Though the world has to wait another 26 days to see just which model made the cover of the 2010 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition, the wait is over for the calendar. And Julie Henderson is the lucky girl to front 12 months of SI models! Modelinia chatted with Julie about her cousin’s reaction, her favorite photographer, and her favorite swimsuit.
How does it feel to be on the cover of the calendar?
It’s so exciting! I feel like when you’re on the cover you’re really one of the contenders for the cover of the magazine. It’s such an honor.
How did you find out?
I found out when I got a box of the calendars sent to my agency. I haven’t been able to show my friends yet, but I’ve been telling them to go pick it up. All my guy cousins are like, “Jeez, Julie, I can’t look at SI the same.”
What was your favorite moment from this year’s Sports Illustrated shoot?
I don’t know if I have one moment. The entire shoot was pretty phenomenal. I loved shooting with Raphael [Mazzucco]. He’s one of my favorite photographers. I told the editors, “I have to be with him this year. I don’t care if it’s in a mud hut, I have to work with him.” He makes you feel so organically beautiful, and I feel like it portrays in the photos so much better.
Which suit was your favorite?
I forget the brand, but it’s in the video teaser. The silver sparkly one I wore in the water.
Sports Illustrated launched a countdown this year and you’re one of the first models they featured!
As much as I loved that they did it, it’s driving me crazy because I have my own countdown in my head. Now I can’t forget about it because I can just go online!
Where will you be when they announce the cover girl?
I don’t know if it’s going to be the same this year as in the past, but I usually find out through [The Late Show with David] Letterman. I’ll probably be in front of the TV in my PJs biting my nails.
What are you most looking forward to about this year’s Sports Illustrated?
I’m just looking forward to the whole week of festivities. I loved my location and I already got to see behind-the-scenes pictures, and I’m really excited to see the whole issue.
