There was a time when Cheryl Tiegs was everywhere. Her beautiful blonde hair, dazzling smile, and unmistakable California-girl charm made her one of the most recognizable women in America.

During the 1970s and 1980s, millions of people admired her photographs on magazine covers, advertisements, and posters. She wasn’t simply another beautiful model. She was a cultural phenomenon who helped change the fashion industry forever.

Today, at 79 years old, Cheryl Tiegs is approaching another remarkable milestone: her 80th birthday on September 25, 2027.

And for fans who remember her from her modeling days, her more recent appearances are a wonderful reminder that beauty, elegance, and confidence don’t have an expiration date.

The Girl Who Became America’s First Supermodel

Cheryl Rae Tiegs was born on September 25, 1947, in Breckenridge, Minnesota.

Her family later moved to California, where she spent much of her childhood.

Interestingly, becoming a world-famous model wasn’t originally her dream.

As a young woman, Cheryl imagined a quieter career, even expressing an interest in becoming a librarian.

But fate had other plans.

While still a teenager, she began modeling and appeared in an advertisement for Seventeen magazine.

Her natural beauty quickly caught the attention of photographers and fashion editors.

Before long, she was appearing in major publications and traveling around the world for glamorous photo shoots.

By the early 1970s, Cheryl Tiegs had become one of America’s most sought-after models.

The Photographs That Made History

For many Americans, Cheryl will always be remembered for her appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.

She appeared on the magazine’s cover three times, helping establish the publication as a major cultural event.

One of her most famous photographs was taken in 1978, when she posed in a white fishnet swimsuit during a photo shoot in Brazil.

The photograph became one of the most talked-about images of the decade.

Another famous photograph showed Cheryl wearing a pink bikini, an image that became an unforgettable part of 1970s popular culture.

Her success extended far beyond swimsuit modeling.

She appeared on the covers of Vogue, Elle, and TIME, becoming one of the first models whose name was widely recognized by the general public.

Her popularity helped establish the modern concept of the supermodel.

More Than Just a Pretty Face

While Cheryl’s appearance made her famous, her business instincts helped her build a lasting career.

In 1980, she launched the Cheryl Tiegs Collection for Sears.

The clothing line became enormously successful, bringing fashionable, affordable clothing to ordinary American women.

At a time when celebrity clothing collections were far less common, Cheryl was helping pioneer a new approach to fashion marketing.

Her business achievements demonstrated that she was more than a glamorous face on a magazine cover.

She was also an entrepreneur who understood the importance of connecting with everyday consumers.

Her success inspired other models to pursue opportunities beyond traditional fashion photography.

Marriage, Motherhood, and Family Life

Away from the cameras, Cheryl experienced the same personal challenges and changes that many women face throughout their lives.

She has been married four times.

Her former husbands include filmmaker Stan Dragoti, photographer Peter Beard, actor Anthony Peck, and yoga instructor Rod Stryker.

Although those marriages ended, Cheryl found tremendous meaning in motherhood.

She is the mother of three sons.

Her eldest son, Zachary, was born during her marriage to Anthony Peck, the son of legendary Hollywood actor Gregory Peck.

She later welcomed twin sons, Theo and Jaden, through surrogacy during her marriage to Rod Stryker.

As her children grew older, Cheryl gradually embraced a more private lifestyle.

Rather than constantly pursuing publicity, she focused on family, personal interests, and charitable causes.

What Cheryl Tiegs Looks Like Today

Although Cheryl no longer appears regularly in fashion magazines, she occasionally attends public events.

One of her most recent appearances took place on September 27, 2025, at the Project Angel Food Angel Awards in Los Angeles.

The event celebrated a charitable organization dedicated to providing meals to people living with serious illnesses.

At 78, Cheryl arrived wearing an elegant black suit, a white ruffled blouse, and striking over-the-knee boots.

Her sophisticated appearance attracted attention and reminded fans of the effortless style that made her famous decades earlier.

Instead of trying to recreate her appearance from the 1970s, Cheryl embraced a mature, confident look.

Her signature blonde hair and recognizable smile remained familiar to longtime admirers.

For fans who remember her legendary magazine covers, seeing Cheryl today is a nostalgic reminder of an unforgettable era.

Her Thoughts on Aging and Beauty

Over the years, Cheryl has spoken openly about her approach to aging.

Rather than viewing growing older as something to fear, she has emphasized the importance of personal growth, education, and maintaining an active lifestyle.

She has discussed her enjoyment of yoga, hiking, and spending time outdoors.

Cheryl has also explained that beauty involves much more than physical appearance.

For her, continuing to learn, remaining curious, and developing as a person are important parts of feeling beautiful.

Her philosophy reflects a broader message about aging with confidence.

While physical appearances naturally change over time, personal fulfillment and self-respect can continue growing.

A Legacy That Will Never Fade

As Cheryl Tiegs approaches her 80th birthday, her influence on American fashion remains undeniable.

She helped transform modeling from an industry where individual faces were often anonymous into one where models could become household names.

Her groundbreaking magazine covers, successful business ventures, and unforgettable photographs helped shape an entire generation’s understanding of beauty and style.

But perhaps her most meaningful achievement is the life she built beyond the spotlight.

After decades of fame, Cheryl has demonstrated that happiness doesn’t always require constant public attention.

Today, she continues to be remembered as one of the original American supermodels.

For those who grew up admiring her photographs, seeing Cheryl at 79 is a reminder of how quickly the years pass.

Yet her familiar smile still brings back memories of an era filled with iconic fashion, legendary magazine covers, and unforgettable Hollywood glamour.

Cheryl Tiegs may be approaching 80, but her place in American pop culture is timeless. And for millions of longtime fans, she will always be one of the most beautiful and unforgettable faces of her generation.