Gayle King, the renowned CBS anchor, has made history by becoming one of the 52 cover stars for the 60th-anniversary issue of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue. At 69 years old, King received a dedicated cover and an exclusive photoshoot, joining the league of previous cover stars like Kate Upton, Chrissy Teigen, and Hunter McGrady. This milestone edition also featured other stars such as Christie Brinkley, Winnie Harlow, Maye Musk, Brittany Mahomes, among others, appearing on three other joint covers. Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Editor-in-Chief MJ Day expressed, “We assembled some of our most influential alumni together for one legendary photo shoot. Sure, it looks back on history. But more significantly, it’s a window into the present — where we are right now — and a hope for the future.”
Gayle King, reflecting on her experience while on location in Mexico for the shoot, shared her astonishment, saying, “I never in a million years thought I would be standing here in a bathing suit for Sports Illustrated [Swimsuit], but here I am, which says to me that sometimes people can dream, God can dream, the universe can dream a bigger dream than you can ever think for yourself.” King’s presence in the iconic magazine cover signifies breaking barriers and defying norms. MJ Day acknowledged King’s empowering presence, stating that she “not so gently reminds us that women are limitless and control their destinies.”
For her cover shoot, Gayle King showcased her elegance and confidence in various swimsuits, including a pink and green knit one-piece with spaghetti straps and a matching cover-up, a black one-piece with a mesh dress on top, a plunging canary yellow swimsuit, and a white ruffled halter neck piece. The shoot captured King’s radiant energy and timeless beauty, resonating with fans and followers who praised her for maintaining her poise and charm throughout the session.
Gayle King’s feature in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue not only celebrates her individual achievement but also highlights the collective strength, power, beauty, and diversity represented in the publication’s 60-year legacy. The triptych of covers symbolizes the inclusive and empowering message that SI Swimsuit embodies, showcasing a range of women from different backgrounds and ages, uniting in a celebration of self-expression and empowerment.
Following the unveiling of her cover shoot, Gayle King received an outpouring of support and admiration from fans across social media platforms. Comments praising her grace and authenticity flooded in, with fans commending her for embracing her radiance and confidence at any age. Notable figures like Tracee Ellis Ross also joined in to celebrate King’s remarkable achievement and timeless beauty, further solidifying her impact and influence in the realm of media and entertainment.
Gayle King’s appearance on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue marks a momentous occasion in the publication’s history, resonating with themes of empowerment, diversity, and self-acceptance. By defying age stereotypes and embracing her natural beauty, King sets a powerful example for women of all generations, inspiring them to dream big and break barriers in pursuit of their passions.