Format

One of the most ingenious and addictive reality formats of recent years, The Traitors—distributed globally by All3Media International—has now landed in Italy with a spectacular local version. Produced by Fremantle for Amazon MGM Studios, The Traitors Italia is hosted by Alessia Marcuzzi and available exclusively on Prime Video. The show has already conquered audiences worldwide, earning multiple awards including BAFTA and Emmy wins, and inspiring over 30 local adaptations since its original Dutch debut (De Verraders, RTL4, 2021).

The Italian version masterfully captures the essence of the original format while infusing it with a distinct national flair. Set in a majestic castle in Trentino, the show’s location immediately evokes the dark, gothic atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the franchise. The choice of setting is not only visually stunning but also perfectly attuned to the format’s blend of mystery, tension, and strategy.

Alessia Marcuzzi proves to be a stellar host—elegant, composed, and empathetic. Her performance adds both sophistication and warmth to the game, while her wardrobe cleverly mirrors the emotional rhythm of the show: from striking black ensembles that accentuate the early aura of secrecy and suspense, to more neutral tones as the game progresses and alliances shift.

The cast selection deserves special praise. Featuring an eclectic mix of well-known personalities—Michela Andreozzi, Paola Barale, Filippo Bisciglia, Giancarlo Commare, Giuseppe Giofrè, Pierluca Mariti, Tess Masazza, Alessandro Orrei, Mariasole Pollio, Raiz, Aurora Ramazzotti, Daniele Resconi, Rocco Tanica, and Yoko Yamada—the group brings together different generations and sensibilities. Their dynamic interactions, alternating between strategic plotting and emotional vulnerability, create a thrilling psychological journey that keeps viewers fully engaged.

As in the international format, the contestants—divided between Traitors and Faithfuls—must complete missions together to build a prize pot while secretly trying to identify (or conceal) the deceivers among them. The constant interplay of trust, manipulation, and deduction fuels the suspense, culminating in dramatic banishments and unexpected twists. The stakes are high: if even one Traitor reaches the end undetected, they take home the entire prize; if the Faithfuls succeed in exposing them all, they share the winnings equally.

With six episodes of high-tension gameplay, immersive storytelling, and cinematic production values, The Traitors Italia is a triumph of adaptation. It remains faithful to the format’s DNA while embracing a uniquely Italian tone—stylish, intelligent, and emotionally charged.

Beautifully written, impeccably produced, and superbly performed, The Traitors Italia is one of Prime Video’s most captivating reality originals to date. It’s a show that builds empathy, suspense, and total viewer immersion—proof that great storytelling transcends borders. Here’s hoping a second season is already on the way.