Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Returns to Los Angeles Amid Model Snub Controversy

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show returned to Los Angeles for the first time in 19 years, electrifying Sony Studios in Culver City with a display of lingerie and elaborate ensembles. The event, held Sunday, marked a significant moment for the brand as it continues its comeback after a six-year hiatus.

Supermodel Bella Hadid opened the show, captivating the audience with a vibrant, multicolored bra and wing set paired with a sheer green mini skirt. She was soon followed by veteran models Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel, and Alessandra Ambrosio, who showcased their figures in various eye-catching designs. Ashley Graham and Irina Shayk also graced the runway. Musical performances included sets by Megan Thee Stallion, Katseye, Megan Moroney, and Tate McRae.

A key highlight of the evening was the runway debut of Victoria's Secret's newest Angel, discovered through the brand's streaming series "Angels Among Us."

Model Snubs Spark Fan Outrage

The return of the show, however, was met with controversy as several models and fans voiced disappointment over perceived snubs. Romee Strijd, who had previously walked in the show from 2014 to 2018, shared her experience of being rejected for this year's event, citing a lack of clear feedback. "They thought you wouldn't fit in the show this year," Strijd recounted being told, leading her to state she would likely not audition again due to the process and how she felt treated.

Frida Aasen, another former model who walked in 2017 and 2018, also commented on Strijd's video, confirming her own rejection after attending the casting. Social media users expressed solidarity with the models, with many vowing to boycott the show and questioning the decisions.

Evolution of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which first began in 1995, was once a highly anticipated global event, broadcast live on television and drawing millions of viewers. The show faced significant criticism in 2019 for its perceived lack of diversity in body types and the controversial remarks made by then-chief marketing officer Ed Razek regarding transgender and plus-size models. This led to its cancellation and a hiatus.

Upon its return in 2024, the brand aimed for a more inclusive roster, featuring plus-size and transgender models. However, the revamped show was met with mixed reviews. In 2025, Victoria's Secret CEO Hillary Super announced a strategic shift back to the brand's "unapologetically sexy" identity, signaling a move away from what was seen by some as a "woke rebrand" and an attempt to recapture past sales figures and audience engagement.

The 2026 show saw Gigi Hadid, 31, sporting a gold band on her ring finger, fueling rumors of a potential secret marriage to Bradley Cooper. Cooper's ex, Irina Shayk, was also backstage preparing for the show. The event also featured appearances from models such as Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Abby Champion, Iris Law, and Natalia Bryant, daughter of the late Kobe Bryant. Last year's show notably included WNBA star Angel Reese as the first professional athlete to walk, and Jasmine Tookes showcasing her pregnancy on the runway.