Brief

James Acaster’s anxiety causes pause in Celebrity Traitors filming

The BBC reality show paused after the 41‑year‑old comedian’s visible distress, with producers prioritising contestant welfare.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 27 Sep 2026 20:09:55 GMT

During a shoot at Ardross Castle on the BBC’s new series of Celebrity Traitors, comedian James Acaster became visibly anxious and panicked. Fellow contestants raised concerns and asked the cameras to stop, prompting producers to pause filming so Acaster could calm down.

Acaster, 41, is one of 21 contestants, including Maya Jama, James Blunt and Miranda Hart, who will compete for £100,000 for charity. The pause came just days before the series is set to premiere on 1 October 2026.

A spokesperson for the show said the crew’s welfare team is “closely monitored and supported” and that the safety and welfare of all participants is the highest priority. The incident, the spokesperson added, did not affect the outcome of the game but highlighted the intensity of the set.

Acaster later told the BBC that he was aware of the pressure and that the show’s format could lead to alliances forming early on. He added that he was unsure of his chances of making it to the end, saying he had “no idea” whether he had what it takes.

Key facts

James Acaster became anxious during filming at Ardross Castle (dailymail.co.uk)
Producers paused filming to allow Acaster to calm down (dailymail.co.uk)
The show will resume after a brief break (dailymail.co.uk)
The series premieres 1 October 2026 on BBC One (dailymail.co.uk)

Background

The BBC’s Celebrity Traitors returns for a second series in 2026, airing from 1 October on BBC One. Claudia Winkleman hosts a new 21‑person cast, including comedians, actors, musicians and a mathematician, who compete for £100,000 for charity.