Eric Nam, K-Pop Star, Joins 'The Traitors' as a Surprise Traitor

The entertainer's history includes a connection to Olympic commentators and a growing acting career.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Eric Nam, a 37-year-old Korean-American entertainer best known among fans of K-pop's 2nd Generation, has joined the cast of Peacock's reality competition show 'The Traitors' as a surprise Traitor. Nam, who was initially seen as a clueless faithful, made his debut as a Traitor in episode 9, teaming up with fellow Traitor Rob Rausch. This game-changing twist comes just weeks before the show's February 26 finale and reunion.

Why it matters

Eric Nam's addition as a Traitor on 'The Traitors' has captivated viewers, as the entertainer was previously known more for his music and acting career than for reality TV. His history includes connections to K-pop stars like BTS, as well as Olympic commentators Johnny Weir and Tara Lipinski, adding an extra layer of intrigue to his participation on the show.

The details

Born in Atlanta, Georgia to a family of Korean immigrants, Eric Nam initially pursued a career in consulting before finding success as a solo K-pop artist. Over the past 13 years, he has released music, collaborated with both Korean and Western artists, and become a staple of Korean reality TV. In 2019, he founded the podcast company DIVE Studios and has since expanded into mental health advocacy. Now, as a surprise Traitor on 'The Traitors,' Nam is bringing his unique background and entertainment experience to the reality competition.

  • Eric Nam joined the cast of 'The Traitors' for its January 8, 2026 premiere.
  • Nam made his debut as a Traitor in episode 9, which aired on February 12, 2026.

The players

Eric Nam

A 37-year-old Korean-American entertainer best known among fans of K-pop's 2nd Generation, who has joined the cast of 'The Traitors' as a surprise Traitor.

Rob Rausch

A fellow Traitor on 'The Traitors' who has recruited Eric Nam to join him in the turret.

Johnny Weir

An Olympic figure skating commentator who Eric Nam previously appeared with during the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

Tara Lipinski

An Olympic figure skating commentator who Eric Nam previously appeared with during the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

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What they’re saying

“Nobody has perfect mental health. I have my ups and downs and I'm sure I have my flaws and faults, but I just have to give myself like the grace to say, 'Well, at least you're talking about it and trying to improve the situation for so many people.'”

— Eric Nam (TIME)

What’s next

After 'The Traitors,' Eric Nam has several upcoming acting projects, including voicing an adult Aang in Paramount+'s 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' sequel film, and starring in a time-travel thriller 'Loser' and an untitled K-pop movie from Paramount and HYBE.

The takeaway

Eric Nam's addition as a Traitor on 'The Traitors' has added an extra layer of intrigue to the reality competition, as the entertainer brings his unique background and entertainment experience to the show. His history with K-pop stars and Olympic commentators, as well as his growing acting career, have captivated viewers and highlighted the depth of his lore beyond just being a reality TV contestant.