WHAT IMPACT DOES TRAITORS HAVE ON SCOTLAND?
The hit TV show The Traitors has once again brought the drama to Scotland, with its sweeping shots of misty glens and luxurious Highland castle. While the stunning Scottish landscape undeniably captivated viewers, there have been questions asked about whether the show truly benefitted the local economy and accurately portrays Scotland.
SCOTLAND, THE ROMANTIC DESTINATION
On the one hand, the show showcases Scotland as a desirable destination. The rugged beauty of the Highlands is on full display, lending itself to the growing trend of Highlandcore—a romanticised aesthetic that evokes images of Scotland’s rural charm. From cashmere sweaters to tweed jackets, host Claudia Winkleman embodies a vision of Scotland that many associate with high-end fashion and luxury escapes.
DID TRAITORS BENEFIT THE SCOTS?
But does The Traitors create meaningful opportunities for locals? While the series aims to generate work outside the South East, it's unclear how much the production invested in the local workforce. The show brought most of its crew with them, and questions remain about the extent to which local suppliers and staff were used. The reality is that much of the show’s success seems to benefit larger production companies rather than local businesses or communities.
THE TWEED AND TARTAN SCOTTISH CLICHÉ
It’s also interesting to look at how The Traitors impacts Scotland’s image. While the show highlights the region’s natural beauty, it risks reinforcing the myth of the Highlands as a land where everyone lives a life of Land Rovers, large estates and layer upon layer of luxury cashmere. Scotland’s diverse modern culture is far more complex than the stereotypical view presented.
In the end, The Traitors is gripping, fun, and very good TV. And not bad for garnering interest in Scotland either. But in future runs it would be good to see it providing more long-lasting, genuine benefits to the local economy and community. Let's get more Scottish brands on there for starters. Maybe I'll slip a few Made Scotland welcome gift boxes to the new arrivals... Watch this space.
SCOTTISH TV SHOWS FAMOUS WORLDWIDE
- Monarch of the Glen
- Hamish Macbeth
- Outlander
- Shetland
- Balamory
