The news of Gayle King gracing the cover of the 2024 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue has taken the media world by storm. The “CBS Mornings” anchor was left speechless on air as she received the bombshell news during a live interview with fellow cover star Kate Upton.
At 69 years old, Ms. King’s solo cover portrait was shot in Cancún, Mexico, showcasing her in a colorful printed Evarae one-piece and matching cover-up. The unexpected cover feature came as a shock to Ms. King, who initially thought it was a joke when she was approached to appear in the iconic publication.
With the theme of this year’s swimsuit issue focusing on legacy and longevity, Ms. King was persuaded to participate by editor MJ Day. Despite initial hesitations, she embraced the opportunity with the support of her children, Kirby Bumpus and William Bumpus Jr., and her close friend Oprah Winfrey.
Ms. King’s confidence and comfort in her own skin shone through in the photoshoot, with minimal retouching done to maintain her authenticity. The anchor’s presence on the cover marks a significant moment for Sports Illustrated, as editor MJ Day continues to push for diversity and inclusivity in the publication.
In a phone interview, Day praised Ms. King as a trailblazer in journalism and a symbol of strength and passion. The decision to feature a non-model on the cover is a deliberate choice to challenge traditional beauty standards and empower women of all backgrounds.
Ms. King’s appearance on the cover of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue is not just a milestone for her career, but a statement of empowerment and self-acceptance for women everywhere.
