Bethenny Frankel, 55, Hits Back at Critics Who Say She Was Too Old to Walk in the “SI Swimsuit ”Show

**Bethenny Frankel Stands Up to Critics After Sports Illustrated Appearance**

Bethenny Frankel, the reality television star and entrepreneur, has responded defiantly to criticisms surrounding her recent appearance in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Show, held on 30 May in Miami, Florida. The 55-year-old former Bravo personality took to TikTok to address the mixed responses she received regarding her participation, emphasizing her commitment to authenticity over societal expectations.

Frankel showcased her figure on the catwalk for the second consecutive year, earning the title of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie just one year after her debut. In her TikTok post, she firmly declared, “I’m not going to try and be a model. I’m going to be me and have fun,” underlining her desire to embrace her individuality rather than conform to industry standards.

The reality star explained that she did not focus on her age when she first walked the runway in 2025, yet acknowledged the overwhelming attention it drew. “Everyone made such a big deal about it,” she noted, hinting at the scrutiny many women face as they age in public life. Her candid reflection encapsulated a wider discussion about ageism in the fashion industry, as some spectators questioned why a woman of her age was participating in a swimsuit show.

Frankel did not shy away from the harsh remarks directed at her. She referenced comments about her body, stating, “Your ass is jello,” and candidly admitted, “It is jello,” before asserting her disinterest in fitness regimens. “I’ve told you f—ing 27,000 times I don’t work out and I don’t want to,” she said, challenging the narrative that physical appearance must be tied to strict exercise routines. “Go out there, own it, rock it, enjoy yourself,” she encouraged her audience.

Within her post, Frankel expressed a sense of satisfaction in knowing that critics remain attentive to her journey. “There are people who are allowed to be happy,” she added, reinforcing her message of self-acceptance. She emphasised the importance of owning one’s image, regardless of societal pressures, which resonated with many viewers.

In her video, she also acknowledged the support of her boyfriend, who she affectionately referred to as her “stage dad,” and shared how her 16-year-old daughter, Bryn, took pride in seeing her mother exude confidence in her swimwear. This familial support further illustrated the personal triumphs behind Frankel’s public persona.

The runway show, held at the W South Beach, saw Frankel wow the audience with three distinct outfit changes, including a striking Baywatch-inspired one-piece and a bold black bikini paired with fingerless gloves. Her confident display on the runway not only commanded attention but also sparked conversations about beauty standards and the pressures faced by women, particularly in the celebrity sphere.

Reflecting on her appearance in the show, Frankel remarked on the industry’s obsession with age, weight, and beauty norms. “So I guess we have to discuss what I looked like on that runway because the internet is so fascinated with my age, my weight, my face, my hair,” she stated, drawing attention to the unrealistic expectations set for women.

In her post, Frankel elaborated on her relationship with body image, recalling a time in her early 30s when she grappled with weight fluctuations due to an unhealthy fixation on dieting and exercise. “I was 25 pounds heavier,” she admitted, acknowledging the struggles many face concerning body image. Ultimately, she highlighted her journey towards fostering a more balanced approach to health, asserting, “My body is natural.”

Through her engaging and heartfelt message, Bethenny Frankel not only defended her right to celebrate her body but also created a rallying call for others to embrace their true selves. In a world rife with narrow definitions of beauty, her stance forms part of a larger movement advocating for self-acceptance and the celebration of all body types, irrespective of age.