Barbara Palvin Reflects on Walking Victoria’s Secret Runway Six Weeks Postpartum

Barbara Palvin is reflecting on the experience of returning to the runway for the 2026 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show just six weeks after giving birth.

The model and actress became a mother for the first time on Labor Day, when she and her husband, actor Dylan Sprouse, welcomed their child.

Speaking with “Good Morning America” about her runway return, Palvin said she was grateful to be there but acknowledged that her body was still recovering. “I’m happy to be here because of the help I got and the support I got, but you know, I’m still healing,” she said.

While Palvin was able to resume work relatively quickly, she stressed that her postpartum experience should not be viewed as a standard for everyone. She noted that her return was made possible by a strong support network and may not be the right choice for every new parent.

“Everyone’s journey is different,” the 33-year-old said, describing her transition into motherhood as “definitely been a roller coaster.”

Palvin credited her loved ones with helping her manage the demanding weeks after childbirth. “I’m very grateful for the support system I have. My parents flew out here to help me and my friends have been dropping off food at the door,” she said. “I’m just happy to be back.”

She also pointed to the limited time many U.S. workers receive away from their jobs after having a baby. On the federal level, the Family and Medical Leave Act provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave each year, including time to give birth and care for a newborn.

MORE ON THIS: Justin Ross Harris Freed After 11 Years for Son’s Tragic Hot Car Incident

Palvin’s appearance at the Victoria’s Secret show drew a range of reactions online, with some commenters defending her decision to return to modeling so soon.

“If [she] feels healthy enough to walk the runway leave her alone,” one person wrote. The commenter added that Palvin likely worked hard to maintain a healthy pregnancy and postpartum recovery, arguing that people should be free to make their own choices.

Others, however, raised concerns about the expectations her high-profile comeback could create for young women and teenagers.

“As someone who works in health research: chasing these standards drives real harm, like crash diets, anxiety, and poor self-image in teens,” another commenter wrote on a Victoria’s Secret Instagram post. The person said major brands have an opportunity to present a broader and healthier picture of beauty, while emphasizing that the criticism was aimed at the industry—not the models doing their jobs.

For other mothers and parents navigating the early stages of parenthood, Palvin offered a simple message: “not be too hard on yourself.”

“Every week is different. You think like, oh, now we have a routine. I got it down and then [your baby] throws you for a loop,” Palvin said. “But yeah, don’t be hard on yourself. Take your time.”