Lizzo is closing out the month in a "Special" way, making her Sports Illustrated cover debut for the magazine’s July 2026 Swimsuit digital issue. The Grammy-winning artist, known for her empowering anthems and vibrant personality, graced the cover in a series of striking images shot poolside at a Miami mansion. This highly anticipated appearance marks a significant moment for the artist, celebrating body positivity and self-acceptance on a global platform.
The "About Damn Time" singer showcased her own Yitty Swim bikinis and swimsuits throughout the photoshoot, reinforcing her brand’s message of confidence and inclusivity. This Sports Illustrated cover story is not her only recent involvement with the iconic publication. Earlier in the spring, on May 30th, Lizzo delivered a powerful performance at the 2026 SI Swimsuit Runway Show during Miami Swim Week. She performed several tracks from her latest album, Bitch, including the bold single "Sexy Ladies." During the show, the 38-year-old artist confidently walked the runway in a vibrant blue one-piece swimsuit, emblazoned with the word "bitch" across the front—a direct and defiant nod to her new LP.
In an interview accompanying her Sports Illustrated cover, Lizzo shared her personal philosophy and aspirations. "My newest fantasy is about feeling good in my body and enjoying my life," she told the magazine. She candidly discussed the personal toll of her demanding career, stating, "I worked so hard that I destroyed my nervous system. I have such bad anxiety that now I’m working on reversing those things because it’s not conducive to my career. It doesn’t help… to be an artist of this caliber and to have anxiety and to have fear. There’s no place for that. I really am just seeking joy." This introspection highlights a deliberate shift towards prioritizing mental well-being amidst her continued professional success.
This grounded, restorative outlook not only informs her personal life but also serves as a prelude to her exciting upcoming projects. Lizzo, who has not had a prominent acting role since her memorable appearance in the 2019 film Hustlers, is set to return to the silver screen in a starring capacity. She will portray the legendary "Godmother of Rock and Roll," Sister Rosetta Tharpe, in a forthcoming biopic.
Sister Rosetta Tharpe Biopic: A Labor of Love and Historical Reverence
Confirming that the Sister Rosetta Tharpe biopic has been greenlit and is actively in development, Lizzo expressed her deep commitment to the project. "We’re in the process of writing the script," she revealed. "There’s a lot of research that has gone into the biopic, and I want to be really careful and precious with the script because I think it’s really important to show a Black woman at that time in a different light." Lizzo’s dedication to authenticity and nuanced portrayal underscores her respect for Tharpe’s legacy. "I want her biopic to represent her as the superstar that she was," she emphasized, aiming to correct historical underrepresentation and highlight Tharpe’s pioneering contributions to music.
The development of this biopic is particularly significant given Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s often-overlooked influence on genres like rock and roll, blues, and gospel music. Born in 1915, Tharpe was a virtuoso guitarist and singer who bridged the gap between spiritual music and secular performance, influencing countless artists who followed. Her electrifying performances, often featuring her signature electric guitar, predated many of the figures who are more widely credited with shaping early rock and roll. Lizzo’s intention to portray Tharpe as the "superstar that she was" speaks to a broader cultural reckoning with acknowledging the contributions of Black women in music history.
Expanding Horizons: Children’s Books and Musical Advocacy
Beyond her acting pursuits, Lizzo is extending her creative reach into the realm of children’s literature. On September 8th, she is set to release Lil Lizzo Meets Sasha B. Flootin’, a picture book illustrated by Mark Pett. The book follows a young girl who discovers her voice with the assistance of a "smart and sassy flute." Lizzo shared her motivation behind the project: "I want to… give people backstory on my relationship," referring to her own deep connection with music and instruments. She expressed a strong sentiment about the importance of music education, stating, "I’m super adamant about young people playing instruments again. It used to be mandatory, and I don’t know if it’s mandatory anymore, and it scares me." This initiative reflects her broader commitment to fostering a love for music and encouraging future generations to embrace musical expression.
A Month of Diverse Engagements: Academia and Chart Performance
Lizzo’s month has been exceptionally busy, marked by a unique stint as a guest professor at Kai Cenat’s Streamer University. During her time there, she provided valuable life lessons, notably offering guidance on self-love to streaming star and Grammy-nominated artist Plaqueboymax. This intervention came after fellow attendees, including online personality Ojaysuave, engaged in harassment and encouraged homophobic speculation about Plaqueboymax’s sexuality. Lizzo’s role as an educator and advocate for kindness and acceptance in online spaces demonstrated another facet of her public persona.
In terms of musical performance on the charts, Lizzo’s latest album, Bitch, released on June 5th, marked a deviation from her previous chart successes. It became her first project since 2015’s Big Grrrl Small World to not land on the Billboard 200. However, the album found traction on other charts, with its lead singles, "Don’t Make Me Love U" and the Meredith Brooks-inspired title track, performing well. Bitch managed to reach No. 15 on the Indie Store Album Sales chart and No. 46 on the Top Album Sales chart, indicating a dedicated fanbase that continues to support her new material.
Analysis and Broader Impact
Lizzo’s Sports Illustrated cover debut is more than just a fashion moment; it’s a powerful statement about representation and body image in mainstream media. Her consistent advocacy for self-love and her willingness to share her own struggles with anxiety resonate deeply with a wide audience, solidifying her position as a cultural influencer. The Sports Illustrated platform, with its history of celebrating diverse female beauty, provides an ideal stage for Lizzo to amplify her message of empowerment.
The upcoming Sister Rosetta Tharpe biopic holds the potential to reintroduce a vital figure in music history to a new generation. By taking on this role, Lizzo not only showcases her acting talent but also contributes to a more comprehensive and inclusive narrative of American music. The success of this project could pave the way for further explorations of underrepresented artists and their significant contributions.
Furthermore, Lizzo’s ventures into children’s literature and her advocacy for music education highlight her multifaceted commitment to nurturing creativity and well-being in young people. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences, from music fans to aspiring young artists and those engaging in online communities, underscores her enduring impact.
While her latest album may not have reached the Billboard 200, Lizzo’s career trajectory demonstrates a consistent ability to evolve and engage with her audience on multiple fronts. Her continued presence in fashion, film, literature, and her outspoken advocacy suggest that her influence extends far beyond the music charts. As she navigates these diverse projects, Lizzo remains a compelling figure, championing authenticity, joy, and the power of self-expression.
