Tiffany Haddish has been announced as one of the cover stars for the 2026 edition of the ‘Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’ issue. The reveal took place in an unexpected manner during a gathering at her friend Paris Hilton’s residence, marking a significant milestone in Haddish’s career.
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The comedian, aged 46, shared the details of this surprising announcement during an appearance on Today. On May 12, Haddish recounted the joyful moment when Hilton and model Brooks Nader orchestrated a surprise to disclose her new role. She described being welcomed into Hilton’s home, blindfolded, underscoring the element of suspense leading up to the big reveal.
“I found out at Paris Hilton’s house,” Haddish explained to co-hosts Craig Melvin and Savannah Guthrie. “They wanted to surprise me and announce it in a special way. I had just concluded a promotional event for my She Ready Foundation, and that’s when the surprise happened.”
To celebrate the occasion, Haddish was presented with a cake bearing the message about her cover. Initially sceptical, she expressed gratitude towards Hilton, stating, “I love Paris. She’s a really great friend, and it seems like every time I manifest something, I tell her what I want to do, and somehow it happens.”
In the hours following the surprise, Haddish took to Instagram to share a video of the moment with her followers. The footage captures her emotional reaction upon learning of her cover, accompanied by a heartfelt message thanking Hilton, Nader, and others involved in the celebration. “Thank you to @parishilton, @cadehudson22, and @brooksnader for celebrating this magical moment with me,” she wrote alongside the footage.
Hilton responded to Haddish’s post, expressing her pride in the comedian’s achievement and her happiness to contribute to the special moment. Fellow model Brooks Nader also chimed in, calling the reveal “unreal” and praising Haddish as “the most deserving queen ever.”
The friendship between Haddish and Hilton dates back to the early 2000s, when they first met at a party. Haddish shared an anecdote from that time during a recent episode of Hilton’s podcast, I Am Paris. She reminisced about trying to mingle in Hilton’s section, where their connection began through shared laughter and mutual excitement.
Haddish’s Swimsuit cover is remarkable not only for its star power but also for the hard work she has dedicated to achieving this goal. Donned in a vibrant orange and yellow bikini, the cover photo was captured by renowned photographer James Macari in Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
In a candid discussion, Haddish revealed that she had been visualising this accomplishment for several years. “I think they thought I was still joking when I mentioned it,” she said, referencing her long-held desire to be featured in the prestigious publication. After receiving backing from management, she proactively pursued the opportunity, demonstrating her commitment by working hard in the gym and honing her modelling skills.
The combination of Haddish’s talent, dedication, and the support of close friends has led her to this moment, as she embraces a new chapter in her career. With excitement buzzing around her cover, fans can anticipate both artistic and inspiring contributions from the comedian as she takes on this new role in the illustrious legacy of the ‘Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’ issue.