Spoiler Alert: This article contains spoilers regarding the winner of The Traitors third season. In an exciting conclusion to the season, former Bachelorette star and podcast host Gabby Windey has emerged victorious. Alongside her fellow “faithfuls” — Real Housewife of New Jersey Dolores Catania, professional brother Dylan Efron, and lesser royal Ivar Mountbatten — Windey outsmarted the remaining “traitors,” Big Brother’s Danielle Reyes and Britney Haynes, to claim the title on Alan Cumming’s thrilling game show. Winning this murder mystery competition, set against the stunning backdrop of a castle in the Scottish Highlands, is no easy feat, especially when competing for a slice of the impressive $204,300 prize pot.
While taking home the prize is certainly an achievement, it feels almost secondary to Windey’s ability to captivate and entertain viewers at home. With a staggering 832,000 followers on TikTok, a burgeoning podcast, and a wave of popularity stemming from her “Gaggy” remixes, the charismatic former cheerleader is rapidly becoming a social media sensation, ensuring her presence will continue to be felt long after this latest reality TV adventure.
Following Gabby Windey is akin to being a devoted sports fan. You clear your schedule every Thursday at 9 PM, eagerly anticipating each episode. You brace yourself for the ups and downs of her reality journey, sharing in both her triumphs and setbacks. Throughout the week, you scour social media platforms, particularly TikTok and her podcast, Long Winded, to stay updated on her latest endeavors, all while engaging in conversations that often feature her signature phrases — “lethaaaaargic,” “ciggy mommy,” and “I’m not dumb.” This shared language not only fosters camaraderie among fans but also serves as an insider’s test for new acquaintances.
Windey first captured the public's attention as a contestant on The Bachelor, notably for her bold rejection of Clayton Echard's proposal to walk her out. She later starred as one of the co-leads on season 19 of The Bachelorette, and made waves by coming out as gay on The View in 2023. Adding to her diverse resume, she was the runner-up on season 31 of Dancing with the Stars and recently shocked fans with her unexpected marriage to her first girlfriend, comedian Robby Hoffman. Despite entering The Traitors third season amidst a cast of more prominent reality TV figures, such as Survivor's Boston Rob and Real Housewives' Dorinda Medley, Windey quickly established herself as the standout star.
Throughout the season, Windey's vibrant outfits, sharp humor, and distinctive voice made her the focal point of the show. Whether she was confronting a fellow contestant she deemed a “cold. blooded. killer,” expressing her enthusiasm for Scottish breakfasts, or critiquing her male castmates’ rowing abilities, Windey consistently delivered entertaining moments. One particularly memorable exchange occurred during a roundtable discussion, where Windey effectively silenced Danielle Reyes, who had been threatening her throughout the season. Windey’s witty retort underscored her intelligence and strategic thinking: “I’m an easy target, I take everything on the chin,” she stated, to which Reyes countered, “I don’t think you’re an easy target, I think you’re super smart, Gabby.” Windey's confidence shone through as she replied, “I’m not saying I’m dumb,” leaving Reyes momentarily speechless.
Windey’s keen observational skills also played a pivotal role in her gameplay. Early in the season, she overheard Reyes and fellow traitor Carolyn Wiger plotting in one of the castle's hidden rooms, a revelation she kept to herself until the opportune moment. On TikTok, she humorously recounted this incident, playfully calling out Reyes: “Yeah, I heard you back there, you lyin’, cheating, traitor.”
In an alliance with Selling Sunset’s Chrishell Stause and WWE’s Nikki Garcia, Windey embraced her playful side, dubbing her group “The Bambis.” This trio of charming contestants initially felt underestimated by their peers, and they were not entirely wrong. Windey’s unapologetic persona, combined with her self-deprecating humor showcased on her TikTok and podcast, has made her a beloved figure among fans. She embodies both beauty and intelligence, while deliberately steering clear of traditional expectations regarding femininity.
Windey's unique perspective and candidness resonate deeply with her audience. She often shares her thoughts on work-life balance and self-care, stating, “No, I have business hours. What are you doing calling me after 3 PM?” This relatable humor has become part of a growing cultural lexicon, inspiring tributes from celebrities and fans alike. Her memorable quote, “I’ve lost all my confidence. I’ve just had lunch. I’m lethargic,” has caught on, capturing the essence of everyday struggles with a comedic flair.
The conclusion of The Traitors may leave fans longing for more of Windey on their screens, but there’s hope for her return in future seasons. Alan Cumming has a history of bringing back fan favorites, so viewers can look forward to potentially seeing Windey again. In the meantime, her social media presence and podcast continue to thrive, keeping the spirit of “Ciggy Mommy” alive and well. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her journey, Gabby Windey is a name you’ll want to keep an eye on as she continues to navigate the world of reality television and beyond.
