Born on January 6, 1986, in the small town of Yemanzhelinsk, Russia, Irina Shayk (full name Irina Valeryevna Shaykhlislamova) has risen from humble beginnings to become one of the most celebrated and enduring supermodels of her era. With her captivating green eyes, striking features, and commanding presence, she first gained international fame as the first Russian model to grace the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2011, following multiple appearances starting in 2007. Her career has spanned high-fashion runways and campaigns for powerhouse brands including Givenchy, Burberry, Versace, Victoria’s Secret (notably walking in the 2025 show), Pucci (starring in their 2025 holiday campaign), and many others. Beyond editorial work in publications like Esquire and countless Vogue editions, Irina has continuously evolved, embracing bold artistic expressions such as her debut in the prestigious Pirelli Calendar 2026, where she embodied the element of wind in photographer Sølve Sundsbø’s elemental-themed edition alongside icons like Tilda Swinton, Venus Williams, and FKA twigs. She has also stepped into acting, notably portraying Megara in the 2014 blockbuster Hercules opposite Dwayne Johnson, showcasing her versatility on the big screen.
Irina’s influence extends far beyond the fashion world, marked by her resilience, philanthropy, and personal life. A devoted mother to her daughter Lea (born in 2017 with ex-partner Bradley Cooper), she prioritizes co-parenting while maintaining a strong presence in the industry well into her 40s—celebrating her milestone birthday in January 2026 with effortless style and continued relevance in trends like faux fur scarves and daring beauty looks. Her journey from a coal-mining town in Russia to global stardom stands as an inspiring testament to talent, determination, and timeless allure. As she continues to take on new campaigns, collaborations, and creative endeavors in the years ahead, Irina Shayk remains a defining force in fashion, entertainment, and beyond, with her story still unfolding in exciting ways.