SPP Sets Up Traitors Hub

South Pacific Pictures is doubling down on Traitors and producing both the NZ and Australian versions, with Madeleine Sami taking over from Paul Henry in the local series.

“We love making this gripping and addictive format and now we’ve established The Traitors Southern Hemisphere hub, our goal is to continue making multiple versions of the show for years to come,” SPP Managing Director Andrew Szusterman says.

Here’s the media release:

SPP Announces The Traitors Southern Hemisphere Hub for Australia/New Zealand

Leading New Zealand production company South Pacific Pictures (SPP), an All3Media company, is producing both The Traitors Australia for Network 10 and the upcoming third season of The Traitors New Zealand for Sky Free’s Three and ThreeNow.

Returning to the iconic Castle Claremont in South Canterbury, the spooky atmosphere of the South Island of New Zealand provides the perfect backdrop for television’s most devious game, showcasing Aotearoa’s stunning landscapes to audiences worldwide.

The Traitors Australia welcomes a new host: best-selling author, award-winning comedy writer, documentary maker, stand-up comedian and voice artist, Gretel Killeen, is bringing her signature wit and sass, watching on as Australia’s most cunning contestants attempt to survive the social deduction game.

The Traitors New Zealand welcomes Madeleine Sami, stepping into the shoes of previous host Paul Henry. Madeleine is one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed screen icons.

She is a versatile actress, comedian, musician, director and writer and has starred in a multitude of television and film productions including Deadloch (Amazon Prime), Our Flag Means Death (HBO), Taika Waititi’s What We Do in the Shadows, Jane Campion’s Top of the Lake, and smash hit films, Sione’s Wedding and The Breaker Upperers.

The Traitors was created and developed by IDTV and POSVIDEO, in cooperation with RTL Creative Unit.

Since it premiered in the Netherlands on RTL4 in 2021, the format has enjoyed great international acclaim, with over 30 territories commissioning local format versions. All3Media International is responsible for the international distribution of the format.

Andrew Szusterman, Managing Director of SPP commented: “We love making this gripping and addictive format and now we’ve established The Traitors Southern Hemisphere hub, our goal is to continue making multiple versions of the show for years to come.

“The New Zealand production industry benefits immensely when we shoot The Traitors on location in New Zealand. It’s a joy to witness our world class production team back in action!” 

Tamara Simoneau, Vice President, Content, Paramount Australia, commented: “The Traitors format has fans obsessing over every twist and turn all over the world and it’s time we bring it back to Aussie screens with our very own version.”

Matt Barthow, Senior Director, Content, Sky Free, commented: “Over the past two years, The Traitors NZ has cemented itself as a standout in New Zealand’s television landscape for Three and ThreeNow, captivating the nation with its mix of entertainment, psychological intrigue, and high-stakes gameplay. We can’t wait for Season 3 to get underway.”

Amie Mills, Head of Funding, NZ On Air, commented: “The Traitors NZ demonstrates how public funding can work alongside commercial investment to deliver a version that feels distinctly Kiwi.

“It’s a standout local show with impressive on-demand viewing figures and international acclaim that successfully showcases Aotearoa to both local and global audiences, aligning with our commitment to fostering a vibrant screen sector.”

Paul Wilkinson, Head of Commercial and Skills Attraction at Screen Canterbury, commented: “The Traitors NZ injected $1.5 million into Canterbury last year, supporting over 30 local companies and employing more than 70 crew, a third of them local.

“It’s a leading global format showcasing our region, our capabilities and drives long-term benefits through screen tourism. We hope they choose Canterbury as a long-term location for the series and we will happily welcome them back.”

Sabrina Duguet, EVP APAC at All3Media International commented: “We’re delighted to be partnering once again with Network 10, Sky Free’s Three and ThreeNow and South Pacific Pictures to bring this thrilling format back to audiences in both Australia and New Zealand.

“With over 30 adaptations around the world, The Traitors continues to prove its power as a truly global hit. Get ready for more intrigue, more betrayals, and twists ahead!”

Kevin Soares, EVP International Formats at IDTV commented: “We’re excited that our All3Media colleagues South Pacific Pictures are now at the helm of The Traitors in both Australia and New Zealand.

“Their creativity and strong storytelling have delivered unforgettable seasons, and this new hub opens up thrilling opportunities for The Traitors to expand even further across the Asia–Pacific.

“Alongside The Traitors global partner All3Media International we can’t wait to see the format reach new audiences, spark fresh intrigue, and deliver even more unforgettable moments across the region.”

The Traitors NZ screened on BBC Three and streamed on BBC iPlayer to high ratings and critical acclaim. The New Zealand format was also acquired by Peacock (US), Paramount Australia and Crave (Canada).

Season two was awarded Best Adaption of an Existing Format at the 2024 Asian Academy Creative Awards and received the Bronze Award for Best Reality TV Drama at 2025 New York Film Festivals TV and Film Awards.

The Traitors New Zealand season three is made with the support of NZ on Air and Screen Canterbury. The Traitors Australia is made with the support of the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate.

Beyond the screen, The Traitors thriving international licensing program features award-winning games, bestselling books and apparel lines.

Earlier this year, an immersive playable experience The Traitors Live Experience launched in London’s Covent Garden and is looking to roll-out internationally.