Following multiple episodes of suspense, plots and sabotage, The Celebrity Traitors has reached a thrilling finale

Warning: spoilers ahead - This article discloses details from Celebrity Traitors finale

Over the course of the show, viewers witnessed eliminations, double-crosses, serious side-eye, and an unforgettable incident that pierced all suspense.

However on the final evening, the final winner of the first Celebrity Traitors was revealed.

From nineteen participants, only five were left standing: Traitors and loyal players competing for the winnings.

Before long, the field narrowed to just three: the final players.

Ultimately, comedian Alan Carr was crowned the winner, in a shocking outcome that went viral and made him tearful.

"It's been tearing me apart, I'm so sorry," he declared, admitting to the other players that he'd always been one of the deceivers. "I feel terrible about this."

"You played amazingly," they comforted him. "Everything's fine."

Online platforms quickly erupted with the news. "Most awful traitor ever being the most effective player," commented one user.

"It couldn't have been a better conclusion," stated another, while someone else called it "the television highlight of the year."

The organization he selected, Neuroblastoma UK, will receive all the prize money, with the final pot reaching £87,500.

The comedian's evolution from giggle liability to cold-hearted killer was among the most memorable aspects of the series.

However, his victory still left the nation in shock, as noted by industry observers.

"The thought of him, of all people, pulling off a masterclass in deceit felt just as probable as him keeping composure through one of his own punchlines."

During follow-up conversations, fellow players explained why no one had truly doubted him.

"He might have come down to breakfast in a green cloak and I still wouldn't have thought he was a traitor. His humor distracted me," one participant said.

"The majority didn't vote for him because how can you eliminate someone who is so charming?" asked a different contestant.

Carr said he had "absolutely loved" his time on the program.

"I want to do it again... I doubt it would be successful a second time!"

The final installment was extended to 70 minutes on the network. There was an unusual opening than typical episodes, as every celebrity knew who would appear at the breakfast table.

Viewers heard some very uplifting, and very un-Traitors-esque music, as the episode revisited key scenes from each of the finalists' experience in the game.

As ever, Alan Carr gave us unforgettable quotes.

"To be honest, I began this game a bit of a nervous wreck. I've thrown some really good friends to save myself, I've murdered beloved figures in plain sight. I'm clearly a better liar and traitor than I thought."

Meanwhile, another contestant commented that being in the final was "way more stressful than playing for a national team", while another said he was "completely amazed" to have lasted this long.

Early on in the episode, various contestants seemed to be attempting to become the fashion standout of the castle, replacing the previously eliminated fashionable contestant.

The winner appeared at the morning meal resembling a vintage television personality in a checked maroon suit, later switching into an embellished light-colored outfit.

However, he got outstyled by a fellow player's burgundy formal wear. What a look.

Following this was the competition, with the final players boarding a locomotive called - of course - The Deceivers' Railway.

This task involved ripping up images of former contestants. Have sympathy for one participant who managed to get hit in the head multiple times by the lid of a substantial container.

Soon after, it was time for the roundtable.

The deceivers made a pact in advance, vowing to support each other. "We've come a long way, I won't throw him under a bus," said one, while their partner simply laughed.

However, one adhered to his promise. But, having slipped under the radar for most of the game, their partner still got the most votes.

The last deceiver looked like he was in significant distress to be the final deceiver remaining. "Now I'm on my own, I feel terrified," he said. "I'm unpredictable, without direction."

Online platforms and viewers were equally disappointed.

"I did NOT want that player to be banished. An endearing deceiver," said a commentator.

"Your legacy will remain in the show's legacy," wrote another user.

However, there remained little opportunity to focus on this departure. Before long, they were at the endgame - this being the moment everyone anticipated.

The final four stood over the ceremonial fire. And the alliance broke down, precisely when it was most crucial, in an absolutely shocking development.

One contestant was painfully banished - after a shock vote from their ally, who turned against them.

"This pains me to be stabbed in the back at the final moment in that manner," said the eliminated player. Later, we learned that if they ever communicate, the betrayed player calls their former ally by a betrayer's name.

Finally, just three players remained in the game: the final trio.

One player, appearing quite pleased, chose to conclude the competition. So did another, and everything depended on the final participant, who made the identical choice - which meant that the traitor emerged victorious.

According to commentators, the scene where the other players consoled the winner was "beautiful TV". "I anticipate it could be a contender for outstanding scene at next year's awards," they commented.

Fortunately, the champion quickly regained composure from his bout of tears, and was able to enjoy the moment.

"Such an emotional journey. I was awful at lying, my expressions gave me away and now I stand the champion," he said.

He also joked about that infamous murder - his best friend during the initial stages - by reaching over the presenter in the final scene and making contact.

"You've got something on your face," he said, with his characteristic laugh.

The recent episodes of celebrity gossiping, plotting and the occasional surprising incidents may seem like a bizarre fantasy. Yet it actually all happen. It will be remembered fondly.