Oldest SI Swimsuit Cover Model Martha Stewart Says Her Star Moment Is a ‘Testament to Good Living’

The TV personality, author and mom is featured on the front of the 2023 issue at 81.

Martha Stewart was photographed by Ruven Afanador in the Dominican Republic.Ruven Afanador/Sports Illustrated

Martha Stewart is making history today as the oldest model to be featured on the cover of the SI Swimsuit Issue. The mom, grandmother, TV host and author, who makes her debut with the magazine this year, joined a segment on TODAY and spoke about her cover girl moment.

“I’m sort of shaking. It’s odd to go to an island and change into nine different bathing suits in one day in front of all those people,” the 81-year-old said with a laugh. “To be on the cover at my age was a challenge, and I think I met the challenge.”

Stewart explained that she got the call from the SI Swimsuit team last November and was asked to pose in the Dominican Republic at the end of January. Stewart was photographed by Ruven Afanador.

“It is a testament to good living. I think that all of us should think about successful living, and not about aging. The whole aging thing is so boring,” she said. “I hope all women really get it together. I hope [these photos] give women an opportunity to revisit their lives and get with the picture.”

Stewart has partnered with Mount Sinai Health System to launch the Martha Stewart Centers for Living, a series of hospitals focused on helping patients “grow old gracefully.”

“We try to instill in people to eat well, exercise well, to have friends, have pets … do all the things that make you happy as you get older,” the New Jersey native explained.

Martha Stewart was photographed by Ruven Afanador in the Dominican Republic.

Ruven Afanador/Sports Illustrated

View Martha Stewart’s full 2023 SI Swimsuit gallery here.

Stewart explained that she gets her confidence from her parents. She noted that her mom wore two-piece swimsuits even after having six kids, and her dad constantly told her she could do anything she put her mind to.

“When you’re through changing, you’re through,” Stewart, who is proud of her “yes” attitude, added. “Change is very good. Evolution is very good. Trying new things, being fearless is very good.”

Martha Stewart was photographed by Ruven Afanador in the Dominican Republic.

Ruven Afanador/Sports Illustrated

Get ready for the hottest event of the year! The 2023 SI Swimsuit Issue is out now, and you won’t want to miss the Swimsuit Issue Launch Party. Secure your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable weekend of glamour, beauty and fun.

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