“Baywatch” star David Hasselhoff taught his daughter Hayley to love her natural self from childhood, even as she was teased and fat-shamed for her body. At 30, she became the first plus-size woman to appear on the cover of Playboy and is very proud of the photos. Hasselhoff has been vocal about his pride and support for his daughter as she challenges traditional beauty standards.
David Hasselhoff, famous for roles in Baywatch and Knight Rider, has enjoyed a long Hollywood career while also raising a family. He is fiercely protective of his daughters and supportive of the paths they have chosen in life. He has spoken publicly about how proud he is of Hayley and her accomplishments.
Hasselhoff welcomed daughters Hayley and Taylor Ann with his ex-wife, Pamela Bach. The couple were married for over a decade before divorcing after 16 years. Following a lengthy legal battle, Hasselhoff was awarded primary custody of his daughters in 2007.
After assuming most parental responsibilities, Hasselhoff focused on raising his daughters to be confident, well-rounded women who felt comfortable in their own skin.
Hayley, the youngest, went on to pursue a career as a plus-size model, though the journey was not easy. Growing up, she was bullied for being bigger than other girls and found it challenging to meet the beauty standards prevalent in Los Angeles. As a teenager, she questioned why she didn’t look like her peers and recalled being teased for developing earlier than others.
Even after becoming more confident, Hayley faced judgment from others, including medical professionals. She spoke openly about encountering fatphobia and society’s rigid beauty expectations, explaining that many people equate curves with being unhealthy.
Much of Hayley’s social anxiety stemmed from constant conversations about her weight. She has said that becoming comfortable in one’s body takes time and effort.
Although both her parents fit conventional beauty standards, Hayley said they never pressured her to conform. Instead, they supported and loved her for who she was.
Becoming the First Plus-Size Woman on a Playboy Cover
In 2021, Hayley made history by becoming the first plus-size model to appear on the cover of Playboy, posing for the German edition. The shoot took place in Paris during lockdown, and due to limited availability of lingerie in her size, she wore her own clothing.
Hayley described the experience as both intimidating and empowering. She admitted she initially questioned whether it was the right decision but later realized it served a greater purpose. She believed her appearance on the cover helped show curvy women around the world that their bodies are worthy of celebration.
She expressed pride in the photos, saying that bodies of all sizes can be celebrated artistically without being objectified.
In 2022, Hayley continued breaking barriers by walking in an inclusive beachwear fashion show featuring models of different sizes and backgrounds. She said the experience reinforced the message that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
David Hasselhoff’s Support for His Daughter
Hayley often celebrates her body on social media, sharing photos and messages of self-love. Her posts are frequently met with praise and encouragement from followers.
Her parents have been just as supportive. Hayley believes their pride and belief in her have played a crucial role in her confidence and ability to promote body positivity. She has said that her father, in particular, has always supported her career choices and made it clear how proud he is of her achievements.
Hayley noted that she has worked as a curve model since the age of 14 and that her father has consistently encouraged her throughout her career.
