Joan Smalls and Candice Swanepoel's Backstage Rivalry at Victoria's Secret Show
Longtime friends Smalls and Swanepoel faced a public fallout following complex romantic entanglements.
1Backstage Tensions at Runway
The 2026 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in Los Angeles on October 18 was marked by a notable absence of interaction between models Joan Smalls and Candice Swanepoel. Organizers were reportedly aware of their personal conflict beforehand, ensuring the two women remained isolated from each other throughout the entire event production.
2Fifteen Years of Friendship
Smalls and Swanepoel maintained an inseparable bond for over 15 years before their relationship collapsed recently. The public became aware of the rift when Smalls labeled her former friend a backstabber in an online comment. This sudden transition from close companions to rivals has caused significant drama within their shared social circle.
3Romantic Entanglements and Conflict
The tension reportedly stems from romantic complications involving Tom Brady. Smalls dated the former football star casually for nearly a year starting in 2024. Swanepoel allegedly encouraged Smalls to end the relationship, yet later became involved with Brady herself, leading to accusations of a broken girl code and deep personal betrayal.
4Public Accusations and Allegations
Smalls took to social media to express her grievances, citing a lack of moral compass and humility. She referenced the reality show Summer House to illustrate the betrayal, noting that no apology was ever offered. Smalls claims she was gaslit and minimized by those she once trusted during their long friendship.
5The Brady Connection
Tom Brady, who shares children with Gisele Bündchen and Bridget Moynahan, became the focal point of the dispute. Smalls felt hurt after seeing rumors of Brady with influencer Alix Earle in early 2026. Swanepoel reportedly met Brady through mutual fashion industry connections, further complicating the dynamics between the two former friends.
6Official Stance and Privacy
Representatives for Swanepoel stated that she remains exceptionally private regarding her personal life, focusing primarily on raising her two sons. They emphasized that Candice respects the history she shares with Smalls. Meanwhile, Victoria's Secret, Smalls, and Swanepoel have all declined to provide further official comments regarding the ongoing public dispute.
7Social Media Fallout
Smalls has actively encouraged mutual acquaintances to choose sides following the collapse of their friendship. Her now-deleted online posts highlighted the disrespect she felt, specifically citing the carelessness shown after 15 years of history. The situation remains a highly discussed topic, with Smalls publicly declaring that there is no going back.
8Impact on Industry Dynamics
This public fallout highlights the volatile nature of high-profile friendships within the fashion industry. By forcing organizers to manage backstage logistics to avoid conflict, the situation demonstrates how personal drama can intersect with professional obligations. The lack of resolution suggests that this rift will likely continue to influence their professional interactions.