Casting for the next series of the The Traitors is now open and underway, and us Yorkshire folk are being asked to apply.
There’s absolutely no denying The Traitors is a cultural phenomenon at this point, is there?
While the first series of the smash-hit BBC reality competition show proved pretty popular when it premiered back in 2022, the second series – which started airing on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at the start of the new year, and finished up last Friday (26 January) – took things to a whole new level, and truly seemed to capture the attentions of the nation like no other.
Viewers tuned in in their millions to the three episodes each week, and consistently took to social media to share their thoughts and weigh-in on every little twist and turn.
So it really doesn’t take much to work out that those millions of enthusiastic fans will be extremely keen for the next series then, does it?
BBC is currently casting for next series of The Traitors and wants Mancs to apply / Credit: BBC
Well luckily, the BBC has confirmed that series three of The Traitors is, in fact, happening and in the works as we speak – with the show’s producers, Studio Lambert, opening applications and actively-casting for the right participants.
A casting call on the BBC and Studio Lambert website reads: “The Traitors is back, and we’re looking for fun, smart, and strategic players to take part in the ultimate game.
“The Traitors is a competition series built on strategy and suspicion. The aim for the ‘Traitors’ is to stay undetected until the end, and the aim for the ‘Faithfuls’ is to banish all of the Traitors before the game ends. Throughout the series, there will be twists, turns, shocks and surprises for the players.
“It’s game of trust and treachery… but do you have what it takes to play?”
Reckon you’ve got what it takes then? Fancy sticking an application in for series three of the show? Why wouldn’t you.
To apply for series three of The Traitors, you just need to be over 18 years of age, a legal resident of the UK, and be available to take part in filming for the programme for up to four weeks – which is currently anticipated to be this spring or summer.
You have until Sunday 11 February to get your applications in, so you’ll need to be quick.
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Art & Culture
A breathtaking giant sculpture of the sun has arrived in Yorkshire for the summer
Clementine Hall
A giant model of the sun is now illuminated in Wakefield.
The sun has arrived in Wakefield… and we’re not just referring to that one that’s popped up in the sky at long last (sort of).
We’re taking about Helios, the amazing art installation that’s about to stop off at Wakefield Exchange as it tours around the UK.
Created by renowned artist, Luke Jerram, the beautiful art piece measures a whopping seven-metres in diameter and has been created using images captured by NASA.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Helios builds on the success of Luke Jerram’s previous installations in Wakefield, including the hugely popular Museum of the Moon.
With its striking scale and rich scientific detail,the artwork provides a safe and captivating way to encounter the Sun up close, highlighting everything from solar flares to the phenomena that created the unforgettable Northern Lights visible across the UK in 2024.
Stepping beneath the breathtaking glowing sculpture, audiences can experience an atmospheric fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially commissioned surround‑sound composition that brings the science and mystery of our nearest star vividly to life.
Alongside the striking sun instillation, Wakefield Exchange will present a full programme of free, family‑friendly, space‑themed activities throughout the summer.
Visitors can enjoy hands‑on workshops, creative crafts, dressing‑up sessions and playful drop‑in experiences.
Helios will be hosted by Wakefield Exchange from Friday 12 June until Sunday 6 September 2026, and you can find out more here on their website.
Emily Sergeant -
31st January 2024 
