Traitors star Maddy Smedley cautions actors against appearing in reality series

The Traitors star Maddy Smedley has urged actors to think carefully before applying to be on a reality TV series because of the toll it can take on a contestant’s mental health.

Smedley spoke to The Stage about her time on the BBC1 programme and said that, while she would not "change a thing" about being on the psychological investigation show, performers should guard their mental health if they are thinking of applying for reality TV. 

Smedley said: "I’m really chuffed that I did it, but I probably wouldn’t recommend it for people for their sanity and mental health."

Smedley, who trained at Guildford School of Acting and whose credits include BBC’s Casualty and Bitter at Bread and Roses Theatre, said she had not known what to expect and thought the show might "flop" as her brother, who lives in Australia, said the show had not been hugely popular there. 

Smedley described the thought of being "murdered" [receiving a letter to leave the game] by her teammates due to the Traitor’s manipulation while trying to solve the puzzle had been "traumatic" at times, but said she was grateful for the recognition, fan support and the platform it had now given her. 

Smedley said: "Honestly, [at times] I was shaking; I had to get ice cubes for my eyes because I was crying so much thinking I was going to die. I don’t know if it’s because we throw ourselves into these things, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it, but the aftermath has been really lovely."

As a mental-health advocate, she said creatives should not be scared to "talk" about the industry and its challenges. 

Her appearance has resulted to an increase in her social media following as well as guest appearances on TV shows and podcasts.

Smedley is currently writing a sitcom with her sister Rose Smedley while pursuing acting with the hope of appearing in more TV shows.