Gigi Hadid Recalls Her Debut Experience For Victoria’s Secret

Gigi Hadid had a candid, heartfelt moment on screen as she recalled the first time she walked the Victoria’s Secret runway ten years ago.

The 30-year-old model opened up about the highs and lows of being a model, including a time when she faced the pain of being shamed for her body type, and also hinted at the joy of motherhood.

Gigi Hadid’s emotional trip down memory lane comes as she prepares to walk the runway for the 2025 edition of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.

Gigi had a moment of tears when she opened up about her Victoria’s Secret journey in front of the cameras. She recalled how she tried out about three times before getting picked to walk the show for the first time in 2015.

She recalled how her younger self was filled with excitement, and tears clouded her eyes as she spoke about how looking at old photos reminded her of how hard she had wanted the role and how hard the world was on her and her fellow girls alike.

Gigi continued speaking to the young version of herself, expressing that being on the show was fun and she had an excellent time.

“I continue to come back to this show, just so happy for her – that girl that got the first show, and also my teenage self who watched the show,” she said before adding how excited she is to be back.

In the same Instagram reel, the model discussed being a mother, saying, It changes things, but she is excited to share this part of her life with Khai. She also admitted to still getting nervous before walking the runway because of the responsibilities that come with doing her best.

Back in 2015, after her debut appearance on the Victoria’s Secret runway, Gigi was relentlessly trolled by social media users for her body type. She responded to the haters in an interview, saying that she was aware of her athletic body, she loved it, and was not going to change for anyone.

She also added that people with other body types, such as plus-sized models, are not going anywhere and have to be accepted. Her message stated that everyone is unique, and she, being in the public eye, recognizes her differences and is confident in herself.

One would think that with that address, people would stop the trolls. In the recently uploaded reel, Gigi still got some subtle unfriendly comments. A user wrote, “get over it, you are not out there fighting a war… you’re modelling lingerie.”

Another fan simply wrote, “She looks bad.” Others sent the vomiting emojis, wrote that she was boring, and unnecessary. Despite this, several fans expressed excitement to see her on the runway again, and others showed love using multiple heart emojis.

Back in 2023, Gigi spoke about her career in an interview and disclosed that she acknowledges that while she worked hard to achieve the success she has in her career, a dash of privilege accompanied that hard work.

The model reportedly told The Sunday Times, “Technically, I’m a nepotism baby,” meaning that she is a child of famous parents whose connections have given her some level of advantage.

She also noted that, although she comes from a privileged background, her parents worked hard to succeed and constantly reminded her to do the same.

In the same interview, Gigi recounted how she felt pressure to conform to the social expectations of being a model. As a volleyball player at the time, her body required a routine and discipline.

Gigi and Cooper reportedly got together in 2023 and, in a short while, showed fans that it was not just a fling. The model made their relationship social media official a few days after her 30th birthday in an Instagram post featuring a photo of the pair kissing.

The Blast‘s report also shows that while they are focused on letting their relationship thrive at its own pace, hints of a proposal coming soon are in sight.

Gigi’s daughter, Khai, and Cooper’s daughter, Lea, whom he shares with his ex, Irina Shayk, reportedly have a good relationship. They spend quality time together despite their parents’ busy schedules and get along very well.