The Traitors: Rules, format and what to expect from this new Prime Video reality show hosted by Karan Johar

20 players. One massive prize. And a game built entirely on deception.

May 26, 2025 - 2:42 PM IST

Reality TV takes a sharp turn into suspense with The Traitors, Prime Video’s upcoming Indian adaptation of the globally successful format, premiering June 12. Hosted by Karan Johar, the show features a celebrity ensemble navigating a strategic game of trust and betrayal inside a grand palace.

The Traitors: Rules, format and what to expect from this new Prime Video reality show hosted by Karan Johar

What is The Traitors?

The Traitors is a reality competition where 20 contestants live together while completing challenges to build a prize fund. But within the group, a few are secretly designated as “Traitors.” Their aim is to covertly eliminate the rest — the “Innocents” — while avoiding detection.

Every night, the Traitors “murder” one of the Innocents in secret. By day, the full group competes in missions to grow the prize money and then convenes around a Round Table to vote out a suspected Traitor. The twist? The group never knows for sure who’s telling the truth.

If the Innocents manage to eliminate all the Traitors, they split the prize. But if even one Traitor remains undiscovered by the end, they walk away with the entire pot.

How the game works

The gameplay is built on strategy, observation, and psychological manipulation. With no clear markers for loyalty, players must navigate shifting alliances and growing suspicions. Missions - Daily tasks designed to increase the prize pool. Eliminations - Traitors secretly remove one player each night. Round Table Vote - Everyone votes to eliminate a suspected Traitor; but mis-judgments can backfire. Final Twist - The remaining players face off — will the deceivers win or justice prevail?

Why this format stands out

Unlike most competitive reality shows focused on performance or popularity, The Traitors leans into social deduction. Inspired by games like Mafia or Werewolf, it combines structured missions with intense mind games.

The show has seen success in several countries including the UK and US, earning critical acclaim for its unpredictable format and high-stakes drama. The Indian version maintains the core structure while adding a local flair, with a well-known celebrity cast and Karan Johar bringing his signature hosting style to the table.

When and where to watch

The Traitors premieres June 12, 2025 on Prime Video. New episodes drop every Thursday at 8 PM. For those looking for a reality series that trades gossip for gameplay, and challenges for calculated betrayal, this might just be the next big watch.

Also Read: Karan Johar confirmed to host the Indian adaptation of The Traitors on Prime Video: “An unforgettable and unpredictable journey”