Elle Macpherson, born Eleanor Nancy Gow on March 29, 1964, in Killara, a suburb of Sydney, Australia, is a globally recognized model, actress, and entrepreneur.
She was the eldest of four children in a family with strong academic values. After her parents divorced when she was 10, Elle took her stepfather’s surname, “Macpherson.”
Elle excelled in academics and sports, later enrolling in the University of Sydney to study law. However, her career path took a drastic turn when she was discovered while on a ski trip in Aspen, Colorado, leading her to sign with a major modeling agency.
Rise to Fame in Modeling
Elle Macpherson’s breakthrough in the modeling industry came in the early 1980s when she appeared on the cover of ELLE magazine. This marked the beginning of her long-standing association with the publication, as she graced its cover for six consecutive years.
Her widespread appeal and statuesque figure earned her the nickname “The Body,” a title bestowed by Time magazine in 1989.
Macpherson achieved international fame through her record five appearances on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. These covers catapulted her to supermodel status and established her as one of the most recognizable faces in fashion.
Transition to Acting
In the 1990s, Elle Macpherson expanded her career into acting. She appeared in films such as Sirens (1994), The Mirror Has Two Faces (1996), and Batman & Robin (1997). Her performances received mixed reviews, but they showcased her versatility and determination to succeed beyond the runway.
Macpherson also had a recurring role on the hit television series Friends, where she played Janine Lecroix, Joey Tribbiani’s roommate and love interest.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship
Elle Macpherson is not only a model and actress but also a successful entrepreneur. In the early 1990s, she launched “Elle Macpherson Intimates,” a lingerie line that became one of the most successful in Australia and expanded globally.
Her keen business sense led her to establish other ventures, including a skincare line and a wellness brand, “WelleCo,” which focuses on health supplements.
Her business endeavors earned her numerous accolades, and she became a role model for women aspiring to combine creativity with commerce.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Throughout her career, Elle Macpherson has been an advocate for various philanthropic causes. She is a passionate supporter of environmental conservation and is involved with organizations like UNICEF and RED, which focus on global health and education. Her commitment to philanthropy underscores her dedication to using her influence for positive change.
Personal Life
Elle Macpherson has had a dynamic personal life, including high-profile relationships and marriages. She was married to French fashion photographer Gilles Bensimon and later to billionaire Jeffrey Soffer, with whom she has two sons, Flynn and Aurelius. Despite her fame, Elle maintains a relatively private life, focusing on her family and wellness initiatives.
Legacy and Influence
Elle Macpherson is celebrated as one of the original supermodels who defined the modeling industry in the 1980s and 1990s. Her influence extends beyond fashion to encompass acting, business, and philanthropy. Known for her professionalism, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit, she continues to inspire generations of women worldwide.
