Kendall Jenner’s Untold Struggles: Navigating Bullying and Resentment Backstage at New York Fashion Week

The glitz and glamour of New York Fashion Week often mask a far less glamorous reality for those behind the scenes. For supermodel Kendall Jenner, the runways and high-profile shows have, on occasion, been overshadowed by persistent and cruel bullying from her peers. Despite her burgeoning success and undeniable presence on the catwalks, reports have consistently emerged detailing a hostile environment created by other models who resent her rapid ascent in the industry.

Recent revelations, particularly those from a report highlighting Instagram slams from fellow models poking fun at her Donna Karan runway appearance, only scratch the surface of the underlying tension. According to exclusive insights gathered by HollywoodLife.com, the Keeping Up with the Kardashians star, then 19, was, in fact, enduring significant emotional distress and petty harassment backstage. This article delves into the horrific details of these incidents, exploring the reasons behind the animosity and the profound impact it had on the young model.

Behind the Velvet Rope: The Harsh Realities of Modeling and Peer Resentment

The modeling industry is notoriously competitive, a cutthroat world where aspiring talents often spend years clawing their way to the top. When a celebrity’s child like Kendall Jenner, with a built-in fan base and unparalleled media exposure, seemingly bypasses these struggles, it can ignite deep-seated resentment among those who feel overlooked or unfairly disadvantaged. This sentiment, unfortunately, manifested itself in a pattern of bullying directed at Kendall.

A source close to the situation, speaking exclusively to HollywoodLife.com, painted a vivid picture of the atmosphere. “Kendall is constantly being bullied by other models,” the insider revealed. “They feel like she walks around — acting entitled — like she’s better than everyone else. She hasn’t had to earn her career like everyone else — it was handed to her because of her family connection.” This perception of unearned privilege, whether accurate or not, fueled much of the animosity. The source further added, “They also don’t think she has the looks to be such a big model. She’s easily the most disliked model on all the catwalks.” Such harsh judgments, whether based on jealousy or genuine critique, highlight the intense pressures and subjective standards within the fashion world.

It’s truly heartbreaking to acknowledge that a young woman, striving to make her mark in a demanding field, is subjected to such treatment. While her famous family undoubtedly provided a unique springboard into the industry, Kendall’s subsequent achievements on the catwalk speak for themselves. Her professionalism and growing portfolio of high-profile campaigns and runway appearances suggest a talent that extends beyond her surname. She has worked tirelessly to refine her craft, mastering the art of the runway walk and exuding a powerful presence that many designers covet. Her journey, while unconventional, has been marked by dedication, and she unquestionably deserves the success she has achieved.

Cruel Pranks and Petty Harassment: The Dark Side of Backstage Dynamics

Unfortunately, not everyone shared this view or believed in fair play. The hostile environment fostered by some models extended beyond mere gossip and judgmental whispers. It manifested in a series of cruel pranks designed to undermine Kendall’s confidence and disrupt her professional obligations. “Many of the other models can’t stand Kendall and her clique, which includes Cara Delevingne and Gigi Hadid, but they bully Kendall the most,” our source elaborated. “The other models like to pull cruel pranks on her too, like hiding her favorite hairspray and makeup.” These seemingly minor acts of sabotage can have significant consequences in the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of a fashion show, where every minute counts and appearances are paramount.

Even more insidious were the psychological games played. The insider described incidents where models would “lead her on a wild goose chase by telling her someone was looking for her in her dressing room just before she’s supposed to take the stage.” Such tactics are not only mean-spirited but also highly unprofessional, designed to cause anxiety and potentially make Kendall miss her cues or delay a show. “It’s very catty and mean spirited,” the source concluded, painting a picture of an emotionally charged backstage atmosphere where professional rivalry devolved into personal attacks.

The question naturally arises: can’t everyone just get along? In an industry that often preaches unity and creative collaboration, the reality of intense competition and cliquish behavior can be starkly contrasting. While healthy competition can drive individuals to excel, the line between rivalry and outright bullying is often crossed, leading to damaging consequences for all involved.

The Most Shocking Incident: Cigarettes in Drinks and Beyond

As HollywoodLife.com had previously reported, Kendall’s ordeal wasn’t confined to hidden cosmetics and false alarms. Some incidents escalated to a disturbing level of disrespect and malice. During a particularly challenging New York Fashion Week in the fall, Kendall looked stunning walking for renowned designers like Marc Jacobs, but her composure on the runway reportedly belied the turmoil she faced backstage. “The other models worked so hard to get a spot on the runway and didn’t think it was fair that she was there,” a source at fashion week told In Touch at the time.

The resentment boiled over into truly shocking acts. “They started acting b**chy. Some even put out their cigarettes in Kendall’s drink!” This particular incident stands out as a stark example of the extent to which some models were willing to go to express their disdain. It’s a blatant act of disrespect, not only to Kendall but also to basic human decency and hygiene. Such behavior is not merely “classless”; it borders on harassment and potentially puts the victim’s health at risk. It’s an alarming reminder of how toxic environments can become when jealousy and frustration are left unchecked.

Despite these appalling experiences, Kendall has largely maintained a stoic front, choosing to concentrate on her work rather than engaging in the drama. This resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to her strength and determination to forge a career on her own terms. For the fall-winter 2015 collections alone, Kendall graced the runways for an impressive roster of designers including Oscar de la Renta, Alexander Wang, Michael Kors, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Vera Wang, Donna Karan, and Diane von Furstenberg. Her consistent booking by such prestigious labels underscores her professional value and the quality of her performance, regardless of the backstage negativity.

Navigating Nepotism and Merit in the Fashion Industry

Kendall Jenner’s situation brings to light a perennial debate within creative industries: the role of nepotism versus merit. While her famous last name undoubtedly opened doors that remain firmly shut for countless aspiring models, it’s an oversimplification to suggest her success is solely due to her family. Once through those doors, a model must still deliver. They must possess the right look, the ability to embody a designer’s vision, and the professionalism to endure grueling schedules and intense scrutiny. Kendall has demonstrably met these criteria, consistently performing at a high level for top-tier brands.

The frustration of other models is understandable; many dedicate years, sacrifice significantly, and face endless rejections. To see someone with a perceived “easy” path can be infuriating. However, this frustration should not devolve into bullying. True professionalism dictates that individuals compete on their own merits and maintain respectful conduct, even in highly competitive environments. The fashion industry, like any workplace, should foster an environment of mutual respect, where talent and hard work are celebrated, regardless of an individual’s background.

Conclusion: A Call for Professionalism and Empathy

The stories emerging from New York Fashion Week concerning Kendall Jenner serve as a stark reminder that even those who appear to have it all can face significant personal challenges. The emotional toll of being constantly undermined and targeted by peers, especially in a public and high-stakes profession, can be immense. Kendall’s journey highlights the hidden struggles beneath the glossy surface of the fashion world, urging us to look beyond the glamour and consider the human element.

Her continued success, despite the documented bullying, speaks volumes about her resolve. It’s a testament to her dedication to her craft and her refusal to let negative external forces derail her aspirations. The incidents underscore the critical need for a more supportive and professional atmosphere within the modeling industry, where mutual respect triumphs over jealousy and mean-spirited behavior. Every individual, regardless of their background or celebrity status, deserves to work in an environment free from harassment and bullying.

What do YOU think, HollywoodLifers? Are you surprised Kendall gets bullied? How do you feel about the challenges she has faced and the broader issue of bullying in competitive industries? Share your thoughts with us!

— Chris Rogers, Reporting by Tim Plant

Follow @ChrisRogers86