Hilary Duff responds to Ashley Tisdale’s 'toxic mom group' essay

'People think they know everything from what they see online, but that’s not real life,' Duff said

Hilary Duff is addressing the fallout from Ashley Tisdale’s viral essay about exiting what she described as a “toxic mom group,” a piece that quickly fueled speculation about a celebrity circle believed to include Duff and other high-profile mothers.

Speaking about the scrutiny, Duff said, “It’s not new for me,” acknowledging that her personal life has long been the subject of public attention. She added that she chooses not to engage directly with rumours, focusing instead on her family and home life.

In her original essay, Tisdale wrote candidly about her experience within the group, saying she felt “excluded” and describing moments of “mean-girl behaviour” that ultimately led her to step away from the friendships.

“I realised I didn’t feel safe in that space anymore,” she shared, explaining her decision to distance herself from the circle. Though she did not name individuals, online speculation quickly linked Duff and others to the group based on past interactions and social media posts.

Duff addressed the online reaction indirectly, noting how social media can distort reality. “People think they know everything from what they see online, but that’s not real life,” she said, emphasising that the truth of friendships is often more nuanced than viral narratives suggest.

The controversy has also sparked reactions from those close to the situation. Duff’s husband previously appeared to mock the speculation online, while others connected to the group have suggested the split came down to differences in values rather than a dramatic falling out. Tisdale, meanwhile, encouraged others facing similar experiences to prioritise their well-being, writing, “You have to choose yourself and your peace.”

As the conversation continues to unfold, the episode highlights how celebrity friendships—especially those tied to parenting—can quickly become public discourse, turning deeply personal experiences into widely debated cultural moments.