Prime Video has announced that the Indian adaptation of the internationally acclaimed reality show, The Traitors, will debut on June 12. New episodes will drop every Thursday at 8pm IST, promising suspense and star-studded drama to viewers across the country.
This move marks Prime Video’s boldest foray yet into unscripted content, tapping into a format that has captivated audiences in more than 30 countries worldwide.
A Star-Studded Cast and Host to Amp Up the Drama
The Indian edition of The Traitors is produced by BBC Studios India and based on the popular format created by IDTV and distributed by All3Media International. What makes this version particularly buzzworthy is the involvement of Bollywood’s own Karan Johar as host. Known for his flair and charisma, Johar is expected to bring an extra layer of drama and intrigue to the show.
The show will feature 20 well-known Indian celebrities competing for a hefty cash prize and the ultimate title of “The Traitor” winner. This mix of familiar faces and high stakes promises to keep viewers glued to their screens.
Karan Johar’s involvement isn’t just for show. He’s expected to stoke tensions, create moments of suspense, and stir the pot in a game built around manipulation and strategic mind games.
Prime Video’s Strategy: Betting Big on Reality Entertainment
This launch is part of Prime Video’s growing push into unscripted entertainment, a space it has been eyeing with increasing interest. Nikhil Madhok, head of originals at Prime Video India, emphasized the scale and ambition behind The Traitors.
He said, “We’re making a bold leap as we scale our unscripted content slate with our biggest reality series yet. Packed with drama, manipulation, suspenseful gameplay, and unexpected twists, the show is mounted on a grand scale with high production values.”
Prime Video isn’t just rolling out a reality show—they’re aiming for immersive entertainment that resonates across India’s vast and varied audience. And the timing is right. The appetite for high-quality, engaging reality content has never been stronger, especially with audiences craving fresh formats that offer something beyond the usual.
Global Phenomenon Brings a Proven Format to India
The Traitors format has become a worldwide sensation. It’s been adapted more than 35 times across 30 countries, winning fans for its mix of psychological gameplay and theatrical tension.
Sabrina Duguet, EVP APAC at All3Media International, pointed out India’s significance as a market: “India is one of the most dynamic and exciting markets in the world, with an audience base that’s highly receptive to reality shows.” She expressed excitement over the Indian adaptation, highlighting the blend of high-profile celebrities and intense, thriller-like drama.
The format’s global success is no accident. It blends mind games, alliances, betrayals, and surprising twists—ingredients that make for addictive TV. For India, a country that loves its reality shows and star power, this formula looks especially promising.
Marketing Push and Audience Expectations
Prime Video is backing The Traitors with an aggressive outdoor campaign, designed to catch eyes and build hype. This was followed by a video featuring Karan Johar, who not only announced the premiere date but also teased the show’s format and the celebrities involved.
It’s clear the platform is pulling out all stops to make The Traitors a must-watch event. The combination of suspense, celebrity drama, and a host with star power should draw viewers who might otherwise stick to scripted dramas or big Bollywood releases.
What really sets The Traitors apart, according to Neha Khurana, executive producer at BBC Studios India Productions, is the scale and immersive quality of the show. She described it as “bold, dramatic, and psychological,” promising jaw-dropping twists that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
What to Expect From the Show’s Format?
Here’s a quick look at what viewers can expect, based on the global versions and the Indian twist:
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20 celebrities enter a mansion isolated from the outside world.
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Among them are a few “Traitors,” whose goal is to secretly eliminate others without getting caught.
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The rest are “Faithful,” working to identify and banish the Traitors before being deceived.
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Suspense builds as alliances form and break, with dramatic revelations in every episode.
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The winner walks away with a significant cash prize.
Element | Details |
---|---|
Number of Contestants | 20 Celebrities |
Host | Karan Johar |
Streaming Date | Starting June 12, Thursdays 8pm IST |
Production | BBC Studios India |
Format Origin | IDTV, distributed by All3Media |
This mix of social deduction, strategy, and emotional stakes makes The Traitors more than just a reality show—it’s an intense psychological contest.
The show is perfectly timed to offer something fresh and thrilling for Indian audiences hungry for new entertainment formats, especially those blending star power with gripping competition.