Ashley Graham

Ashley Graham is an American curve model, television host, author, and body-positivity advocate. Born on October 30, 1987, in Lincoln, Nebraska, she achieved global recognition as a pioneering figure in the fashion world, breaking long-standing industry barriers by promoting size inclusivity and body diversity across high-fashion runways, global brand campaigns, and mainstream media outlets.

Modeling Breakthrough and Achievements

Graham was discovered in 2000 by an agent while attending a shopping mall in Omaha, Nebraska. She signed with Wilhelmina Models in 2001 and later moved to Ford Models in 2003, starting her career with commercial print work and plus-size catalog modeling. Her career reached a historic milestone in 2016 when she became the first size-16 model to grace the cover of the annual Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Following this landmark feature, Graham walked high-profile international runways for prominent luxury fashion houses, including Michael Kors, Fendi, Tommy Hilfiger, and Dolce & Gabbana. Additionally, she has appeared on the covers of international editions of Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, and Glamour, establishing herself as one of the world's most influential models.

Media, Hosting, and Commercial Projects

Beyond her modeling endeavors, Graham has established a dynamic career as a television personality and entrepreneur. She served as a judge and backstage host on the revival of America's Next Top Model and hosted the beauty competition series American Beauty Star. In 2018, she launched her interview podcast Pretty Big Deal, hosting conversations with prominent cultural figures. Graham is also an accomplished author, having published her memoir, A New Model: What Confidence, Beauty, and Power Really Look Like, in 2017. As an entrepreneur and designer, she has partnered on capsule collections with brands such as Swimsuits for All, Marina Rinaldi, and JCPenney, creating swimwear and apparel tailored specifically for curvy women.

Personal Life and Advocacy

Graham met video director and cinematographer Justin Ervin at a church service in 2009, and the couple married in August 2010. They have three sons: Isaac, born in January 2020, and twin boys Malachi and Roman, born in January 2022. Based in the United States, Graham uses her extensive digital presence to share authentic perspectives on motherhood, wellness, and self-acceptance, remaining a leading advocate for realistic representation in global beauty standards.