The Traitors has quickly become one of the most popular reality television shows in the world. Versions of the riveting murder mystery show air in over 20 countries, and the US iteration consistently tops streaming charts and rakes in awards. Fans love The Traitors for its all-star cast, striking production value, scenic locales, and endlessly fascinating social dynamics. But perhaps no element is more beloved—or more essential—than its impeccably dressed host, Alan Cumming.
For many reasons, Cumming is one of the best hosts on reality television. He doesn’t just drop in to narrate now and then; he’s a crucial part of the show’s DNA. Alan joins the contestants at every breakfast to announce the traitors’ latest victim in spectacular fashion. He presides over every challenge, and at each round table, he is there to spectate and lead the debates. It’s clear he loves the job and leans fully into the show’s theatrical facade. Without Cumming’s commitment to the bit, the contestants themselves couldn’t fully lean in. As host, he adopts a wildly entertaining fictional persona—the devilishly dramatic lord of a Scottish castle who revels in murder and deceit.
Given that Alan’s hosting is the heartbeat of the show, fans are often surprised to see him missing from reunions. Despite his integral role throughout the season, the show’s producers opt to bring in Bravo’s Andy Cohen to moderate the reunion episodes, and many fans feel Cumming’s absence acutely. So why doesn’t Cumming take the reins at the reunions?
It’s Good Business to Bring Bravo and ‘The Traitors’ Together
I believe there are a few reasons for the decision to bring in a separate host for The Traitors reunions. Cohen is the face of Bravo and has been hosting reunions on the network for as long as they’ve aired. He is widely regarded as the best, or at the very least, the most experienced reunion host in the business. Both Bravo and Peacock, where The Traitors airs, are NBCUniversal properties, so it makes sense to unify these brands.
It’s no secret that the non-gamer contestants on The Traitors are vastly underestimated, but so far, the true stars of each season have undeniably been Bravolebrities. In season 1, Below Deck’s Kate Chastain stole the show. Season 2 was all about The Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Phaedra Parks and her endless quips and meme-worthy faces. And this season, the unlikely standout was infamous Vanderpump Rules cast member Tom Sandoval, who won over audiences with unending goofy antics and a willingness to be the butt of every last joke. It’s good to see the show lean into its ties to Bravo.
Alan’s Character Belongs in the Castle
But the most important reason to bring in a different host for reunions is the character Alan Cumming plays in The Traitors. During the regular season, Cumming plays the role of an enigmatic master of ceremonies, who delights in the deadly drama that unfolds on the grounds of his Scottish castle. Of course, in real life, no one is actually being murdered, but the character he inhabits as host believes these killings to be very real, and he relishes each one, no matter the victim. Cumming’s character raises the stakes and builds suspense. In order to play the game successfully, cloaked killers and faultless faithfuls alike must convincingly perform their innocence. Alan’s enthusiastic commitment invites the cast to earnestly play along, making the obviously fictional premise feel far more immersive.
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Reunions offer an opportunity for the cast to come together and break the fourth wall — to drop any pretense, and reflect on the season of television they just made. Conflicts are relitigated, and final words are issued. The typical artifice of reality TV is set aside in pursuit of this transparent discussion. So it would feel odd—dissonant even—for a host to be in character during an episode built on dropping the act.
Reunions Get Rid of the Fourth Wall
On The Traitors reunions, contestants discuss the season’s events for what they are — fictional. But Cumming’s host character doesn’t know that. In his world, traitors are ruthless killers, and faithfuls are in grave danger. He would be stunned to find contestants who were slain in his castle casually seated on the reunion couch. Perhaps even more bizarre would be watching Cumming shed the character we’ve seen all season and host the reunion as himself. Alan is meant to remain in the castle—none the wiser that his traitors and faithfuls are now coexisting on a sound stage, laughing about their fictional murders.
So, a separate reunion host is vital to keep up the facade Cumming creates in his castle. The reunion is the singular episode of each season in which the illusion pauses, the curtain is lifted, and the show is discussed for the game it is. To preserve the magic of the regular season, Alan Cumming must remain in his spooky Scottish manor, blissfully unaware. Which means someone else has to step in, and Andy Cohen has more than earned that seat at the round table.
The Traitors (US)
- Release Date
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January 12, 2023
- Showrunner
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Stephen Lambert
- Writers
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Lee Grant, Christine Rose
