The Traitors is back with full force as millions tune in to see a fresh cohort of strangers (and not-so strangers) try to weed out the snakes among their ranks.
The Claudia Winkleman-helmed BBC reality series has had an outstanding reception to the first two episodes, securing a record-breaking 6.9million viewers for the New Year’s launch episode.
After three civilian seasons and a hit celebrity version, the gamemakers are shaking things up, however, with the introduction of a brand new red-cloaked Secret Traitor who is unknown to both the regular Traitors and the audience.
As fans, Faithfuls and Traitors alike go frantic with theories over who could be betraying them, the audience is more locked in than ever.
In the first two episodes alone, we’ve seen several twists and turns, including Roxy and the (now-banished) Judy revealing they are mother and daughter and Ross having an unexpected connection with the murdered Netty.
Meanwhile, fans are convinced there is more to Ross than meets the eye and, becoming sofa sleuths, have found yet another link between him and one of the other stars.
But with theories and speculation running rife, the third episode has already secured itself as must-watch TV, but viewers want to make sure they tune in at the right time.
The BBC has confirmed that this Saturday, January 3, the episode is an extended 75 minutes, which means it will air at 7:45pm on BBC One, rather than the usual 8pm.
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This will be followed by Traitors: Uncloaked at 9pm, which has also shifted over to BBC One. The talk show, hosted by Ed Gamble, will feature ex-Traitors contestants Cat Burns and season three star Charlotte.
For those who need a quick refresher as to the state of the game going into tonight’s episode, look no further.
What is The Traitors 2026 release schedule?
This is the likely release schedule for the rest of season four.
Week one
Episode 3 – Saturday, January 3 at 7:45pm
Week two:
Episode 4 -Wednesday, January 7 at 8pm
Episode 5 – Thursday, January 8 at 8pm
Episode 6 – Friday, January 9 at 8pm
Week three:
Episode 7 – Wednesday, Janaury 14 at 8pm
Episode 8 – Thursday, January 15 at 8pm
Episode 9 – Friday, January 16 at 8pm
Week four:
Episode 10 – Wednesday January 21 at 8pm
Episode 11- Thursday, January 22 at 8pm
Episode 12 – Friday, January 23 at 8pm
Friday night saw Netty’s murder and Faithful Judy’s banishment, meaning currently the regular Traitors are smashing it.
Although they are still no closer to finding out the identity of the secret Traitor, their suspicions are on Fiona and Ellie.
In the turret later on, they were given the murder shortlist by their anonymous overlord, meaning that tonight, Maz, Ben and Reece are all up for the chopping block.
How to apply for The Traitors
Have you found yourself shouting at the TV that you could play the game way better? Want to put your money where your mouth is?
Applications for the next series of the Traitors are currently open, meaning you can finally prove your sleuthing skills or dastardly tricks.
You can find more details on how to apply here.
The Traitors airs tonight at 7:45pm on BBC One.
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