Stephen Fry compares Celebrity Traitors filming in Scotland to emotional torture as he joins all-star cast at Ardross Castle

Stephen Fry compares Celebrity Traitors filming in Scotland to emotional torture as he joins all-star cast at Ardross Castle

If you thought Celebrity Traitors was just another reality show, Stephen Fry is here to tell you otherwise.

The 67-year-old icon, who’s known more for wit and wisdom than backstabbing games, has described his recent appearance on the upcoming celebrity edition as nothing short of emotionally brutal—but also weirdly addictive.


Why Stephen Said Yes to a Show He’d Usually Turn Down

Stephen opened up on The Show People podcast, admitting he typically avoids reality TV offers like Strictly Come Dancing or I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here. But Traitors was different.

“I watched the first and second series and thought, this is such a clever game,” he explained.

“It’s so extraordinary what it does to the psychology of the individual. I just thought it would be really interesting to play it.”

Then came the analogy only Stephen Fry could deliver:
“It was like a Chinese foot massage—you know it’s absolute agony, but you sort of want to do it again.”


Mum’s the Word on Fry’s Role in the Game

As for whether he’s playing a Traitor or a Faithful? Stephen’s lips are sealed. “Obviously, I can’t say a word.

I’m certainly not telling you if I’m a traitor or a faithful. I am one or the other,” he teased. The mystery, as always, is half the fun.


The Cast Heads to the Castle in Secretive Style

Filming for the star-studded series took place in April at the dramatic Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands. But BBC bosses weren’t taking any chances with spoilers—especially after past leaks.

According to The Sun, the cast’s journey to the castle was coordinated like a military mission.

Instead of a straightforward flight into Inverness, the celebrities were shuffled into place via cars, trains, planes, and even boats.

A no-fly zone was even declared over Claudia Winkleman’s HQ to block drone photographers.


Meet the Celebrities Entering the Game

This new Celebrity Traitors season boasts a wild mix of familiar faces from TV, comedy, music, sport, and even YouTube. Here’s who’s playing:

  • Stephen Fry (67) – Actor, author, and broadcaster

  • Kate Garraway (57)Good Morning Britain host

  • Alan Carr (48) – Comedian and TV host

  • Paloma Faith (43) – Singer and actress

  • Charlotte Church (39) – Singer

  • Tom Daley (39) – Olympic diver

  • Jonathan Ross (64) – TV and radio presenter

  • Tameka Empson (48)EastEnders actress

  • Cat Burns (24) – Singer

  • Nick Mohammed (44) – Comedian and Ted Lasso star

  • Clare Balding (54) – Broadcaster and journalist

  • Joe Wilkinson (49) – Comedian and actor

  • Celia Imrie (72) – Actress

  • Lucy Beaumont (41) – Comedian

  • David Olusoga (55) – Historian and broadcaster

  • Ruth Codd (28) – Actress

  • Mark Bonnar (56) – Actor

  • Niko Omilana (27) – YouTuber

  • Joe Marler (34) – Former England rugby player


The Surprise No-Show and Last-Minute Addition

Fans had widely speculated that comedy legend Jennifer Saunders would be part of the cast—but she’s nowhere to be seen in the final line-up.

Meanwhile, Lucy Beaumont joined the show late in the game, shortly after her unexpected split from fellow comedian Jon Richardson.

According to insiders, she’s ready to forge her own path and grow her public profile.


When and Where to Watch It

Set your reminders: Celebrity Traitors will air this autumn on BBC One and iPlayer.

With Claudia Winkleman returning as host, a castle full of deceit, and this jaw-dropping list of stars, it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated seasons yet.