Gaby Dalkin appears to have responded to the recent controversy surrounding Ashley Tisdale French’s essay on a “toxic” mom group, which has taken social media by storm. In a light-hearted post on Instagram Threads, the food blogger indicated that she was reconnecting with her followers after the holiday season, humorously asking what significant events she may have missed while she took a break from the online world.
The backdrop to Dalkin’s post is Tisdale French’s essay, published in The Cut on January 1, following an initial blog post in November 2025, in which she opened up about her decision to leave a mom group she initially thought would be a supportive community. In her candid reflections, Tisdale French described how she felt increasingly isolated within the group, culminating in her feeling as if she had returned to the social dynamics of high school, complete with awkward exclusions and diminishing invitations.
Tisdale French shares two children with her husband, Christopher French, and felt a sense of unease growing among a group that included notable faces like Dalkin, Hilary Duff, and Meghan Trainor, among others. In her essay, she expressed her discomfort, stating, “This is too high school for me, and I don’t want to take part in it anymore.” Some friends attempted to address her concerns, while others suggested her feelings might have been unfounded.
Commenting on the situation, sources close to Tisdale French indicated that while friendships can shift over time, the manner of her departure might have been more public than necessary. “It was a misalignment of values that Ashley decided to make public,” one source explained, highlighting that while friendships can change, it’s essential to maintain respect throughout the process.
In a twist, Duff’s husband, Matthew Koma, publicly criticized Tisdale French’s essay, presenting a cheeky retort on his Instagram Stories that appeared to mock her perceptions of the group dynamics and motherhood.
Despite the fallout, Tisdale French’s essay resonates with many, addressing the complexities of female friendships and the importance of recognizing when to step back from relationships that are no longer serving one’s well-being. Her sentiment emphasizes that acknowledging toxic behavior is crucial and taking steps to remove oneself isn’t an act of cruelty, but an act of honesty towards oneself.
Dalkin’s more subtle nod to the drama could imply a sense of solidarity, as discussions around friendship dynamics continue to unfold in light of Tisdale French’s revelations. As they navigate this challenging terrain, it may also serve as a reminder for many women about the need for healthy, fulfilling relationships in all spheres of life.