Longtime journalist Gayle King surprises fans with her debut on the cover of the iconic sports-illustrated swimsuit issue
In a groundbreaking announcement on “CBS Mornings,” Gayle King was revealed as one of the cover stars for the 2024 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. The revelation, made live by fellow cover stars Kate Upton and Hunter McGrady, marked a significant moment not only for King but also for the history of the magazine. During the segment, an elated King expressed her astonishment and gratitude, admitting she never envisioned herself as a swimsuit model for such a renowned publication.
The announcement was accompanied by a behind-the-scenes video from the photoshoot in Mexico, showcasing King in a series of swimwear ranging from a vibrant yellow one-piece to a chic patterned swimsuit with a coordinating cover-up. The styling was completed with tasteful gold jewellery, adding a touch of elegance to her various looks. This unexpected venture into swimwear modelling by King, primarily known for her journalism and co-hosting CBS Mornings, has captured the attention and admiration of fans and industry insiders alike.
During the live announcement, King shared her initial disbelief about the cover feature, having assumed her involvement in the issue would be limited to the inside pages. “I never in a million years thought I would be standing here in a bathing suit for Sports Illustrated. But here I am,” King remarked, highlighting the unpredictability and excitement surrounding her latest endeavour.
The 2024 issue also marks Kate Upton’s fourth appearance as a cover star, reinforcing her enduring appeal and prominence in the swimsuit edition’s legacy. Meanwhile, Hunter McGrady, celebrated for her advocacy in body positivity and inclusivity, returns to the spotlight, having first made history in 2017 as the first size 16 model featured in the issue.
This year’s cover lineup, which also includes Chrissy Teigen, reflects Sports Illustrated’s ongoing commitment to diversity and representation within its pages. The inclusion of non-traditional models like King, following in the footsteps of previous cover figures such as tennis star Naomi Osaka and lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart, underscores a broader shift towards embracing a wide array of beauty standards and professional backgrounds.
Analysis
Cultural Impact: Gayle King’s cover star status represents a significant cultural moment, emphasizing the evolving standards of beauty and visibility for women of all ages in mainstream media. It challenges traditional norms and celebrates a more inclusive representation of beauty.
Media Evolution: Sports Illustrated’s decision to feature diverse cover models from various professions and backgrounds illustrates the media’s role in shaping and reflecting societal changes. By selecting King, the magazine not only diversifies its appeal but also broadens its audience, potentially attracting more readers who see themselves represented in its pages.
Professional Implications: For Gayle King, this cover is likely to enhance her public persona beyond her established journalism career. It adds a layer of versatility to her image, showing her in a new light that combines personal bravery with professional visibility.
