Following multiple episodes of tension, schemes and sabotage, Celebrity Traitors has reached a thrilling finale

Warning: spoilers ahead - This article reveals key moments from Celebrity Traitors conclusion

Throughout the season, viewers witnessed eliminations, double-crosses, intense glares, and an unforgettable incident that pierced the overwhelming suspense.

However on Thursday night, the final winner of the inaugural celebrity edition emerged triumphant.

Out of 19 contestants, just a handful were left standing: Deceivers and loyal players competing for the prize.

Before long, the field narrowed to just three: the remaining contestants.

In the end, funny man Alan Carr was crowned the winner, in a shocking outcome that broke the internet and left him emotional.

"It's been tearing me apart, my apologies," he declared, revealing to the other players that he was actually one of the deceivers. "I feel terrible about this."

"You played amazingly," they consoled him. "Everything's fine."

Online platforms immediately exploded with this development. "The worst deceiver being the most effective player," commented a viewer.

"There could not have been a better conclusion," stated another, while a third called it "the television highlight of the year."

His chosen charity, Neuroblastoma UK, gets to keep all the prize money, with the total amount reaching £87,500.

Alan Carr's transformation from giggle liability to cold-hearted killer was among the most memorable aspects of the season.

However, his victory still shocked viewers surprised, as noted by industry observers.

"The idea of Alan, among everyone, pulling off an expert performance in deception felt just as probable as him keeping composure through one of his own punchlines."

During follow-up conversations, the other contestants summed up why no one had ever really suspected him.

"Alan could have appeared to the morning meal in a green cloak and I wouldn't have believed he was a traitor. His humor distracted me," one participant said.

"Most people didn't vote for him because how does one eliminate a person so charming?" questioned a different contestant.

Carr said he had "absolutely loved" his experience with the show.

"I'd like to participate once more... I doubt it would work again!"

The final episode was lengthened to over an hour on the network. There was an unusual opening than usual, as all the celebs were aware who would appear at the morning gathering.

Viewers heard particularly inspiring, and atypical for the show music, as the episode revisited key scenes from each of the finalists' time in the castle.

True to form, Alan Carr gave us unforgettable quotes.

"To be honest, I began the competition a bit of a nervous wreck. I've betrayed close allies under the bus, I've eliminated beloved figures openly. I'm clearly a better liar and player than I thought."

At the same time, another contestant noted that being in the final was "way more stressful than playing for England", while someone else said he was "totally surprised" to have lasted this long.

Early on in the episode, several players seemed to be making a bid to become the fashion standout of the castle, replacing an earlier departed fashionable contestant.

The winner appeared at the morning meal looking like a 1950s US chat show host in a checked maroon suit, before changing into a bejewelled white suit.

But he was out-jacketted by a fellow player's maroon velvet tuxedo. Impressive style.

Next up was the challenge, with the final players boarding a train named - of course - The Deceivers' Railway.

The challenge involved destroying portraits of eliminated players. Have sympathy for a player who was hit on the head multiple times by the cover of a substantial container.

Soon after, it was time for the elimination discussion.

Two traitors made a pact in advance, pledging to support each other. "We've come a long way, I won't throw him under a bus," said a player, while the other simply laughed.

However, one adhered to his promise. But, managing to stay unnoticed for most of the game, the other still received the majority elimination votes.

The remaining traitor appeared he was in a world of pain to be the final deceiver remaining. "Being alone, I'm frightened," he said. "I'm a loose cannon, a rudderless ship."

Online platforms and viewers were similarly upset.

"I hoped against this contestant to be eliminated. An endearing deceiver," said a commentator.

"Your legacy will remain in the show's legacy," posted a different viewer.

However, there remained little opportunity to dwell on their elimination. Soon, they were at the final stage - this being the moment everyone anticipated.

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

One contestant was eliminated in dramatic fashion - following a surprising decision from their ally, who turned against them.

"This pains me to be betrayed last minute in that manner," remarked the ousted contestant. Later, we learned that if they ever communicate, the eliminated contestant refers to their former ally by a betrayer's name.

Ultimately, just three players remained in the game: the final trio.

One player, looking incredibly smug, chose to conclude the game. The same decision was made by another, and it all came down to the final participant, who did the same - resulting in the deceiver was the winner.

For observers, the moment where remaining contestants consoled the champion was "beautiful TV". "I anticipate it will be a contender for memorable moment at next year's awards," they commented.

Happily, the winner quickly regained composure from his bout of tears, and was able to enjoy his victory.

"Such an emotional journey. I thought I was terrible at deception, I had no poker face and now I stand the champion," he said.

He also joked about the memorable elimination - his best friend during the initial stages - by reaching over the presenter in the final scene and touching her cheek.

"There's something on your face," he said, with his trademark giggle.

The last few weeks of celebrity gossiping, scheming and the occasional surprising incidents may feel like a bizarre fantasy. But it really did occur. And we will miss it.