
Welcoming the new generation with open arms. Naomi Campbell doesn’t have an issue with today’s gaggle of gorgeous models, unlike some of her supermodel counterparts. In fact, the Empire actress, 46, has even shared some of her tips with the likes of Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid and Gigi Hadid.
“I think they’re great. I know all of these young girls, Instagram girls, and they’re all really respectful and sweet,” Campbell revealed in Remix magazine’s Icon Edition, in which she graces the cover in a sweeping tartan Gucci gown. “If I can ever help them, it’s a pleasure for me to do that. I’ve helped a few of them with their walks.”
Campbell, who’s a part of the “big six” supermodels (along with Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, Claudia Schiffer, Christy Turlington and Kate Moss), acknowledged that there’s a visible shift in fashion. “I think it is a change in the industry. It seems to be that there are so many more models now, and it is so much more competitive,” she continued. “It just seems to be that they come in and out much faster. There is a group of girls, I think, that have staying power. I never thought I’d be doing it this long either.”
Her untouchable career, which began in 1978, includes such honors as being the first black model to cover American Vogue’s September issue in 1989 and a sexy cameo in Michael Jackson’s “In the Closet” video. ‘”Whatever capacity they think of me in, I feel very blessed and hope I never disappoint,” Campbell mused. “I’ve been through so many phases in my life, with so many wonderful people, some of whom are no longer with us. My journey so far has been amazing.”
Although Campbell praises her younger counterparts, some of the OGs have had less than welcoming words for the newbies. “They are completely different than we were,” Stephanie Seymour told Vanity Fair in June 2016. “Supermodels are sort of the thing of the past. They deserve their own title. [Kendall and Gigi] are beautiful girls, and I support all of them, but they need their own title.”
The title in question? “Bitches of the moment!” Seymour quipped. “That would be a good title for them.”
Sign up for Us Weekly's free, daily newsletter and never miss breaking news or exclusive stories about your favorite celebrities, TV shows and more!
For access to all our exclusive celebrity videos and interviews – Subscribe on YouTube!