The world of swimsuit modeling just got a major dose of timeless glamour. Sports Illustrated Swimsuit has officially announced that fan-favorite model and actress Molly Sims is back in the fold for their highly anticipated 2026 issue, and the internet is absolutely buzzing.
Sims, a legendary figure who first joined the SI family back in 2000, recently teased her return with a sizzling social media post. The preview featured the star rocking a vibrant orange bikini, a look that immediately set comment sections ablaze. "FINALLY the secret is out," Sims declared on Instagram, confirming what her followers had been eagerly awaiting.
A Legendary Career Comes Full Circle
This marks a powerful full-circle moment for Sims. She was last featured in the magazine's special 60th-anniversary "legends" shoot, sharing the frame with icons like Tyra Banks and Chrissy Teigen. Her career spans decades, with notable acting roles on NBC's "Las Vegas" and in hit films, but it's her modeling work for giants like Giorgio Armani and Michael Kors that cemented her status as a fashion force.
The reaction from fans was instantaneous and overwhelmingly positive. "MOLLY!!!!!!! WOW!!!!!! I am completely in awe of how you show up and make it all look SO easy," gushed one admirer. Others flooded her posts with comments like "Absolutely stunning" and simply "Insanity," capturing the collective awe at her ageless appearance and undeniable presence.
Proving Age is Just a Number
Sims' return is part of a refreshing and empowering trend in the industry, where experience and confidence are celebrated alongside beauty. She joins a growing list of stars who are redefining expectations, much like Bethenny Frankel's jaw-dropping SI Swimsuit debut at 55. It's a powerful statement that style and sensuality have no expiration date.
This news also resonates with the excitement seen when other athletes and public figures make waves with their swimsuit moments. From Tiffany Stratton setting the WWE universe abuzz to Olivia Dunne securing her fourth straight SI Swimsuit feature, these reveals consistently capture the public's imagination.
The official photo shoot saw Sims return to a sun-drenched beach, a classic setting for the iconic publication. While details of the full spread are still under wraps, the orange bikini sneak peek has successfully built immense anticipation for the complete portfolio.
Sports Illustrated Swimsuit continues to blend legacy with contemporary appeal, and Sims' inclusion is a masterstroke in honoring the magazine's rich history while showcasing enduring star power. Her journey from her debut over two decades ago to this 2026 feature is a testament to her lasting impact on the brand.
Mark your calendars: the 2026 edition of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, featuring Molly Sims' triumphant return, is scheduled to hit newsstands this May. If the preview is any indication, it's going to be an issue fans won't want to miss.
