Traitors has become one of the biggest hits on British television, with viewers thrilling to a game played in a Scottish castle in which deceit (or virtue) can win riches. What is it about the format – originated in the Netherlands – that has made it a global TV sensation, with versions now in many countries from the United States to New Zealand? The unusual characteristic of Traitors is that, in an age of streaming, it is appointment-to-view television with millions of people gathering at a scheduled transmission time to watch the latest twists and turns.

To discuss the programme, and also what it might mean for the future of television and entertainment, we will be joined by Dan McGolpin, alumnus (SE 1993), who is now the BBC’s director of iPlayer and channels; Syeda Irtizaali, the BBC commissioner responsible for Traitors; and, as a special guest, Paul Gorton – who was a traitor in the most recent series and became one of its most celebrated contestants.

The event will be chaired by the master of Selwyn Roger Mosey, and we will be inviting questions from the audience in person and online.

Booking

Please book your ticket using the form below:

Livestream

You can watch the livestream on our YouTube channel here. You will not need to book a ticket for this.

Location and timing details

The event takes place at the Quarry Whitehouse Auditorium, Selwyn College, Grange Road, CB3 9DQ. It is pictured below, as seen from above from Grange Road.

The Quarry Whitehouse Auditorium is located on the corner of West Road and Grange Road and can be accessed via the gate to Ann’s Court on Grange Road. The Auditorium will be signposted —  but the Selwyn College Porters, located in the Lodge by the main entrance, will be more than happy to help direct you if you have trouble finding the auditorium.

Doors will open at 5:45pm. Please be seated by 5:55pm as the event will start promptly at 6:00pm. We expect to finish by 7:00pm at the latest. 

If you are arriving by bike, you may lock your bicycles on the railings by the Quarry Whitehouse Auditorium.

Please note that photographs will be taken during this event and the audience may be visible at certain points on the livestream.