Cheryl Tiegs, once hailed as the quintessential American beauty, was one of the most iconic supermodels of the 1970s. Her timeless looks and graceful charm made her a symbol of elegance, and her career broke new ground in the fashion industry. While Cheryl’s professional life was filled with remarkable highs, her personal life was marked by four high-profile marriages, all of which ended in divorce. As Cheryl now leads a quieter life away from the spotlight, we take a look back at her journey, from the iconic highs of her career to the personal challenges she faced.
The Rise of a Supermodel Icon
Born in Minnesota in 1947, Cheryl Tiegs moved to California at a young age, where her modeling career began to take shape. At just 17, Cheryl’s fresh-faced beauty caught the attention of a swimwear manufacturer named Cole, launching her into the modeling world. From there, Cheryl’s rise to supermodel status was meteoric.
In the 1970s, Cheryl became synonymous with Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue, gracing the cover multiple times. Her career-defining moment came in 1978 when she posed in a daring, sheer, mesh swimsuit, which catapulted her into superstardom. This image became iconic, symbolizing beauty and boldness. That same year, Time magazine dubbed Cheryl “The All-American Model,” solidifying her place as a cultural icon in American fashion.
Beyond modeling, Cheryl expanded her career into business and publishing. In the 1980s, she became the face of CoverGirl, launched her own clothing line, and authored a book, all while maintaining her status as a top model. But even with all her professional achievements, Cheryl’s personal life was a different story, marked by a series of challenging relationships.
Stan Dragoti: The First Marriage (1970 – 1979)
Cheryl’s first marriage was to film director Stan Dragoti in 1970. At the time, Cheryl’s modeling career was reaching new heights, and the pressures of her burgeoning fame put a strain on their relationship. Despite their initial connection, the demands of Cheryl’s career and Dragoti’s work in Hollywood led to mounting tensions, ultimately resulting in their divorce in 1979. Cheryl later reflected on this period as one of intense personal growth, as she struggled to balance her skyrocketing career with the demands of marriage.
Peter Beard: The Wild, Artistic Match (1981 – 1983)
Just two years after her divorce from Dragoti, Cheryl married photographer and artist Peter Beard in 1981. Beard was known for his adventurous spirit and artistic temperament, which often clashed with Cheryl’s more structured life as a supermodel. Their relationship was intense, fueled by their contrasting personalities, and although they shared an artistic connection, the marriage lasted only two years. By 1983, they had divorced, and Cheryl once again found herself reflecting on the complexities of balancing personal life with the demands of her career.
Anthony Peck: Hollywood Pedigree and a Family (1990 – 1995)
Seven years after her divorce from Beard, Cheryl married Anthony Peck, the son of legendary actor Gregory Peck, in 1990. Their relationship seemed promising, as the couple shared a deeper connection, and in 1991, they welcomed their son, Zachary Peck. For Cheryl, this marriage marked her first experience of motherhood, and she relished her new role as a mother.
However, despite their strong familial bond, Cheryl and Anthony’s marriage faced challenges, especially as both continued to pursue demanding careers. By 1995, they had divorced, though they remained connected through their son. This period of Cheryl’s life was one of reflection, as she navigated the responsibilities of motherhood while continuing to build her legacy in the fashion world.
Rod Stryker: A Controversial and Final Union (1998 – 2001)
Cheryl’s fourth and final marriage was to yoga instructor Rod Stryker in 1998. During their marriage, Cheryl became a mother to twin boys, Theo and Jaden, via surrogacy. The decision to use surrogacy sparked public discussions at the time, as it was still a relatively new option for family-building. Despite the initial joy of expanding her family, the marriage ended in divorce in 2001. Stryker gained full custody of their sons, marking a painful chapter in Cheryl’s life.
After her fourth marriage ended, Cheryl chose to focus on her children and personal well-being, opting for a quieter life away from the complexities of relationships and the public eye.
A Life of Legacy and Reflection
Today, Cheryl Tiegs leads a more peaceful life, far removed from the high-profile world of modeling. Living in California, she is often seen enjoying the simple pleasures of life—whether visiting a local salon or spending time with friends. Cheryl embraces her age with grace, a stark contrast to her days as a supermodel.
Though she no longer seeks the limelight, Cheryl’s influence on the fashion world remains undeniable. As America’s first supermodel, she paved the way for future generations of models, setting a high standard for both beauty and professionalism. Cheryl credits her success to hard work, perseverance, and the support of those who believed in her, including Time magazine’s endorsement early in her career.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Cheryl Tiegs
Cheryl Tiegs was more than a supermodel—she was a cultural icon, a trailblazer, and a woman who constantly evolved both personally and professionally. Her journey, marked by four marriages and countless achievements, is a testament to her resilience and strength. Despite the public scrutiny she faced in her relationships, Cheryl maintained her poise and dignity, evolving from a supermodel into a philanthropist and public speaker.
Through it all, Cheryl’s story is a reminder that even the most glamorous lives come with challenges. Her resilience in the face of personal struggles and her contributions to fashion and pop culture have solidified her place in history. Today, Cheryl Tiegs continues to inspire, proving that true beauty comes from within.
