A second series of The Celebrity Traitors is already looking pretty likely, and one hugely popular comedy actress could be heading to the Scottish Highlands.
Beloved for playing Nessa in Gavin and Stacey, Ruth Jones has been elevated to national treasure status since first gracing our screens in her black bob wig and fishnets almost 20 years ago.
In the years since, the screenwriter, 59, who penned the hit series with James Corden, has appeared in numerous other TV shows, written books, and reprised her iconic Nessa character for skits.
And if reports are to be believed, her next on-screen appearance could be among other stars in the Celeb Traitors castle.
While the BBC has yet to officially green-light a second showbiz season of Claudia Winkleman’s hit game show, with series 1 ratings through the roof, it’d be surprising if the spin-off didn’t return. Plus, the civilian edition is also due for two more runs.
According to The Sun, the Beeb is quietly contacting celebrities to make appearances, with Ruth being a big name they’re after.
A source told the publication: ‘The celebrity version of The Traitors has been a phenomenal success for the BBC, and they’re already approaching stars for the next run.
‘Ruth is one of the names in the frame, and she’s been approached about taking part.
‘Given the stellar names they secured for series one, the next instalment has to be just as impressive.’
The insider added that ‘Ruth would be an incredible addition to the cast if she can fit it into her schedule’.
However, the Welsh star is said to have one condition before she signs on the dotted line.
‘Ruth would only consider taking part on the proviso she would be a Faithful.’
Ruth has got plenty to keep her busy in the meantime, though, as it was recently revealed that she and Smithy actor James, 47, have signed a big-money deal with AppleTV.
Together, they will create an eight-part comedy series titled The Choir, which follows a brother and sister who reconnect after being estranged.
It’s understandable why there’s already hype bubbling around the project, as Ruth and James turned BBC Three comedy Gavin and Stacey into gold with their niche references and comedic storytelling.
On Christmas Day, almost 20million people tuned in for the final-ever episode, which finally gave us the ending we’ve been waiting for as Nessa and Smithy tied the knot.
As for James, despite having quit hosting duties on The Late Late Show and moving back to the UK, he can’t keep away from the States, as he’s been performing on Broadway in the revival of the Tony-winning play ART, in which he stars alongside Bobby Cannavale and Neil Patrick Harris.
Hey, maybe he’ll also get the Celeb Traitors call next series? Well, after Bob Mortimer, of course, whose absence was certainly felt by fans who were convinced he would be appearing in series 1.
It certainly wouldn’t be beyond the realms of possibility, given the calibre of this year’s cast, which included the likes of Sir Stephen Fry and Celia Imrie.
Olympian Tom Daley, broadcaster Kate Garraway, pop star Paloma Faith, rugby ace Joe Mahler, and Welsh songstress Charlotte Church joined them, all of whom were chosen to be Faithfuls.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Ross, Alan Carr, and Cat Burns were the three Traitors who got the shoulder tap from Claudia.
Despite playing a stellar game for a while, Alan and Cat turned on Jonathan ahead of the final week when suspicions arose regarding his trustworthiness.
It remains to be seen whether the remaining backstabbers will make it all the way to the end and steal the cash, as their fellow players are already suspecting something fishy is going on.
The BBC has been contacted for comment.
The final of The Celebrity Traitors airs on Thursday, November 6, at 9pm on BBC One.
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