Overview

Rachel Hunter (born 8 September 1969) is a New Zealand-born figure best known for her work as a fashion model and as an actress and television presenter. Discovered as a teenager, she built an international modeling career that led her to live and work in several countries before settling in the United States. Her public profile grew through repeated appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and assignments for a range of glossy magazines.

Early life and rise to modeling

Hunter was born and raised in New Zealand and began modeling in her teens. She moved from local assignments to international runways and editorial shoots, working in countries including France, Australia and the United Kingdom, often working out of fashion centers such as London. Her look and versatility helped her cross into commercial campaigns and high-profile swimsuit features.

Career highlights

  • Multiple appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, which raised her global visibility.
  • Editorial and cover work for international magazines and advertising campaigns.
  • A noted magazine photoshoot in which she posed for Playboy in 2004, an appearance that drew wide media attention.

Acting and television

Beyond modeling, Hunter expanded into acting and television hosting. She has taken part in various television projects and documentary-style series that draw on her experience in fashion and travel. Over time she has moved between on-screen roles and presenting, using her public profile to explore lifestyle and beauty themes.

Personal life

Hunter's personal life received significant attention during and after her marriage to the British singer Rod Stewart, to whom she was married from 1990 until 2006; the couple had children together. She continues to live and work internationally, balancing modeling, media projects and family life.

Legacy and public image

Rachel Hunter is often cited as one of the New Zealand-born models who achieved mainstream international success in the 1990s and 2000s. While primarily recognized for her modeling work, she has maintained a presence in television and lifestyle programming and is known for transitioning from print modeling to broader media roles. Her career illustrates how models of her era expanded into multiple entertainment fields.

For further reading on aspects of her work and public appearances, consult reputable entertainment and fashion archives or documentary sources on modeling careers and celebrity media coverage.