Salma Hayek Pinault Shines with Timeless Grace on SI Swimsuit Cover
Academy Award nominee Salma Hayek Pinault has established a remarkable legacy both in Hollywood and beyond. Originally from Mexico, she began her acting journey with roles in telenovelas and made a striking breakthrough in the U.S. during the 1990s with films like Desperado, From Dusk Till Dawn, and Wild Wild West. Over the years, she has evolved into a celebrated movie star, inspirational activist, and globally recognized name. She earned an Oscar nomination for her role in Frida, which she also produced, becoming the first Mexican actress to be nominated for the Best Actress category at the Academy Awards.
SI Swimsuit is ecstatic to announce that Hayek Pinault graces the cover of the 2025 issue. Embarking on this exciting venture, the formidable talent who made her directing debut with the Emmy Award-winning TV film The Maldonado Miracle in 2003, returned to her roots in Mexico for a breathtaking photo shoot. Captured by the lens of photographer Ruven Afanador, Hayek Pinault embodied the essence of powerful beachside elegance at the prestigious Cuixmala luxury resort.
On set with SI Swimsuit for her iconic cover feature, the devoted human rights advocate, with a strong commitment to uplifting women and immigrants, reflected on embracing her genuine self at the age of 58. “I recall being young, a long while back, always eager to see the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, thinking, ‘Who will be in it this time?’ Naturally, I didn’t imagine myself as a model then, so I never thought I’d be part of it,” Hayek Pinault revealed during the shoot. “Had anyone told me at 58 I’d feature in it, I would’ve considered them crazy, but the world has changed—and I love it!”
With no intentions of slowing down, Hayek Pinault views her achievements and freedom as hard-earned joys she intends to savor. “I’m incredibly lucky to be part of a generation witnessing such palpable change,” she expressed. “Retirement is an option, but I refuse to miss out on the present. I’ve struggled for this, been part of it, and it’s truly amazing to see magazines like Sports Illustrated Swimsuit celebrating that it’s okay, perhaps even trendy, to be over 50 and still feel not just sexy, but free to embrace your body without shame.”
“There’s no reason to retreat from living life fully as we age,” she stated.
“Salma Hayek Pinault is a powerhouse,” emphasized MJ Day, SI Swimsuit’s editor in chief. “As an actor, producer, philanthropist, and advocate, Salma stands as a beacon for Latinx communities, tirelessly promoting causes for women and exuding a fervor for art, life, and humanity like few others. Her purpose is an inspiration for generations, showing that living on your own terms is the ultimate empowerment. Her creative spirit illuminates everything, from storytelling to her authentic passion for life and people.”
Hayek Pinault hopes her feature will remind everyone of the importance of finding joy in every situation. “When they see the interview or the photos, I hope it reminds everyone that it’s crucial to put all your effort into finding joy in any circumstance,” she shared about her SI Swimsuit cover.