Meet "Chickenfry" LaPaglia, the spectacular podcast host turned Sports Illustrated Swimsuit star

The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit digital cover is a prestigious feature that highlights models and influencers who embody confidence, beauty, and empowerment in swimwear. This prominent platform showcases the latest trends in swim fashion while celebrating diverse body types and personal stories.

For January 2025, Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia, a 25-year-old Barstool Sports podcast host, has been selected as the digital cover model, marking a significant moment in her career.

LaPaglia, known for her playful nickname derived from a 2016 social media post where she humorously compared her leg to a Burger King chicken fry, recently posed for a stunning photo shoot at the Austin Estate in California.

Captured by photographer Katherine Goguen, she flaunted an array of eye-catching swimwear, including a unique woven bikini from Isa Boulder and a snakeskin-printed two-piece from Same. This cover not only showcases her modeling talent but also represents a personal journey of self-empowerment.

LaPaglia's SI Swimsuit cover: more than just a photoshoot

The significance of this cover extends beyond fashion; it symbolizes LaPaglia's reclamation of her identity following her highly publicized breakup with country singer Zach Bryan in October 2024. LaPaglia has openly discussed the emotional challenges she faced during their relationship, alleging cheating and emotional abuse. In a bold move, she turned down a $12 million NDA to share her truth. "It's a lot more than me looking quote-unquote hot in a swimsuit-it's me reclaiming who I am as a woman, reclaiming my body and my decisions and my choices," she expressed.

This moment also carries a sense of poetic justice. LaPaglia revealed that Bryan had previously dismissed her opportunity to host Sports Illustrated's 60th anniversary red carpet as "trashy." Reflecting on her digital cover debut, she humorously stated, "[The photo shoot] is just, on a petty level, my favorite f-k you. This is me, and I wanted to do this, and now I'm on the digital cover."

Fans have rallied around LaPaglia, celebrating her resilience and authenticity. Many took to social media to express their support, with comments like "SHE IS THE MOMENT!! This is everything" and "Yes. Yes. A million times yes. So proud of her!" Amidst this attention, LaPaglia remains grounded, reminding everyone, "I think people do tend to forget I'm just 25." Her journey illustrates the power of self-acceptance and the importance of embracing one's true self.