Salma Hayek Pinault, the acclaimed Academy Award-nominated actress, director and producer, has been in the spotlight. She has recently gained attention as one of the cover stars in the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. At 58, Hayek fearlessly challenges traditional standards of beauty. She exudes an electrifying poise and animus that is palpable in this beautiful bathing suit photo by famed photographer Ruven Afanador. The issue will be on newsstands beginning May 17. It will feature a number of influential models, including Ilona Maher, Alix Earle, Camille Kostek, Suni Lee, Gabby Thomas and Roshumba Williams.
Our photoshoot location was the ultra-luxurious Cuixmala resort in Costalegre, Mexico. It was then, submerged in those chilly Canadian waters, that Hayek truly crossed a rough and powerful current. She told us how thrilled she was to be one of the artists nominated in the magazine. As a young girl, she had looked forward every year to Sports Illustrated Swimsuit magazine to see who would be featured in it.
Reflecting on her long journey to becoming the titular character, Hayek recently opened up about ageism and self-acceptance.
“I don’t see why after a certain age, we have to retract ourselves from embracing life to the fullest,” – Salma Hayek Pinault
While filming, Hayek often struggled with feelings of self-consciousness, found encouragement in the natural world after an unanticipated visit from a nearby whale.
“A whale showed up and jumped out of the sea,” – Salma Hayek Pinault
This experience allowed her to stay in the moment and push through her self-doubt. Hayek is optimistic about how perceptions of beauty and aging have evolved.
“I feel so fortunate that I am part of a generation that has been able to really experience very tangible change,” – Salma Hayek Pinault
Salma Hayek was on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. In a candid, lively interview, she opened up about her views on aging and looked back at her extraordinary career. Her recent milestone birthday was celebrated with a captivating bikini photo that further illustrates her belief in celebrating life at every age.
The 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue is a celebration of all forms of beauty and to take a step in empowering women of all ages. Hayek’s inclusion as a cover star (gorgeous, stunning, amazing cover, by the way) is an indication of this changing narrative in the fashion and entertainment industries. The magazine’s legacy lives on as it continues to feature models that inspire self-confidence and positivity at every age.
