When Is The Traitors Next On? Your Complete Episode Schedule Guide

The Traitors Returns with Record Viewership

The fourth series of The Traitors was first broadcast on BBC One on 1 January 2026, captivating millions of viewers with its thrilling gameplay and dramatic new twist. The show’s popularity has reached unprecedented heights, with fans eagerly planning their evenings around the broadcast schedule. Understanding when the next episode airs has become essential for devoted followers who don’t want to miss a moment of the psychological drama unfolding in the Scottish Highlands.

Next Episode Air Date and Weekly Schedule

Episode 4 goes out on Wednesday January 7 at 8pm, episode 5 on Thursday January 8 and episode 6 on Friday 9 January. From next week, episodes will air on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights, settling into a predictable pattern that viewers can easily follow. All episodes of The Traitors air on BBC One, and subsequently stream on BBC iPlayer, ensuring multiple viewing options for audiences across the United Kingdom.

This year’s series of The Traitors has 12 episodes, providing four weeks of intense entertainment. The final of this year’s series is expected to air on Friday January 23, 2026, though the BBC has not officially confirmed this date.

Revolutionary Secret Traitor Twist

This season has introduced a game-changing element that’s captured viewer imagination. In the first episode, Winkleman revealed that one contestant would be selected as a ‘Secret Traitor’, whose identity would be hidden from both the audience and the regular Traitors. This new role comes with game-changing twists thanks to special powers that grant the secret traitor the ability to decide which players the other traitors are allowed to murder.

Episode 3 of the BBC show revealed that our Secret Traitor could be uncloaked as soon as Wednesday’s (7th Jan) episode after Rachel and Stephen successfully completed their secret mission in plain sight, adding another layer of anticipation to the upcoming broadcast.

Why This Schedule Matters for Viewers

The show’s unusual scheduling pattern this season has caused some confusion among fans. After that, The Traitors settles back into its usual midweek schedule, making it easier for audiences to plan their viewing habits. With the programme airing at 8pm rather than the traditional 9pm slot, viewers need to adjust their routines to catch every moment of the action live.

For those who miss the live broadcast, BBC iPlayer offers immediate catch-up access, whilst companion show The Traitors: Uncloaked provides additional analysis and behind-the-scenes content. The consistent Wednesday-Thursday-Friday pattern ensures that fans can make The Traitors part of their weekly routine through late January, culminating in what promises to be an explosive finale that will determine who walks away with the prize money.