Tom Brady and Candice Swanepoel have been making headlines, but before Candice’s name entered the picture, another rumored name linked to the retired athlete was Joan Smalls. The speculation reportedly affected their friendship. Meanwhile, a recent report revealed that the Brady drama has sparked backstage tension among Victoria’s Secret models.
Joan Smalls and Candice Swanepoel were “isolated from each other” backstage at Victoria’s Secret show
At the 2026 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, held on October 18, two models linked to Tom made an appearance. Sources revealed that Joan and Candice stayed “apart “‘isolated from each other’ backstage during the show.
Source said, “Everyone on the team knew in advance that they had a falling out and that Joan would not go near her. That’s why you won’t find one photo of them together at the show.”
A source told Page Six that Smalls and TB12 first met at Michael Rubin’s star-studded Fourth of July party in 2024. However, they didn’t start dating until about six months later.
Insider said, “She dated him casually on and off for almost a full year.”
When it comes to the alleged love triangle and reported friendship fallout involving Tom, Joan, and Candice, the story goes back quite some time. Joan and the former NFL star reportedly had an on-and-off casual relationship for nearly a year. Joan had also openly discussed her relationship with NFL GOAT with her close friend, Candice.
However, Joan felt deeply hurt when reports linked Candice to Tampa Tom after the two reportedly began spending time together in Miami. She reportedly viewed it as a violation of girl code and called Candice a “backstabber.”
As for the current situation, Tom and Candice are reportedly dating, according to an insider close to the couple. Rumors about their engagement also surfaced, but sources later dismissed those claims. Meanwhile, Joan is currently single.
