Supermodel Beverly Johnson Reveals Dark Side of Fashion Industry in Candid Interview

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ICARO Media Group
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17/01/2024 20h51

In a recent interview, legendary supermodel Beverly Johnson opened up about the extreme measures she took to maintain a thin figure during her career, including using cocaine. Johnson, who was the first Black model to grace the cover of American Vogue, shed light on the pressures faced by models in the industry.

Reflecting on her early modeling days, Johnson disclosed that she and her colleagues were under the impression that cocaine was not addictive. The drug was commonly used among models, as they believed it curbed their appetite and helped them stay thin. Johnson admitted to severely restricting her diet, consuming as little as two eggs and a bowl of brown rice per week. The consequences of this extreme behavior became evident when she experienced trembling and even had to resort to eating M&Ms to alleviate her symptoms.

The fashion industry's obsession with ultra-thin models was pervasive, according to Johnson. She revealed that compliments were often given to models for being "chisel to the bone," without anyone truly addressing the dangerous consequences of such extreme measures.

It was only when Johnson's mother intervened that she realized the severity of her situation. Her mother found her in the bathtub and brought her in front of a three-way mirror, where the shocking sight of her own bones staring back at her became a wake-up call. This pivotal moment compelled Johnson to confront her unhealthy habits.

Beyond her modeling career, Johnson has also ventured into acting, appearing in films like "Crossroads" and "Loaded Weapon 1." She is currently working on a one-woman off-Broadway show titled "Beverly Johnson: In Vogue," which celebrates her remarkable journey. Johnson emphasized that her show would present her story in an authentic and engaging manner, without sensationalizing her experiences.

Through her show, Johnson intends to demonstrate how she has learned from her mistakes and scars, allowing audiences to witness the growth she has experienced throughout her career. She describes her life as an "American story," highlighting the opportunities available in the United States to reshape one's life unintentionally.

Johnson's candid revelations serve as a reminder of the dark side of the fashion industry and its impact on the well-being of models. Her story sheds light on the importance of promoting healthier beauty standards and ensuring the well-being of those in the industry.

As Beverly Johnson continues to inspire and empower, she remains grateful for being alive and cherishes the lessons she has learned. Her resilience and determination serve as a testament to her enduring success in an industry that often comes with significant challenges.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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