The world of celebrity magazines is no stranger to airbrushing, but a recent cover featuring Candy Spelling has ignited a particularly fervent discussion online. The 80-year-old mother of actress Tori Spelling appeared on the front of Westlake Malibu Lifestyle, looking dramatically different from her public persona, prompting a wave of reactions across social media.
A Viral Transformation
The cover image, which rapidly gained traction this week, presents Candy Spelling in a manner that left hundreds of fans and commentators stunned. Posing thoughtfully in a ruffled white shirt with long blonde hair flowing over her shoulders, her complexion appears remarkably smooth and youthful. The striking visual led many to suggest she looked decades younger than her eighty years, with numerous observers drawing comparisons to much younger celebrities like influencer Trisha Paytas and singer Rihanna, both aged 37.
Comments on the viral post ranged from disbelief to amusement. "Is Candy in the room with us? It looks like Trisha Paytas," wrote one user. Others mistakenly identified her as reality star Gizelle Bryant or even Khloe Kardashian. Despite the mockery from some quarters, Spelling herself has publicly embraced the portrait. She took to Instagram to thank the photographer behind the shoot, Fadil Berisha, calling it "amazing."
"Thank you for making me feel so beautiful! You are so amazing and sweet, supportive! I can't thank you enough!!!" she commented. Berisha, a photographer with an esteemed portfolio including stars like Isabella Rossellini, Tyra Banks, and Kris Jenner, is known for his flattering celebrity portraits.
Life After Aaron Spelling
The cover controversy arrives as Candy Spelling continues to carve out her own identity following the death of her legendary husband, producer Aaron Spelling, in 2006. In a past interview, she spoke candidly about the struggle to find herself after his passing. "For almost four decades, my job was to raise our two beautiful children, entertain, and create the stable homelife Aaron needed so he could be out there in the Hollywood trenches," she shared.
"When Aaron died, I not only lost my life partner, but I was also suddenly missing the force of nature who had defined me and our family," she continued. "For the first time in 38 years, I had to learn to function in the big, scary world on my own." She successfully reinvented herself as a Broadway producer, earning a Tony Award for the 2016 revival of The Color Purple.
Family Dynamics and Moving Forward
Spelling's personal life, particularly her relationship with daughter Tori, has often been under scrutiny. Reports of a rocky relationship have been prevalent, though the pair are said to have grown closer since Tori's separation from Dean McDermott in 2023 after 18 years of marriage. In a statement to TMZ at the time, Candy expressed unwavering support: "I love my daughter, and I support her in whatever she does. I support my daughter, what can I tell you?" She also indicated she would provide financial assistance if Tori needed it.
As for the magazine cover, Spelling has made no direct mention of the widespread speculation that the image was heavily retouched or edited. The Daily Mail has contacted her representatives for further comment. The episode highlights the ongoing conversation about authenticity, ageing, and image in the spotlight, proving that even at 80, Candy Spelling can command the public's attention.
