Get ready for a thrilling start to 2026, because The Traitors is back—and it’s bigger, bolder, and more deceitful than ever! But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this season’s £120,000 prize worth the backstabbing, betrayal, and psychological warfare? Let’s dive in.
BBC One is kicking off the new year with the highly anticipated fourth season of The Traitors, a reality show that’s as addictive as it is cutthroat. Once again, 22 strangers from across the UK will gather in the breathtaking—yet eerily suspenseful—Scottish Highlands. Their mission? To outwit, outlast, and outplay each other in a game where trust is a luxury and lies are currency. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about winning the money; it’s about surviving the mind games orchestrated by none other than Claudia Winkleman, who returns to handpick the Traitors tasked with eliminating the Faithfuls one by one.
So, when does the drama unfold? Mark your calendars: The Traitors season 4 premieres on Thursday, 1st January 2026, at 8 pm on BBC One and iPlayer. This launch episode sets the stage for a season filled with more twists, turns, and treachery than ever before. But don’t get too comfortable—while most episodes air at 8 pm, there’s one exception: Episode 3 on Saturday, 3rd January, starts at 7:45 pm. Bold prediction: This slight shift might just be a strategic move to keep viewers on their toes.
Speaking of episodes, fans will be thrilled to know that season 4 delivers a whopping 12 episodes, a welcome upgrade from the celebrity edition’s nine. That’s right—more episodes mean more deception, more alliances, and more jaw-dropping moments. Controversial question: With so many episodes, will the tension sustain, or will it dilute the impact? Let us know what you think in the comments!
For those who can’t wait to binge, here’s the full release schedule:
- Episode 1: Thursday, 1st January at 8 pm
- Episode 2: Friday, 2nd January at 8 pm
- Episode 3: Saturday, 3rd January at 7:45 pm
- Episode 4: Wednesday, 7th January at 8 pm
- Episode 5: Thursday, 8th January at 8 pm
- Episode 6: Friday, 9th January at 8 pm
- Episode 7: Wednesday, 14th January (time TBC)
- Episode 8: Thursday, 15th January (time TBC)
- Episode 9: Friday, 16th January (time TBC)
- Episode 10: Wednesday, 21st January (time TBC)
- Episode 11: Thursday, 22nd January (time TBC)
- Episode 12: Friday, 23rd January (time TBC)
Missed the earlier seasons? No worries—The Traitors seasons 1-3 are available on iPlayer, so you can catch up before the new season begins. And while you’re at it, add The Traitors to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app for daily TV recommendations, exclusive features, and more.
Final thought-provoking question: With the stakes higher than ever, will this season’s contestants cross lines we’ve never seen before? Share your predictions below—we can’t wait to hear your take!
