The series finale of “The Traitors Finland” has been postponed following the tragic murder of one of its contestants. Jaane Puhakka, a 29-year-old openly gay ice hockey player, was killed on Sunday night allegedly by his 66-year-old partner, Rolf Nordmo. Nordmo reportedly confessed to the murder after their relationship deteriorated in recent weeks.
Mr. Puhakka was participating in the show as a traitor. The final episode, due to air this week, was filmed earlier this year. The show, based on a Dutch format and also popular in the UK with host Claudia Winkleman, features contestants engaging in complex psychological tasks to win a £120,000 prize. Contestants labeled as “Traitors” aim to eliminate “the Faithful” to claim the entire prize fund for themselves.
The TV channel Nelonen, which airs the show, released a translated statement explaining the postponement: “The final episode of the season of Petolliset was scheduled to be shown on Thursday of this week. We have come to the conclusion that right now is not the right time to air an episode. We will return to the question of the possible presentation of the episode later. We share in the grief of Janne’s loved ones.”
Fans of the show have expressed mixed opinions, with some agreeing that it would be inappropriate to air the episode while others suggested it could serve as a public tribute to Mr. Puhakka. The former ice hockey player, known for coming out as gay in 2019, was described by Finland’s top ice hockey league, Liiga, as “an important role model” whose courage and openness made a lasting impact on Finnish hockey.
Topi Nättinen, a Finnish ice hockey expert, praised Puhakka as a courageous trailblazer who opened doors socially and globally. He highlighted Puhakka’s significance as a role model and his exceptional character both in the sports community and beyond.
The tragic incident has left many in shock and mourning, with the community paying tribute to Mr. Puhakka’s legacy and the positive influence he had on those around him.