Gayle King, 69, Stuns in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Debut, Proving ‘Sexy Is Not an Age’

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Gayle King celebrated a milestone by gracing the cover of this year’s issue Swimsuit illustrated by Sports Number 2024, a revelation that even surprised her during a live segment on CBS Mornings.

While discussing the magazine’s 60th anniversary with fellow models Kate Upton and Hunter McGrady, King, 65, was unexpectedly presented with its cover photo, prompting a joyful exclamation: “I’m In front page ?!”

His initial belief was that his involvement was limited to the interior pages. “They told me I was just going to be inside!” the TV personality exclaimed, marveling at the newsstand cover where she sports a geometric print one-piece swimsuit. As the larger cover image appeared on the screen, King couldn’t hide his excitement: “Is this going to be on the newsstands? Oh my God!”

The segment, hosted by Nate Burleson, also featured a touching moment where McGrady commented on King’s cover, pointing out: “Sexy is not an age. Sexy is not a size. Look how beautiful you are. It’s so inspiring for women of all ages.

King spoke about overcoming her insecurities, recalling her grandmother’s advice about her appearance: “Mother Nature wasn’t as kind to you as she was to other little girls. Maybe you should start to wear makeup like your friend (Oprah Winfrey).” Reflecting on his cover, King confidently said, “But when I look at this, I look pretty darn good.”

The surprises don’t stop there. King learned live that she would also appear on the cover of the Legends edition of Sports Illustratedposing alongside icons like Tyra Banks, Paulina Porizkova and Martha Stewart, all dressed in elegant evening gowns.

Behind-the-scenes footage from King’s photoshoot in Mexico was shared on Oprah Daily magazine’s Instagram, featuring King in a variety of stylish swimsuits, including a bright green halter-neck one-piece and a vintage-style white swimsuit. In the clip, King remarks, “I never thought in a million years that I would be here in a swimsuit for Sports Illustrated – but here I am!”

Fans were quick to react to the post, leaving positive comments like, “Gayle, you look amazing! You glow from the inside out” and “It’s time to show the world that women over 60 still have it!!!🔥 🔥 Go girl!” Actress Viola Davis even left a comment saying, “You are CUUUUTE!!!!! Beauty❤️,” applauding her friend’s big accomplishment.