Charlotte Chilton Demands Second Paternity Test, Citing Concerns Over “Unidentified Male” at First Test

In a dramatic turn of events in 2025, Charlotte Chilton, a star from the BBC’s The Traitors, has demanded a second paternity test from singer Conor Maynard, claiming irregularities in the initial test that showed he is not the father of her daughter, Penelope. Chilton, 32, alleges that an “unidentified male” was present when Maynard’s DNA sample was collected, casting doubt on the results. This ongoing dispute, which has captured public attention in the United States and beyond, highlights issues of trust, transparency, and the complexities of paternity disputes in the spotlight. Here’s a clear and simple look at the situation, its background, and what it means.

The Background of the Dispute

Charlotte Chilton rose to fame in 2024 as a contestant on the second season of The Traitors, a reality show where players compete to identify “traitors” among them. She met Conor Maynard, a 32-year-old British pop star, at the show’s wrap party in early 2024 through mutual friend Harry Clark, the winner of the season, who is dating Maynard’s sister, Anna. Chilton claims she and Maynard had a one-night stand that night, leading to her pregnancy with Penelope, born in October 2024. She called Penelope her “miracle” baby, having suffered seven miscarriages during IVF attempts with her ex-wife, Laura.

In June 2024, Chilton publicly named Maynard as the father, accusing him of refusing to acknowledge Penelope and distancing himself after she told him about the pregnancy. Maynard, known for hits like “Can’t Say No,” stayed silent until March 2025, when he announced on Instagram that a paternity test, conducted with Chilton’s legal representative present, confirmed he was not the father. He expressed relief that “speculation can finally be put to an end” and urged kindness, noting a child was at the heart of the issue.

Why Chilton Demanded a Second Test

Chilton, however, questioned the first test’s accuracy. According to documents reported by The Sun on August 7, 2025, she claimed an “unidentified male” was present when Maynard’s DNA sample was collected, raising concerns about tampering or errors. She also alleged that Maynard “switched testing locations last minute” and that her own DNA was not taken, which is unusual since including the mother’s sample improves accuracy in standard paternity tests. Chilton urged for a court-ordered test to ensure proper conditions, emphasizing her priority was to confirm Penelope’s father for her daughter’s sake, not to “trap” Maynard or seek his money.

A source close to Chilton told The Sun she was “blindsided” when Maynard publicly shared the first test results, as she had been advised by lawyers to stay silent amid online abuse from trolls. Chilton’s legal team, including Paul Lunt, who worked on the high-profile “Wagatha Christie” case, reportedly supported her push for a second test. Maynard’s representatives countered that he had already agreed to a second test outside of court, calling her court-ordered request unnecessary.

The Second Test and Its Outcome

On August 21, 2025, a second paternity test was conducted, with samples taken from Chilton, Maynard, and Penelope. The results, reported on August 22 by outlets like The Sun and Daily Mail, confirmed again that Maynard is not Penelope’s father. A source told The Sun that Chilton was “shell-shocked” by the news, having fought for 18 months as a single mother to uncover the truth. Her representatives issued a statement thanking supporters and her legal advisors, noting she would take time to “process, heal, and reflect” before sharing her full story.

Maynard reiterated the results on Instagram, expressing gratitude for support and stating the second test “confirmed the same result as the first.” His spokesperson hoped Chilton could now “put this behind her once and for all.” Posts on X reflect divided opinions, with some users criticizing Chilton for false allegations and others questioning the test’s integrity. However, these posts are inconclusive without verified evidence.

Why This Matters in 2025

This case resonates in the U.S. and globally due to its mix of celebrity drama, legal questions, and public interest in reality TV stars. For Americans, it highlights the challenges of paternity disputes, especially in high-profile cases where public scrutiny and online harassment amplify personal struggles. Chilton’s experience as a single mother facing financial and emotional hardship—she spoke to MailOnline about working around the clock to make ends meet—underscores broader issues of single parenthood.

The case also raises questions about the reliability of paternity tests. Standard DNA tests require samples from the child and alleged father, with the mother’s DNA recommended for accuracy. False results are rare, but procedural errors, like those Chilton alleged, can fuel distrust. Her insistence on a court-ordered test reflects a demand for transparency, a sentiment echoed in U.S. discussions about accountability in legal processes.

What’s Next for Chilton and Maynard?

Chilton has not commented directly since the second test results but is reportedly considering her next steps. Sources suggest she remains focused on Penelope’s well-being, wanting her daughter to know her father’s identity for the birth certificate. She previously told OK! that she’d support Penelope contacting Maynard later if he chooses to be involved, but for now, she’s navigating the fallout.

Maynard, meanwhile, has moved forward, recently buying a home with his girlfriend, Kitty Bertrand. He spoke on This Morning in May 2025 about the toll the scandal took on his mental health, saying he was “painted as a dead-beat dad” and struggled with the public backlash. The second test’s results may allow him to close this chapter, though public interest remains high.

There’s also speculation about another Traitors contestant as a potential father, based on claims of a liaison with Chilton in early 2024. She has denied these rumors, but they add complexity to the saga.

What Can People Learn From This?

For U.S. audiences, this case offers lessons:

• Paternity Testing: Ensure tests are conducted under controlled conditions with all parties’ DNA, ideally through a court-ordered process, to avoid disputes.
• Public Disputes: High-profile cases amplify scrutiny. Chilton faced online abuse, showing the need for mental health support in public controversies.
• Single Parenthood: Chilton’s financial struggles highlight the challenges single parents face. Resources like local support groups or government aid can help.

Conclusion

Charlotte Chilton’s demand for a second paternity test, driven by concerns about an “unidentified male” at the first test, has kept her dispute with Conor Maynard in the headlines. The second test, conducted in August 2025, confirmed Maynard is not Penelope’s father, leaving Chilton “shell-shocked” but determined to move forward. This saga, blending reality TV drama with real-world issues, resonates in the U.S. for its insights into paternity disputes, public accountability, and the challenges of single motherhood. As Chilton takes time to reflect, the case underscores the importance of transparency and resilience in personal and legal battles.