The renowned cookbook author Martha Stewart is among the four notable personalities selected to grace the 2023 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
At 81, Martha Stewart has made a historical record as the most mature model ever to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue, an accomplishment she has referred to as “a notable milestone.”
The business mogul was chosen among four models to feature on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s yearly swimsuit edition, alongside Megan Fox, Kim Petras, and Brooks Nader.
During her interview with Sports Illustrated, Stewart shared that her age is not a factor she dwells on, yet she feels proud of her unique achievement.
“When I got the news that I was to be on the cover of Sports Illustrated, my first thought was, ‘Wow, I’m going to be the oldest individual ever to grace a Sports Illustrated cover,'” Stewart shared. “While I don’t generally fixate on age, I realized this is somewhat historic.”
Regarding her decision to participate in the shoot, the author mentioned her desire to prove that age does not determine things like “friendship or success.” Instead, Stewart believes that what truly matters is people’s actions, thoughts, and behaviour.
She clarified, “In terms of friendship or success, age isn’t the defining factor. What truly matters is what people do, think, and behave, not their age.”
MJ Day, the editor-in-chief of the Swimsuit Edition, also praised Stewart’s philosophy, adding, “Martha has always refused to let her circumstances define her journey.”
“She’s always evolved with the times—seemingly always one step ahead—to establish her expansive business empire.”
For the photoshoot, Stewart journeyed to the Dominican Republic, where she was captured in 10 different swimsuit ensembles by photographer Ruven Afanador. The cover features Stewart in a white swimsuit paired with an orange jacket.
On social media platforms, Stewart’s 2023 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover has garnered applause from admirers, many of whom commended the TV star.
One fan tweeted in appreciation of the cover, “I love it!” Another wrote, “@MarthaStewart, you are truly an inspiration and icon in every sense. My love for you keeps growing.”
In response to how she prepared for the demanding shoot, Stewart told the Today Show hosts that she attended Pilates sessions every other day and avoided bread and pasta for “a few months.”
Stewart also ensured to highlight the authenticity of the photoshoot. “There’s no deception involved. They reassure you that you look good, reinforcing the belief that it’s okay to be yourself,” she affirmed.
In a society often obsessed with youth, Martha Stewart’s groundbreaking Sports Illustrated cover at the age of 81 is a powerful testament to the beauty and strength of age. Regardless of age, it sends a clear message about the capacity for achievement and relevance. With her spirit, resilience, and unflinching dedication, Martha Stewart inspires and motivates people worldwide to chase their dreams and refuse to be defined by societal norms.
