Gabby Windey Still Waiting for Her "Traitors" Payday, Claims She’s "Seen Not a Dime"
Gabby Windey, the effervescent former Bachelorette and now crowned champion of Peacock’s "The Traitors," is facing a frustrating reality: despite her victory, she has yet to receive her share of the prize money. The reality star revealed this unexpected delay during a recent appearance on "Watch What Happens Live" with Andy Cohen, leaving audiences and fans alike surprised and amused.
Windey, known for her infectious energy and quick wit, told Cohen that while winning the reality competition was a definite highlight, the lingering absence of her winnings has cast a shadow on the experience. "Still haven’t seen a dime," she confessed, prompting laughter from the audience. "I’m still waiting on the money!" she exclaimed, highlighting the unexpected post-victory hurdle.
The revelation came alongside fellow "Traitors" winner Dylan Efron, brother of actor Zac Efron, who remained silent on whether he had received his portion of the winnings. This silence only amplified the focus on Windey’s claim, leaving viewers wondering about the status of the prize money for all the victors.
"The Traitors," a captivating reality show that streams on Peacock, plunges a group of reality TV personalities into an ancient Scottish castle for a thrilling murder-mystery game. The contestants, divided into "Faithfuls" and "Traitors," engage in a strategic battle of wits and deception. The Faithfuls must identify and banish the Traitors, while the Traitors secretly eliminate Faithfuls each night, all in pursuit of the grand prize.
Throughout the season, alliances are forged and broken, suspicions run rampant, and the contestants navigate a complex web of lies and manipulation. The Faithfuls who survive the treacherous game and successfully banish all the Traitors get to split the prize money.
Windey and Efron emerged victorious alongside Dolores Catania, a veteran of "The Real Housewives of New Jersey," and Lord Ivar Mountbatten, a member of the British aristocracy. In the final episode, which aired recently, the four agreed to divide the $204,300 prize equally, resulting in a $40,860 share for each winner.
The delay in payment is particularly surprising considering the show wrapped filming almost a year ago. While the final episodes were only recently released, the winners have been aware of their victory for quite some time. This extended wait adds another layer of intrigue to the already dramatic world of reality television.
The show’s producers have yet to release a statement regarding the matter. USA TODAY has reached out for comment, but there has been no official response addressing the reason for the delay or providing a timeline for when the winners can expect to receive their money.
The "Traitors" victory has further propelled Windey’s already burgeoning career. Initially gaining fame as a contestant on "The Bachelor," she captivated audiences with her quirky personality and sharp humor. She was then chosen to co-lead "The Bachelorette," solidifying her status as a beloved figure in the Bachelor Nation.
While her final rose on "The Bachelorette" didn’t lead to a lasting engagement, Windey has successfully leveraged her reality TV fame into a flourishing career. She hosts a popular podcast, cultivating a strong connection with her dedicated fan base. Her genuine personality and relatable experiences have resonated with listeners, establishing her as a prominent voice in the online world.
Beyond her professional success, Windey has also found personal happiness. Earlier this month, she announced her marriage to comedian Robby Hoffman. The couple secretly tied the knot in Las Vegas last year, in an intimate ceremony amidst the chaos of evacuations caused by dangerous wildfires raging in Los Angeles. The joyous news was met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities alike.
Despite the delay in receiving her "Traitors" winnings, Gabby Windey remains optimistic and continues to embrace new opportunities. Her journey from Bachelor Nation to reality TV champion to newlywed has been filled with exciting twists and turns. While the missing prize money is undoubtedly a frustrating situation, it doesn’t seem to have dampened her spirit.
Windey’s experience highlights the often-unseen aspects of reality television. While viewers are captivated by the drama and competition on screen, the behind-the-scenes logistics, including prize distribution, can sometimes be less than glamorous.
The situation raises questions about the industry standards for prize payouts in reality TV competitions. Contestants dedicate significant time and energy to these shows, and winning often comes with the expectation of a timely reward. The delay in Windey’s payment raises concerns about potential issues within the industry and the need for greater transparency and accountability.
As fans eagerly await updates on the prize money situation, they can continue to follow Gabby Windey’s career as she navigates her newfound fame and continues to inspire audiences with her positive attitude and unwavering spirit. Whether or not the money arrives soon, one thing is clear: Gabby Windey is a winner, both on and off the screen.
