Bachelorette's Gabby Windey Reveals Shocking Truth About Ex-Fiancé Erich Schwer and Her Surprising Relationship Status!

Gabby Windey and Erich Schwer ABC/Craig Sjodin

Gabby Windey concealed her newfound love interest from both her supporters and her former fiancé, Erich Schwer, until she finally decided to reveal her relationship with a woman to the public. During an appearance on The View on Wednesday, August 2, the 32-year-old expressed her desire to be transparent, acknowledging the concern and interest people had in her personal life. She emphasized the importance of living authentically, not only for herself but also for her girlfriend and those who genuinely care about her and believe they understand her.

When asked about Schwer's reaction to the news, Windey admitted, "He is unaware." Co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin jokingly added, "Well, he's aware now!"

Additionally, Windey clarified that she decided to announce her updated sexuality and introduce her partner, comedian and writer Robby Hoffman, on the morning talk show. She wanted to share her story on her own terms, as she felt that her previous experiences on TV with editing and production had shaped her narrative too many times.

Windey expressed that her experience on dating shows and as a Broncos cheerleader heavily revolved around the male perspective. However, she has since learned to trust and embrace her own instincts. She shared with the audience that the most important lesson she has learned is not only about sexuality but also about the incredible person she has met. This person has made her feel secure and loved, providing her with the love she has always desired on these dating shows.

Fans first met Windey on Clayton Echard’s season of The Bachelor. She was then the co-lead for season 19 of The Bachelorette alongside Rachel Recchia.

Gabby Windey and Robby Hoffman, captured in a photo posted by Gabby Windey on her Instagram account, experienced a momentous occasion during the season finale that aired in September 2022. Schwer, overflowing with emotion, expressed, "You have an extraordinary ability to make me feel like I'm the sole person in existence. I promise to fiercely protect this sensation for the remainder of our lives. I adore you, Gabby Windey. Your unparalleled brilliance never ceases to amaze me." With undeniable affection, he continued, "Out of everyone I have encountered, you truly stand out. No matter the challenges we face, we will bravely tackle them side by side. I am unequivocally enamored with you and long for a lifetime together."

Content The couple, however, publicly declared their separation in November 2022 during Windey's participation in Dancing With the Stars in Los Angeles.

"Many of you have been asking about Gabby and me. To be honest, we simply were not the right match for each other. It's difficult when there isn't one specific reason to point to," Schwer explained on his Instagram Story at that time. "We initially met under unconventional circumstances, and I'm thankful for that. I wouldn't change it for anything."

Gabby Windey and Erich Schwer Craig Sjodin/ABC

In December 2022, Windey confided exclusively in We, stating that the reason for her breakup with Schwer was "compatibility." Reflecting on their long-distance relationship and the bubble they were in while The Bachelorette was airing, Windey acknowledged the challenges of truly understanding the dynamics of their relationship in-person. She expressed that it can be difficult to know the right questions to ask or for the other person to fully understand themselves and share their truth. Therefore, the process of getting to know each other in real-life was crucial.

Windey disclosed on Wednesday that she has been in a relationship with Hoffman for the last three months. "I have been intentionally keeping it low-key because it is a significant matter and it opens up a larger conversation as I am dating a girl," she shared during the show.

The ex-reality star reminisced about sensing a subtle "whisper" within herself, which gradually grew stronger until she finally acknowledged it.

Windey proceeded to share a series of photos with her girlfriend via Instagram on Wednesday, joking in the caption, “Told you I’m a girl’s girl!!”