Christie Brinkley

Christie Brinkley (born Christie Lee Hudson on February 2, 1954) is an American supermodel, actress, and entrepreneur who achieved global fame during the late 1970s and 1980s. Widely recognized as one of the most iconic figures in fashion history, Brinkley made history by appearing on three consecutive Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue covers from 1979 to 1981. Over her career spanning more than five decades, she has graced over 500 magazine covers and established one of the longest-running commercial cosmetics partnerships as the face of CoverGirl.

About

Born in Monroe, Michigan, Brinkley grew up in Los Angeles, California, before moving to Paris in 1973 to study art and work as an illustrator. While in Paris, she was discovered by an American photographer in a post office, launching a modeling career that quickly skyrocketed. Her bright smile, athletic physique, and sun-kissed aesthetic redefined American beauty standards during the golden era of supermodels. Beyond modeling, Brinkley has worked as a photographer, illustrator, television personality, and author, writing the New York Times bestseller Timeless Beauty as well as her memoir Uptown Girl.

Career Highlights

Brinkley's modeling portfolio includes landmark campaigns for major international brands in fashion and beauty. Her 25-year contract with CoverGirl represents one of the longest modeling contracts in cosmetics industry history. In addition to her print modeling, Brinkley expanded into acting, making her feature film debut as the girl in the red Ferrari in the 1983 hit comedy National Lampoon's Vacation, a role she reprised in its 1997 sequel Vegas Vacation. She has also appeared on television in series such as Parks and Recreation and starred on Broadway as Roxie Hart in the musical Chicago, performing in New York, London, and on national tour.

Business Endeavors and Personal Life

As an entrepreneur, Brinkley has launched multiple successful business ventures, including Bellissima, an organic prosecco and sparkling wine line, as well as apparel and skincare collections. She has long been an advocate for health, fitness, and environmental issues, promoting a vegetarian lifestyle and supporting various animal rights and ocean conservation charities. Brinkley has been married four times, most notably to musician Billy Joel from 1985 to 1994, with whom she shares daughter Alexa Ray Joel. She is also a mother to son Jack Brinkley-Cook and daughter Sailor Brinkley Cook. Based in New York's Hamptons region, Brinkley remains single and actively shares lifestyle, fitness, and wellness content with her followers online.