Alan Cumming has extended a humorous invitation to US President Donald Trump to join the cast of his reality competition show, The Traitors US. The actor and host of the program, which airs on Peacock, suggested that Trump could bring some much-needed chaos to the game, known for its blend of deception and strategy. Cumming’s comments followed the show’s recent success at the 77th Primetime Emmys, where it won the award for Best Reality Competition Program.
In a press interaction at the Emmys held on September 15, 2023, Cumming quipped, “I’m sure our president would be very good on the show. I’m sure he’d have a little chaos and turmoil and treachery, so maybe he’d like to come on and be paid for that, probably better than he gets as president.” The humor underscores the unique appeal of the game, which requires contestants to identify “Traitors” among them while completing tasks to increase a prize pot that recently totaled $205,000.
Cumming’s playful suggestion contrasts with his previous reservations about involving Trump or similar political figures in the show. Earlier this year, he expressed his concerns in an interview with Vanity Fair, stating, “It’s not appetising to me. I think that is too soon – far too soon.” He further explained that certain personalities carry a level of toxicity that could detract from the show’s entertainment value.
Despite the mixed feelings about Trump’s potential participation, Cumming has welcomed other notable figures to the series. The second season of The Traitors US featured John Bercow, the former Speaker of the House of Commons in the UK. Cumming suggested that an all-stars version of the show, bringing back past contestants, could be a promising idea. “You don’t necessarily have to be a winner,” he noted, highlighting that even those who were eliminated early could return for a chance at redemption.
The show, filmed at Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands, has captivated audiences with its mix of strategy and suspense. Cumming mentioned the possibility of a crossover event with RuPaul’s Drag Race, proposing a special edition featuring drag queens. “Wouldn’t that be funny? Me and RuPaul could duke it out,” he added, showcasing his enthusiasm for creative collaborations that could enhance the viewing experience.
As The Traitors US continues to gain traction, Cumming’s lighthearted remarks about Trump reflect the show’s blend of entertainment and social commentary. Whether or not Trump accepts the invitation remains uncertain, but Cumming’s comments have certainly sparked conversation around the potential for political figures to engage in the realm of reality television.
