Hot Shots 2026: David Manero

The Traitors: Uncloaked has redefined the companion show and introduced the ‘visual podcast’ into the public lexicon – thanks in no small part to David Manero, senior producer on both the civilian and celebrity incarnations of Platform Media’s show.

As the parent series’ popularity has surged, Manero has worked hard to pack Uncloaked with tension, drama and entertainment while maintaining duty of care for the contributors.

Platform director of content, entertainment and comedy, Suzy Grant, believes David’s greatest strength lies in his editorial instincts. As well as writing compelling, intelligent and on-brand scripts and wringing the drama from capturing players’ first reactions to discovering the Traitors’ identities, she says he digs deep into the gameplay, strategy and the psychology of life in, and beyond, the castle.

“David has a real talent for asking the hypothetical questions audiences are desperate to hear answered, creating interviews that feel insightful, surprising and hugely entertaining,” she says.

David also helps ensure the programme steps up a gear for its live series finales, briefing hosts Claudia Winkleman and Ed Gamble, shaping audience interaction and overseeing the broader editorial that attracted a massive 7.8m consolidated audience for the climax of this year’s fourth series.

“Creative, calm under pressure, and deeply collaborative, David is helping to redefine companion entertainment programming,” adds Grant.

She also credits David with attracting Graham Norton and Maria McErlane to podcasting as the lead producer of Wanging On, concluding: “David is an exceptional senior producer with a rare ability to turn any format into must-listen entertainment.”