Full Breakdown
Tom Brady Walks Gucci Runway in Times Square
5/20/2026, 11:52:47 PM
Runway Debut
Retired NFL quarterback Tom Brady modeled for the Gucci Cruise 2027 collection on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The show took place in New York City’s Times Square, where the stretch of Broadway between 46th and 48th Streets was turned into a live-streamed runway. Brady wore an all-black leather jacket, pants, shoes and a silver watch, walking alongside Paris Hilton, Cindy Crawford, Emily Ratajkowski and other celebrity models.
Background
Brady retired from professional football in 2023 after 23 seasons. He co-founded the athleisure label BRADY, partnered with NOBULL, and acquired a minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders. A commencement speech at Georgetown University and a series of media deals have positioned him for high-profile brand collaborations, making a fashion runway appearance a logical extension of his post-NFL activities.
Participants
Gucci’s creative director Demna Gvasalia selected Brady for the show, marking his first Cruise presentation for the house. Supermodel Gisele Bündchen, Brady’s ex-spouse, observed the footage and offered commentary. Additional runway participants included Paris Hilton, Cindy Crawford, Emily Ratajkowski, Candice Swanepoel and model Alix Earle. The front-row audience featured Mariah Carey, Kim Kardashian, Shawn Mendes, Lindsay Lohan, Anna Wintour and other entertainment figures.
Official Narrative
Gucci’s press release described the Cruise 2027 collection as “GucciCore,” drawing on New York street style and blending corporate tailoring with exaggerated silhouettes. The presentation was broadcast live on Times Square digital billboards, emphasizing the brand’s historic connection to the city since opening its first U.S. store there in 1953.
Criticism
Social-media commentary highlighted perceived awkwardness in Brady’s walk, noting that runway modeling requires years of training. Critics argued that confidence alone could not compensate for the technical skill deficits evident in his stride.
Reactions
Video clips circulating online show Brady smirking while walking the catwalk, and the footage quickly went viral. Former teammates Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman referenced the moment on their podcast, posting three goat emojis in tribute.
Conflicts
Sources differ on the official name of the collection, with some referring to it as “Gucci Cruise 2027” and others as “Gucci Resort 2027.” No direct quotation from a Gucci spokesperson is provided, leaving the brand’s formal stance on Brady’s participation undocumented.
Quotes
- “Gisele thought it was fun to watch.” — Insider source citing Gisele Bündchen
- “She knows Tom has confidence and charisma, but runway modeling is an actual skill that takes years to master.” — Insider source
- “Her attitude was basically, ‘Good for him for trying.’” — Insider source
- “Most men would never have the confidence to walk a major runway in front of the entire fashion industry.” — Insider source
What’s Next
Gucci has announced upcoming shows for its Fall 2027 lineup, while Brady’s involvement in fashion events remains under observation. The appearance signals a new direction for Brady’s post-football career, extending into fashion.
