Forget retirement, Bethenny Frankel is in her rookie era. At 55, the businesswoman and Real Housewives of New York City alum joined Sports Illustrated’s 2026 Rookie Class. It’s a moment that doesn’t feel like a new act for Bethenny, who has appeared on television and built an empire. Instead, it’s a bonus chapter.
“This feels like the only act because it is completely on my terms and was supposed to be my retirement era, so everything happening now feels like a fun bonus round,” she told HELLO! over email.
This stage has also brought an unexpected surprise for Bethenny. The Just B with Bethenny Frankel podcast host admitted: “I’m honestly surprised to feel more relevant than ever at an age many people consider ‘older.'”
“What’s even more unexpected is how much younger audiences connect with me. It’s inspiring for me, but more importantly, I hope it’s inspiring for others to see what’s possible,” she continued.
And it’s her authenticity that she believes separates her content from the rest. “I think being real and my authentic self sets me apart from other creators,” she said. “People are drawn to honesty and want to engage with people they can trust.”
Bethenny was no stranger to Sports Illustrated prior to joining the 2026 Rookie Class. She walked in the brand’s Swim Week show in Miami last year and returned to the same runway on Saturday. Saying yes to becoming an SI model at this point in her life was both empowering and scary, which she noted is “usually a sign for” her.
“I liked the challenge of landing something that felt out of my comfort zone and actually nailing it,” she said. “To represent women and connect with people through a completely different vehicle is the kind of challenge I’ll always take.”
As for whether there was a moment that made her feel proud of the decision, she recalled: “Backstage after the first walk, I was worried because that runway is so long. You feel like a weirdo trying to be entertaining for what feels like forever and I was definitely nervous. I texted my right hand Danielle and said, ‘Any notes?’ She wrote back, ‘NO NOTES!!!!’ That was the moment I exhaled. Then seeing how many people responded online was wild, because it meant the message was actually reaching people.”
“It reinforced what I hoped to convey: that there is no ‘aging out’ of beauty, and you really can do anything at any stage,” she added.
With her appearing in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Bethenny hopes to inspire other women to embrace themselves. “Rock your own walk. Run your own game. Be your own person and have the best time,” she said of her message. “If you’re laughing and having fun, people laugh with you.”
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