Actress Celia Imrie was called upon by Richard E. Grant for some advice before he took on The Celebrity Traitors this year, and she didn’t hold back.
Celia spoke to Richard E. Grant about her experience in the castle(Image: BBC/Studio Lambert/Euan Cherry/PA Wire)
Celia Imrie became a firm favourite with viewers on The Celebrity Traitors last year, even going viral after she accidentally broke wind during one of the BBC programme’s most tense missions.
Now, the Calendar Girls star has lifted the lid on what it’s truly like for contestants on the hugely popular series, suggesting the experience can be “cruel” and “very strict”.
Celia offered an insight into her time on the show after 2026 Celebrity Traitors contestant Richard E. Grant telephoned her seeking advice before heading into the famous Scottish castle.
Speaking to The Sunday Times, Celia disclosed: “Richard E. Grant, who is on this series, rang me up and asked what it was like.
“I said I didn’t quite know what I was letting myself in for, but it was good fun, although it’s very strict and there is an element of cruelty about the game.
“It’s hard always being on, keeping the brain working, but I’m pleased I did it, especially because I have a whole new fan base, lots of younger people.”
Celia also seized the chance to address her notorious on-screen moment, clarifying: “I am guilty of doing anything for a laugh, but I didn’t mean to fart.
“I was nervous. I can’t believe it became such a huge thing and I don’t want to be defined by it.”
Celia’s companion Richard has already encountered difficulties on the programme, after inadvertently revealing to fellow contestants that he is a Traitor, following host Claudia Winkleman secretly assigning him the role alongside Maya Jama and freshly-recruited Traitor James Acaster.
Upon recognising his mistake, Richard told the camera: “That may have been the biggest mistake I’ve made in my life.
“I was so thrilled to be chosen that in my excitement I said I was a Traitor. I need to defuse all of the heat coming in my direction.”
During the opening Round Table of the series, which concluded on a cliffhanger, the Saltburn actor came under suspicion from numerous celebrities, who remained focused on his unexpected admission.
The Celebrity Traitors continues on Thursday from 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
