In a remarkable career transformation that has captivated fans, former 1980s supermodel Kathy Ireland has embarked on a new life working as a commercial fisher alongside her husband.
From Global Supermodel to Sea Deck
Kathy Ireland, now 62, is arguably one of the most iconic American models of all time. She dominated newsstands throughout the 1980s, gracing the covers of prestigious publications such as Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and Sports Illustrated. Her 1989 Sports Illustrated cover became the magazine's highest-selling issue ever and was later awarded the title of the Greatest Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover of All Time.
Scouted at the age of 16, Kathy quickly became a prominent face in fashion. Beyond her modelling success, she transitioned into a successful actress during the 1990s and later built a colossal branding empire.
Building a Business and a New Life at Sea
Her licensing company, Kathy Ireland Worldwide, has grown into a multi-billion dollar business. In 2021 alone, the company generated a staggering $3.1 billion in retail sales.
Now, she has made an unbelievable career pivot. Earlier this year, Kathy obtained her open-ocean commercial fishing license from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. She now works on a vessel captained by her husband, Dr. Greg Olsen, a former emergency room physician.
Speaking to Fox News, Kathy described her new vocation as 'wonderful' and expressed her gratitude for the opportunity. 'I grew up camping and fishing. My husband, he's been fishing since he was 3 years old,' she explained. 'I've always wanted to go out with him on the boat. This season, an opportunity opened up. And when the calendar allows, I go out there with him.'
Sharing the Voyage and a Heart for Philanthropy
The star has been actively sharing her fishing expeditions on Instagram, recently posting a photo of herself filling bait jars. In one post, she wrote, 'Though I love working with my husband on the most beautiful ocean, as I’m filling bait jars with warm squishy mackerel, this is the verse that fills my heart! “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me".'
In another social media update, she gushed about her experience with lobster fishing, calling it hard work that left her 'sore from head to toe but a good kind of sore.'
Outside of her business and new maritime career, Kathy is known for her tireless philanthropy. She has dedicated years to helping those battling addiction and improving access to healthcare. She works with organisations like Let's Talk Interactive, the March of Dimes, City of Hope, and Feed the Children. Earlier this year, she also launched Music Funds The Cure for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.
