Following weeks of suspense, plots and sabotage, Celebrity Traitors concludes with a thrilling end

Warning: spoilers ahead - This article discloses key moments from The Celebrity Traitors finale

Over the course of the show, audiences saw eliminations, betrayals, intense glares, and an unforgettable incident that pierced all suspense.

However on the final evening, the ultimate victor of the inaugural Celebrity Traitors was revealed.

Out of nineteen participants, just a handful remained: Traitors and loyal players facing off for the winnings.

Soon, the competition tightened to only three contenders: the final players.

In the end, comedian Alan Carr emerged as the winner, in a surprising outcome that went viral and left him emotional.

"It's been tearing me apart, my apologies," he exclaimed, admitting to the remaining faithfuls that he'd always been one of the deceivers. "I'm an awful human being."

"You played amazingly," they comforted him. "It's all right."

Online platforms quickly erupted with the news. "The worst deceiver being the most effective player," wrote one user.

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

His chosen charity, Neuroblastoma UK, will receive all the prize money, with the total amount reaching £87,500.

The comedian's evolution from giggle liability to strategic player was among the most memorable aspects of the series.

But his win still left the nation in shock, according to industry observers.

"The thought of him, among everyone, executing a masterclass in deceit felt just as probable as him keeping a straight face through one of his own punchlines."

During follow-up conversations, the other contestants explained the reasons nobody had truly doubted him.

"He might have come down to the morning meal in a green cloak and I wouldn't have believed he was a traitor. I was too busy laughing," a player said.

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

Carr said he had "thoroughly enjoyed" his time on the show.

"I'd like to participate once more... I don't think it would work a second time!"

Thursday evening's episode was lengthened to over an hour on television. There was an unusual opening than usual, as all the celebs knew who'd make it at the morning gathering.

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, the comedian provided unforgettable quotes.

"To be honest, I started the competition a bit of an anxious mess. I've betrayed some really good friends to save myself, I've eliminated beloved figures in plain sight. Apparently I'm a better liar and traitor than I thought."

Meanwhile, another contestant commented that reaching the conclusion was "way more stressful than competing with a national team", while another said he was "completely amazed" to have made it so far.

Early on of the finale, various contestants appeared to be attempting to become the fashion standout of the castle, taking over from an earlier departed style leader.

The winner appeared at breakfast looking like a 1950s US chat show host in a checked maroon suit, later switching into an embellished light-colored outfit.

However, he got outstyled by another contestant's maroon velvet tuxedo. Impressive style.

Following this was the challenge, with the remaining contestants getting on board a train named - of course - The Traitors Express.

The challenge saw them ripping up portraits of former contestants. Have sympathy for a player who managed to get hit in the head multiple times by the cover of a heavy wooden box.

Soon after, it was time for the elimination discussion.

The deceivers made a pact in advance, vowing to support each other. "We've come a long way, I won't betray him," stated a player, while their partner simply laughed.

And one adhered to their agreement. Yet, managing to stay unnoticed for most of the game, the other still received the majority elimination votes.

The last deceiver appeared he was in significant distress to be the last traitor standing. "Being alone, I feel terrified," he said. "I'm a loose cannon, without direction."

Online platforms and viewers were similarly upset.

"I did NOT want that player to be eliminated. A truly loveable traitor," commented a commentator.

"Your legacy will remain in Traitors history," posted another user.

But there was little opportunity to focus on their elimination. Before long, the game reached the endgame - this being the moment everyone anticipated.

The final four gathered around the ceremonial fire. Meanwhile, the partnership collapsed, precisely when it mattered the most, in an absolutely shocking development.

One contestant was eliminated in dramatic fashion - following a surprising decision from their partner, who betrayed them.

"It hurts to be betrayed last minute in that manner," remarked the ousted contestant. Later, it was revealed that if they ever communicate, the betrayed player refers to the other by a betrayer's name.

Ultimately, just three players were still competing: the final trio.

One player, appearing quite pleased, voted to end the competition. The same decision was made by a different player, and it all came down to the final participant, who did the same - resulting in the deceiver emerged victorious.

For observers, the scene where remaining contestants comforted the champion was "compelling television". "I predict it could be in the running for memorable moment at next year's awards," they said.

Happily, the winner quickly regained composure from his emotional outburst, and was able to enjoy his victory.

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

He also made light of that infamous murder - his best friend during the initial stages - by leaning toward the host in the final scene and making contact.

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

The last few weeks 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.