Joan Smalls has allegedly made a comment that has led fans to question her friendship with Candice Swanepoel. According to Fashion Times, when a fan asked Smalls whether she was still friends with Swanepoel, Smalls allegedly responded in a now-deleted Instagram comment: “i’m not friends with backstabbers.”
The alleged remark has generated significant speculation online about what may have caused a falling-out between the two supermodels. Fashion Times reports that fans are theorizing about possible causes, with some suggesting drama involving another supermodel or relationship issues. The outlet notes that Smalls and Swanepoel have allegedly unfollowed each other on Instagram, though neither model has publicly confirmed a rift.
The timing of the alleged comment adds another layer to the story. Just months earlier, in August 2025, Smalls and Swanepoel reunited for Anne Klein’s Autumn/Winter campaign, which was centered on friendship and women supporting one another. According to Fashion Times, the brand described them as real-life best friends. During promotional materials for the campaign, Smalls spoke warmly about working with her best friend, while Swanepoel shared details about how they first met, recalling that Smalls’ dancing skills helped win her over.
The contrast between their public displays of friendship in the Anne Klein campaign and the alleged “backstabbers” comment has prompted fans to speculate about what may have changed between them. Fashion Times reports that Reddit users have begun developing theories about the potential cause of the rift, with some commenters mentioning other models in their social circle, including Irina Shayk, who has reportedly been close to both Smalls and Swanepoel.
Neither Smalls nor Swanepoel has directly addressed the alleged falling-out or confirmed details about any dispute. The alleged Instagram comment, which was reportedly deleted swiftly, remains unverified by most people online, according to Fashion Times. Without official statements from either model, the exact nature and cause of the alleged rift remains unclear.
Key facts
- Joan Smalls allegedly responded “i’m not friends with backstabbers” in a now-deleted Instagram comment when asked about her friendship with Candice Swanepoel
- The two models appeared together in Anne Klein’s Autumn/Winter 2025 campaign, which celebrated their friendship
- Reports indicate Smalls and Swanepoel have allegedly unfollowed each other on Instagram
- Neither model has publicly confirmed or addressed the alleged falling-out