Stephen, the cybersecurity expert who triumphed in the fourth series of BBC's hit reality show The Traitors, has opened up about his decision to decline filming one of the programme's signature risqué shower scenes. The 32-year-old winner, who was selected by host Claudia Winkleman as one of her initial turret trio, was spared the show's typical bedtime cutaway moments. However, he had previously discussed potential nighttime rituals with producers.
Initial Agreement Turned to Reluctance
In a recent radio interview, Stephen explained that he initially agreed to participate in a shower scene when asked by production staff. 'We theoretically discussed what mine would be. I was asked if I was comfortable doing a shower scene, I said yes,' he revealed. This agreement came before he had met his fellow contestants.
The situation changed dramatically once Stephen arrived at the Scottish castle and encountered the other male recruits. Speaking to Greg James on Radio 1, he described his reaction: 'I saw Jack's a PT, Ross is a PT, Sam's absolutely gorgeous, Matty's absolutely gorgeous.'
Changing His Mind After Cast Introductions
Faced with what he perceived as formidable competition in the physical appearance department, Stephen approached producers with a change of heart. 'I spoke to the producers and said, "I can't do a shower scene, I'm really sorry. I've just seen the rest of the men in this cast."'
Radio host Greg James questioned why these slow-motion shower sequences are included in the show at all. Stephen responded diplomatically: 'I don't think they push it, but I think if people want to flaunt themselves in that manner, then they're more than welcome to.'
Who Did Participate in the Shower Scene?
The shower scene in this series ultimately featured one of the contestants Stephen had mentioned - 35-year-old creative director Matthew, who went topless before his eventual banishment at the roundtable. This continues a tradition established in previous series, including the first Celebrity Traitors edition.
Celebrity Precedent and Camp Aesthetic
During the celebrity version, Olympic diver Tom Daley participated in a shower scene shortly before being murdered by the Traitors. Daley later described the experience to Metro, noting: 'Those bedtime shots are always a little bit tongue in cheek and a little bit on the nose. That's the fun of it. It plays into the campiness of it all, because The Traitors is a pretty camp show.'
Daley used the word 'surreal' to describe the shower moment, while clarifying that he wasn't completely nude during filming. He embraced the opportunity, saying: 'I was like, why not? Do a random shot in the shower. I'm gonna join the Freddie [Fraser] shower club.'
Production Approach to Intimate Scenes
Stephen's revelation highlights the careful negotiation between contestants and producers regarding intimate scenes. While the show includes these moments as part of its distinctive aesthetic, participants maintain agency over their participation. The cybersecurity expert's experience demonstrates how personal comfort levels can evolve throughout the production process, particularly as social dynamics develop among contestants.
The Traitors continues to balance its dramatic gameplay with these stylised personal moments, creating what Daley accurately described as the show's camp sensibility. Stephen's candid explanation provides insight into the behind-the-scenes considerations that shape what viewers ultimately see on screen.
