Traitors star's husband alleges gender bias in game

Chris Bassett, husband of eliminated "The Traitors" contestant Candiace Dillard Bassett, has publicly accused player Rob Rausch of employing a gender-based strategy. Bassett stated on X that Rausch protected male competitors, specifically mentioning Eric Nam, while orchestrating the departures of women like Dillard Bassett and Lisa Rinna.

This accusation follows Dillard Bassett and Rinna's elimination from the Peacock reality competition series' fourth season. Rausch reportedly led the discussions that resulted in their departures during roundtable deliberations. Bassett further elaborated that Rausch "was never working with a woman" and "literally led the charge against Candiace."

A source close to the situation, however, vehemently denied these allegations, calling them "outrageous and ridiculous." This source asserted that Rob Rausch is playing the game with the sole objective of winning, irrespective of the gender of other contestants.

The current season of "The Traitors" has been marked by significant drama, both on-screen and off. Earlier, Lisa Rinna had referred to fellow contestant Colton Underwood as a "stalker" in a social media post, referencing past legal issues. Underwood's in-game comments about holding Rinna "hostage" also fueled speculation and tension.

Both "The Traitors" competitor Dorinda Medley and Rinna themselves have stated they did not witness Underwood storming out of the reunion taping, contrary to rumors. Rinna suggested her pointed question about Underwood's "hostage" comment "spun him out."

Candiace Dillard Bassett also shared her perspective on the eliminations, suggesting that contestants of color, particularly Black women, might be perceived as more "expressive" and thus become easier targets in a high-stakes game where heightened senses can lead to suspicion.

The season finale and reunion special are set to stream on Thursday, February 26, on Peacock.