The BBC has officially issued the invitation fans have been waiting for: the next series of the smash-hit deception game, The Traitors, has a confirmed start date. The broadcaster has announced that the fourth series will launch in the first week of the new year, bringing more high-stakes drama to BBC One.
When Does The Traitors Series Four Start?
The new game of trust and betrayal will commence on Thursday 1st January 2026 at 8pm on BBC One. The action continues swiftly with the second episode airing on Friday 2nd January at the same time. As has become standard practice, each episode will be available to stream on BBC iPlayer immediately after its linear broadcast.
This announcement comes hot on the heels of the recent Celebrity Traitors series, which saw comedian Alan Carr masterfully claim the prize fund. The main show now returns to its iconic Scottish setting, with host Claudia Winkleman once again presiding over the psychological battles from the atmospheric Ardross Castle.
Uncloaked Returns and New Contestants
Alongside the main show, the popular companion programme The Traitors: Uncloaked will also be back. Hosted by Ed Gamble, the show features interviews with eliminated contestants and celebrity fans. It begins on BBC Two on New Year's Day at 9.05pm, right after the first episode, before moving to BBC One for the rest of the run.
A fresh cohort of 22 players will enter the castle, all vying for a share of a prize fund that could reach £120,000. They will face a series of eerie and physically challenging missions designed to test their nerve and teamwork. However, the ultimate test will be navigating the web of lies spun by the hidden Traitors among them.
What to Expect from the New Series
The identities of the new Faithfuls and Traitors are being kept tightly under wraps for now, building anticipation. The BBC has promised that the upcoming series will deliver everything viewers love, dialled up to new levels. Audiences can expect more twists, turns, secrets, and deception across twelve thrilling episodes, with the now-familiar rituals of banishments and murders driving the narrative.
With its unique blend of tense strategy and compelling human drama, The Traitors has become a television phenomenon. The confirmation of its early January return ensures that the new year will begin with a major dose of must-watch television, as another group of strangers learns that in this game, nothing is ever as it seems.
