BBC says contestant welfare priority after James Acaster’s emotional pause

The BBC said the safety and welfare of participants on the reality series The Celebrity Traitors is its highest priority after reports that filming was paused when comedian James Acaster became upset during a semi-final round-table discussion. Acaster, 41, was banished after admitting he was a Traitor and was given a welfare check before the discussion resumed.

"Our highest priority is always the safety and welfare of everyone taking part. Players are closely monitored and supported throughout by production, which includes a dedicated and experienced welfare team," a BBC spokesperson said.

Acaster, who began the game as a Faithful before being recruited as a Traitor, said he felt forced into the role and struggled to defend himself during the debate about the murder of Ross Kemp. He told the other contestants, "I just want to explain my situation, I was made a Traitor without wanting to be. I’ve had a unique experience on this that no one’s had before, where I wanted to be a Faithful and that’s all I’ve wanted to be."

The episode also saw actress Sharon Rooney eliminated and comedian Joanne McNally banished. Remaining Traitors are TV presenter Maya Jama and former boxer King Kenny, while Faithfuls still in the game include singer James Blunt, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, actor Michael Sheen, comedian Romesh Ranganathan and actor Sebastian Croft. The final, featuring a prize pot of £64,500, will air on BBC One at 8 p.m. on Friday.