The latest series of The Traitors UK 2026 has introduced viewers to a compelling new player who is changing the game. Stephen Libby, a 32-year-old cyber security consultant originally from the Isle of Lewis, has been selected by host Claudia Winkleman as an original traitor, and his charming approach is winning over both the faithfuls and the audience at home.
Who Is Stephen Libby From The Traitors?
Stephen Libby brings a unique background to the Scottish castle. Hailing from the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, he has lived in London for the past eight years but has retained his distinct regional accent. He believes this works to his advantage, helping people let their guard down around him quickly. On the show, Stephen revealed his motivation for competing: he aims to use any prize money to give back to his parents, who sacrificed financially to put him through university as the first in his family to attend.
Outside the world of deception and strategy, Stephen works as a cyber security consultant. In his personal life, he is in a relationship with his boyfriend, whose competitive family he credits with awakening his own fierce competitive spirit for games. Online speculation has even suggested his partner could be fellow contestant Matthew.
Stephen's Traitors Game Plan & Alliances
Stephen's strategy stands in contrast to some of his fellow traitors. Rather than employing overtly brutal tactics, he is relying on his natural charisma and ability to befriend people. "It might sound like quite a simplistic game plan to just make friends with everyone, but I do think that’s something that does come naturally to me," he explained.
He is working alongside fellow original traitor Rachel Duffy, and the pair are also searching for a secret third traitor introduced this series. In a significant move, Stephen and Rachel have made a pact never to write each other's names down at the roundtable, though whether this alliance holds remains to be seen.
Why Stephen Is Winning Over The Audience
Stephen Libby's genuine personality and relatable motivations have resonated with viewers in a way that is unusual for a traitor. His focus on family and his disarming manner have, for the first time in the show's history, caused many in the audience to side with the traitors. His journey to potentially use the prize money to get on the property ladder and support his parents adds a layer of depth to his gameplay, making him one of the most watched contestants of The Traitors 2026 series.
