Behind the Scenes Drama: Sandra Diaz-Twine Shares Insights on 'The Traitors' Reunion Filming

Sandra Diaz-Twine Recalls Tension While Filming Traitors Reunion

Euan Cherry/Peacock

Sandra Diaz-Twine was right in the middle of all the drama during the Traitors season 2 reunion. She mentioned to Entertainment Weekly on Friday, March 8, that they filmed for over three hours non-stop. Sandra highlighted the intense exchanges between Mercedes “MJ” Javid, Trishelle Cannatella, and CT Tamburello, adding that viewers didn't get to see everything.

During the special hosted by Andy Cohen, MJ, 51, was visibly upset with winners CT, 43, and Trishelle, 44, for their decision to banish her in the finale and split the cash prize down the middle.

At the reunion, MJ did not hold back how she felt about the betrayal which Sandra understood why she felt that way.

“I get it. Because she’s not a gamer,” the Survivor alum explained. “She doesn’t know what it’s like to be voted out or get sent packing on Big Brother when they vote you out and you’re evicted. So she doesn’t know what it’s like to get taken out of a game.”

Sandra pointed out that the former Shahs of Sunset star did the same thing to her in the finale. She explained that just 20 minutes before, she was banished and had to accept it. Sandra had always supported MJ, even when she was in trouble. However, MJ did not return the favor when Sandra needed her. Sandra admitted feeling hurt by this, but she did not regret MJ's banishment in the end.

Sandra Diaz-Twine Recalls Tension While Filming Traitors Reunion

(L-R) Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu, Carsten “Bergie” Bergersen, Sandra Diaz-Twine, John Bercow, Tamra Judge, Deontay Wilder Chris Haston/PEACOCK

During the reunion, tensions were high between Trishelle, CT, and MJ. But things escalated even further when Phaedra Parks confronted Dan Gheesling for trying to betray his alliance to protect himself.

Dan, who is 40 years old, tried to defend himself during the reunion by praising Phaedra. However, she didn't hold back and called him a "piece of s–t" for jeopardizing her game. Sandra understood Phaedra's frustration and supported her honest reaction.

Sandra revealed that Phaedra was not on anyone's radar until Dan accused her of being a traitor. She emphasized that anyone claiming otherwise was not telling the truth. Sandra mentioned that Tamra Judge might have had suspicions because of her close relationship with Phaedra. People criticized Dan for not sharing information and labeled him as shady for simply listening without contributing. Sandra pointed out that even loyal players were considered bad if they didn't actively help identify traitors.

After Dan implicated Phaedra, Sandra began to view the Real Housewives of Atlanta star as a potential traitor in their game. She referred to Phaedra as her "Traitor Angel" who was supposedly protecting her by not targeting her in the game.

Editor's P/S:

The Traitors season 2 reunion was a rollercoaster of emotions, with intense confrontations and revelations. Sandra Diaz-Twine's perspective, as a former Survivor winner, adds depth to the dynamics between the players. Her understanding of game dynamics and betrayal sheds light on the motivations of those involved. Sandra's experiences in previous reality competitions allowed her to empathize with both MJ and Phaedra, highlighting the emotional toll of being voted out and the importance of loyalty.

The reunion highlighted the complexities of the game, where alliances and betrayals are constantly shifting. Dan Gheesling's attempt to defend himself against Phaedra Parks' accusations raised questions about his intentions. Sandra's observation that Phaedra was not on anyone's radar until Dan's accusations suggests that Dan's strategy may have been self-serving rather than based on game strategy. Sandra's insights provide a nuanced analysis of the players' actions, exposing the complexities of the game and the emotional weight it carries for the participants.