Once hailed as “The All-American Model” by Time magazine, Cheryl Tiegs is a name that resonates with beauty, glamour, and a profound influence on American pop culture. Her journey through fame is matched by her journey through love, as she has experienced four marriages, each ending in its own unique way. Now, at 76, Tiegs lives a quieter, more private life, reflecting on the past and her legendary status as one of America’s first supermodels. This article takes a closer look at the life, loves, and legacy of this iconic figure.
Cheryl Tiegs: A Supermodel Like No Other
Born in 1947 in Minnesota, Cheryl Tiegs became a household name in the 1970s, known for her stunning beauty and classic American charm. Her modeling career began in high school when her fresh-faced look caught the attention of a California swimwear manufacturer. A photo shoot for Seventeen magazine soon led to appearances in Glamour, launching her modeling career.
In the years that followed, Tiegs became an international sensation, appearing on the cover of Sports Illustrated multiple times. Her famous 1978 pose in a mesh swimsuit became one of the most iconic images of the era, cementing her place in pop culture history. She signed a major contract with CoverGirl and even launched her own clothing line, establishing herself as not just a model but a brand.
Marriage #1: Stan Dragoti (1970-1979)
In 1970, at the height of her fame, Tiegs married Stan Dragoti, a film director known for movies like Love at First Bite and Mr. Mom. The couple seemed like a match made in Hollywood heaven, with Dragoti’s directorial creativity complementing Tiegs’ modeling fame. However, after nine years together, they went their separate ways in 1979. Their split marked the beginning of a series of marriages that would follow Tiegs through the decades.
Marriage #2: Peter Beard (1981-1983)
Not long after her divorce from Dragoti, Tiegs married photographer and artist Peter Beard. Known for his adventurous spirit and wild lifestyle, Beard was a renowned photographer who captured breathtaking images of Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. The two shared a passionate and intense relationship, but their marriage was short-lived, ending in 1983 after only two years.
Their marriage was marked by conflicting lifestyles. Tiegs, at the time, was still deeply involved in the fashion industry, while Beard often spent time in Africa working on his photography projects. The distance and differences eventually drove them apart, though Tiegs has often spoken fondly of her time with Beard, describing it as an exciting chapter in her life.
Marriage #3: Anthony Peck (1990-1995)
In 1990, Tiegs married Anthony Peck, the son of legendary actor Gregory Peck. This marriage seemed to promise a family life that Tiegs had longed for, and the couple welcomed a son, Zachary, in 1991. However, after five years of marriage, they divorced in 1995. Despite the separation, Tiegs has maintained a close relationship with her son, who has grown up away from the public eye.
Tiegs’ marriage to Peck brought a different perspective into her life as she embraced motherhood while balancing her evolving career. Although the marriage did not last, Tiegs has often credited her time with Peck and their son as one of the most meaningful periods of her life.
Marriage #4: Rod Stryker (1998-2001)
Tiegs’ fourth and most controversial marriage was to yoga instructor Rod Stryker. The two married in 1998, and during their time together, they welcomed twin boys, Theo and Jaden, born via surrogacy. However, the marriage was tumultuous and ended in divorce just three years later in 2001. The split became further complicated when Stryker was awarded full custody of the twins, which marked a painful chapter for Tiegs.
While the divorce was difficult, Tiegs has since reflected on the lessons learned during her marriage to Stryker. She has expressed a deep sense of gratitude for her children and has described motherhood as one of her greatest joys, even amid the challenges.
Life After Fame: A Journey of Reflection and Advocacy
Following her modeling career, Tiegs transitioned into various roles. She became a fashion designer, television personality, and author, sharing her insights on beauty and wellness. Her clothing line for Sears was one of the first to feature affordable, stylish options, proving that Tiegs had a keen eye for business.
Tiegs has also faced controversy. In 2016, she criticized Sports Illustrated for featuring plus-size model Ashley Graham on its cover, which sparked backlash and led to a public apology. Despite the criticism, Tiegs has remained vocal about her views on health and fitness, often advocating for a balanced approach to wellness.
A Legacy of Beauty, Strength, and Resilience
Cheryl Tiegs’ life has been a journey marked by triumphs and trials. She captivated the world as America’s first supermodel, breaking new ground for women in fashion and establishing herself as an enduring pop culture icon. Her four marriages reflect the complexity of her life beyond the camera lens—a reminder that even those we idolize face challenges and heartache.
Today, Tiegs lives a quieter life in Montecito, California. In recent years, she has been seen around town, often dressed simply and without the glamour that once defined her public image. Now 76, she reflects on her journey with a sense of fulfillment and a focus on what truly matters to her: family, health, and the passions she has carried with her.
Conclusion: Cheryl Tiegs, An Icon with a Human Story
Cheryl Tiegs’ story goes far beyond the glossy magazine covers and glamorous photo shoots. She is a woman who navigated the highs and lows of fame, faced public scrutiny, and found herself through each of her relationships and endeavors. As America’s first supermodel, she not only set a standard for beauty but also redefined it, paving the way for future generations of models and entrepreneurs.
Her life serves as a reminder that beauty is multi-faceted and that true strength lies in resilience. Cheryl Tiegs may have captured the spotlight in the 1970s, but her influence and legacy continue to shine bright, leaving a lasting impact on American culture and the world of fashion.
