Christie Brinkley remains a fan favorite in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue world.
The iconic model and actress first posed for the cover of the iconic Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue back in 1979. The issue came out on February 5, 1979. It was instantly a fan favorite.
Brinkley went on to pose for the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue cover three consecutive years. She remains one of the most iconic models in the history of the magazine. Brinkley later had success as an actress, appearing in "National Lampoon's Vacation" in 1983.
Richard Deitsch shared the iconic photo on Thursday.
Brinkley, now 72, remains appreciative for her time with the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. She has a lot of adoration for the magazine.
Iconic swimsuit model reflects on swimsuit issue
"Sports Illustrated is has really turned into the most amazing magazine. It's always been great and amazing, but to be there, this time, having just turned 70 ... 70 is one of those birthday milestones, where you look back and you look forward and you really sum everything up and you get all emotional," she told "TODAY" in 2024. "I felt like, I'm 70 and they've asked me to come be on another cover."
Brinkley appeared in the issue back in 2024, too, though not in a swimsuit, but rather a gown.
"Yes, I was covered from my wrist to my ankles, but still, they're inclusive," she said. "I know what that means, to start to feel invisible, like you don't have the same thing happening as you get older ... It's really nice to to be included."