By Salma El-Sakka
Ted Lasso actress Hannah Waddingham has revealed she turned down an offer to appear on the first series of BBC's Celebrity Traitors because she was too frightened to participate.
Fear of 'Hoods and Burying People Alive'
Speaking on The Jennifer Hudson Show, the 52-year-old said she was asked to join the celebrity spin-off alongside her Ted Lasso co-star Nick Mohammed, who competed in the inaugural season. Waddingham explained that the show's format, which involves contestants wearing hoods and simulating burials, made her uncomfortable regardless of crew presence. She said she would rather watch from home with wine and crisps.
Mohammed Reached Final but Lost to Alan Carr
Mohammed reached the final but failed to win the prize money for his chosen charity. Comedian Alan Carr, who was selected as a Traitor, won the series instead. The show, hosted by Claudia Winkleman, features 21 famous contestants attempting to identify hidden traitors who "kill off" players each night.
Record Viewership and Celebrity Fees
The first series debuted last autumn and became a ratings hit, with its finale peaking at 15.4 million viewers, the largest TV audience of 2025. The current series has two episodes remaining, with the final scheduled for Friday night. Reports indicate celebrities receive a flat fee of £40,000 for appearing, though rugby player Joe Marler said he was paid £30,000 for last year's series. The BBC declined to comment on fees. Contestants compete for up to £100,000 for charity, with the amount depending on challenge performance.
