'Can be sexy at any age': Gayle King hailed as she makes her debut as model for Sports Illustrated at 69

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Gayle King, at 69 years old, has stunned audiences by gracing the cover of this year's Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2024 issue, challenging conventional notions of beauty and age.

During a live segment on CBS Mornings, King's surprise was palpable as she was presented with her cover image, initially believing her role was limited to the inside pages.

Gayle King wows fans with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit debut

King's joyful exclamation, "I'm on the cover?!" resonated with viewers as she marveled at the newsstand-bound cover featuring her in a geometric-print one-piece bathing suit.

King expressed her initial surprise, believing her involvement was limited to the inside pages. "They told me I was just going to be on the inside!" exclaimed the TV personality.

King expressed her amazement at seeing herself on the newsstand-bound cover, wearing a geometric-print one-piece bathing suit. When the larger cover image appeared on the screen, she couldn't contain her excitement: "This is going to be on the newsstand? Oh my God!"

Fellow models Kate Upton and Hunter McGrady joined the segment, with McGrady emphasizing the significance of King's cover, proclaiming, "Sexy isn't an age. Sexy isn't a size. Like, look how beautiful you look. That's so inspiring to women of all ages." 

King candidly shared her journey of overcoming insecurities, reflecting on advice from her grandmother, and embracing her appearance with confidence. 

"Mother nature was not as kind to you as she was to other little girls. Maybe you need to start wearing makeup like your friend (Oprah Winfrey)." 

"When I look at that, I look damn good," she declared, affirming her self-assurance and resilience.

The surprises continued as King learned live on air that she would also grace the cover of the Legends edition of Sports Illustrated, alongside iconic figures like Tyra Banks and Martha Stewart, as per TMZ.

Behind-the-scenes footage of King's photoshoot in Mexico showcased her in a variety of stylish swimsuits, further amplifying the message of empowerment and self-love.

Internet cheers Gayle King's Sports Illustrated Swimsuit debut

The online community erupted in applause and admiration as Gayle King, at almost 70 years old, made her debut on the cover of this year's Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2024 issue.

Across social media platforms, users expressed their support and appreciation for King's trailblazing moment, celebrating her beauty and confidence.

"I think she looks beautiful," remarked one user. Another user celebrated King's achievement, exclaiming, "She looks great! Almost 70, way to go Gayle."

Acknowledging King's longstanding dedication to maintaining her health and fitness, a user commented, "Her body has always looked good! (even b4 Ozempic 😉) Congratulations Gayle …You look AMAZING!!!"

King's cover debut was not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for representation and inclusivity in the fashion industry. "Good for her. Time to show that you can be sexy at any age, size, race," expressed a user.

"If Martha Stewart can do it at 81, why not her?" a user said.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.