A multi-award-winning Scottish fashion designer has publicly accused NBCUniversal of copying one of her original creations worn by Alan Cumming on The Traitors US and selling it as official merchandise without her permission.
Siobhan Mackenzie says the US network has “exploited” her intellectual property after near-identical tartan tank tops appeared on the official Traitors online store just weeks after Cumming wore her custom kilt on screen.
What Exactly Happened?
On February 13, 2025, Siobhan Mackenzie posted a strongly worded statement on Instagram that has already been viewed more than 300,000 times.
The Highland-based designer made it clear she has never licensed or sold the rights to her work to NBCUniversal or any related company.
“I have never sold, licensed, or granted permission to NBCUniversal, or any affiliated company, to reproduce, adapt or commercially exploit my designs,” she wrote.
The item in question is a black tank top featuring a red, black and white tartan pattern that fans immediately noticed looks almost identical to the custom kilt Alan Cumming wore during season three of The Traitors US.
Cumming, the show’s Scottish host, has been a long-time supporter of Mackenzie’s work and commissioned the piece specifically from her luxury Inverness studio.
The Design That Started It All
Mackenzie’s original garment was a modern kilt made from her signature “Highland Warrior” tartan, a pattern she personally designed and registered.
The actor wore it proudly on the hit reality show, telling viewers it was created by a Scottish designer he wanted to champion.
Fans loved the look. Social media exploded with praise for the bold tartan ensemble that perfectly matched Cumming’s dramatic hosting style.
Just weeks later, NBCUniversal launched its official Traitors merchandise collection.
Among the items: a $39.95 tank top with a tartan print that Mackenzie says is “strikingly similar” to her protected design.
Reaction From the Designer and Fans
Mackenzie told followers she only discovered the merchandise when fans started tagging her in posts asking if it was an official collaboration.
It was not.
“This is not a collaboration. This is unauthorised use of my work,” she stated.
The designer says she has instructed her legal team to contact NBCUniversal and Peacock about the alleged infringement.
Fans have rallied behind her. Hundreds of comments on her post express outrage, with many vowing to boycott the official merchandise.
One wrote: “This is theft, plain and simple. Support the real artist!”
Another said: “Alan wore Siobhan’s kilt with such pride. NBC should be ashamed.”
What Happens Next?
As of February 14, 2025, NBCUniversal has not issued any public response to Mackenzie’s claims.
The tank top remains available for purchase on the official Traitors store, though some fans report the product page now shows lower stock levels than yesterday.
Intellectual property experts say designers in Mackenzie’s position do have legal recourse, particularly when patterns are registered and distinctive.
Scottish fashion has gained huge global attention thanks to stars like Alan Cumming, Sam Heughan and Madonna all wearing modern kilts from homegrown talents.
Many in the industry worry this case could set a dangerous precedent if big American networks believe they can simply copy independent creators without consequence.
Siobhan Mackenzie built her brand from scratch in the Highlands. Every tartan she creates is her own intellectual property, protected by law.
When a global giant appears to profit from that work without credit or payment, it hurts more than just one designer. It hurts every small creative who dares to dream big.
Alan Cumming has not yet commented publicly on the controversy, but those close to Scottish fashion circles say he is “deeply upset” that his support for a local talent has led to this situation.
For now, the designer from Inverness stands firm: her work is not for sale unless she says so.
If you believe artists should be paid for their creations, share your thoughts below. Are you boycotting the official Traitors merch until NBC does the right thing? Let us know.
