Hunter McGrady, a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model, is proud of her body in the "weird Ozempic era."
The 2024 SI Swimsuit issue featured a photoshoot of the model in Mexico.
Hunter McGrady aims to demonstrate that "sexy is not limited by size."
The magazine, marking its 60th anniversary, has released seven covers. The issue is now available on newsstands.
McGrady hopes her cover will inspire readers to embrace all body types.
""Starting as a straight-sized model at 15 years old, I was a size two and strived for something unattainable. Once I realized this wasn't my journey, I learned to live and be happy. I grew into the person I am today, proud of my body and its accomplishments," said McGrady."
In therapy, she learned to accept and love her body, which was a long road to acceptance for the Los Angeles native.
"I think what Sports Illustrated is doing – celebrating all bodies – is so powerful. They’re doing the work. … Especially right now when we’re entering this weird era, an Ozempic era, and just celebrating thinness." — Hunter McGrady
"In therapy, I discovered the power of our bodies to help us," she shared. "Hating oneself can be lucrative, as it leads to a constant search for ways to improve, which in turn generates income for others. Society encourages us to look and act differently, and this can lead to a never-ending cycle of self-criticism and dissatisfaction.
"I just call it the bulls--- meter."
She was never pressured by SI Swimsuit to lose weight before a photo shoot, and she was incredibly grateful.
"McGrady stated, "I still believe that sexy comes in all sizes, but I had to work on myself first. It's a journey to get there. I'm not saying I don't have bad days, because I do. We're all human. Sports Illustrated's approach of celebrating all bodies is powerful. They're doing the work, especially now in this Ozempic era, where we're focusing on celebrating thinness.""
"McGrady emphasized the importance of showcasing diversity and different body types, ethnicities, and women in sports. He believes that all individuals are important and that Sports Illustrated stands strong in this regard. This, he believes, will continue to move the needle."
Hunter McGrady, a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model, reveals that she prays for her haters on social media: "We need this."
"No matter what you do, you'll receive both hate and love. Negative comments and body shaming are uninteresting. Instead, focus on more exciting topics. Many people find their day's highlight to be shaming others about their appearance. This says more about them than you."
Michael McGrady, the actor and father of McGrady, gave her advice on dealing with "haters," according to her.
"From a young age, I knew that no one would emerge unscathed from the industry. I was always prepared for that, and I've been able to protect myself. However, online bullying is still a prevalent issue that needs to be addressed because there are no consequences for it. People can hide behind a keyboard and say whatever they want without any repercussions," she stated.
If I respond to a mean message, which I rarely do, people will say, 'I was just looking for a response. I love you and love what you do,'" McGrady continued. "Bullies just want to get a rise out of you because you're a public figure, and there are no real consequences for their actions.
McGrady stated that online bullying is widespread and it's a topic that needs to be discussed.
"As a mother of two young children, McGrady said, "I have a 3-year-old and a 1-year-old. My perspective on the world has changed since becoming a mom. I feel more grounded and confident. The moment I arrived on set, I felt beautiful.""
After giving birth, I didn't initially feel very sexy, but as I got to know myself and my new body, I stopped focusing on its aesthetic appeal. Instead, I saw my body for what it had accomplished and how it had brought me two beautiful children. There's a common misconception that becoming a mom means the end of your career and your ability to feel sexy, but that's not the case.
"McGrady continued, "That's all wrong. It's quite the opposite. The world becomes exciting again because you get to live it through that childlike wonder again. It's a freeing feeling. I also stopped caring, quite literally, about what anyone thinks about me. I do whatever I want.""
Self-love is key, she emphasized. Everyone experiences setbacks, and confidence is not a straight path. It's a journey with ups and downs. You may feel on top one moment, only to be knocked down the next. However, it's all about putting in the effort. Many people believe that losing weight is the solution to feeling better, but that's not the case. You can lose or gain weight, achieve any goal, but if you don't prioritize self-love, nothing will matter.
"Starting with self-love is crucial, according to McGrady. Whether through affirmations, therapy, support groups, or any other method, the key is to embrace yourself. Saying 'I am comfortable in my own skin' and 'I feel good inside and out' is what radiates confidence. With this mindset, you can wear a skimpy two-piece or one-piece and confidently enjoy your time in Cancun."
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