Rachel Duffy emerged victorious on January 23, 2023, winning £47,000 in the finale of the BBC show, The Traitors. Alongside co-winner **Stephen Libby**, Duffy showcased her strategic gameplay throughout the series, which included navigating complex social dynamics and emotional challenges. As the competition unfolded, she faced accusations from fellow contestants yet remained composed, ultimately securing her win.
Her tenure on The Traitors was marked by a series of intense moments, particularly during the final vote. Duffy described the tension as she wondered whether Libby would betray their alliance. “I just saw you, little darling. It went from I’m gonna kill you to I love you. And it was two seconds, but it was so tense,” she recalled, illustrating the high stakes of the game. Duffy’s experience as **Head of Marketing Communications** at **Clanrye Group** in **Newry** has undoubtedly contributed to her adeptness in handling pressure.
In addition to her victory, Duffy revealed her ambition to publish a fantasy novel, a project she has spent ten years developing. The book, aimed at young adults, explores themes of murder and deception within a magical forest populated by Irish redheads. Duffy expressed her excitement about transitioning from reality TV fame to literary pursuits. “I think my focus now is on the kids and potentially bringing my book to life,” she stated.
Reflecting on her experiences during the show, Duffy noted the emotional toll of eliminating fellow contestants, particularly her friend **Ellie**. “Ellie broke my heart… I just thought, oh Ellie, don’t cry, like it hurt me… that really hurt,” she shared, emphasizing the human connections formed during the competition.
Duffy’s strategic mindset was further highlighted by her reference to her training with the FBI, which, while exaggerated, provided her with a unique perspective on human behavior. “I did one of his training courses… but it was more of like a one-day course on an e-book. But it did help because it gave me something in my back pocket,” she explained.
As she celebrates her win, Duffy remains grounded and family-oriented. She shared her joy in being able to reassure her children about her success, saying, “I couldn’t wait just for my kids to know that it was OK because they were worried.” Her husband, **Sean**, and their three children were supportive throughout her journey on the show, with her kids watching the finale together as a family.
Looking ahead, Duffy plans to use her winnings to create meaningful experiences with her loved ones, especially her mother, **Anne**, who is battling Parkinson’s disease and dementia. “I think I’m going to sit down with the kids and the husband and mom and just think, what can we do to have fun together,” she said, highlighting her desire to focus on joy and togetherness.
Winning The Traitors has reshaped Duffy’s outlook on life, reinforcing the importance of connections and enjoyment. “It’s a reminder just to enjoy life… It’s just to have fun, you know, life can be so serious,” she remarked. With new friendships formed and a promising literary project on the horizon, Rachel Duffy is poised for an exciting chapter ahead.
