Beverly Johnson
Beverly Johnson
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Beverly Jones was born Beverly Beatrix Johnson on October 13, 1952, in Buffalo, New York. She is commonly known as Bev Johnson, a legendary American model, actress, and television host.
Birth and Death Dates
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Beverly Johnson was born on October 13, 1952. There is no information available about her passing.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American
Model
Actress
Television Host
Johnson's illustrious career spanned over four decades, cementing her status as one of the most iconic models of all time.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in Buffalo, New York, Johnson was raised by her mother, a nurse. She began modeling at 17, working for small local agencies before moving to Chicago to pursue a full-time career in the industry. Her determination and natural charm quickly propelled her to stardom.
Major Accomplishments
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Johnson's numerous accomplishments include:
Becoming the first African American model to appear on the cover of Vogue magazine (1974)
Working with top designers such as Calvin Klein, Halston, and Oscar de la Renta
Landing a contract with Wilhelmina Models, one of the most prestigious modeling agencies in the world
Appearing in numerous television shows, including The Love Boat and Fantasy Island
Hosting her own talk show, The Beverly Johnson Show
Notable Works or Actions
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Some notable works by Johnson include:
Her autobiography, Kiss the Girls and Make Them Cry, which offers a candid look at her experiences in the modeling industry
A 1980s television commercial for Calvin Klein jeans, cementing her status as a fashion icon
Impact and Legacy
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Johnson's impact on the fashion industry extends far beyond her numerous accomplishments. As one of the first African American models to achieve mainstream success, she paved the way for future generations of diverse models.
Her legacy is also evident in her advocacy work, particularly in promoting diversity and body positivity within the fashion industry. Johnson has worked tirelessly to encourage young women and girls to pursue careers in modeling and beyond.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Beverly Johnson's quotes and wisdom are widely sought after due to her experiences as a trailblazer in the fashion industry. Her insights on body positivity, self-acceptance, and perseverance have inspired countless individuals around the world.
As one of the most iconic models of all time, Beverly Johnson continues to be remembered for her groundbreaking achievements, infectious personality, and enduring impact on the fashion industry.
Quotes by Beverly Johnson

My husband was just OK looking. I was in labor and I said to him, 'What if she's ugly? You're ugly.'

When I went to Fashion Week, I was very disappointed by how few women of color were in those shows. I do speak to the younger girls, and I hear them when they say they’re not getting the big contracts or into the big shows.

My dean gave me permission to model during my work semester, even though I was in the Criminal Justice Department. I don’t know whether I’d ever have become a model if he hadn’t let me do that.

My daughter decided to embrace and celebrate who she was. She was a size 2 at one time, but she decided she didn’t want to be hungry anymore. I think that’s how you turn it around. Today, more and more designers are recognizing how lucrative that market is.

There’s not a hair extension or a makeup artist that can make me feel the way I feel when i give back.

I was supposedly living this glamorous life, but I was crippled by the idea of growing old and where do I go next? The whole age thing – in our industry, it’s everything.

My daughter has fulfilled all of my dreams, because she has a BA and MBA in business. She’s both a financial analyst and a plus-size model. She has the best of both worlds because, in modeling, you have to have something to fall back on.


