Love Island beauty Angel Swift has revealed she has a rare genetic trait shared by just around 1% of the population – and says she shares it with Hollywood star Megan Fox. The reality TV star made the candid confession while speaking exclusively at SHEIN's VIP O Beach event, where celebrities and influencers gathered to celebrate the height of the summer season in Ibiza.
Angel admitted she's long been aware of her unusual thumbs, which are commonly nicknamed "toe thumbs" because of their short, broad appearance. She laughed: "I've got toe thumbs. One per cent of the population's got it, and they're called toe thumbs." Showing off her hands, Angel joked about the distinctive shape of her digits. "Look at the size of mine, they're so width-y," she said.
Curious to find out whether any other celebrities shared the same trait, Angel turned to Google and was pleasantly surprised by the results. "I Googled if anyone has them, and Megan Fox has got them, and Megan Barton Hanson," she revealed. The condition, often referred to as "toe thumbs" because of the shape of the thumb, is medically known as brachydactyly type D. It is a harmless inherited genetic trait that affects the size and shape of the thumb but doesn't usually cause any health problems.
Rather than hiding the feature, Angel embraced it with humour, proving she's more than happy to poke fun at herself. The blonde beauty was among the VIP guests attending SHEIN's exclusive party at O Beach, one of Ibiza's most famous venues, where influencers and reality stars gathered to celebrate summer in style. For the event, Angel opted for an eye-catching black and white polka dot bikini short set, perfectly suited to the glamorous beach club atmosphere.
The celebration saw guests soaking up the sunshine while showcasing some of the season's boldest fashion looks, with SHEIN hosting one of the island's hottest parties. And if sharing a rare genetic trait with one of Hollywood's biggest stars wasn't enough, Angel can also count fellow reality TV favourite Megan Barton Hanson among the small group of celebrities proudly rocking the distinctive thumbs. Angel starred on ITV's Love Island last year and coupled up with Ty Isherwood, who she is still dating now.
Brachydactyly type D is an autosomal dominant condition, meaning that a person only needs one copy of the altered gene to inherit it. It is characterized by a shortened and broadened thumb, sometimes with a wider nail bed, and is often noticed in childhood. The nickname "toe thumb" comes from its resemblance to a toe rather than a typical thumb. While the condition is harmless, it can be a source of curiosity or even embarrassment for some individuals. However, Angel's openness about her thumbs has turned it into a point of uniqueness and charm.
Megan Fox is one of the most famous celebrities known to have brachydactyly type D. She has been photographed often with her thumbs, and in interviews she has acknowledged the trait, calling it a "toe thumb" herself. Fox's embrace of her natural features has inspired many fans to accept their own differences. Similarly, Megan Barton Hanson, who appeared on both Love Island and Ex on the Beach, has been open about her thumbs, adding to the growing list of reality TV personalities normalizing uncommon physical characteristics.
The SHEIN event at O Beach in Ibiza was a highlight of the summer calendar. Held at the iconic open-air club on the island's west coast, the party featured a mix of international DJs, designer cocktails, and a catwalk showcasing SHEIN's latest summer collection. Guests included influencers from across Europe, each bringing their unique style to the vibrant setting. Angel stood out in her polka-dot ensemble, which perfectly captured the blend of retro charm and modern beach glamour that SHEIN's collection this season celebrates.
Ibiza itself has long been a magnet for celebrities and sun-seekers alike, with its legendary nightlife, stunning beaches, and wellness retreats. The SHEIN party added another layer to the island's reputation as a playground for the rich and famous. For Angel, it was also an opportunity to mingle with peers from the reality TV world and to discuss her experiences since Love Island.
Angel's journey on Love Island saw her form a strong connection with Ty Isherwood, a personal trainer from Essex. Their romance was one of the more stable stories of the series, and fans have followed their relationship post-villa. Today, the couple remains together, often sharing glimpses of their life on social media. Angel has also pursued modeling and brand collaborations, making her one of the more successful alumni from her season.
Beyond her Love Island fame, Angel's revelation about her genetic trait has sparked conversations about body positivity and the acceptance of unique features. In an age of filters and curated perfection, her willingness to laugh about her "toe thumbs" resonates with many who feel insecure about something in their appearance. The fact that she shares this trait with a major Hollywood star like Megan Fox only adds to the appeal, proving that even celebrities have quirks that make them human.
Medical experts explain that brachydactyly type D occurs due to a mutation in the BMPR1B gene, which plays a role in bone growth. It is one of several types of brachydactyly, each affecting different fingers or toes. Type D specifically impacts the distal phalanx of the thumb, making it shorter and broader than usual. The condition is more common in some populations but still rare overall, affecting about 1% of people in the UK. It is often inherited within families, though new mutations can also occur.
For those with brachydactyly type D, there are usually no functional limitations. The thumb can still perform all normal movements and gripping actions. Some individuals may experience a cosmetic concern, but many, like Angel, see it as a distinctive part of their identity. Social media has helped to normalize such variations, with hashtags like toethumb and brachydactyly connecting people who share the trait.
Angel's appearance at the SHEIN event also highlighted the ongoing trend of reality TV stars transitioning into full-time influencers. The lines between traditional celebrity and social media personality continue to blur, with events like these serving as networking hubs and brand showcases. Angel now commands a significant online following, which she uses to promote fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products, as well as to share personal stories like the one about her thumbs.
The party at O Beach was a glittering affair, with guests arriving in luxury yachts and sports cars. The dress code was chic beachwear, and Angel's choice of a polka-dot bikini set with matching shorts was widely praised on social media. The outfit, from SHEIN's summer line, featured a halter top and high-waisted shorts, accentuating her figure while remaining comfortable for the summer heat.
As the summer season reaches its peak, stories like Angel's remind us that beauty comes in many forms. While some might hide a perceived flaw, Angel chose to put her thumbs on display and make light of them. Her confidence is infectious, and it's a lesson in self-acceptance that goes beyond the glitz of the Ibiza party scene.
The connection between Angel and Megan Fox is just one example of how rare genetic traits can create unexpected bonds. Fans have taken to commenting on Angel's posts, saying they now see the resemblance in their thumbs. For Angel, the comparison is flattering but also underscores that everyone has something different about them. "It's just a part of me," she said. "I think it's cool that Megan Fox has the same thing – it makes me feel less weird about it."
Meanwhile, the Love Island alum continues to enjoy her relationship with Ty. The couple recently celebrated a milestone anniversary and shared a series of romantic photos on Instagram. Ty often comments on Angel's posts, showing his support for her career and personal growth. Together, they represent a modern reality TV romance that has weathered the pressures of public life.
In summary, Angel Swift's openness about her brachydactyly type D has brought attention to a little-known genetic condition while showcasing her vibrant personality. From Love Island to Ibiza, she continues to capture the public's imagination, one thumb at a time. The story of "toe thumbs" will likely continue to intrigue as more people learn about this rare trait and the celebrities who sport it proudly.
Source: MSN News