Cheryl Tiegs, one of America’s first supermodels, became a cultural icon 46 years ago thanks to her legendary poster in a pink bikini.
For decades, she graced the covers of major magazines like Sports Illustrated, Vogue, and Time, while also becoming a passionate advocate for environmental causes and a healthy lifestyle.
Keep reading to see how she looks today!
Now 77, Tiegs began her modeling career after a friend told her she had the right look. She initially worked small fashion shows for minimal pay, but her big break came at 17 when she appeared in Glamour magazine, bringing her worldwide fame.
From that point, her career soared: she appeared multiple times in Sports Illustrated swimsuit issues, in Time magazine, and was even named one of the 100 Sexiest Women of All Time by Men’s Health in 2012.
Looking back on her career, Tiegs often reflects on how different the fashion industry was in her era. Models weren’t as publicly visible as they are now with social media and shows like Entertainment Tonight. “It was more in the moment, and I loved that,” she told Artful Living.
In the 1980s, Tiegs explored acting, appearing in TV series such as Moonlighting and Just Shoot Me, as well as films like Brown Bunny and Sharknado 4 in the 2000s and 2010s.
Despite trying acting, she ultimately focused on her personal life, including relationships and motherhood. She was married several times and has three children, including twin sons born via surrogate in 2001.
Tiegs is also a dedicated environmental advocate. She works to raise awareness about global warming and supports nature conservation initiatives, traveling to places like the Canadian Arctic and Mexico’s Copper Canyon to better understand environmental challenges.
However, in 2016, she stirred controversy when she criticized Sports Illustrated for featuring plus-size model Ashley Graham on its cover, claiming it promoted unhealthy body standards.
“I don’t like talking about full-figured women because it idealizes them; the waist should be under 35 [inches],” Tiegs told E! News. “No, I don’t think that’s healthy. Her face is beautiful—absolutely beautiful—but I don’t think it’s good for long-term health.”
In 2017, Tiegs explained that the media had sensationalized her comments: “All I was trying to do was care about someone’s health, whether they were too thin or on the other end of the spectrum. It’s just about finding your own healthy path. That’s all. I don’t know her; I don’t know if she’s healthy or not. That’s her business.”
At 77, Tiegs maintains her health through yoga, proper nutrition, and surrounding herself with positive people. Most importantly, she emphasizes staying active and finding joy in reading and connecting with inspiring friends.
Cheryl Tiegs continues to inspire admiration for her timeless beauty and active lifestyle, blending her supermodel legacy with a deep commitment to environmental protection and healthy living.
