Kathy Ireland ruled the runways in the ’80s and ’90s, graced 13 consecutive Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues, and amassed a jaw-dropping $420 million fortune.
With Elizabeth Taylor as her mentor and the world at her feet, she was the definition of iconic.
But nothing will prepare you for how this 62-year-old legend looks today…
Discovered in high school
With her radiant smile, stunning red hair, and those unforgettable blue eyes, Kathy Ireland became the ultimate magazine cover queen. Her natural charm and flawless physique didn’t just turn heads — they defined an era.
Born in sunny Santa Barbara in 1963, Kathy Ireland got her start in modeling as a teenager — and it didn’t take long before the world took notice. With her all-American charm and Hollywood-level glamour, she quickly became a household name, landing magazine covers and winning fans across the globe.
It all started when Ireland was just sixteen in 1979. She was discovered at her high school by Elite Model Management, which kickstarted her journey to superstardom.
Early in her career, Ireland also experienced the darker side of the modeling industry.
”When you work as a model, your job description is basically to just shut up and pose, and people pick you apart no matter what you look like. They will find something wrong with you,” she told FIRST For Women in 2014.
Once, a photographer once crossed the line with her when she was a teenager and wanted her to pose topless. Kathy didn’t feel comfortable – but the photographer didn’t respect her ”no”.
”He was pushing, and he got a little physical with me and shoved me. So I decked him,” Kathy shared.
