The Traitors season 3 episode 1 recap: The Faithful are separated from the Traitors

In its third season, The Traitors continues its signature premise: separating the Faithful from the Traitors. Episode 1, titled Let Battle Commence, which aired on January 9, 2025, answers the question of how this division begins. 21 contestants gathered at a Scottish Highlands castle, ready to navigate a game of strategy and deception.

Hosted by Alan Cumming, the participants are split into two groups— the majority of Faithfuls, who aim to identify and eliminate the Traitors, who on the other hand seek to sabotage and remain undetected. The season begins with high stakes, as contestants vie for a potential prize fund of up to $250,000.

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A game of strategy and deception begins in The Traitors Season 3 premiere

The cast and initial dynamics

This season introduces a diverse group of contestants, including well-known figures from reality TV, sports, and entertainment. Among the notable players are Jeremy Collins, Tony Vlachos, Dolores Catania, and Sam Asghari. Pre-existing relationships and public reputations play a crucial role in shaping early alliances and strategies.

For instance, Jeremy and Tony’s history from Survivor: Winners at War brings unresolved tension, while Chrishell Stause's connection to Ariana Madix creates suspicions surrounding Tom Sandoval.

One of the first twists of the season involves Rob Mariano, a legend from Survivor and Deal or No Deal Island. Host Alan Cumming presented the players with the opportunity to bring Rob into the game. However, the group unanimously rejected this option, seemingly ending his participation.

Unknown to the cast, Rob is later secretly introduced as a Traitor, alongside two unidentified newcomers. This decision set the tone for the game, underscoring the hidden layers of strategy at play.

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The first challenge: Building teamwork and sacrifice

The players’ first mission was a test of both physical ability and teamwork. They are tasked with rowing a large boat through a course on a loch, to collect sacks of money and fuel, which contribute to the prize pot. Along the way, they were required to make sacrifices, with individuals stepping out of the challenge to allow the group to progress.

Key moments included Robyn Dixon and Chanel Ayan volunteering to step aside early, followed by sacrifices from Dolores Catania, Dorinda Medley, Bob the Drag Queen, and Danielle Reyes. Despite initial progress, the group ultimately decided to forgo the remaining $20,000 to ensure the safety of 12 players via shields, leaving eight stranded.

The mission raised $20,000 for the prize pot and provided shields to a subset of participants, making them immune from the Traitors' first murder.

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The selection of the Traitors

Following the mission, the pivotal moment of the episode occurred at the Round Table, where Alan Cumming selected the season’s first Traitors. With all players blindfolded, Alan named Danielle Reyes, Carolyn Wiger, and Bob the Drag Queen as the Traitors. This season introduces a new rule: the alignment of eliminated players will not be disclosed, forcing contestants to rely solely on their instincts.

Later, the three Traitors met privately for the first time. They strategized about their roles, recognizing that their recent sacrifices in the mission could shield them from suspicion.

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Check out episodes 2 and 3 The Traitors season 3 which aired on the same day as episode 1. Episode 4 follows on Thursday, January 16 at 9 pm ET. Catch all the action and intrigue exclusively on Peacock.