Eleanor Nancy “Elle” Macpherson, an Australian icon synonymous with the world of fashion, made a resounding impact as a supermodel and entrepreneur. Gracing the covers of countless magazines, including a record five times for the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Macpherson earned the nickname “The Body” for her statuesque figure, which became emblematic of ideal beauty standards in the 1980s and 90s. She extended her influence beyond the runway, leveraging her fame to establish a presence in the business world with wellness products and other ventures.
Elle Macpherson’s allure went beyond still images, as she navigated the entertainment industry with roles in films and television, including popular media appearances in shows like “Friends.” Her success in these domains showcased her versatility and helped solidify her status as a household name. Beyond her professional life, Macpherson’s personal journey has involved philanthropy, nurturing a family, and serving as a role model to aspiring models and entrepreneurs alike. She has managed to maintain a public image that reflects both her business acumen and her commitment to a holistic approach to wellness.
Key Takeaways
- Elle Macpherson, known as “The Body,” is an influential Australian supermodel and businesswoman.
- She expanded her career into acting and entrepreneurship, emphasizing wellness.
- Macpherson’s personal and public endeavors highlight her multifaceted influence in fashion and health.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Elle Macpherson’s journey from a fresh-faced teenager from Australia to an international modeling icon is as captivating as it is inspiring. Her early years laid the foundation for a career that would see her grace television screens and magazine covers around the world.
Birth and Family Background
Elle Macpherson was born Eleanor Nancy Gow on March 29, 1964, in Cronulla, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. She was the offspring of entrepreneur Peter Gow and nurse Frances Gow, who provided Elle with a solid family foundation before their divorce. Although the family situation changed when she was 10, the strong ethics and support from her parents remained a constant.
Rise to Fame
In her teen years, Elle’s tall frame and natural beauty caught the attention of modeling agencies. It was a TV commercial for Tab, an iconic soft drink, that first put her in the public eye. Shortly after, she signed with Click Model Management in New York City. This move marked the beginning of what would soon become a successful modeling career in 1982, establishing Elle as a household name in Australia and paving her way to international stardom.
Modeling Milestones
Elle Macpherson’s journey in the modeling world is marked by iconic moments and significant achievements that have cemented her status as a supermodel. She has graced the pages of Sports Illustrated and dominated catwalks across the globe, all while standing at an impressive height that added to her commanding presence.
Sports Illustrated Highlights
Elle Macpherson became a household name through her extensive work with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Her remarkable stature and natural charisma led to a record:
- Five Cover Appearances in the years: 1986, 1987, 1988, 1994, and 2006.
This feat earned her the nickname “The Body,” indicative of her impact on the industry and her influence in shaping the era of supermodels.
Runway and Campaign Success
Achieving milestones on the catwalk, Elle Macpherson strutted with confidence and grace, showcasing the designs of high-profile fashion houses. Her runway successes include:
- Notable Fashion Campaigns: Her face and form have been central to global advertising campaigns, associating her image with luxury brands and popular fashion lines.
- Collaborations with Renowned Designers: Elle worked with top-tier designers, some of whom tailored their garments to highlight her height and figure, leveraging her physical attributes to complement their fashion lines.
Elle’s imprint on the modeling mile firmly places her among the legendary supermodels of her time.
Entrepreneurship and Business Ventures
Elle Macpherson’s foray into business is marked by her ventures in wellness and fashion, showcasing her versatility beyond modeling. Her brands are characterized by a focus on health and style, demonstrating her deep understanding of market needs.
Wellness Brand
WelleCo, co-founded by Elle Macpherson, is a wellness company known for its flagship product, The Super Elixir. This greens supplement has gained popularity for its health benefits, with Macpherson’s personal commitment to wellness driving the brand’s ethos. Designed to be an all-in-one wellness solution, The Super Elixir contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and trace elements.
Fashion Line
Elle Macpherson also made waves in the fashion industry with Elle Macpherson Intimates, a lingerie line started in partnership with Bendon, a prominent lingerie company. She displayed her sharp business acumen by identifying a niche for comfortable yet stylish lingerie, setting new trends within the intimate apparel sector. This brand secured her status not only as a fashion icon but also as a savvy entrepreneur.
Filmography and Media Appearances
Elle Macpherson has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry both as an actress in films and on television. She has graced the screen with her presence in a variety of roles and also demonstrated her skills behind the camera as a producer.
Acting Career
Elle stepped into the spotlight with a role in Sirens (1994), where she showcased her acting abilities. She continued to make appearances on the big screen, such as her role as Julie Madison in the superhero film Batman & Robin (1997). Her performances span from romantic comedies like The Mirror Has Two Faces (1996) to thrilling dramas including The Edge (1997), where she took on a lead role.
Television and Hosting Roles
Not only did she shine in films, but Elle also lit up the television scene. Fans remember her recurring role as Janine Lecroix on the hit sitcom Friends, a part that allowed her to bring charm to television screens worldwide. Beyond acting, Elle demonstrated her versatility by hosting an episode of Saturday Night Live, a testament to her ability to connect with an audience beyond the camera lens. She also contributed to the world of reality TV as a host, adding an extra layer to her diverse media career.
Personal Life and Public Image
Elle Macpherson, often recognized for her enduring grace and charm, has made a distinctive mark not just in her professional career but also through her personal life and public image. Her journey through family life, relationships, and her approach to health and lifestyle have been observed by the public, embodying the poise and discipline for which she is known.
Family and Relationships
Elle Macpherson has navigated the public eye with her personal affairs, where relationships and family have featured prominently. She was married to Jeffrey Soffer from 2013 to 2017. Beyond her romantic history, she is a mother who has balanced her career with raising her children, bringing her sense of discipline into her family life but also making sure to embrace the concept of living life to the fullest.
- Marriages:
- Gilles Bensimon (1986–1989)
- Jeffrey Soffer (2013–2017)
- Children:
- Arpad Flynn Alexander Busson
- Aurelius Cy Andrea Busson
Lifestyle and Health
A beacon of vitality, Elle Macpherson has been vocal about her commitment to a health-centred lifestyle that emphasizes sobriety and a mindful diet. Her nickname, “The Body”, is a testament to her focus on maintaining her health and physique through strict discipline. As an advocate for sobriety, Macpherson’s lifestyle choices reflect her desire for living life to the fullest in a sustainable and healthy way.
- Lifestyle Commitment:
- Plant-based diet
- Regular exercise routine
- Emphasis on sobriety
Her dedication to wellness is further showcased by her business ventures, which provide wellness products that align with her personal ethos of maintaining health and vitality. Macpherson has often shared her insights on a balanced life, one that meshes professional success with a personal richness stemming from her disciplined approach to health and wellness.