There are plenty of reasons to watch the US version of The Traitors, now that the whole thing is on iPlayer. If you were one of the many viewers gripped by the UK Traitors’ blend of intrigue, betrayal and school sports day, then this is a decent substitute until the inevitable British second series arrives. It is fascinating to see how the same game – essentially, who is good at lying? – can be played in such a different way, depending on who’s involved.
Best of all, Alan Cumming hosts. I love Claudia Winkleman, but Cumming presents as if he is a supply teacher sent to look after an unruly classroom that he can’t be bothered to discipline. He adds accessories scene by scene. He can start an episode wearing a kilt and a blazer, and by the end have put on a shawl, a brooch, glasses and a beret. He archly quotes and misquotes Shakespeare. The man has come up with 300 different ways of pronouncing the word “dollars”. He is evidently having a ball.
