Hilary Duff Reunites with Former Boyfriend Joel Madden for a Surprise Performance of Good Charlotte’s “The Anthem” at Madison Square Garden
By Website Content Manager
Although Hilary Duff and Joel Madden ended their relationship in 2006 after dating for about two years, they have maintained a strong friendship over the years.
Hilary Duff gave fans an unexpected nostalgic moment during the first of her two sold-out concerts at Madison Square Garden on Aug. 5 when she welcomed Good Charlotte to the stage for a special guest appearance.
Partway through the show, the 38-year-old singer appeared wearing one of her signature oversized T-shirts—a different design for every performance, often inspired by early-2000s pop culture. This time, she chose a Good Charlotte shirt before revealing that the band, fronted by brothers Joel and Benji Madden, was about to join her.
Before introducing the group, Duff told the audience that she always likes to bring something special whenever she performs in New York. She then invited Good Charlotte onto the stage, where she greeted the Madden brothers with hugs before performing the band’s hit song, “The Anthem,” alongside them.
The surprise collaboration carried extra meaning for longtime fans, as Duff and Joel Madden were in a relationship from 2004 to 2006. Despite their past romance, the two have maintained a close friendship over the years.
Following the performance, Duff posed backstage with her husband, Matthew Koma, Joel Madden, his wife Nicole Richie, and Benji Madden. Benji later shared the group photo on his Instagram Stories, celebrating the occasion with a message calling it a “family night” at Madison Square Garden and congratulating Duff and Koma on the successful concert. The image was later reposted by Duff, Koma, and Joel.
Duff has previously spoken openly about the lasting friendship she shares with Joel and his family. During a 2023 appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, she explained that they remain close, live in the same neighborhood, and regularly spend time together. She added that their families often go hiking together and described their ongoing relationship as something she genuinely appreciates.