Sexism row erupts as women dominate Celebrity Traitors banishments

Celebrity Traitors has ignited a fresh controversy after viewers pointed out that of the six contestants banished so far, only two have been men — both of whom admitted they were Traitors or openly sought recruitment ^[1]. The latest cliffhanger saw Irish comedian Joanne McNally or Scottish actress Sharon Rooney facing elimination, with Traitor King Kenny holding a double vote.

Fans took to X/Twitter to highlight the pattern, with many noting that women like Myha’la, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Jerry Hall, and Traitor Professor Hannah Fry have been disproportionately targeted ^[1]. Meanwhile, men receiving scrutiny have largely been those who admitted their status or expressed desire to join the Traitors — raising questions about perception and bias.

One viewer noted: 'So many men leading the charge against women... patterns of behaviour women recognise from their working life' ^[1]. Others pointed to classism, with a working-class Scot seen as 'cracking the code' while a 'posh esteemed gentleman' dismissed her as performative.

The debate intensified after Myha’la claimed she faced 'unconscious racial bias' on the show, acknowledging that her authenticity and expression could seem suspicious to those unfamiliar with her background ^[1]. She defended her co-stars, stating she did not believe they acted out of racism, but urged for more conversation around unconscious bias.

This claim of systemic unconscious bias has not been confirmed and is based on individual accounts and fan observations ^[1]. Despite the backlash, the show remains a ratings juggernaut, drawing a peak audience of 9.7 million for Friday’s episode. BBC producers, who ensured a diverse cast with six people of colour and a near-even gender split, were reportedly 'dumbfounded' by the accusations.

Not all agree the issue is systemic — some users argued women also vote against women, questioning whether the pattern reflects broader societal dynamics or is simply a product of gameplay ^[1]. The story was first reported by Daily Mail Showbiz and Daily Mail.