The BBC has acquired the rights to the US version of The Traitors, and has just dropped the entire series on iPlayer.
Following on from what has been the absolute smash-hit success of reality show The Traitors over the past couple of weeks, having already been streamed over 28 million times on BBC iPlayer to date, and continuing to grow day-by-day, the BBC has confirmed that it has now acquired the rights to air the US version of the show over here.
All episodes will be shown on both BBC Three and BBC One across the next three weeks.
But for those looking for something to binge-watch this weekend, the broadcaster has decided to drop the entire US series as a boxset on BBC iPlayer today (13 January) - which means you can catch all the episodes early before they air on live TV.
For fans who found themselves gripped by the UK version, not only is this a brand-new series to get stuck into, but the BBC's acquisition of the US series means viewers will get the chance to watch the show here within hours of its release over in America.
Unfamiliar with what The Traitors actually is? Heard the named of the show being banded around, but haven't had the chance to watch it just yet?
The Traitors US sees 20 of America’s "most cunning contestants" play the ultimate murder mystery game of deception and suspicion.
The BBC has acquired the US version of smash-hit reality show The Traitors / Credit: BBC
Hosted by award-winning actor Alan Cumming at an ancient castle in Scotland - the same place as the UK version - contestants will work together on exhilarating missions to build a prize fund worth up to $250,000, but hidden amongst the 'Faithful' contestants are the 'Traitors', whose goal is to eliminate the Faithful and claim the prize for themselves, all the while remaining undetected.
Under the cover of darkness, the Traitors will murder the Faithful one by one.
Alongside this "treacherous spree", as the BBC calls it, the players must then try to uncover the Traitors and banish them from the game.
If the Faithful contestants manage to banish all the Traitors, they will get to share the prize fund among themselves, but if a Traitor makes it to the end, then they will steal all the money.
All episodes of the US version are now available to watch as a boxset on BBC iPlayer / Credit: BBC
The Traitors US is now available to watch as a boxset on BBC iPlayer from today.
It will then be shown on BBC One as double-bills on Wednesday nights at 10:40pm for five weeks starting from the 25 January.
Featured Image - BBC
Art & Culture
Inside the Leeds factory that makes and supplies classic jukeboxes
This Leeds-based family-owned business is famed for supplying pubs, clubs and even ordinary people's homes with classic jukeboxes.
Started up in 1978, Sound Leisure really is a local business like no other, creating and distributing classic jukeboxes to over 40 countries.
This music-machine-making company notes that 75% of the jukeboxes they manufacture and sell throughout the year are bought for everyday homes.
The remaining 25% of orders are for the all-expected hospitality venues like bars, clubs and hotels, with the jukeboxes sometimes bought for company headquarters and retail outlets too.
Although there are other jukebox manufacturers, especially across the pond in the US, Sound Leisure is the only factory in the world that creates jukeboxes to play out across all formats: CD, vinyl and digital.
This jukebox business even runs the world's only 'Custom Shop', which is a design service that offers any music lovers the chance to personalise their pristine player.
So whether you're after a themed jukebox, customisable nameplate or even a bespoke design, this jukebox company's website states: "If you can dream it, we can build it".
One of Sound Leisure's prized products is the music machine inspired Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-themed jukebox which any fan of The Beatles would dream of being its lucky owner.
And there really isn't anything they can't do, as alongside creating classic jukeboxes, the same team even make pinball machines, football tables, LED signs and more.
With CD and vinyl jukeboxes from £5,000 and digital jukeboxes quoted from upwards of £12,000, we're going to need a fair few rainy days to save up our money.
However, you can still marvel at these magnificent music machines without having to dip into your savings, with guided tours starting from just £15.
If you're up for learning a little bit more about music technology or simply after admiring these classic jukeboxes in all their glory, you can find out more about the factory and book your guided tour ticket HERE.
Two giant balloon dog sculptures by acclaimed international artist have landed in Leeds
Clementine Hall
A special Pride activation featuring internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Whatshisname has popped up in Leeds.
Marking 20 years of Leeds Pride and 10 years of Victoria Leeds, the exhibition called ‘Two milestones, One Pop of Pride’ is bringing a playful public art experience to the city.
The exhibition, curated by Castle Fine Art located in the Victoria Quarter, features a collection of artworks and oversized sculptures by the artist, whose distinctive creations have earned a global following.
The striking centrepiece of the activation is two of Whatshisname's iconic POPek Balloon Dog sculptures, one is positioned on the central mosaic in Victoria Quarter and the other outside John Lewis in Victoria Gate.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Victoria Leeds centre director, Jo Coburn, said: "This year presents a unique opportunity to celebrate two important milestones for Leeds. As we mark 10 years of Victoria Leeds and 20 years of Leeds Pride, we wanted to create something memorable that reflects the city's creativity, inclusivity and vibrant cultural scene. Whatshisname's work perfectly captures a sense of joy, individuality and self-expression, making it an ideal way to celebrate Pride with our visitors."
Artist, Whatshisname, said: "Bringing the POPek balloon dogs to such a vibrant and culturally rich city as Leeds is an absolute thrill for me. It’s hard to believe it’s been a decade since these playful, cheeky characters first came to life. Over the years, they’ve travelled the world, sparking smiles wherever they go.
“I can’t wait for the people of Leeds to interact with them, feel that sense of nostalgia and humour, and join us in the Victoria Leeds and Leeds Pride celebrations!"
The Whatshisname exhibition will be on display at Victoria Leeds until Monday 27 July.
Emily Sergeant -
13th January 2023 
