Kaylah Walton
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit digital cover serves as a distinguished showcase for models and influencers who exemplify confidence, beauty, and empowerment while wearing swimwear. This influential platform not only highlights the freshest trends in swim fashion but also honors diverse body types and personal narratives.
For January 2025, Brianna “Chickenfry” LaPaglia, a 25-year-old podcast host at Barstool Sports, has been chosen as the model for the digital cover, marking a notable milestone in her career.
LaPaglia, whose playful nickname comes from a 2016 social media moment when she humorously likened her leg to a Burger King chicken fry, recently took part in a beautiful photoshoot at the Austin Estate in California.
Photographed by Katherine Goguen, she showcased a variety of stunning swimwear pieces, including a distinctive woven bikini from Isa Boulder and a trendy snakeskin-print two-piece from Same. This cover illustrates not only her skills as a model but also signifies her journey toward self-empowerment.
LaPaglia’s SI Swimsuit Cover: A Journey of Reclaiming Identity
This cover transcends the realm of fashion and represents LaPaglia’s journey to reclaim her identity after her very public split from country singer Zach Bryan in October 2024. LaPaglia has been candid about her emotional struggles during their time together, including allegations of cheating and emotional abuse. She made a powerful decision to reject a $12 million NDA to convey her story. “This is much more than just looking good in a swimsuit; it’s about reclaiming my identity as a woman, my body, my choices, and my decisions,” she shared.
Furthermore, this moment feels like a form of poetic justice. LaPaglia disclosed that Bryan had previously belittled her chance to host the red carpet for Sports Illustrated’s 60th anniversary, calling it “trashy.” Reflecting on her new milestone, she humorously remarked, “[This photoshoot] is, in a petty way, my ultimate ‘screw you’. This is who I am, and I wanted to do it, and now I am on the digital cover.”
Fans have shown overwhelming support for LaPaglia, effectively celebrating her strength and authenticity. Social media reactions included remarks like “SHE IS THE MOMENT!! This is everything” and “Yes. Yes. A million times yes. So proud of her!” Despite the spotlight, LaPaglia stays humble, reminding everyone, “People often forget I’m just 25.” Her experience highlights the importance of self-acceptance and celebrating one’s true self.
