Christie Brinkley is taking full credit for spotting Brooks Nader before the Louisiana native became a reality star and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover model. The modeling icon recalled noticing Nader during a 2019 casting call packed with hopefuls, as reported by Page Six.

Brinkley shared the story while speaking with Page Six Style at Humane World for Animals’ annual To the Rescue! Gala. Her memories placed Nader’s personality alongside her appearance as the qualities that immediately attracted attention.

“I discovered her, and she gives me full credit,” Brinkley said. The declaration left little doubt about how the veteran model views her role in Nader’s rise.

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Nader was just one of many aspiring models attending the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit casting call in 2019. Among that crowded field, however, Brinkley had already identified her favorite.

“She was my pick,” Brinkley recalled. “She had lots of personality, and, of course, she’s a gorgeous girl.”

The selection carried particular weight because of Brinkley’s own history with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. She first appeared in its pages during the ’70s and quickly became the first model to cover three consecutive issues of the publication.

That experience has given the 72 year old modeling icon plenty of practical advice to offer Nader. Brinkley’s guidance focuses on punctuality, a positive attitude, professionalism and working effectively with everyone involved.

“I say to arrive on time and with a smile,” Brinkley told Page Six Style. Her advice begins with two straightforward expectations that can shape the atmosphere around a modeling assignment.

“And to have fun, but be professional and be part of the team,” Brinkley continued. The recommendation balances enjoyment with the responsibility of contributing to the wider group.

Nader has since built an extensive record with the same publication where Brinkley first noticed her. The 29 year old rising star has appeared in seven Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issues.

Her run with the publication also includes a major milestone. Nader landed a solo Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover in 2023, years after standing among the hopefuls at that 2019 casting call.

These days, Brinkley and Nader frequently find themselves connected through their work. Their shared Sports Illustrated Swimsuit history now stretches from Brinkley’s three consecutive covers to Nader’s seven appearances and solo cover.

Nader has also put on a bathing suit for a different kind of assignment. She has a role in Fox’s upcoming “Baywatch” reboot, moving from swimsuit modeling into a project associated with the franchise’s signature look.

Brinkley recently appeared alongside the show’s cast at an event in Cannes. She and Nader wore dresses in the same shade as the signature one piece connected with the “Baywatch” franchise.

The matching Cannes moment brought Brinkley, Nader and the cast together as attention builds around the upcoming reboot. Brinkley has not been confirmed to appear in the show, even though she posed with those involved in the project.

For Nader, the moment offered another visible connection to the woman who selected her at the 2019 casting call. Brinkley’s comments make clear that she remembers both the choice and the qualities that convinced her Nader stood apart.

Brinkley’s modeling rules remain uncomplicated: show up on time, bring a smile, enjoy the assignment, stay professional and work as part of the team. Nader’s seven Sports Illustrated Swimsuit appearances and 2023 solo cover followed that pivotal first encounter.

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