Richard E. Grant almost immediately blew his chances on this season of  Celebrity Traitors  in what he calls the  biggest mistake I've made in my life. 

In the first episode of the U.K. reality competition reality series, Grant was chosen as one of the first two Traitors, along with  Love Island  host Maya Jama. But then shortly after being chosen as a Traitor, Grant revealed his role to a room full of other competitors.

Speaking with host Claudia Winkleman before being tapped as a Traitor, Jama said she wanted to be an  unassuming, warm and misleading traitor.  Grant, however, said he was  utterly ruthless  and would feel no guilt.  If I was lucky enough to be a traitor, it would be a dream come true,  the actor said.  In this game, the only power you have is being a traitor. 

Popular on Variety

When asked about his status, Grant blurted out that he was a Traitor to several contestants, who appeared to be shocked.  What's the point in being in the game if you're not?  Grant asked rhetorically. (You can watch this scene on X as tweeted by U.K. TV journalist and Variety contributor Scott Bryan.)

Comedian Joe Lycett encouraged Grant to back down from the statement and reassure everyone he was a Faithful making a joke.  I think you've done something that's never been done in the game,  he said.  It's a bold strategy. 

After realizing his error, Grant told the camera,  That may have been the biggest mistake I've made in my life. I was so thrilled to be chosen that in my excitement I said I was a Traitor. I need to defuse all of the heat coming in my direction. 

Grant also said he was  absolutely convinced  he would be going home. But model and actress Jerry Hall did not believe him.  I've known him for over 30 years, and he says and does eccentric things,  she said.  I think he is acting out because he hasn't been chosen. 

In spite of the slip-up, Grant survived until the end of the episode. The two Traitors were told they had a chance to recruit and could kill another contestant at the same time.

The duo selected comedian James Acaster and University Challenge presenter Amol Rajan, 

#variety  #podcastdailynews