England rugby international Joe Marler is set to exchange his rugby boots for a very different kind of competition, having signed up for the upcoming series of Celebrity Traitors. The Harlequins prop, known as much for his colourful personality as his formidable front-row skills, will test his deception-detection abilities in the psychological reality show.
From Scrum to Strategy
The 34-year-old forward, who earned over 80 caps for England before his international retirement, will trade the physical battles of the rugby pitch for the mental warfare of the Traitors castle. Marler's trademark wit and unpredictable nature could make him either a formidable Faithful or a dangerously unpredictable Traitor.
"I'm absolutely buzzing to be taking part," Marler told The Guardian. "It's completely out of my comfort zone, which is exactly why I said yes. Well, that and the fact my kids think I'm properly famous now."
A New Playing Field
The BBC reality series, hosted by Claudia Winkleman, pits contestants against each other in a game of deception and strategy. Participants must uncover the 'Traitors' among them while competing in challenges to build a prize fund.
Marler's rugby career has prepared him for high-pressure situations, though he admits this presents a unique challenge: "In rugby, you know who the opposition is. Here, anyone could be lying to your face. It's proper mind games."
Proving There's Life After Rugby
The move continues Marler's expansion into entertainment following his international retirement. He's previously hosted his own podcast and made various television appearances, showcasing the personality that made him a fan favourite throughout his rugby career.
Fans and fellow players have taken to social media to speculate how the prop forward will fare in the cerebral competition. Many predict his straightforward nature might make him an easy early target, while others suggest his rugby-honed perception could make him a natural Traitor hunter.
The Celebrity Traitors series is expected to air on BBC One later this year, with Marler joining other well-known faces from the worlds of entertainment, sports, and media.
