Chicago – Morgan Cook, a local Instagram personality known for her witty commentary on current events, recently returned from season five of NBC/Peacock’s reality competition “Traitors.” The 27‑year‑old, who calls herself an introvert, used the experience to push past anxiety and explore new social horizons.
Why Cook Joined the Cast
Cook said she grew up watching “Traitors” and jumped at the chance to be part of the show. “I love the show. I was a huge fan, so when the opportunity came I felt I had to go,” she explained. “It was a chance to stretch myself, travel to Scotland, meet interesting people, and have a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience.”
Preparing for Scotland
She described the packing process as “very interesting,” noting she brought three suitcases filled with items suggested by the producers, such as black formal wear for a dinner at a Scottish castle. Cook also sourced many outfits from thrift stores, including a plaid dress for a Highland dinner party.
“I was excited to finally wear some of the cute things sitting in my closet instead of sweatpants,” she said, adding that the chance to dress up for the camera felt refreshing.
“Fruitgate” and On‑Screen Drama
During the game, a twist called “fruitgate” required a Traitor to throw a piece of fruit at a Faithful. Traitor Joe tossed an apple toward Cook; she let it land nearby, prompting Faithful Victor to suspect a “murder in plain sight” plot. Cook now posts episode‑by‑episode commentary, noting, “Joe seems like the kind of guy who would throw something at you.”
Reflections After the Show
Back in Chicago, Cook enjoys sharing behind‑the‑scenes anecdotes with friends and family. “It’s fun to know little tidbits that others don’t,” she said, laughing about how she can now say, “I know stuff you don’t.” She praised her fellow cast members, describing the Highland dinner as a rare moment for genuine conversation beyond the competitive round‑table.
Chicago Roots and Lake Love
Cook lives in the Old Town neighborhood and identifies Chicago as her home, despite being listed as a native of Midland, Michigan on the show. “I went to school in New York, which was too much for me. Chicago has a Midwest kindness and plenty to do,” she said. “And I love the lake – walking by it, jumping in, it’s my favorite part of the city.”
If she were to host a visitor, Cook would take them to the lake for beach volleyball and recommend a Small Cheval burger on a cold day.
Looking Ahead
Cook admits the game was far more challenging than she anticipated. “It was ten times harder to be immersed and not know who the Traitors were,” she reflected, noting the level of paranoia that built throughout the competition.
“Traitors” airs Thursday nights on NBC and streams on Peacock on Fridays, offering Chicago viewers a chance to follow Cook’s journey from the Windy City to a Scottish castle and back again.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
