Rob Rausch, who emerged victorious in the latest series of *The Traitors*, has confirmed that he is following through on a promise to gift runner-up Maura Higgins with a luxury Hermès Birkin handbag. The revelation follows a tumultuous season finale, where Rausch, 27, revealed his status as a Traitor to Higgins, 35, leading to a dramatic conclusion on February 26.
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In an interview with PEOPLE, Rausch expressed enthusiasm for the gift, stating, “I’m getting it today at 4 p.m. I should have a Birkin in my possession, and I’m going to give it to her tonight. She thinks she basically won because she’s getting a Birkin.” This gesture appears to be a genuine attempt at reconciliation after a competitive game that saw Higgins deceived in one of the season’s pivotal twists.
Rausch credited fellow contestant Lisa Rinna for assisting him in securing the sought-after handbag, widely recognised for its exclusivity. “As soon as I told her about it, she was like, ‘I will help you,'” he said, acknowledging Rinna’s significant connections. Initially, Rausch had intended to acquire the handbag from a dealer in Paris, but plans shifted, enabling a more convenient purchase from New York City.
It was revealed that Higgins had a hand in choosing the specific bag, selecting a burgundy version adorned with gold accents, size 30. Rausch indicated that he is keen to uphold his promises but has not indicated any current plans to fulfil the request made by fellow contestant Eric Nam for a Rolex watch. He quipped that Eric, also a Traitor, had primarily set himself up for disappointment in the game. “We can see. If the people at Rolex want to talk, maybe we can work something out,” Rausch remarked.
Despite his triumph, Rausch has yet to receive the prize money totaling $220,800. “I don’t have the money,” he confessed, although he had managed to save enough to purchase the Birkin for Higgins. Looking ahead, Rausch has expressed intentions to use his winnings for long-term family support, specifically for his sister who has Down syndrome. “Knowing that I can help with that is amazing. It’s a great feeling that she has security,” he stated, highlighting the importance of family stability.
He further elaborated on his aspirations for his other sister, with whom he shares a business venture. “It’ll be great to be able to put some more money into that and invest in her because she’s so talented and smart, and she loves making clothes.” His commitment to supporting family and fostering their aspirations underscores his grounded nature even amid newfound fame.
Since *The Traitors* aired, Rausch has experienced a surge in public appearances, recently making his debut on *The Tonight Show* and partnering with Crown Royal whisky. He acknowledged that while opportunities abound, he remains focused on his well-being. “I am reluctant in this life,” he reflected. “I don’t want to look back and regret not moving with the momentum… But on the other hand, it’s like, where do you draw that line?”
Rausch’s candid approach to fame reveals a thoughtful attitude towards success and material wealth. “I don’t want to get stuck into the cycle of success and money because I truly believe those things will destroy you as a person,” he noted. His philosophy centres around simplicity and happiness, stressing the importance of navigating newfound opportunities wisely.
As the promotional wave for the show subsides, Rausch has expressed a desire to return to his roots in Alabama. “There’s nothing like playing poker with the boys and having a little Crown Royal and some lemonade and just having a good time,” he shared, looking forward to the ease of life back home. The return to familiar surroundings will likely offer him a balance to the whirlwind of attention that accompanied his reality TV success.
With warmer days approaching, Rausch is prepared for outdoor activities, eager to spend time by the water. “Creek days are imminent; I’m about to be out there as much as I possibly can,” he declared, demonstrating his enthusiasm for a slower, more relaxed lifestyle after the excitement of *The Traitors* season 4.