In a groundbreaking moment, Kim Petras, the celebrated transgender pop sensation, made her first major media appearance by gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue.
Petras’s inclusion on the Swimsuit Edition cover sparked controversy on Monday. Alongside Petras, this year’s cover also features Martha Stewart, Megan Fox, and Brooks Nader as models.
MJ Day, the editor-in-chief of SI Swimsuit, stated that this year’s issue doesn’t follow a specific theme but carries a vision and sentiment, aiming for a world where women feel unrestricted both internally and externally. However, this doesn’t negate the unique qualities shared by the women featured, as they all embody a state of constant transformation.
Describing Petras, Day wrote, “As a Grammy-winning pop star and an inspiration to the LGBTQ+ community, Kim has forged her own path to superstardom, defying conventional norms along the way.”
Despite the honor bestowed upon Petras by Sports Illustrated, the decision to include her as one of the models faced criticism.
Petras expressed her excitement upon receiving the call from Sports Illustrated, stating, “It’s a monumental dream come true for me because of its iconic status and the many other iconic figures who have graced its pages before me.” She admitted to feeling nervous initially, wondering if she was up to the task. However, as they started shooting, she realized she was capable and embraced the opportunity.
“My hope is for people to see Sports Illustrated as incredible and for them to see me looking great in this,” she added.
Petras also acknowledged the pressure she feels to represent the transgender community in everything she does, given her gratitude for reaching this point and the inspiration she provides to transgender individuals.
Meanwhile, Bud Light faced significant backlash after hiring transgender actress and TikTok star Dylan Mulvaney as one of its brand ambassadors. The decision ignited a wave of criticism directed at the beer company.
During an episode of the “Dear Schuyler” podcast, Mulvaney disclosed her struggles with sleepless nights due to the overwhelming backlash against the company’s choice.
Despite the anger she feels towards the attacks on her and the beer company, Mulvaney strives to approach her detractors with grace. She emphasized the importance of maintaining composure despite the challenges she faces.