The Finnish edition of The Traitors has been overshadowed by a heartbreaking incident.
Janne Puhakka, known for participating in the Finnish version of the BBC reality series, was found dead in his home on October 13 of last year.
The 29-year-old had garnered recognition as Finland’s first openly gay ice hockey player, a trailblazer in a sport often associated with traditional norms.
Reports indicate that Rolf Nordmo, a 66-year-old Norwegian veterinarian and Janne’s former partner, has now been charged with murder in connection to the case.
Authorities allege that Nordmo shot Janne Puhakka twice with a hunting shotgun, leading to his untimely death in Henttaa, Espoo.
Under Finnish law, a life sentence typically translates to less than 15 years served, although the courts will ultimately determine the exact penalty if Nordmo is convicted.
Prosecutors believe that the shooting was premeditated, suggesting Nordmo had planned it for roughly two weeks prior to confronting Janne.
In preliminary investigations, Nordmo reportedly admitted responsibility for the shooting but denied having any murderous intent.
He has maintained his innocence regarding the charge of murder, as described by local media outlets.
The trial is set to begin on March 13 at the Western Uusimaa District Court in Espoo.
According to information shared by investigators, Janne Puhakka had visited his former home to discuss final details of their separation.
Upon his arrival, Nordmo allegedly seized the gun and fired twice, striking Janne in the chest.
When Janne failed to return calls, a concerned friend later discovered his body in the apartment.
The lead investigator, Matti Högman, told Finnish press that Janne Puhakka had moved out weeks earlier, signaling a decisive end to the relationship.
The suspect insists he did not plan the act, though officials cite evidence of excessive violence.
The devastating news forced the postponement of the season finale of The Traitors Finland, which had been filmed earlier but was scheduled to air last year.
In a statement, the channel acknowledged that they felt it inappropriate to broadcast the climactic episode while loved ones and viewers were processing Janne’s death.
+Related: Finland’s First Openly Gay Hockey Player Dead, Boyfriend Detained
They pledged to reconsider airing the finale at a later date, hoping to respect the mourning period of all involved.
Before his passing, Janne Puhakka was still competing in the second series of The Traitors, hosted by Christoffer Strandberg.
He remained a contender on the show until the tragic event cut short both his appearance and his life.
Fellow participants and fans alike have since shared tributes, recalling Janne Puhakka’s pioneering role in Finnish ice hockey and his warm presence on the reality series.
Although the legal process is still unfolding, the legacy of a promising athlete and television personality has been marked by profound sorrow.
The conclusion of The Traitors Finland remains in limbo, and the details of this case continue to reverberate throughout the Finnish entertainment world.
