Ashley Tisdale has opened up about her departure from a close-knit group of friends, including notable figures like Hilary Duff and Mandy Moore. In an op-ed published in *The Cut*, Tisdale described her experiences with what she termed a “toxic” social circle. However, insiders from her former friend group have suggested that the underlying issues stem from Tisdale’s actions and attitudes over time.
According to a source close to the group, Tisdale, 40, has been “slowly slipping away for years.” The rift was not sudden; rather, it was marked by political differences and personal conflicts that accumulated over time. The situation reached a tipping point following the devastating January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles. Many members of the group were affected, but Tisdale reportedly failed to check in or offer support, which left her friends feeling abandoned.
The source explained, “Her friends felt the amount of self-absorption she showed just got worse, and it was impossible to maintain a friendship with her since it was so one-sided.” Tisdale’s political views reportedly intensified tensions within the group, leading some to feel uncomfortable associating with her.
Mandy Moore, 41, faced personal loss during the wildfires, having lost her home along with her brother and sister-in-law. The source noted that Tisdale’s perceived lack of empathy during this crisis further alienated her from her friends.
In her blog post, titled “You’re Allowed To Leave Your Mom Group,” Tisdale expressed feelings of exclusion and confusion about being left out of gatherings. She recounted moments of questioning her self-worth, stating, “All of a sudden, I was in high school again, feeling totally lost as to what I was doing wrong to be left out.”
The actress highlighted the emotional toll of feeling ostracized and the difficulty of maintaining positive friendships. “I knew I had to speak out to set a good example for my daughters,” she wrote, explaining her decision to distance herself from the group.
Tisdale’s portrayal of her friends in her op-ed has sparked reactions among those she once considered close. Sources indicate that her letter felt like a “slap in the face” to the years of friendship they had built, as it lacked accountability for her own actions.
The fallout has been significant, with the source revealing that friendships have deteriorated beyond just Tisdale and her mom group. Vanessa Hudgens, a former best friend and co-star from *High School Musical*, has also reportedly drifted apart from Tisdale for similar reasons. Their relationship appeared strained when Tisdale was absent from Hudgens’ wedding to MLB star Cole Tucker in December 2023.
The situation reflects deeper issues of compatibility and support within friendships. Tisdale’s experiences have resonated with many who face similar dynamics in their own social circles. As she navigates her relationships, Tisdale’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities of friendship, especially amid personal and political differences.
The U.S. Sun has reached out to Tisdale’s team for further comment on the situation.
