Early Beginnings
A Star is Born
Bar Refaeli was born on June 4, 1985, in Hod HaSharon, Israel. Her modeling journey began remarkably early – at just eight months old – when she appeared in her first commercial. By age 15, she had already earned the title “Model of the Year” in 2000.
Rise to International Fame
Her breakthrough came with prestigious campaigns for Chanel, Escada, and Ralph Lauren. Making history as the second Israeli model to appear in Sports Illustrated, she reached a career pinnacle with the 2009 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover. Her presence in Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar established her as a global fashion icon, culminating in Maxim naming her the world’s most desirable woman in 2012.
Video
Beyond the Runway
Entertainment Ventures
Refaeli successfully transitioned into television, hosting The X Factor Israel in 2013 and the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest. Her screen presence extended to acting roles in productions like Session and Kidon.
Business Empire
Demonstrating her entrepreneurial prowess, Refaeli co-founded Under.me, a designer underwear brand, and Mika Look, a fashion-focused shopping app. Her business acumen extends to tech investments, including the mobile payment app MyCheck, and successful collaborations with brands like Carolina Lemke.
Personal Life and Impact
Family and Philanthropy
Now married to businessman Adi Ezra since 2015 and a mother of three, Refaeli balances family life with her career. Her philanthropic work focuses on environmental conservation, water preservation, and advocacy for civil rights in Israel.
Lasting Legacy
Despite facing challenges, including controversies over military service and tax issues, Refaeli’s journey from a young Israeli model to an international businesswoman and cultural ambassador demonstrates the power of resilience and reinvention. Her story continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and models worldwide, proving that success knows no boundaries when coupled with determination and vision.
