Cheryl Tiegs, hailed as one of America’s very first supermodels, skyrocketed to fame 46 years ago with her iconic pink bikini poster — a true pop culture phenomenon.
Throughout her illustrious career, she graced the covers of legendary magazines like Sports Illustrated, Vogue, and Time. But Cheryl’s journey didn’t stop at modeling. She transformed into a passionate advocate for environmental causes and a champion of health and wellness.
Curious to see how this timeless beauty shines today? Keep reading to find out!
Now 77, Cheryl Tiegs began her modeling journey almost by chance—encouraged by a friend who believed she had “the look.” Starting out in small fashion shows with modest pay, her breakthrough arrived at just 17 when she landed a coveted feature in Glamour magazine. From that moment, her star soared globally.
Her iconic presence soon dominated Sports Illustrated swimsuit issues, Time magazine covers, and even earned her a spot in Men’s Health 2012 list of the 100 Hottest Women of All Time—proof of her enduring allure and influence.
Reflecting on her storied career, Cheryl Tiegs has often noted how much the modeling world has changed since her heyday. Unlike today’s supermodels, who enjoy constant visibility through social media and entertainment programs like Entertainment Tonight, Tiegs recalls a simpler time. “It was more in the moment, and I liked that,” she shared with Artful Living.
In the 1980s, Cheryl expanded her horizons into acting, appearing in popular TV shows like Moonlighting and Just Shoot Me, as well as cult films such as The Brown Bunny and Sharknado 4 during the 2000s and 2010s.
Despite dabbling in Hollywood, she ultimately chose to prioritize her personal life—embracing motherhood and relationships. Cheryl was married several times and is a devoted mother to three children, including twin sons born via surrogate in 2001.
Beyond the spotlight, Tiegs has been a passionate environmental advocate. Her dedication has taken her from the icy expanse of the Canadian Arctic to Mexico’s breathtaking Copper Canyon, deepening her commitment to raising awareness about global warming and conservation efforts.
However, her outspoken nature has sparked controversy. In 2016, Tiegs drew criticism after publicly questioning Sports Illustrated’s decision to feature plus-size model Ashley Graham on its cover, expressing concerns about the messages it sent regarding body standards.
“I don’t like that we’re glamorizing full-figured women,” Tiegs told E! News. “Your waist should be smaller than 35 [inches]. That’s what Dr. Oz said, and I’m sticking to it. 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.”
The following year, Tiegs pushed back against media portrayals of her remarks. “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 explained in 2017. “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.”
Now 77, Cheryl stays vibrant through yoga, mindful nutrition, and surrounding herself with positive influences. Above all, she credits an active lifestyle and simple joys—like reading and spending time with uplifting friends—for her lasting wellness.
Cheryl Tiegs remains a beloved icon, celebrated not only for her timeless beauty but also for her passionate advocacy—seamlessly blending her legacy as America’s first supermodel with a lifelong commitment to health and the environment.