Salma Hayek’s appearance on the cover of the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue marks a powerful and inspiring moment in the magazine’s history. At 58 years old, the Oscar-nominated actress has shattered conventional beauty standards and redefined what it means to be a swimsuit cover star. This milestone not only celebrates her timeless beauty but also highlights a broader cultural shift toward inclusivity and empowerment in the fashion and entertainment industries.
Salma Hayek’s Historic Cover Reveal
Salma Hayek was unveiled as one of four cover stars for the 61st edition of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Alongside Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, social media star Olivia Dunne, and model-entrepreneur Lauren Chan, Hayek brings a unique blend of grace, talent, and advocacy to the spotlight. The cover photo, shot in Mexico, features Hayek kneeling in a shallow pool, wearing a vibrant green swimsuit designed by Colombian designer Johanna Ortiz, paired with exquisite jewelry from Los Angeles-based Jacquie Aiche. This image captures her radiant confidence and natural beauty, defying ageist stereotypes that often dominate the industry.
In an interview on the TODAY show, Hayek expressed her astonishment at being chosen for the cover. She recalled her younger days when she admired the magazine from afar, never imagining she could be featured herself, especially at an age when many women feel sidelined. “I never thought that was a possibility, and for it to happen when I’m 58, it’s really shocking,” she said. This candid reflection underscores the significance of her role as a trailblazer for women of all ages, particularly within the Latinx community, where she is seen as a beacon of strength and representation.
Breaking Barriers and Redefining Beauty
Salma Hayek’s Sports Illustrated cover is not just about glamour; it’s a statement about age positivity and body confidence. She shared that in her generation, many Mexican women believed they would be dismissed by the time they hit 35. Her cover challenges that narrative, offering a message of liberation and self-acceptance. Hayek’s journey to the shoot was not without challenges—she faced “impostor syndrome,” tried on over 100 swimsuits, and even lost her suitcase containing many of her outfits and skincare essentials en route to the shoot. Yet, a magical moment during the shoot, when a whale majestically jumped behind her, transformed her nerves into exhilaration.
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit editor, MJ Day, praised Hayek as “a force of nature” and highlighted her multifaceted career as an actor, director, producer, and women’s rights champion. Hayek’s inclusion among 34 other diverse and inspiring women in the issue reflects the magazine’s commitment to celebrating individuality, strength, and purpose beyond traditional modeling norms.
The Cultural Impact of Salma Hayek’s SI Swimsuit Feature
This edition of Sports Illustrated is a celebration of diversity and empowerment. Featuring women from various backgrounds, professions, and ages, the issue sends a clear message: beauty is multifaceted and timeless. Hayek’s cover, in particular, resonates deeply with audiences who have long awaited greater representation of mature women in mainstream media.
Her presence on the cover also aligns with a growing movement in fashion and entertainment that embraces aging gracefully and confidently. By stepping into this role, Hayek inspires not only her peers but also younger generations to challenge societal expectations and embrace their authentic selves.
Key Highlights of Salma Hayek’s Sports Illustrated Feature
- Age-defying cover star at 58 years old, breaking stereotypes about beauty and age.
- Photographed in Mexico, wearing a green Johanna Ortiz swimsuit with jewelry by Jacquie Aiche.
- Part of a diverse group of four cover stars, including Olympic athletes and entrepreneurs.
- Expressed surprise and excitement about representing women over 50 in a traditionally youth-focused magazine.
- Praised by SI editor MJ Day for her impact as an artist and advocate for women’s empowerment.
What This Means for the Future
Salma Hayek’s Sports Illustrated cover is more than a photoshoot; it’s a cultural milestone that challenges outdated beauty ideals and celebrates empowerment at every age. Her story encourages women everywhere to embrace their bodies and their stories without fear or hesitation. As the industry continues to evolve, this moment sets a precedent for more inclusive representation in fashion and media.
For fans and followers of Salma Hayek, this Sports Illustrated feature is a reminder that confidence and beauty are not confined by age, and that true power comes from living authentically and boldly.
Celebrate Salma Hayek’s groundbreaking Sports Illustrated cover and join the conversation about redefining beauty standards today. Discover how her inspiring journey is changing the narrative for women everywhere.