**Rob Rausch Supports Maura Higgins at ‘Dancing with the Stars’ with a Special Gift**
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Rob Rausch made headlines recently by attending the season 35 premiere of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ to show his support for Maura Higgins, a fellow contestant from ‘The Traitors’. Seated in the audience, Rausch clutched an exquisite burgundy Hermès Birkin bag, a thoughtful gesture signalling both friendship and contrition.

Rausch’s appearance came after a significant moment during ‘The Traitors’ season 4 finale, where he controversially revealed his role as a “traitor.” This admission led to Higgins losing out on a cash prize, an act that weighed heavily on Rausch. To make amends, he promised Higgins the luxury handbag, turning a moment of betrayal into a gesture of goodwill.
The premiere event showcased the first performances of the female contestants, with Higgins captivating the audience with her foxtrot alongside professional partner Mark Ballas. As the dance unfolded, Rausch was seen cheering for Higgins, the Hermès bag prominently displayed at his side. Notably, the bag featured a label displaying the number to text in order to vote for Higgins in the competition, demonstrating his eagerness to support her throughout the process.
The story of Rausch’s gift gained traction when he presented the bag to Higgins during an episode of ‘Watch What Happens Live!’ earlier this year. After host Andy Cohen asked the audience whether they would forgive someone who gifted them a Birkin, Rausch, with playful determination, retrieved the luxury item from its distinctive orange Hermès box.
With great reverence, Rausch described the importance of the bag, explaining that only the owner should handle it before its initial presentation. He opened the box, revealing the coveted accessory to a visibly excited Higgins, who was overwhelmed with joy. The moment was touching, culminating in a heartfelt hug between the two reality stars as Higgins embraced her new treasure.
Rausch acknowledged that he received essential assistance in securing the bag from fellow ‘Traitors’ contestant Lisa Rinna. He expressed his gratitude, highlighting the significant role she played in locating the burgundy Birkin, which Higgins had specifically requested, complete with gold accents. Reflecting on the process, Rausch mentioned that he initially intended to acquire the bag from a vendor in Paris, but thanks to Rinna’s connections, he was able to source it in New York City.
Having recently come into a substantial sum of money from winning ‘The Traitors’, which awarded him $220,800, Rausch conveyed the challenges he faced in securing the funds for the gift. Despite his win, he admitted that the cheque had not yet cleared, and he had to “scrape together” enough money to purchase the luxurious handbag for Higgins.
The thoughtful gesture and supportive presence of Rausch have not only showcased his commitment to his co-star but have also reinforced the bonds formed during their time on ‘The Traitors’. As Higgins embarks on her journey in ‘Dancing with the Stars’, it is clear that she has a steadfast ally cheering her on from the sidelines, further enriching the narrative of friendship and redemption that has emerged from their reality television experiences.
As the season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ progresses, audiences will be watching closely, hoping for a successful performance from Higgins while also observing the evolving dynamic between her and Rausch. Their story serves as a reminder of the complexities of reality television friendships and the unexpected ways in which relationships can develop in the spotlight.
