Linda Evangelista, the iconic supermodel known for her stunning versatility and striking looks, is celebrating her 60th birthday on May 10, 2025. Over the decades, she has not only captivated audiences with her beauty but has also faced numerous personal challenges that have shaped her journey.
Evangelista first came into the limelight in the late 1980s and early 1990s, a period often referred to as the golden age of supermodels. In a notable interview with fashion journalist Jonathan Van Meter in 1990, she famously declared, "For less than 10,000 dollars I don't get out of bed." This bold statement became emblematic of the supermodel era, capturing the confidence and audacity of models who were finally being recognized as stars in their own right.
Born in Saint Catharines, Ontario, near Niagara Falls, Evangelista was raised in a traditional Catholic family. Her parents, both of Italian descent, instilled in her a strong work ethic. Her father worked at General Motors while her mother was an accountant. Despite her humble beginnings, Evangelista's passion for fashion was undeniable. She was discovered at a local beauty pageant, the Miss Teen Niagara, and quickly caught the attention of a casting agent.
At just 19 years old, she moved to New York City and signed with Elite Model Management. This pivotal moment propelled her into the world of high fashion, where she became a favorite of renowned photographers like Steven Meisel and Richard Avedon. By 1985, she was already strutting down Parisian runways for top designers such as Chanel, Valentino, and Yves Saint Laurent, earning substantial sums for her work with major brands like American Express and Elizabeth Arden.
However, her rise to fame was not without its challenges. In 1987, she married Gérald Marie, the head of Elite, but the marriage lasted only six years. During this time, allegations of sexual misconduct against Marie surfaced, which Evangelista later expressed her disbelief about, although she acknowledged the claims made by eleven women against him in 2021. The legal proceedings against Marie were dropped in 2023 due to the statute of limitations.
Evangelista's career reached new heights when she participated in a groundbreaking photoshoot orchestrated by photographer Peter Lindbergh in November 1989. This shoot featured five of the most famous models of the time—Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell, and Tatjana Patitz—who all sported short haircuts. The resulting January 1990 cover of British Vogue became iconic, marking the birth of the supermodel phenomenon.
As the supermodel era flourished, Evangelista became a household name, often featured in music videos, including George Michael's hit "Freedom! 90," where she appeared alongside her fellow supermodels. The video was a massive success, further solidifying their status as cultural icons. Evangelista was known for her ability to transform her look, experimenting with various hairstyles and colors, which made her a favorite among designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Gianni Versace.
Despite her glamorous career, Evangelista faced significant personal struggles. In later years, she endured a botched cosmetic procedure that left her physically altered and battled breast cancer twice. Through these trials, she has shown remarkable resilience, stating, "I am a supermodel, but I am not a superhuman." This candid acknowledgment of her vulnerabilities has resonated with many, highlighting her humanity beyond the glitz and glamour.
Today, Evangelista is not just a model but also a mother to her son, Augustin, born on October 11, 2006, with luxury entrepreneur François-Henri Pinault. As she embraces her 60s, she reflects on her life with gratitude and humility, having learned valuable lessons through her experiences.
Currently, she is featured in a campaign for Zara, where it is believed she is earning more than her iconic quote suggests, proving that she remains a powerful figure in the fashion industry. Linda Evangelista's journey from a small-town girl to a global supermodel is a testament to her talent, determination, and the ability to adapt in an ever-changing industry.
As she celebrates this milestone birthday, fans and colleagues alike wish her well, recognizing not just her contributions to fashion but her strength in overcoming life's challenges. Linda Evangelista continues to inspire countless individuals, embodying the spirit of resilience and transformation.
