Cheryl Tiegs, renowned as one of America’s pioneering supermodels, burst onto the scene 46 years ago with her iconic pink bikini poster that captured the world’s attention. Her image graced the covers of renowned publications like Sports Illustrated, Vogue, and Time, making her a household name. But beyond modeling, Cheryl became an influential advocate for environmental causes and dedicated herself to promoting health and well-being.
Curious about her appearance today? Let’s delve into her journey over the years.
Now aged 77, Cheryl embarked on her modeling career thanks to a friend’s suggestion that she had the ideal look for the industry. She initially participated in small fashion shows, earning modest pay. However, her breakthrough came at the tender age of 17 when Glamour magazine featured her, propelling her into the limelight and international recognition. From then on, she graced the pages of prestigious magazines, including numerous appearances in Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit editions and earning a spot on Men’s Health magazine’s list of the 100 Hottest Women of All Time in 2012.
Reflecting on her illustrious career, Tiegs offers insights into the dramatic shifts in the modeling industry. Back in her day, models did not enjoy the visibility afforded by today’s social media platforms and entertainment shows like Entertainment Tonight. “It was more in the moment, and I liked that,” she revealed to Artful Living.
In the 1980s, Cheryl ventured into the realm of acting. She appeared in popular shows like Moonlighting and Just Shoot Me, along with movie roles in titles such as The Brown Bunny and Sharknado 4. Despite her foray into acting, she chose to focus on other facets of her life, like nurturing her personal relationships and embracing motherhood. Cheryl was married multiple times and is the proud mother of three children, including twin sons born via surrogate in 2001.
Aside from her modeling and acting endeavors, Cheryl Tiegs has passionately committed herself to environmental advocacy. Over the years, she has used her platform to raise awareness about pressing issues like global warming and has supported various conservation initiatives. Her passion even took her to far-off locations such as the Canadian Arctic and Mexico’s Copper Canyon to deepen her understanding of environmental challenges.
In 2016, Cheryl stirred controversy when she criticized Sports Illustrated for featuring plus-size model Ashley Graham on its cover, arguing that it might promote unhealthy body standards. “I don’t like that we’re talking about full-figured women because it glamorizes them because your waist should be smaller than 35 [inches]. That’s what Dr. Oz said, and I’m sticking to it,” Cheryl explained to E! News. “No, I don’t think it’s healthy. Her face is beautiful. Beautiful. But I don’t think it’s healthy in the long run.”
By 2017, Cheryl further clarified her stance, pointing out how media had sensationalized her comments, “because really all I was doing was trying to look out for the health of someone who’s too thin or going on the other side of the scale,” she stated. “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 up to her.”
At 77, Cheryl Tiegs continues to prioritize her health and wellness, attributing her vitality to practices like yoga, a balanced diet, and maintaining a circle of positive influences. She avidly believes in keeping active and cherishes activities such as reading and spending quality time with encouraging friends.
Cheryl Tiegs remains cherished for her enduring beauty and significant contributions as an advocate, seamlessly intertwining her status as a legendary supermodel with her unwavering commitment to environmental and healthy living causes.