Nine Celebrities Decline Offers for The Celebrity Traitors Show

The first season of The Celebrity Traitors has generated significant buzz, featuring a notable cast that includes award-winning broadcasters, actors, and top athletes. Despite the impressive line-up, several high-profile celebrities declined opportunities to participate in the show for various reasons, sparking curiosity among fans. Here are nine well-known personalities who opted out of appearing on the BBC program.

High-Profile Rejections

Ricky Gervais was one of the first names rumoured to be on the producers’ wish list. The comedian made it clear that he wouldn’t join the cast, citing a busy schedule and saying, “there’s no way they could afford me.” He later expressed concerns that “bigger names” would be easier targets, a sentiment echoed by talk show host Jonathan Ross after the series aired.

Another notable figure, former Pointless presenter Richard Osman, turned down the offer because he wanted to ensure he could play as a Traitor. He stated on Good Morning Britain that he could not bear the thought of being a Faithful while others enjoyed the game. Osman’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of his participation was clear.

Karren Brady, known for her role in The Apprentice, also declined the offer. In an interview with Metro, she explained her decision, citing her full-time job and a lack of familiarity with the show as primary reasons. Brady highlighted her limited availability due to her commitments in the summer months when The Apprentice is filmed.

Personal Commitments and Scheduling Conflicts

Financial guru Martin Lewis expressed his feelings of missing out after rejecting an invitation to join the show. He mentioned on his Instagram account that while he was initially unable to commit the necessary time, he later became a fan of the series and regretted not participating.

Similarly, actor Danny Dyer revealed during his podcast that he was approached by producers but had not seen the original show at that time. He teased a potential appearance in future seasons, depending on the financial offer, suggesting that he might prefer the excitement of playing as a Traitor.

Actress Miriam Margolyes was more straightforward about her rejection. During a Q&A at the Cheltenham Festival, she stated, “I can’t think of anything I’d rather less do,” making it clear that reality television was not appealing to her.

Comedian Daisy May Cooper was rumoured to be part of the cast alongside her brother, Charlie Cooper. However, they withdrew just weeks before filming, reportedly due to scheduling conflicts.

Tennis star Andy Murray and his mother, Judy Murray, were also considered for the show. Reports indicated they declined the offer, leading producers to seek other contestants with familial connections.

Lastly, daytime television personality Lorraine Kelly was approached by the BBC but turned down the invitation because of scheduling issues. She later mentioned to comedian Joe Wilkinson that knowledge of his participation might have swayed her decision.

While the first season of The Celebrity Traitors has already captivated audiences, the absence of these nine prominent figures raises questions about future seasons and the potential for a different line-up. As the show continues, fans will be eager to see how the dynamics evolve and who else might join the ranks of reality television in the future.