Cheryl Tiegs, one of America’s first supermodels, became a cultural icon 46 years ago with her famous pink bikini poster. Over the years, she appeared on major magazine covers like Sports Illustrated, Vogue, and Time, and later became an advocate for environmental causes and healthy living.
Tiegs began modeling at 17 after a Glamour magazine feature launched her to fame. Her career thrived with multiple Sports Illustrated swimsuit appearances and a spot on Men’s Health’s 100 Hottest Women of All Time in 2012. She later noted how modeling then was more private, lacking today’s constant media exposure.
In the 1980s and beyond, she dabbled in acting, appearing in Moonlighting, Just Shoot Me, and films like The Brown Bunny and Sharknado 4. Eventually, she shifted focus to family life, raising three children, including twins born via surrogate in 2001.
A dedicated environmentalist, Tiegs traveled to remote areas like the Canadian Arctic to raise awareness about climate change. However, in 2016, she sparked controversy by criticizing Sports Illustrated for featuring plus-size model Ashley Graham, citing health concerns. She later clarified that her comments were about promoting wellness, not body-shaming.
Now 77, Tiegs stays healthy through yoga, good nutrition, and a positive lifestyle. She remains respected for her lasting beauty, environmental advocacy, and promotion of healthy living.