Rachel Duffy, winner of “The Traitors” UK, has shared a heartbreaking update with fans just days after her victory aired on the BBC. The reality TV star revealed on social media that her beloved mother has died, a devastating loss that followed closely on the heels of the show’s finale.
Duffy, 42, shared the top prize with fellow finalist Stephen Libby after the pair were crowned winners in Friday night’s episode, splitting the £95,750 prize pot.
Now, what should have been a moment of celebration has taken on a far more sombre meaning, as Duffy mourns the loss of the woman who meant so much to her.
‘We Are Heartbroken’: Duffy Writes in Emotional Tribute
Duffy regularly spoke about her mother on the show, making it clear that her journey on the series was deeply personal. Duffy later shared the news of her mother’s death with followers on Instagram, posting a brief but emotional message.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our beautiful wee mummy.”
She did not provide further details and instead asked for privacy as the family mourns their loss.
“We kindly ask for privacy as our family grieves during this difficult time.”
How Rachel’s Mom Inspired Her Journey on ‘The Traitors’
Taking part in the show carried special meaning for Duffy, who has spoken openly about her mother’s declining health. Her mum was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 47 before later developing dementia.
Speaking to the BBC ahead of the series, Duffy explained her hopes for the experience.
“I would make memories with the most important people in my life. My mum has dementia, and she wants to go on a holiday as she used to go on holidays all the time before my dad passed. That’s all she wants. I just want to create memories with her whilst I’m still lucky enough to have her, and to create memories with my kids, because they just love their nanny.”
Duffy later shared that her mother followed the show as it aired, even if she did not always grasp every moment.
As per BBC, she said: “I rang my mummy this morning… I can’t wait to come home and give her a big hug and say, “What will we do?” Anything you want let’s go do it.. so yeah as long as I get to spoil my family that’s all I care about. She didn’t get all the twists and turns, but she’s enjoyed watching it. She’s very proud.”
Remembering Her Mum’s Words
In a separate Instagram post, Duffy shared the simple piece of advice her mother offered before she headed into the castle, where host Claudia Winkleman presided over the competition.
“Don’t get caught!”
Duffy expanded on the moment by reflecting on her mother’s lasting influence.
“Words of wisdom from my wee mummy Anne, who is not only my motivation on The Traitors but my inspiration in real life. Mummy was just 47 when she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s (4 years older than I am now) and now faces dementia but still amazes me and my family every single day. Everything she has done for me and my four siblings is nothing short of incredible.
“Sharing caring responsibilities over the years for her has been a privilege, and we are so proud to call her our mum.”
Only days before sharing news of her mother’s death, Duffy told The Mirror that she planned to step back from reality television and shift her focus to family life and writing. She said she hoped to bring a novel she has spent years working on to life.
Looking back on her win, Duffy said the experience reshaped her perspective.
“It’s a reminder just to enjoy life… It’s just to have fun, you know, life can be so serious, and obviously with Mom being so ill, you just kind of worry about so much that’s not important…
“It’s given me 21 new friends. I have lots of places to go and visit up and down the UK, and I love it.”
For Duffy, the win now stands as a lasting tribute to her mother’s love, strength, and guidance.
