Joe Marler, former England rugby prop, became the unexpected centerpiece of the Celebrity Traitors finale aired Thursday night. The English national rugby team gathered to support Marler, who retired from international play in 2024, as he navigated the high-stakes reality show. The finale drew 11.1 million viewers, making it the most-watched live TV program of the year. Marler described the experience as “way more stressful” than representing his country on the pitch.
Marler’s Reality TV Turn
The BBC’s Celebrity Traitors pits contestants as either “faithfuls” or “traitors” in a strategic game of deception set in a Scottish castle. Marler, 35, emerged as a fan favorite due to his humor and charisma. Despite forming a strong alliance with Ted Lasso actor Nick Mohammed, Marler was shockingly eliminated in the final vote. The betrayal stunned viewers and teammates alike, with footage showing England players reacting in disbelief at their training base.
Team Reactions: Coles Praises Marler’s Character
England second-row Alex Coles shared his admiration for Marler’s performance, stating:
“Joe’s a very charismatic person.” “He’s shown his character and personality.” “We’re all really pleased for him despite the backstab.”
Coles emphasized Marler’s strategic instincts and his ability to connect with both teammates and the audience.
Impact Analysis: Morale Boost Ahead of Fiji Clash
While Marler’s elimination had no direct impact on England’s rugby rankings, the team’s unified support reflects strong internal morale. The squad is preparing for Saturday’s test match against Fiji, and the shared viewing experience may contribute to team cohesion.
What’s Next: Media Prospects for Marler
With widespread public interest and record-breaking viewership, Marler’s future in entertainment looks promising. Coles believes Marler’s appearance could open doors in broadcasting or reality TV, showcasing a different side of rugby athletes to the public
