Andy Cohen, known for his role as host of “Watch What Happens Live” and executive producer of the “Real Housewives” franchise, has recently shared his perspective on the popular reality competition series, “The Traitors.” In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Cohen disclosed his views on whether he would participate as a contestant in the show, which is currently streaming on Peacock.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/andy-cohen-The-Traitors-Season-102326-04f6c9ed4d574ad1bc2941e5fdc5e840.jpg)
The iconic television personality, who has been instrumental in shaping the reality TV landscape, has hosted the reunions for the US version of “The Traitors” across its first four seasons, from 2023 to 2026. However, when asked about stepping into the shoes of a contestant in the series, Cohen was unequivocal in his response. He vocally dismissed the idea, stating, “No, I would get voted off immediately.” This candid declaration came during the opening night of the Broadway play “Other Desert Cities” held at New York City’s Hudson Theatre on 18 October.
“The Traitors” has established a reputation for casting numerous stars from the “Real Housewives” franchise. Over the course of its first four seasons, it has featured notable figures including Lisa Rinna, Candiace Dillard Bassett, Phaedra Parks, Dorinda Medley, Dolores Catania, and Larsa Pippen. This crossover of reality TV talent has brought a significant audience to the series, combining the drama of competitive strategy with the signature flair of the Housewives.
Season 5 of “The Traitors,” subtitled “New Blood,” differentiated itself with a fresh non-celebrity cast. Nonetheless, anticipation is already building for Season 6, which promises to bring back the star power with the inclusion of three Housewives: Cynthia Bailey, Gizelle Bryant, and Bronwyn Newport. This shift back to featuring reality TV stars is likely to attract a broader audience, with viewers eager to see how these personalities navigate the challenges of the competition.
While Cohen seems content to remain behind the scenes, other Housewives have expressed a desire to take on the role of either a “Faithful” or a “Traitor” within the show’s competitive structure. Jessel Taank, a star from “The Real Housewives of New York City,” has made her ambitions clear. At the All That Glitters Diwali Ball on 17 October, she revealed her enthusiasm for competing on the programme. “I would love to do Traitors, 100% would love to do Traitors, and I would want to be a Traitor because what’s the fun in being a Faithful?” she stated, reflecting a desire for the excitement and strategy involved in the series.
Furthermore, Taank shared her wish to be partnered with Chanel Ayan, who was previously part of the cast in Season 3 but was eliminated early. She feels that Ayan deserves another chance in the competition and noted, “Chanel Ayan didn’t really get a fair shot, so I think she needs to come back with me, and we would obviously have the best fashion and just so many laughs.” This sentiment emphasises the camaraderie that often exists among the Housewives, even amid the competitive environment of reality television.
As “The Traitors” continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the format will adapt to the dynamics introduced by its celebrity competitors. With the upcoming Season 6 already generating buzz, fans of the show are eager to witness the drama that unfolds within the historic setting of Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands.
Currently, “The Traitors” Season 5 is airing on Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, with episodes available for streaming on Peacock the following day. For those who wish to catch up on previous seasons, the platform offers access to the entire catalogue of past episodes, making it easier for new viewers to join in on the excitement.
As the series continues to blend elements of strategy, deceit, and social interaction, the involvement of personalities from the “Real Housewives” franchise suggests that this unique reality competition will only grow in popularity and intrigue. The coming seasons are sure to keep audiences captivated as they witness how alliances form and break in the castle, setting the stage for unforgettable moments in reality television.