Myha’la Herrold has claimed that “unconscious racial and cultural bias exists” in The Traitors format, but that she sealed her own fate after exiting the celebrity version on the BBC.
The Industry actress was banished from Season 2 of The Celebrity Traitors last week and has reflected on her experience on the Studio Lambert series in an Instagram post.
In a comment under the post, entrepreneur Chantel Sachanna claimed: “Unfortunately you were banished because you are BLACK. This is a consistent thread in this racist show.”
In response, Myha’la said she would have fully agreed with Sachanna had she not played a significant role in her own downfall, including winking at Richard E. Grant before he was banished as a traitor.
“I sealed my own fate! And that early in the game there is VERY little to grasp on to, and I gave them…a lot,” Myha’la she said.
“However, I do agree that unconscious racial and cultural bias exists in this game where my authenticity or honesty or the ways in which I choose to express myself look suspicious to people who are unfamiliar with people like me.”
She continued: “I had this fear coming into the game, as I am a BIG fan and also clocked right away how prevalent this is in this game. And I came in knowing I’d be the only American (apart from Honorary British National Treasure Jerry Hall).
“I’m not saying it’s right, I’m not saying racism doesn’t exist, but I do have to defend my dear friends on this show who in no way consciously put bias on me because of my race.”
Myha’la added: “That’s not a fair or complete assessment of what really happened in my case. And! I do think games like this should allow more conversation around unconscious bias and how, when under pressure, people (society) gravitate towards things they know and understand or subsequently push away from things they don’t. It’s all love, and I REALLY genuinely appreciate your support.”
The BBC has been approached for comment.