Unveiling the Unlikely Catalyst Behind the Supermodel Revolution: George Michael's Extravagant Contributions

2023-09-07 12:10:04

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How George Michael helped spark the supermodel phenomenon with bags of cash and round-trip Concorde tickets

Back in 1990, the world of modeling underwent a seismic shift thanks to George Michael and his iconic song "Freedom! '90". It was during a Versace catwalk show that the models Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford, and Linda Evangelista strutted their stuff to the sound of the hit song, forever transforming the perception of supermodels. The impact of the video and subsequent fashion show was so immense that it marked the beginning of a new era.

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According to Naomi Campbell, it was fellow Brit George Michael who initiated the collaboration. She recounts the moment when they were asked to be in his video, revealing that it was she who drove a hard bargain with the singer, demanding a substantial sum of money and round-trip Concorde tickets. The significance of the video and subsequent fashion show wasn't immediately apparent to the models, as they were constantly traveling from one country to the next.

A Shift in the Model World

The impact of the "Freedom! 90" video and the Versace fashion show became evident when the four supermodels took to the catwalk. Christy Turlington describes the moment as an iconic one, a true embodiment of power. The combination of George Michael's incredible song, an renowned designer like Versace, and the powerful image of the women singing together signified the revolution that was taking place. From that point on, the supermodels began to command huge fees and assert their own terms in photoshoots, advertisements, and runway shows. They became celebrities in their own right.

The rise of the supermodels didn't come without its challenges. Linda Evangelista reflects on how their names became well-known because they were everywhere, but admits that it felt overwhelming at times. She also regrets her infamous quote about not getting out of bed for less than $10,000 a day, defending it as an expression of pride in what she commanded as a woman in the industry.

The supermodels, led by Naomi Campbell, also faced prejudice and criticism. However, their determination and self-worth allowed them to demand fair treatment and appropriate compensation. Naomi recalls being labeled difficult simply because she spoke up and took control of her own career.

The Legacy of the Supermodels

Over the years, the supermodels not only made their mark in the world of fashion but also expanded their influence. They starred in numerous pop videos and diversified their careers by releasing books, launching their own makeup lines, and even venturing into acting. Their success paved the way for future generations and challenged conventional notions of beauty. An appearance on the recent Vogue front cover, showcasing their enduring beauty and friendship, reinforces the fact that their legacy continues to evolve.

Ultimately, the supermodels' greatest impact lies in their ability to reshape society's perception of beauty. They proved that beauty is not confined to a specific age or expiration date. Their journey was not without obstacles, but their courage, strength, and refusal to be silenced made a lasting impression on the fashion industry and beyond.

The Supermodels launches on Apple TV+ on September 20.

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