H-Town Hottie Megan Thee Stallion Becomes First Rapper Featured On Cover of Sport Illustrated’s Annual Swimsuit Issue

H-Town Hottie Megan Thee Stallion Becomes First Rapper Featured On Cover of Sport Illustrated’s Annual Swimsuit Issue

HOUSTON-REARED RAPPER Megan Thee Stallion dominated last month's BET awards by bringing home the awards for Best Female Hip-Hop Artist, Video of the Year and Best Collaboration, and now she's dominating magazine covers. The "WAP" artist made history this month by being the first rapper to ever grace the cover of Sports Illustrated's annual swimsuit issue, which also gave covers this year to tennis champ Naomi Osaka and transgender model and actress Leyna Bloom — the magazine's first transgender cover star.


"When I got the call that they wanted me on the cover, I was like, 'Wha—? Me' And to be the first female rapper on the swim cover makes it extra special. It feels amazing!" Megan said in an interview with People. "It feels amazing!"

"I had been training for months and I was super prepared. I got into the shoot right away. [Photographer] James [Macari] said he usually doesn't get into the water until the fourth or fifth set-up, but we were both in the ocean from the start," Megan continued in the interview. "The day was perfect and I had a blast."

In her cover shot, Megan is seen decked out in a light brown and strappy bikini while modeling jewelry from Austin-based designer Nina Berenato, who is no stranger to designing jewelry for H-Town hotties. Back in 2019, Berenato designed a gold face ornament that was featured in Beyonce's music video for "Spirit." Berenato, who was featured in a CityBook travel piece over Austin from 2016, has also provided custom looks for Houston-reared performer Lizzo.

"If there's one thing that our cover models have in common, it's that they don't have one thing in common. They look different, have different upbringings, have different passions and inspirations. But each is a reminder that beauty comes in many forms," wrote MJ Day, editor in chief of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, about the trifecta of powerful women featured as cover models for the issue. "As for Megan Thee Stallion, she is a magnetic powerhouse taking the world by storm. Together these women represent three of the most powerful voices of today."

Art + Entertainment
Fall Philanthropy Report: March of Dimes’ ‘Signature Chefs’ Event Coming in November

What year was your organization launched? 1938

What is your mission? March of Dimes was founded in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, to combat polio. The name “March of Dimes” was suggested by entertainer Eddie Cantor as a way to encourage people to donate even a small amount, like a dime, to help fight polio.

Keep Reading Show less

Chef-owner Austin Waiter of The Marigold Club, now serving fried chicken and Champagne on Sunday nights.


IF YOUR SUNDAY nights could use a little sparkle—and a lot of fried chicken—The Marigold Club has just the thing. Starting May 25 at 5pm, the Montrose hotspot known for its playful mix of Southern charm and London polish is rolling out a new weekly tradition: Fried Chicken & Champagne Sundays.

This isn’t your average comfort food situation. We're talking a shareable fried chicken dinner for two, made with farm-raised birds from Deeply Rooted Ranch, and served alongside buttery whipped potatoes, minted peas, aged cheddar scones, and some over-the-top sauces — including a foie gras sauce supreme that’s as extra as it sounds.

Keep Reading Show less
Food

Palmaïa The House of AïA

THIS FALL, LEBRINA Jackson, owner of Escape Spa in Cypress, is taking her wisdom and joie de wellness to the jungle. Far beyond the walls of her beautiful spa, she’s aiming to create a quiet space for people to work on their personal growth in a community-centric atmosphere. She shares what participants will get out of the trip and why it’s important to take time for self-care in 2025.

Why is it important for people to “retreat”? Life can feel like a non-stop marathon, and sometimes we forget to just... breathe. Retreating offers a chance to step off the treadmill for a bit and hit the reset button. It's about giving your body and mind some much-needed TLC, allowing for genuine relaxation and rejuvenation. Beyond the personal perks, retreats often create a cool sense of community, connecting you with others on a similar path. By carving out space for self-reflection, you can recharge and return to your daily life with a clearer head and a bit more pep in your step.

Keep Reading Show less
Wellness+Giving Back