Traitors: Rachel Duffy on 'lowest of lows' of mother's death
BBC World
February 26, 2026
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Rachel Duffy, a contestant on *The Traitors*, shared her emotional journey of winning £48,000 on the show only to face the devastating news of her mother’s sudden passing three days later. Anne Duffy had been battling Parkinson’s Disease and dementia, and Rachel described the unexpected loss as a “lowest of lows” after the initial euphoria of victory. Despite her grief, Rachel remains committed to honoring her mother’s memory by creating lasting memories with her family. She has also stepped back from her career to focus on her role as a mother and wife, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing loved ones during life’s highs and lows.
The article highlights how Rachel transitioned from the excitement of winning *The Traitors* to the heartbreak of losing her mother, showcasing her resilience in navigating these contrasting emotions. She expressed gratitude for the support she received from fellow contestants, many of whom visited her in County Down, including Amanda Collier, Judy and Roxy Wilson, and Harriet Tyce. Rachel also reflected on her decision to leave her job as a communications director to focus on her family, acknowledging the significance of this change after her mother’s passing.
In addition to her personal reflections, Rachel revealed her plans for the future, which include writing a young adult fantasy novel titled *The Echo of the Embers*. She also mentioned rekindling relationships with former contestants and expressing gratitude to those who supported her during the competition. Rachel’s story not only captures the emotional highs and lows of fame and loss but also underscores
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/26/2026