The fourth series of the smash-hit BBC deception game, The Traitors, is set to launch on New Year's Day, promising another 12 episodes of high-stakes drama. Hosted by Claudia Winkleman, the show has become a phenomenon since its 2022 debut, inspiring international versions and a celebrity spin-off.
A new teaser has revealed a major twist for the upcoming season: a mysterious figure in a red Traitors cloak, a first for the series. But before the new batch of contestants battle for a potential £120,000 prize, let's catch up with the six everyday people who have already triumphed in the UK version.
Series One: A Three-Way Split
The inaugural series ended in a tense finale where the Faithfuls ousted the last Traitor, leading to a three-way victory. Aaron Evans, Hannah Byczkowski, and Meryl Williams each walked away with £33,000.
Aaron Evans, then an estate agent, used his new profile to pivot his career. After appearing on First Dates and Celebrity Mastermind, he entered the Love Island USA villa in 2024. He initially gave his winnings to his mother but later asked for some back. His social media now showcases a life of global travel and adventure.
Hannah Byczkowski has focused on building her comedy career, co-hosting the popular Ghost Huns podcast and performing in London clubs. She told The Mirror the show "changed my life" and used her prize money to end a house contract, buy a car, and clear bills, allowing her to commute between Stoke and London for gigs.
Meryl Williams has pursued opportunities in the public eye, from podcasting to appearing at events like The Fashion Awards. She has also built a significant TikTok following of 250,000. The star, who has achondroplasia, has spoken out about experiencing public harassment, detailing a frightening incident on a train.
Series Two & Three: Solo Wins and Family Plans
In the second series, Harry Clark masterfully played as a Traitor, blindsiding his best friend in the final to win £95,000. The then 23-year-old moved back home to Slough and used his life-changing sum to pay off his parents' debts and save for a house. He has since launched a podcast, appeared on reality TV, and published a memoir titled Staying Faithful.
The third series saw another joint victory. Jake Brown, who shared his Cerebral Palsy diagnosis on the show, continues to play for the England Cerebral Palsy football team. He remains connected to the Traitors universe through reaction videos and the Uncloaked show, and recently celebrated his wedding anniversary.
His co-winner, Leanne Quigley, is planning a lavish wedding with fiancée Sophie, funded by her £47,300 share. The former soldier, who is a mother to twin boys, has also earmarked funds for further IVF treatment. Since winning, she has been photographed at high-profile events including the Baftas and the Pride of Britain Awards.
What's Next for The Traitors?
With a red cloak signalling new tricks, Series 4 of The Traitors begins on Wednesday 1 January at 8pm on BBC One. As Claudia Winkleman returns to the Scottish castle, audiences will be watching closely to see who can master the ultimate game of trust and betrayal next.
