Big is beautiful, and no one showcases that better than the stunning Hunter McGrady. She graced the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s 2024 60th Anniversary Legends issue, making waves as a size 16 model. But beyond the headlines, Hunter’s become a beacon of body positivity, inspiring young girls with her refreshing take on self-love and body image.
Starting her modeling journey at just 15 as a “straight-size” model, Hunter made a bold shift to plus-size modeling at 19 when she refused to fit into the narrow beauty standards of the industry. Curious to learn more about this blonde bombshell shaking up the fashion world? Here are 20 must-know facts about Hunter McGrady:
1. LA Roots: Born in Los Angeles on May 4, 1993, Hunter comes from a showbiz family—her dad, Michael McGrady, is an actor, and her mom, Brynja McGrady, a former model.
2. Net Worth: With a net worth around six million dollars, this trailblazer is not just making moves in fashion but in finances too.
3. Sister Duo: Hunter’s older sister, Michaela McGrady, is also a model. Together, they host the popular podcast Model Citizen. Sadly, their younger brother passed away in a car accident in 2021.
4. High School Struggles: Growing up wasn’t easy for Hunter. She faced harsh bullying for being “too tall” and constantly criticized for not being “pretty or skinny” enough. But she never let that dim her light.
5. Love Story: Hunter’s married to Brian Keys, who works in advertising. And guess where they met? Snapchat! They have a son and a daughter, with their firstborn arriving in 2021 and their daughter following in 2023.
6. Disney Honeymoon: Just after saying “I do,” Hunter and Brian made a pit stop at Disneyland before their honeymoon. Her Instagram post said it all: “The honeymoon comes later, Disney comes now! My Prince Charming.”
7. Making History: Hunter became the first plus-size model to grace the cover of The Knot magazine—talk about a game-changer!
8. Fashion for All: She’s also the brains behind her size-inclusive clothing line with QVC, All Is Worthy. The line ranges from XXS to 5X because Hunter believes everyone should feel worthy in their skin. She also collaborated on a swimsuit line with Playful Promises.
9. Modeling Inspiration: Her motivation to jump into plus-size modeling came from a stunning Vogue Italia shoot featuring Candice Huffine, Tara Lynn, and Robyn Lawley in June 2011.
10. Rejected for Curves: During her straight-size modeling days, agencies turned her down because her hips were “too large,” even though she was just a size four!
11. Basketball Buff: During the pandemic, Hunter got into basketball after feeling bored with her usual workouts. Now, it’s one of her favorite hobbies!
12. Wanderlust: Hunter’s a globetrotter. During a Sports Illustrated shoot in Indonesia, she called it her “Eat, Pray, Love” moment. Her favorite vacation spot? Italy.
13. Halloween Queen: In 2019, Hunter and her husband attended Heidi Klum’s legendary Halloween party dressed as The Little Mermaid and Prince Eric. Talk about couple goals!
14. Bonus Mom: Besides being a mom to two little ones, Hunter is also a stepmom to Brian’s nine-year-old daughter. On her wedding day, she even shared her vows with her stepdaughter.
15. Body Positive Advocate: Hunter’s Sports Illustrated shoot, “In Her Own Words,” paid tribute to the #MeToo movement. She was asked to write meaningful words on her body, choosing words like “confidence,” “fearless,” and “worthy.”
16. Mental Health Advocate: As an ambassador for the JED Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Hunter is passionate about promoting mental health awareness.
17. Favorite Gift: One of her favorite gifts from Brian? An updated engagement ring. Who wouldn’t love that?
18. Surf’s Up: Bet you didn’t know—Hunter’s got some serious skills on a surfboard!
19. DJ Dreams: Oh, and did we mention she once DJ’d on stage with Snoop Dogg? That’s definitely one for the bucket list!
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