Latest news with #SwimsuitIssue
Perth Now
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Perth Now
'It is incredibly freeing': Lauren Chan is a lot more comfortable after coming out as a lesbian
Lauren Chan is "much more comfortable" since coming out. The 34-year-old model came out as a lesbian in a 2023 article for Sports Illustrated and admits that no longer being in the "male gaze" has lifted a weight from her shoulders. Lauren told People magazine: "I'm so much more comfortable in myself. In coming out, I've ditched the male gaze, and it is incredibly freeing because I used to perceive myself in the way that the patriarchy wants us to consider women. If I had a part of my body that made me insecure based on the beauty ideal, it would ruin my entire sense of self. "Since being in the female gaze, I've realised that that doesn't exist. I fully believe that the way I show up to represent women does not always have to be flattering. Some of my favourite work is about making the body look relaxed or bigger. It's healing in a lot of ways. Bigger bodies are artful too." Lauren - who founded the plus-size clothing brand Henning - appeared in the famous Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue earlier this year and is delighted that the publication gave her the opportunity to silence cruel trolls. She said: "Women are everything to me, literally. "This year, for Sports Illustrated, I got to write an essay for the print edition called 'For The Girls'. The essay is about the fact that I am not asking for permission to take up space. I'm taking it. "The essay and cover both came about after a man trolled me on my Instagram when Sports Illustrated Swimsuit announced my return to the issue with a picture. "The person said, 'Who are we even doing this for? Women? This doesn't make any sense.' I'm so glad that happened. I love my trolls because they give me an opportunity to educate, so bring it on." Lauren is set to marry her partner, film director Hayley Kosan, later this year and revealed that she entered her "bridal era" after her Sports Illustrated cover appearance gave her wedding "vibes". She said: "Engaged life is great. My (swimsuit photoshoot) looks are giving bridal (vibes). There was tulle, there was beading, there were pearls. "I'm very much in my bridal era, and I'm really excited about that. It's been really comforting and celebratory. I'm not at all ashamed of choosing a new path for myself. I feel really calm and comforted."
Geek Vibes Nation
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
'Beyond The Gaze: Jule Campbell's Swimsuit Issue' Review - An Intimate Account Of A Trailblazer
Some people mark time in a career and let it pass them by. Then, some do more than watch the hours fly by; instead, they bring time to a halt. Jule Campbell was undoubtedly the latter. Beyond The Gaze: Jule Campbell's Swimsuit Issue brings us an intimate look at Campbell's legacy as the founder of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. In her own words, 'I'm glad I never had a boring life.' The documentary tells how this brash and determined woman entered a male-dominated industry and turned the popular sports magazine into a cultural phenomenon. Full of candor, the film helps us understand Jule (in the movie in her twilight years) and how her trailblazing efforts are still felt today, in front of and behind the camera. Documentaries are difficult, particularly when the subject is alive. We meet Jule in the film at the age of 93, living in her family's farmhouse in Flemington, New Jersey. However, there is a moment early on when Jule and the director Jill Campbell (Jule's ex-daughter-in-law) look up the meaning of the word documentary . 'Dealing freely with historical events, especially of a recent or controversial nature.' This is a fitting definition and serves as this documentary's capstone. Jule Campbell and Elle McPhearson – Photo courtesy of Rob Lyons, Red Barn Productions LLC This is not a cradle-to-grave story but highlights an essential part of Jule Campbell's life. However, we do learn an interesting facet of her early life. She wanted to be an artist when she was young, but her parents pushed her in a different direction. This artistic spirit is essential to the work Jule did while at Sports Illustrated, but also for the inspirational legacy she leaves behind. To hear Jule's own words on working for the magazine, we are given first-hand accounts of how innovative, if not revolutionary, the whole swimsuit concept was at the time. Interestingly, Jule refuses to call herself a trailblazer because women worked at magazines long before she came on the scene. However, we cannot downplay her creative footing. Jule successfully challenged the norms of the day while entering a male-dominated industry. Whereas others might have seen to exploit or overindulge, particularly when it came to a swimsuit edition, Jule held her ground. ' If you respect beauty,' she says, ' you've nourished your soul.' This line of thinking was instrumental to Jule as she fought stereotypes, societal norms, and chaotic attitudes. Paulina Porizcova, Kim Alexis, and Jule Campbell – Photo courtesy of Jule's personal collection The models she worked with for the magazine share this philosophy equally. As much as the documentary showcases Jule's innovative approach to the magazine edition, it dedicates much of itself to hearing from the women Jule mentored. The film shares personal stories from Christie Brinkley, Tyra Banks, Roshumba Williams, and more. Each praises Jule and compliments how her efforts at Sports Illustrated launched many of their careers and redefined feminism. Each of these women remarks fondly on Jule. Whereas other photographers or editors would seek gratuitous shots, Jule stood as a bulwark, protecting her models like a fierce mother hen. Interestingly, director Campbell notes this is not just a film about women in bikinis. The reverence Brinkley, Banks, and others have for Jule speaks to her character and artistic integrity. Part of the film asks about the relevance of such work, particularly in the modern age. Many call out the magazine for its perceptions of femininity and adherence to the male gaze. Many of the charges hurled at the magazine now are the same ones going back decades. There will always be heckles from the peanut gallery or mobs of Karen brigades. Jule, both then and at the time of the documentary, is unfazed and wears each criticism as a badge of honor. The film neither touts nor disgraces the magazine or its industry. Instead, the focus remains on the pioneering effort of one Jule Campbell and how that reshaped an industry. Jule Campbell, Kathy Ireland and Carol Alt – Photo courtesy of Philip Jache Beyond The Gaze serves as more than the title. It is a daring proclamation. Elle MacPherson, who also appears in the film, calls Jule a powerhouse and someone who came in with a voice and an opinion. For an industry dominated by men and accentuated by the male gaze, Jule's work is a testament to breaking down gender roles and shattering glass ceilings. The film, if nothing else, brilliantly answers the critics of the swimsuit edition. In a world before trends, hashtags, or social media pressures, Jule stood alone and proud. Her work is not only as a pioneer in the industry but also as an artist who straddles the line between showcasing female beauty and ethical considerations. The film showcases Jule at her home in her final years. For 32 years, she was the editor of the swimsuit edition, but her legacy is more than the mere title she held. Campbell captures this legacy through stories while weaving an inspirational tale of determination and empowerment. Beyond The Gaze is not an oral history on Sports Illustrated or an album on a person's life. Instead, it is frank documentation about a woman who left an enduring mark on our culture. It was more than a simple magazine shoot, but a conversation on artistic expression. Beyond The Gaze: Jule Campbell's Swimsuit Issue is currently playing in select theaters.
Pink Villa
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Who is Olivia Ponton? Meet NFL player Joe Burrow's alleged girlfriend
Olivia Ponton has gone from Sports Illustrated Swimsuit sensation to NFL sweetheart overnight. The model's low-key romance with Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is capturing the attention of fans. The two were spotted on a late-night stroll in New York City, and their early morning apartment arrival quickly fired up the rumor mill. This comes after six months of speculation and a few headline-making appearances behind them. Here's a detailed look at Ponton and her connection to Burrow. Rising star from Naples: Ponton's modeling journey Olivia Ponton first made headlines as a 19-year-old when she debuted in the 2022 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Originally from Naples, Florida, she balanced high school athletics with weekend modeling shoots. 'It was such a dream,' Ponton told USA Today about her SI debut. Her glossy portfolio now includes campaigns for SKIMS, Juicy Couture, Frankies Bikinis, and Ralph Lauren. According to The Hindustan Times, she returned to the Swimsuit in 2023. This came as a rare second appearance that swiftly cemented her status as one of IMG's fastest-rising faces. The pair first sparked speculation last December when Ponton was present during a break-in at Joe Burrow's Ohio home. 'Someone broke into my house… It's like completely messed up,' she said in the call, according to police audio obtained by TMZ. A Hamilton County Sheriff's Office report identified her as an employee at Burrow's residence, and neither Ponton nor Burrow confirmed a relationship at the time. Public sightings confirm connection after Big Apple date night On June 20, Burrow and Ponton stepped out in New York City, reigniting dating talk. Photographs obtained by The New York Post show them entering a Manhattan apartment building at 3 am, accompanied by friends, including former LSU gymnast Livvy Dunne. According to People, they hit multiple hotspots—Burrow in a grey hoodie and distressed jeans, Ponton in a crisp white blouse and black mini-shorts. Their earlier public appearance came at the F1 Miami Grand Prix in May, where TMZ cameras captured them exiting the same vehicle side-by-side. Beyond the limelight: Ponton's personal side In interviews, Ponton has been open about her fluid sexuality. In a January 2024 TikTok, she said, 'I love kissing all types of people so all I'm here (to do) is literally to spread love...' She came out publicly as bisexual for Teen Vogue in 2021 and now identifies as pansexual. That honesty has made her an advocate for LGBTQIA+ youth. Off-camera, she reportedly enjoys beach volleyball, cooking, and traveling. As Joe Burrow prepares for another NFL season, Olivia Ponton remains a constant presence at his side. While neither has officially named the other, their New York outing proved that some stories write themselves.
International Business Times
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- International Business Times
Brooks Nader Goes Topless as She Teases Her Ex Gleb Savchenko During Bikini Break in Cabo
Brooks Nader appeared to send a bold message to her ex, Gleb Savchenko, as she went topless during a bikini getaway despite local laws prohibiting it. The 28-year-old Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model, who recently hinted she might be open to dating women, was spotted baring it all while vacationing in Cabo San Lucas. While public nudity and topless sunbathing are generally against the law in Mexico, there are certain exceptions, such as designated adults-only resorts, according to the Los Cabos Guide. Nader confidently flaunted her jaw-dropping model figure, wearing only a pair of red thong bikini bottoms as she took a dip in the ocean with her boobs all out. Topless Beauty Sending Bold Message The blonde beauty completed her bold beach look with oversized gold hoop earrings and gold-framed aviator sunglasses with orange-tinted lenses. Nader pulled her dirty blonde hair back into a sleek ponytail, highlighting her natural beauty with subtle, complementary makeup. She later slipped into a sheer, flowing red cover-up that matched her bikini bottoms—but left it untied, revealing her bountiful chest. She wasn't vacationing solo either, as a few friends joined her and snapped photos of her lounging poolside. This beach outing comes just weeks after Brooks opened up about her romantic future, revealing she's considering dating women following her breakup with Gleb Savchenko. Brooks also candidly admitted that "all of her exes hate her." The model, who recently made waves in a form-fitting outfit during a night out, shared the personal details at a New York City event. The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit alum, previously rumored to be linked to Tom Brady, brought up her former relationship during the launch of the magazine's latest issue, even throwing subtle shade at Gleb following their April split. Brooks also hinted she's already moved on and is thinking about what she wants in a future partner. The two were previously paired on Dancing with the Stars. No More Hangover At the same event, Brooks jokingly called out her sister, Grace Ann Nader, for revealing intimate details about her and Gleb's relationship during a recent podcast appearance they did together earlier in the week. She also came close to an awkward encounter with her ex-husband, Billy Haire, at the same event—just days after officially finalizing their divorce, nearly three years after they initially split. While celebrating her seventh appearance in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue last month, the blonde beauty shared that she's now open to dating women following her recent breakup. She described herself as "freshly single" during an interview with ET, revealing that she's already moved on in the two or three weeks since ending her relationship with the professional dancer. "It's a wrap on that one," she said. "But yeah, no I'm not looking for anything. I'm rocking with work." Nader was previously married to advertising executive Billy Haire for four years before the couple went their separate ways. They tied the knot in 2019, split in 2022, and officially finalized their divorce just a few days ago earlier this week.
Daily Mail
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
The WORST dressed celebs at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue launch party
Reality stars, influencers, and models gathered to celebrate the launch of the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in New York on Thursday - but not everyone looked the part. As expected, the women didn't hold back with their glitzy, and sometimes revealing, looks on the red carpet. From plunging necklines and sheer fabric to dangerously high splits, the fashion on display left little to the imagination and in some cases completely missed the mark. Leading the faux pas was social media star Remi Bader who wore a completely see-through black mesh dress that revealed her slimmed-down physique. The former plus-size influencer, who had bariatric surgery to lose weight after becoming famous, confidently flaunted her figure. Not to be outdone, fellow influencer Sarah Nicole Landry turned heads in a completely sheer bodysuit. The mom-of-four covered up her bottom half with a long black skirt but her breasts were still on full display and only covered by black tape. DJ and influencer Xandra Pohl showed off her cleavage and long legs in a flirty little frock which featured an oddly puffed out skirt. While model Lorena Duran was completely covered up in a long-sleeved dress with a high neck, the print featured a naked woman's torso which didn't quite make the impact she may have hoped for. Lauren Chan, a Canadian model and advocate for size inclusivity, is one of four women gracing the cover of this year's issue, joining Salma Hayek, gymnast Jordan Chiles, and college athlete Oliviia Dunne. Speaking to People, Chan said: 'I'm the first out lesbian on the cover - with her own cover - and how much that means to me makes that surprise feel so overwhelming. 'That's where I feel like the tears of joy and celebration and relief and community come from.' Many fans have congratulated Chan, while others questioned why it was even being discussed at all. Such people have left comments that read: 'How is her sex life anybody's business?' and 'It's 2025. Nobody cares.' Another user wrote, 'She's beautiful. Why can't we just focus on the cover? Why is it all about sexuality? Smh.' Sports Illustrated has faced similar criticism in recent years for breaking traditional beauty standards. In 2020, Valentina Sampaio became the first transgender model to feature in the issue and in 2021, Leyna Bloom became the first transgender cover star, followed by pop star Kim Petras landing a cover in 2023. Chan herself fired back at critics after someone left a dismissive comment on a photo from her shoot for the mag which shows her posing on a Bermudan beach in an off-white lace two-piece. Hitting the mark: Renee Herbert and Elisha Herbert proudly flaunted their slender figures in stunning sheer gowns Chan posted a screenshot of the remark, left by an Instagram user named Caiser Hogan, who wrote, 'Who are they even doing this for anymore? Women?? This makes zero sense.' In the post, Chan responded, 'This is exactly why I show up in this space with my full chest.' She added that the magazine is meant for women - for representation and inspiration - not as 'an objectifying catalogue of fantasy for patriarchal pawns.' In a second slide, she added: 'Wait 'til he finds out I'm a lesbian.' In the caption, Chan explained that the comment 'struck a chord with me' and said she deliberately left it up for everyone to see. She wrote: 'The inclusion of myself and other folks that represent minorities in SI Swimsuit signifies an evolution in how women are allowed to exist in this society and which women deserve respect.' Chan continued: 'This man is insinuating that because I am a size 14, Asian and Middle Eastern, a lesbian, etc., that I am unattractive to him individually and that therefore no man, based on the patriarchal beauty standard, could deem me worthy of being in this publication.' The influencer went on to explain that the magazine is helping to redefine beauty 'through the female gaze,' and that every woman should feel seen in its pages. She said: 'It is not an outdated, objectifying catalogue of fantasy for patriarchal pawns. If that makes men feel irrelevant and angry enough to throw a tantrum in my comments ... I see no issue publicly and permanently addressing them.' She signed off her rebuttal to the comment by throwing her full support behind the magazine's mission, writing that she believes in it 'with [her] whole heart,' and said: 'SI Swimsuit 2025 is for the girls.'
