Claudia Winkleman Reveals Why She Initially Turned Down The Traitors
Claudia Winkleman revealed that she initially turned down the offer to host the reality gameshow The Traitors before a late-night preview of the original Dutch format changed her mind. The 54-year-old broadcaster, who fronts four series of the BBC show alongside two celebrity editions, shared the behind-the-scenes decision in a recent interview.
Rejecting the BBC Reality Gameshow
Winkleman stated that she was initially reluctant to take on the hosting job when producers first approached her. Speaking to Harper’s Bazaar, she explained her usual evening routine and how the pitch initially failed to capture her interest.
“I’m always in bed at 9pm with my book, but I started watching, and at midnight, I sent her an unnamed TV executive a text saying, ‘I’ll buy my own ticket’.”
That late-night viewing session of the Dutch series altered her trajectory with the BBC project. The presenter has since anchored multiple civilian and celebrity runs of the hit programme.
Stepping Away From Chat Shows and Strictly Come Dancing
The interview also detailed Winkleman’s wider television choices following her departure from Strictly Come Dancing in 2025, a role she co-presented alongside Tess Daly. Following that exit, she launched The Claudia Winkleman Show on BBC One in December 2025.
Despite the launch of her own chat programme, Winkleman made it clear she has no desire to front a second series. She explained that the network wanted her to give the format a try to see if she wanted something different, but concluded it was not a good fit for her skillset.
“Maybe, I thought, let’s try something different? But never again. That’s it. It wasn’t for me. Finding it unappealing, uncomfortable having my title attached, and recognizing it falls outside my strengths. I need a format – it can’t just be me.”
Memorable Moments on The Celebrity Traitors
Winkleman recalled dropping her food during the incident, noting how much she loves a baked potato. The mishap occurred right by a rail of borrowed clothes, requiring the production to send the garments back with a distinct scent of cheese. Comedian James Acaster also admitted his traitor status to fellow contestants in the penultimate episode.
The complete interview with Winkleman appears in the December/January edition of Harper’s Bazaar UK, available from 6 November.
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