Christie Brinkley is claiming credit for discovering Brooks Nader.
The 72-year-old modeling legend said Style at the Humane World for Animals’ annual To the Rescue! Gala that she spotted Nader at a 2019 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit casting call and made her personal pick. “I discovered her, and she gives me full credit,” Brinkley said. “She was my pick. She had lots of personality, and, of course, she’s a gorgeous girl.”
Brinkley first appeared in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit in the 1970s and became the first model to land three consecutive covers of what the industry calls the “bikini bible.” That longevity has made her a natural mentor for younger models entering the franchise.
Nader, 29, has since built her own SI resume across seven issues, including a solo cover in 2023. The Louisiana native has also branched into reality television and acting.
Brinkley outlined her core advice for Nader in blunt terms. “I say to arrive on time and with a smile,” she shared. “And to have fun, but be professional and be part of the team.”
The two women have remained visibly connected within the SI orbit and beyond. They recently coordinated outfits at a Cannes event for Fox’s upcoming “Baywatch” reboot, both wearing dresses matching the franchise’s signature red hue.
Nader has a role in that series, which reimagines the classic beach-rescue drama. Brinkley posed with the cast at the same promotional appearance, though she has not been confirmed for any onscreen cameo.
The 2019 casting call where Brinkley first noticed Nader came early in the younger model’s career, before her reality TV profile or her SI cover. Nader has since spoken openly about industry pressures, including her stance on Ozempic transparency and navigating Instagram-era fame.
Brinkley’s mentorship extends beyond slogans into repeated public appearances alongside Nader. The Cannes event marked their latest joint outing, with Brinkley lending established-star credibility to a project on Nader’s acting resume.
The “Baywatch” reboot does not yet have a confirmed premiere date. Brinkley said Style she will be watching for potential cameo opportunities as the project moves forward.