Maye Musk said she almost turned down a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit photo shoot because she worried about showing signs of aging, including wrinkles and cellulite. She ultimately agreed after her daughter encouraged her to take the opportunity, Musk told Fox News Digital in an interview published October 11, 2026.
Musk appeared on the magazine’s cover in 2022 at age 74, becoming its oldest cover model at the time. Martha Stewart later surpassed that record, appearing on the cover at 81 in 2023. Musk is revisiting her career and life in her book, “Timeless.”
She said she felt more comfortable once the shoot began and described the experience as a chance to celebrate herself and explore Belize. Musk also said she did not color her silver hair or otherwise try to look younger for the cover.
In the interview, Musk reflected on body confidence and aging, saying she hoped women would feel less pressure to hide their bodies. She also recounted earlier modeling work, including a nude photo shoot for TIME magazine, which she said her son Kimbal encouraged her to accept. These recollections are Musk’s account, as reported by Fox News Digital.
Musk, a longtime dietitian, also discussed her approach to healthy eating and said she encourages patients to plan ahead and make deliberate choices. Her remarks reflect her personal guidance and professional experience; they are not a substitute for individualized medical or nutrition advice.
