New York Fashion Week isn’t just about bold runway looks—it’s also where stories of unexpected reunions unfold. This year, Iris Kendall turned heads when she stepped out hand-in-hand with TJ Palma, her former flame from Love Island USA. Nearly three weeks after announcing her split from Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez, Iris proved she wasn’t hiding from the spotlight.
Video: Love Island USA’s Iris Kendall Speaks on Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez Split
From Love Island to Real-World Chemistry
Fans first fell for Iris and TJ during their time on Love Island’s seventh season. Their connection was undeniable until TJ’s exit in episode 27 left Iris to forge a new path. Though she later paired with Pepe and even finished fourth, it seems the original spark with TJ never truly faded.
Instagram Post That Broke the Internet
On September 15, Iris and TJ shared a joint Instagram post that sent fans buzzing. The photos showed them holding hands, with Iris gazing at TJ in a way that needed no words. A simple heart emoji caption was all it took to set social media on fire. Their Love Island family quickly chimed in, with Amaya Espinal joking about them being her future children’s godparents.
Video: “Love Island USA” star Iris Kendall really feel about her split from Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez?
Fashion Week’s Unexpected Highlight
Their evening didn’t stop at Instagram. Iris and TJ were later spotted arriving hand-in-hand at the Luar fashion show. Cameras captured their subtle but unmistakable closeness, making them one of the most talked-about duos of the event.
Pepe Speaks Out After the Breakup
Just weeks before, Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez revealed to TMZ that he and Iris were no longer together. “It’s a tough thing when there’s a lot of eyes on you 24/7,” he admitted, reflecting on the challenges of fame. Iris, for her part, told E! News she hoped to keep their split private, showing grace despite the public scrutiny.
Why This Reunion Matters
For fans, Iris and TJ’s reunion feels like a full-circle moment. It’s a reminder that sometimes the heart knows what it wants, even when life takes a few detours. Their chemistry on and off the screen continues to intrigue viewers who love a story of rekindled connections.
From the Love Island villa to the glamorous chaos of New York Fashion Week, Iris Kendall and TJ Palma have captured attention once more. Their quiet yet powerful reunion has sparked conversations across social media, proving that sometimes the most unforgettable stories happen off-camera.
