Gabby Windey, a 32-year-old TV personality, has recently opened up about the hair regulations she was subjected to during her time filming season 19 of The Bachelorette. In a candid interview on Bethenny Frankel’s “Just B With Bethenny Frankel” podcast, Windey shed light on the alleged limitations imposed upon her by producers on the popular reality dating show.
Speaking to Frankel, Windey revealed that she was prohibited from dyeing her hair while the cameras were rolling. Despite her preference for personal expression, Windey was forced to keep her hair its natural chocolate-colored shade throughout the season. The pressure to conform to the show’s standards even extended to the treatment of her hair before filming commenced.
In a frustrating turn of events, Windey got highlights shortly before production, which did not sit well with the producers. She recounted the incident, explaining that a last-minute team was dispatched to darken her hair against her wishes. The distressing experience led her to an emotional confrontation with one of the producers, where tears and exasperation accompanied her plea for autonomy. “I was crying on the phone, screaming at a producer, telling them, like, ‘I should have free will!'” Windey recalled.
In a lighter moment during the interview, Frankel playfully mentioned Windey’s desire to have the freedom to experiment with multicolored hair. To this, Windey responded passionately, expressing her longing for the liberty to define her own style without interference. “Yes. I want the room to have whatever kind of hair I want. I’ll always change it,” Windey asserted, emphasizing her staunch belief in the power of personal choice and self-expression.
Earlier in the conversation, Windey and Frankel delved into the topic of how fans fixate on the appearances of their favorite reality stars. Windey’s recent transformation into a blonde had garnered significant attention and even sparked controversy. When probed about the reasons behind the hype, Windey speculated that the negative reaction stemmed, in part, from her move to Los Angeles. “I think a little bit is because it was after I moved to L.A., so they were like, ‘Don’t be a basic L.A. bitch.'” However, Windey firmly declared that her choices are a reflection of her authentic self and not mere trends influenced by her surroundings. “First of all, I am what I am. I am as basic as they come. It’s not L.A. It’s deep in my soul,” she asserted, dispelling any doubts about her true nature.
Despite facing backlash for her evolving appearance, Windey remains resolute in her pursuit of happiness and self-discovery. She confidently embraces her lighter locks, remarking, “I’m newly blonde. Well, I was a blonde before Bachelor, but in quarantine, I wanted to try something different [and went darker]. So, now that I’m going back blonde, it’s like a controversy … but this is my natural state.”
In addition to her bold hair choices, Windey has been exploring new horizons in her personal life. She recently announced on Instagram that she is in a relationship with writer and comedian Robby Hoffman. Windey expressed her delight, describing the experience as “the best she’s ever had” since they began dating. In sharing this news with her followers, Windey aimed to maintain a transparent and honest approach to life, welcoming her audience along with her as she traverses new paths.
Gabby Windey’s journey on ‘The Bachelorette’ sheds light on the limitations imposed by reality show producers and the significance of personal autonomy. Her unwavering commitment to self-expression serves as a reminder that individuality should not be stifled or compromised for the sake of conforming to predetermined standards. Windey’s story resonates beyond the realm of reality television, urging society to embrace diversity and celebrate the uniqueness that lies within each and every one of us.