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Rachel Hunter

Rachel Hunter is a New Zealand model, television personality, actress, and producer.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Rachel Hunter is a New Zealand model, television personality, actress, and producer. She rose to international fame in the late 1980s and 1990s through modelling work, including appearances in the *Sports Illustrated* Swimsuit Issue, and later expanded into television presenting and acting.

Early life and modelling career

Rachel Hunter was born in Auckland, New Zealand, in 1969 and began modelling at age 16. Her early work included campaigns and magazine appearances in New Zealand, Australia, and France before she signed with Ford Models and achieved international recognition.

Rise to fame

Hunter became widely known after appearing as a *Sports Illustrated* Swimsuit Issue model in 1989. She also became associated with major fashion and beauty brands, including CoverGirl, and appeared on magazine covers such as *Vogue* and *Harper's Bazaar*.

Television and film work

Hunter later moved into acting and television presenting. Her screen credits include film roles and reality and lifestyle television appearances, including judging *New Zealand's Got Talent* and hosting *Rachel Hunter's Tour of Beauty*.

Personal life and advocacy

Hunter was married to musician Rod Stewart, and the couple later divorced. She has also been linked to animal welfare advocacy, including work with The Born Free Foundation and the Rachel Hunter Lowland Gorilla Fund.

Key facts

  • Rachel Hunter began modelling as a teenager in New Zealand and Australia.
  • She gained wider recognition after appearing in the *Sports Illustrated* Swimsuit Issue.
  • She worked as a spokesperson for CoverGirl cosmetics.
  • Hunter was a contestant on the first season of *Dancing with the Stars* in 2005.
  • She has been involved in animal welfare work, including support for The Born Free Foundation.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Rachel Hunter?
Rachel Hunter is a New Zealand model, actress, television personality, and producer who became internationally known through modelling and later worked in television and film.
When was Rachel Hunter born?
She was born on 8 September 1969 in Auckland, New Zealand.
What is Rachel Hunter best known for?
She is best known for her international modelling career, especially her appearances in the *Sports Illustrated* Swimsuit Issue.
Was Rachel Hunter married to Rod Stewart?
Yes. Rachel Hunter was married to musician Rod Stewart from 1990 until their divorce in 2006.
What television shows has Rachel Hunter appeared in?
She has appeared in *Dancing with the Stars*, *New Zealand's Got Talent*, and *Rachel Hunter's Tour of Beauty*.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rachel_Hunter
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, modelling career, *Sports Illustrated* appearance, television credits, charity work
  2. IMDbhttps://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005035/
    Supports: Born in Auckland, New Zealand; acting and producing credits; married to Rod Stewart
  3. Rachel Hunter official sitehttps://www.rachelhunter.com/biography
    Supports: Biographical background and Auckland, New Zealand origin
  4. TV Guidehttps://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/rachel-hunter/bio/3000029532/
    Supports: Career overview, modelling work, and charity involvement