Former 'Boy Meets World' Stars' Friendship Fallout

Maitland Ward stated in a May 2026 interview that she has had no recent contact with her former "Boy Meets World" co-stars Danielle Fishel, Will Friedle, and Rider Strong. Ward confirmed a lack of communication, describing it as "sad" and a current state of disconnection. She did, however, offer support to Fishel during her "Dancing With the Stars" participation.

The strained relationship between Ward and Fishel became public during a podcast appearance in the previous year. A discussion about their time on "Girl Meets World" escalated when Fishel asked Ward if she "hated" them. Ward denied this, suggesting Fishel might have harbored negative feelings due to Fishel's perceived unresponsiveness on the "Girl Meets World" set.

Fishel countered that she did speak with Ward on set and denied unfriending Ward on Facebook. Fishel recounted an attempt to get Ward's phone number to apologize, but claimed Ward suggested saving the conversation for the podcast for ratings. Ward denied this, believing the discussion would have occurred immediately.

Ward expressed confusion over the "weirdness" and potential misunderstandings, questioning if Fishel felt she was seeking attention. Fishel apologized, clarifying it wasn't personal. Ward also noted Fishel seemed displeased by the attention Ward received after entering the adult entertainment industry. Fishel reminded Ward of her own "Maxim" cover in 2014.

Following the podcast's coverage, Ward expressed surprise and hurt, viewing Fishel as a friend but acknowledging Fishel's apparent long-held dislike. Fishel has not publicly commented further on Ward's remarks.