Roshumba Williams, famous model, back in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue as a celebrated SI Swimsuit icon

LOS ANGELES — Roshumba Williams created history in 1990 by becoming one of the first African American models to feature in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. Currently, she is back in the spotlight as an iconic SI Swimsuit legend.

Williams collaborated with photographer Yu Tsai for an exciting photoshoot in Jamaica. Although the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition won’t hit shelves until May, a sneak peek of the shoot has already captured our attention.

She told SI Swimsuit, “It brings a smile to my heart and tears to my eyes knowing that more than 30 years later, I’m still considered part of the SI family. It signifies that my beauty is still valued, accepted and relevant among various types of beauty. It’s mind-blowing, breathtaking and humbling, and I’m beyond grateful.”

Williams began her career in Paris in 1987, where she was discovered by the late and great fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

She’s walked international runways, been on the cover of Vogue and even taken on the acting mantle.

From runway to red carpet, Williams joined the On The Red Carpet team as a fashion expert, covering the Oscars, Emmys, and CMA Awards.

Last year, for the Emmy-winning “On The Red Carpet at the Oscars” show, she wore $5 million worth of diamonds and a gorgeous pink metal gown from Nicole Fedner.

Williams is excited to give her fashion analysis during the 2025 edition of “On The Red Carpet at the Oscars,” hosted by entertainment reporter George Pennacchio, on Sunday, March 2. She will be joined by fashion expert Joe Zee and KABC’s Leslie Lopez.

March 2 is Oscar Sunday! Watch the 2025 Oscars live on ABC and Hulu.

Live red carpet coverage starts at 3:30 p.m. ET | 12:30 p.m. PT with “On The Red Carpet at the Oscars.”

Watch all the action on the red carpet live on ABC, streaming live on OnTheRedCarpet.com and on the On the Red Carpet Facebook and YouTube pages.

The 97th Oscars, hosted by Conan O’Brien, begins at 7 p.m. ET | 4 p.m. PT. and will be followed by a special preview of “American Idol.”