Martha Stewart arrived with a bang, showcasing her prowess.
At the age of 81, she mesmerized viewers by gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated, becoming the oldest woman ever to achieve such a feat. Joining her on this prestigious platform were other remarkable and influential women, such as actress and model Megan Fox, singer and transgender activist Kim Petras, and model Brooks Nader.
On Monday, the magazine unveiled these four captivating covers, and Stewart expressed her delight, calling it a "historic" moment. Speaking to hosts Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb during an interview with Today, the businesswoman revealed her feelings about the shoot as well as what she did in order to prepare her for such an occasion.
Martha Stewart is continuing to make her mark -- this time on the cover of the 2023 SI Swimsuit issue!https://t.co/WqY9v7EwQR
— Sports Illustrated Swimsuit (@SI_Swimsuit) May 15, 2023
"It's a bit surreal to be on an island, changing into nine different bathing suits in a single day, with all those people watching," Stewart shared, reflecting on the experience of revealing the cover for the first time on the show. "I'm quite fond of that picture... and fortunately, everything worked out well!"
In one particular snapshot, Stewart appears sun-kissed, elegantly sporting a black one-piece swimsuit paired with a crochet skirt. Another image captures the seasoned entertainer beaming at the camera, clad in a white one-piece bathing suit complemented by a voluminous orange shawl gracefully draping her shoulders.
When we said this year was going to be epic, we meant it. Find out now who your 2023 SI Swimsuit cover models are!https://t.co/JmTTTteBEt
— Sports Illustrated Swimsuit (@SI_Swimsuit) May 15, 2023
When Martha Stewart received the call about this unique opportunity in November 2022, she described it as an unprecedented request. Despite the challenge posed by her age, she felt that she successfully rose to the occasion.
When questioned about her mental and physical preparation, the lifestyle guru shared, "I didn't deprive myself of food, but I did eliminate bread and pasta from my diet for a couple of months. I engaged in Pilates every other day, which was fantastic. In fact, I continue to maintain that routine because it's so beneficial. Overall, I lead a clean lifestyle—good nutrition, regular exercise, and a focus on skincare and wellness."
Stewart emphasized that her appearance serves as a testament to a well-lived life. "I believe we should all prioritize living well and not fixate on aging," she explained to the hosts. "The concept of aging is simply tiresome. As a matter of fact, I established the Center for Living at Mt. Sinai, a hospital dedicated to the pursuit of graceful aging. Our focus is not on aging itself, but on leading a fulfilling life. We strive to inspire people to eat well, exercise, cultivate friendships, have pets, and engage in activities that bring happiness as they grow older. That's my mission."
However, she also acknowledged the role of her genetics in maintaining her remarkable physique. "My mother was my role model. Even after giving birth to four children, she confidently wore a two-piece swimsuit. She went on to have two more kids and still rocked a two-piece swimsuit. That's truly remarkable. I've inherited good genes," the cover star concluded.
EXCLUSIVE: @MarthaStewart is one of the Sports Illustrated @SInow’s 2023 swimsuit cover models! pic.twitter.com/sXP05DsmJA
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) May 15, 2023
Looking back on the shooting process, the 81-year-old described the experience as enjoyable, remarking, "I mean, they were poking and prodding me, pouring water over my head!... There were no gimmicks. They simply assure you that you look fine. It's nice. It reinforces the idea that what you're doing is acceptable."
As the author of "The Housekeeping Handbook," Stewart had some advice to offer others, encouraging them not to let fear dictate their lives. Instead, she urged them to embrace saying "yes" more often.
"When you stop embracing change, you stop growing. That's one of my mantras," Stewart shared during the interview. "So, change is incredibly beneficial, evolution is a positive thing, and trying new experiences—being fearless—is tremendously valuable. Don't be afraid. Fear nothing."
She further expressed her hope that this cover would provide an opportunity for people, particularly women, to reevaluate their lives and align themselves with their aspirations. "I genuinely hope that this cover gives individuals, especially women, a chance to reassess their lives and get in tune with their true selves," she added.
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Women are frequently subjected to excessive scrutiny, particularly regarding their physical appearance and the concept of "aging gracefully." However, Stewart once again demonstrated, as she has done repeatedly, that age is truly insignificant.
We are unequivocal fans!
