The latest series of BBC's hit show The Traitors has introduced viewers to a fascinating new contestant: Harriet Tyce. While she is playing the game as a Faithful, many fans are unaware that the 53-year-old is already a multi-millionaire success story away from the cameras, with selfless plans for any prize money she might win.
A Literary Life Beyond The Traitors
Harriet Tyce is a celebrated crime author with four novels to her name. Her debut, Blood Orange, released in 2019, was a major hit and even counts model and broadcaster Abbey Clancy among its celebrity fans. Since appearing on The Traitors, which began airing on New Year's Day, her book sales have reportedly skyrocketed by a staggering 96%.
Her appearance on the show conveniently coincides with the upcoming launch of her new book, Witch Trial, set for release on 26 February. The novel, set in her hometown of Edinburgh, promises a gripping tale of a modern-day witch hunt.
Tyce's success is matched by that of her husband, Nathaniel, who is head of global markets for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Japanese bank Nomura. He reportedly earns around £3.5 million annually. Together, the couple are estimated to be worth approximately £15 million and live with their two children in a spacious townhouse in Highbury, North London.
A Major Life Change After Personal Loss
Before becoming a writer, Harriet Tyce was a criminal barrister, a career she left after finding it impossible to balance with motherhood. She has also been open about a significant personal transformation. In 2022, she made the decision to give up alcohol.
This change came after the tragic loss of a close friend to cancer in April 2021. Tyce explained that witnessing her friend's life cut short served as a powerful reality check about her own health and wellbeing. "My last drink was on 7 June 2022," she stated, marking the end of a chapter in her life.
The Charitable Pledge Behind The Game
Given her substantial personal wealth, the prize money from The Traitors—which can reach up to £120,000—is not a financial necessity for Tyce. A source close to her confirmed the family is "absolutely minted."
Instead, Harriet has declared that if she triumphs in the competition, she will donate her winnings to a breast cancer charity. This act is intended as a tribute to her late friend. "That's the perfect way for Harriet to remember her friend," a friend suggested.
This revelation adds a profound layer of depth to her participation in the popular BBC series, showing that for some contestants, the game is about far more than just the cash.
