When the Nader family set sail off the coast of Sardinia, they probably expected sun, sea, and family bonding—not a viral firestorm. But that's exactly what happened after photos surfaced of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model Brooks Nader going topless while lounging on a luxury yacht, with her father, Breaux, just a few feet away.
The 29-year-old model, one of four Nader sisters, was on a European getaway with her family, including her mom Holland and sister Sarah Jane. According to images obtained by Page Six, Brooks casually ditched her top aboard the boat while her family appeared completely unfazed. Sarah Jane, 24, was also spotted looking at Brooks' phone, and the whole crew seemed to be in high spirits, flashing big smiles.
But the internet had a lot to say about it—and not all of it was kind. Critics flooded social media, calling the moment “inappropriate,” “weird,” and “disrespectful.” One fan wrote, “Let’s be real here. Going topless with your dad present is not socially or morally acceptable in the US. It crosses the boundaries and considered taboo.” Another added, “You really can’t go one day without ripping your (breasts) out in front of your dad? That’s really bizarre behavior.”
Others pointed out that the family hails from Louisiana, a state with deep conservative roots. “Everybody claiming this is normal because they’re in Europe…they’re from Louisiana. This is WERID,” one user posted.
Yet, a wave of defenders also rose up, arguing that women should be free to be comfortable in their own bodies, regardless of who's around. “Let’s normalize women doing what they want w their chest. It’s only taboo bc we as a society make it that way,” one supporter wrote.
This isn't the first time a swimsuit model has stirred up online debate. Just last month, another model’s swimsuit drop had fans buzzing. And the conversation around age-defying swimsuit snaps continues to heat up, as seen with Goldie Hawn’s viral video and Sofia Vergara’s throwback photo.
Brooks Nader is no stranger to the spotlight. She’s a longtime SI Swimsuit model and recently starred in the Hulu reality series “Love Thy Nader,” which is set to return for a second season. The show follows her tight-knit Louisiana family, and this latest controversy is sure to add more drama to the next season.
So, is this a harmless display of body confidence or a step too far in front of family? The debate is raging, and everyone seems to have an opinion. What do you think?
