After a six-year break, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show made its second comeback on October 15, blending glamour, controversy, and athleticism. This year’s event surprised audiences by featuring professional athletes such as WNBA star Angel Reese and Olympic gymnast Suni Lee.
Angel Reese’s Debut Divides Opinions
News that Angel Reese would walk the runway sparked social-media debate. Known for her confidence on and off the court, Reese drew backlash even before the show aired.
“People have opinions about Angel Reese being on the show,” said Holly Sawyers, a biological-anthropology sophomore. “I just don’t think it matters that much. There were so many people that she didn’t stand out. Some just didn’t want her there because she’s been controversial before.”
Suni Lee Faces Online Criticism
Olympic champion Suni Lee appeared in the PINK segment — the youthful, athletic division of Victoria’s Secret — and later faced harsh comments online. On October 18 she posted a TikTok captioned “can u guys stop bullying me.”
“I don’t get why people were upset,” said Ava Eubank, a humanities pre-law student. “Both Reese and Lee are beautiful. They fit perfectly in the sporty PINK section. Reese looked amazing and totally proved her haters wrong.”
“Nepo Babies” Steal Attention
Celebrity offspring — the so-called “nepo babies” — also drew attention. Host Law Roach joked with Amy Sedaris, saying, “She’s only here because she knows somebody,” referencing her friendship with creative director Adam Selman.
“The interviews were kind of messy,” said Sawyers. “At one point they joked about nepo babies and I thought — why would you say that to your guest?”
Models Iris Law (daughter of Jude Law and Sadie Frost) and Lila Moss (daughter of Kate Moss and Jefferson Hack) also appeared. “They stood out,” Eubank noted. “You could tell they hadn’t walked before, but they looked great.”
Gen Z Favorites Shine
For many viewers, Alex Consani and Barbara Palvin stole the spotlight. “Alex Consani is so Gen Z-coded,” said Manasa Nemani, a neuroscience senior. “She connects with younger audiences. Barbara Palvin looked timeless — and seeing her with Dylan Sprouse was adorable.”
Mixed Reactions Online
Melissa Aguilar Gabriel, a freshman studying political theory and economics, noticed the mixed online response. “The effort and design were clear,” she said. “It’s different from a decade ago — maybe less iconic — but still impressive.”
Inspired by the show, Aguilar Gabriel began modeling herself. “Watching it helped me understand how much work it takes. I’ve blended my Peruvian and American influences into my style.”
Improvements Over Last Year
Following criticism of the 2024 revival, many agreed the 2025 show was stronger. “They brought back the wings, confetti, and magic,” said Eubank. “It looked so much better.”
MSU Students Join the Experience
Some Michigan State University students on a media-immersion trip attended Victoria’s Secret’s official watch party in Penn Square, NYC. “There were giant screens, a pink-carpet photo booth, and a DJ,” said Haley Burton, an advertising junior. “It felt like a celebration.”
Her highlight? “Karol G’s performance — as a Latina, it meant a lot to see that representation,” she said. Other musical guests included Madison Beer, Missy Elliott, and TWICE.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Next year’s show is expected in late 2026. “I hope they keep featuring athletes,” Eubank said. “Representation for younger girls is important. And maybe bring back more of those iconic costumes too.”
