectively disarmed participants throughout. “He has tainted us all,” Acaster remarked, highlighting the added scrutiny on comedians entering the competition.
Not all contestants come from comedy backgrounds. Actress Myha’la, known for her role as Harper in the television drama "Industry," described her personality as contrasting sharply with the determined character she plays on screen. “I am more of a kill-them-with-kindness kind of girl,” she said, noting her interest in overcoming preconceptions while competing.
Comedian Joe Lycett, 38, hopes the show will reveal a different facet of his personality beyond his energetic stage persona. Lycett described himself offstage as calm and thoughtful, cautioning that this quieter side might be misinterpreted by fellow contestants unfamiliar with his usual performance style. He also addressed assumptions about his personal life, clarifying that he has a female partner and a son, countering stereotypes often associated with his public image.
With filming underway in the rugged Scottish setting and a diverse group of stars, the new series promises a blend of humor, strategy, and unexpected alliances.