Cheryl Tiegs: From Pink Bikini Icon to Advocate for a Healthy Planet
Nearly 46 years ago, Cheryl Tiegs cemented her status as a cultural phenomenon with her legendary pink bikini poster. While she spent decades as a staple on the covers of Vogue, Time, and Sports Illustrated, she eventually transitioned from the world of high fashion to become a dedicated champion for environmentalism and holistic well-being.
The Rise of an American Icon
Now 77 years old, Tiegs’ journey into modeling began simply after a friend suggested she had the “right look.” Though she started with low-paying fashion shows, her trajectory changed forever at age 17 when a feature in Glamour magazine launched her into the global spotlight.
Her career continued to reach new heights, marked by repeated appearances in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue and Time. Even decades into her career, her impact remained undeniable; in 2012, Men’s Health magazine included her on their prestigious list of the “100 Hottest Women of All Time.”
Reflecting on a Different Era
Looking back, Tiegs notes the stark contrast between the modeling industry of her youth and today’s social media-driven landscape. She recalled to Artful Living that her era felt “more in the moment,” lacking the constant visibility provided by modern entertainment news and digital platforms.
Acting and Personal Life
During the 1980s, Tiegs explored the world of television with roles in Moonlighting and Just Shoot Me. She later appeared on the silver screen in the 2000s and 2010s with credits in The Brown Bunny and Sharknado 4. Despite these ventures, she ultimately shifted her focus toward motherhood and her personal life. A mother of three, Tiegs notably welcomed twin sons via surrogate in 2001.
A Voice for the Environment
Beyond the camera, Tiegs has been a steadfast advocate for the planet. Her commitment to environmental conservation and raising awareness about global warming has taken her to remote corners of the world, from the Copper Canyon in Mexico to the Canadian Arctic, in a quest to better understand the Earth’s ecological challenges.
Navigating Controversy
In 2016, Tiegs sparked a public debate when she questioned Sports Illustrated’s decision to feature plus-size model Ashley Graham. Citing health standards she attributed to Dr. Oz—specifically that a waist should measure less than 35 inches—she expressed concern that full-figured modeling might glamorize unhealthy lifestyles.
By 2017, however, Tiegs addressed the backlash, accusing the media of sensationalizing her words. She clarified that her comments were rooted in a general concern for health on both ends of the spectrum, stating, “It’s just about finding your own healthy path. That’s all.”
Life at 77: Health and Happiness
Today, Tiegs remains as vibrant as ever. She credits her longevity and vitality to a combination of yoga, mindful nutrition, and the company of positive, uplifting friends. By staying active and finding joy in simple pleasures like reading, she continues to embody the “timeless beauty” that first made her famous.
Ultimately, Cheryl Tiegs has successfully blended her legacy as a premier supermodel with a modern life defined by advocacy, health, and a deep respect for the environment.
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