The public image of the Beckham family, meticulously crafted over decades, has been severely tested by an escalating rift with eldest son Brooklyn, according to a new book by Alison Boshoff. The book, adapted from "Brand Beckham," alleges that a series of perceived slights, public relations strategies, and a contentious business deal have driven a wedge between the famous parents and their son and his wife, Nicola Peltz Beckham.
According to the book, tensions began to surface around 2021, shortly after Brooklyn moved permanently to the United States. A key turning point cited is Nicola Peltz Beckham's decision to wear a Valentino gown to the 2021 Met Gala instead of a design by Victoria Beckham. Sources close to the family suggest that neither David nor Victoria Beckham 'liked' social media posts featuring Nicola in the Valentino dress, nor posts from subsequent events where the couple expressed admiration for other fashion brands. This perceived withholding of social media approval, described as "pointed and petty," is attributed to Victoria Beckham's sensitivity to slights.
The Trademark Dispute
The rift reportedly intensified in February 2022, weeks before Brooklyn and Nicola's wedding. The book claims that David and Victoria's company, DB Ventures, had previously trademarked the names of their children as a protective measure. As part of a strategic partnership with Authentic Brands Group, Brooklyn and his brother Romeo, both over 18, were asked to sign a trademark co-existence agreement. While Romeo and Victoria signed, Brooklyn reportedly refused, believing the deal was an attempt to sign away his rights to his own name and brand for the financial benefit of his parents.
Brooklyn himself detailed this in an Instagram post, stating that his parents "repeatedly pressured and attempted to bribe me into signing away the rights to my name." The Beckham camp, however, denies these claims, asserting that the agreement was intended to protect the children and would not have disadvantaged Brooklyn. A source close to Brooklyn countered that this was a "violation of trust between parents and child."
Public Relations and Personal Attacks
The book alleges that following the disagreements, a "steady stream of stories" appeared in the media aimed at disparaging Brooklyn and Nicola. A source close to the couple believes that a close aide to the Beckhams was responsible for briefing journalists with negative stories, labeling Nicola a "spoiled brat" and a "viper." These alleged public relations efforts are described as deeply painful for Brooklyn, who felt his parents were briefing against him and his wife.
David Beckham himself is reported to have had a significant outburst at Brooklyn in September 2022, reportedly telling him, "We don't do this in our family – and you know that we don't do this in our family." He allegedly added, "What happens next is up to you, but we are done with the drama," expressing that Brooklyn had forgotten he was a Beckham. The source indicated that Romeo and Cruz were also hurt by the situation.
A Second Wedding and Continued Estrangement
By mid-2025, negative stories about Nicola were reportedly appearing almost daily. In response, Brooklyn and Nicola planned a secret second wedding ceremony. Nicola reportedly felt the Beckhams had "ruined" their initial wedding and tainted their memories. The vow renewal, officiated by Nicola's father, Nelson Peltz, took place on August 2, 2025, at the Peltz family estate in Bedford, New York, with a guest list of approximately 200 friends, notably excluding any members of the Beckham family.
Friends of the couple acknowledge the event was a "twist of the knife" and appeared to be done out of spite. Brooklyn stated in an Instagram post that they wanted to "create new memories of our wedding day that bring us joy and happiness, not anxiety and embarrassment."
Despite the ongoing estrangement, sources suggest the Beckhams remain hopeful for reconciliation. While Nicola reportedly does not prevent Brooklyn from seeing his parents, she is described as being "over it." Brooklyn, however, is said to be "sad about it, still."
The book concludes that the conflict has significantly impacted the "Brand Beckham" narrative. However, David and Victoria are portrayed as having found strength in each other, with one associate noting they have "never got on as well as they do now" and that the situation has "humanised them."