Dutch supermodel Romee Strijd has announced that she will no longer audition for future Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows. The 31-year-old former Angel opened up about her frustrating experience in a series of TikTok videos. She revealed that the brand’s 2026 casting process left her under prolonged uncertainty and caused significant mental stress.
Strijd dedicated her entire US summer to intense physical training in hopes of making a triumphant return to the runway. As a mother of two daughters-Mint, 5, and June, 3, whom she shares with her husband, Laurens van Leeuwen-she explained that preparing for the demanding physical standards required extra energy and careful coordination of her family responsibilities.
A Prolonged and Confusing Casting Process
Following casting calls in New York during the first week of September, Strijd expected a prompt response. Instead, she found herself placed in limbo on what she described as a possible-selection list. With the Los Angeles fashion show rapidly approaching, she continued training for weeks without knowing whether she had secured a spot.
Strijd recounted repeatedly contacting her modeling agency, IMG Models, for updates. She was initially informed that casting directors had not yet reached a final decision and would provide feedback before the weekend, roughly seven days before the show. However, a subsequent update delivered a completely different narrative.
"I just hung up the phone. It's a no, and it's fine because rejection is part of modeling, and that's totally fine," Strijd shared in her emotional TikTok post. "On Friday, the agent said the casting director answered her email saying, ‘Regards, Romee, we're not there yet… but we'll let you know before the weekend.’ But now IMG is saying that I was already released."
Lack of Support from the Agency
The core of Strijd’s frustration stemmed from the conflicting updates and lack of transparency from her representation. She noted that she could easily accept rejection if delivered honestly, but being kept in the dark severely impacted her well-being.
"I don't feel supported by my agency. I don't feel like I have the straight story. Just be honest, just tell me, and I can go on with my life and let it go," she stated. She added that the prolonged waiting period created unnecessary mental strain, making her unwilling to endure a similar process again.
"I don't think I'm gonna cast anymore in the future, cause I don't like the way it went," Strijd concluded, emphasizing her desire to preserve the fond memories of her previous years walking for the lingerie brand from 2014 to 2018.
Fan Reactions and the 2026 Lineup
Strijd’s candid disclosures drew an outpouring of support from fans across social media. Many expressed outrage that a veteran Angel was subjected to drawn-out uncertainty while newer influencers and models secured spots.
Alongside Strijd, fellow veteran model Frida Aasen also missed out on the final selection. Meanwhile, the confirmed 2026 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show lineup features returning icons such as Gigi Hadid, Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel, Elsa Hosk, and Alessandra Ambrosio-marking her milestone 20th show-alongside Paloma Elsesser, Ashley Graham, and Anok Yai. Musical performances for the event featured Megan Thee Stallion, Tate McRae, Megan Moroney, and KATSEYE.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romee Strijd and Victoria's Secret
Why is Romee Strijd ruling out future Victoria's Secret auditions?
Romee Strijd decided not to audition again due to the severe mental stress caused by weeks of waiting and conflicting updates from her agency regarding the 2026 show casting process.
How long did Romee Strijd wait for a casting decision?
Strijd waited over five weeks after her initial casting call in New York in September without receiving a definitive answer until just days before the event.
What reason was given for her rejection?
According to her agency, casting directors ultimately felt that Strijd did not fit the specific concept required for the 2026 fashion show.
Which years did Romee Strijd previously walk for Victoria's Secret?
Romee Strijd regularly walked in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show from 2014 to 2018 and officially became a designated Victoria's Secret Angel in 2015.
Which modeling agency represents Romee Strijd?
Romee Strijd is represented by IMG Models, the agency she called out for providing mixed messages during the casting timeline.
