Gayle King Surprises as Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Model

Gayle King’s , the esteemed host of CBS Mornings, recently found herself in the unexpected spotlight as she graced the cover of the iconic Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. The revelation came as a delightful surprise to King during a broadcast, marking a new chapter in her illustrious career.

Surprise Unveiling

During a segment of CBS Mornings, co-host Nate Burleson orchestrated a playful reveal, presenting models Kate Upton and Hunter McGrady with their respective covers before dropping the bombshell about King’s cover appearance. As Burleson and co-host Tony Dokoupil teasingly hinted at another cover star in their midst, King’s astonishment was palpable.

A Joyful Moment

King’s reaction was one of pure joy and disbelief as she clutched the physical copy of the magazine close to her heart. At 69 years old, the veteran journalist radiated excitement at the unexpected honor, exclaiming, “I’m on the cover!” Her emotional response reflected the significance of the moment for someone who had never envisioned herself in such a role.

Overcoming Insecurities

Reflecting on her journey, King candidly shared the insecurities instilled in her during her youth, recalling her grandmother’s advice about makeup and appearance. Despite grappling with self-perception, King embraced the empowering realization that she could indeed grace the cover of a prestigious publication and look “damn good” doing so.

Double Honor

King’s astonishment didn’t end with one cover appearance; Dokoupil revealed that, owing to her legendary status, King featured on two covers alongside luminaries Martha Stewart, Christine Brinkley, and Tyra Banks. This dual acknowledgment underscored Gayle King enduring influence and multifaceted talent.

Photographic Spread

Photographed by Yu Tsai in Mexico, King’s editorial spread showcased her in a stunning array of swimsuits, ranging from vibrant hues to elegant neutrals. Her poses exuded confidence and grace, capturing the essence of a woman comfortable in her own skin.

Chrissy Teigen’s Return

King wasn’t the only notable figure to grace the Sports Illustrated cover; Chrissy Teigen made a triumphant return as the fourth solo cover star after nearly a decade. Teigen’s presence alongside King, Upton, and McGrady reinforced the magazine’s celebration of diverse beauty and achievement.

A Milestone Week

King’s cover debut capped off a remarkable fortnight for the journalist, marked by personal and professional milestones. The announcement of her daughter Kirby’s new baby girl added another layer of joy to King’s life, officially making her a grandmother of two. Additionally, King’s attendance at the 2024 Met Gala showcased her willingness to step out of her comfort zone, donning a striking green dress that reflected her love for botanical motifs.

Conclusion

Gayle King’s unexpected appearance on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue serves as a testament to her enduring impact and the evolving standards of beauty and representation in media. In a career defined by integrity and authenticity, King’s moment in the spotlight resonates as a celebration of self-assurance and empowerment at any age.