The popular television series The Traitors is making a leap from screen to stage in a new adaptation set to debut in March 2027 in London. Producers have described this upcoming stage production as a “bold and surprising” theatrical experience, building on the show’s immense popularity across various formats, including a board game and an immersive experience.
The announcement comes shortly after the conclusion of the show’s fourth season, which aired its finale on a Friday night, drawing a peak audience of 9.6 million viewers. This finale marked a significant milestone, making it the most-watched conclusion of the civilian version of the series in the UK. The celebrity edition had previously recorded a 28-day audience figure of 15.2 million, showcasing the show’s broad appeal in the current media landscape.
Creative Team Behind the Stage Adaptation
The new stage adaptation will feature the writing talents of John Finnemore, a well-known comedy writer and radio personality. He will be joined by Robert Hastie, the deputy artistic director of the National Theatre, who will take on directing duties. The collaboration between Studio Lambert, the production company behind the TV series, and Neal Street Productions, co-founded by acclaimed filmmaker Sam Mendes, aims to transform the popular series into a compelling live performance.
Stephen Lambert, the chief executive of Studio Lambert, expressed excitement about the project, stating that this partnership allows them to “reimagine the show as a bold and surprising theatrical performance.” He emphasized that fans can expect an “intense, joyful night out” as the production explores new thematic elements in a live format.
Caro Newling, co-founder of Neal Street Productions, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team’s commitment to infusing a “bold, structural twist” into the adaptation that only live theatre can deliver. The details regarding the specific format and structure of the play remain undisclosed, but the anticipation among fans continues to grow.
A Global Phenomenon
Originally launched in the Netherlands in 2021 as De Verraders, The Traitors has since evolved into a global reality TV sensation, with over 30 international versions produced from regions such as Australia to Ukraine. The show engages contestants in a game of deception, where manipulation and strategy are key to winning.
In the UK, the series is hosted by Claudia Winkleman, who recently concluded the fourth season with contestants Rachel Duffy and Stephen Libby sharing a cash prize of £95,750. Duffy, noted for her strategic gameplay, has garnered attention from fans in her hometown of Newry, where she often hears playful jests about her role as a “traitor.”
As the project moves forward, the involvement of prominent figures like Finnemore and Hastie, along with the backing of well-established production companies, suggests a promising future for The Traitors on stage. The adaptation is poised to attract both loyal fans of the series and new audiences eager to experience the thrill of the game in a live setting.
