Born in Lambeth, South London
Naomi Elaine Campbell, born on 22 May 1970 in Lambeth, South London, began her modeling career at the age of eight. Campbell is one of six models of her generation recognized as supermodels by the fashion industry and international press. In this slideshow, we explore iconic photographs of Campbell through the years.
First public appearance at age 8
Campbell made her first public appearance at age 8 in Bob Marley’s “Is This Love” music video. She studied dance from ages 3 to 16 and initially aimed to be a dancer.
Scouted by a modeling agency
In 1986, while still a student, she was scouted by a modeling agency and appeared on the cover of British Elle before her 16th birthday.
Walked the runway
From 1987 to 1997, Campbell walked the runway for top designers and became part of the “Trinity” alongside Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista.
She broke racial barriers
She broke racial barriers by becoming the first black model on the covers of British Vogue in 1987, French Vogue in 1988, and American Vogue in 1989.
Time and Vogue
Historic Covers: She was the first black woman to appear on the covers of both Time and Vogue France.
Acted in various films and television shows
Diverse Ventures: Beyond modeling, Campbell has released an R&B studio album and has acted in various films and television shows.
Reality Show Host
Reality Show Host: She hosted the modeling-competition reality show The Face and its international versions.
Charity Work
Charity Work: Campbell is involved in charity work for various causes, although her charity faced scrutiny regarding financial management.
Charity Misconduct
Charity Misconduct: In September 2024, she was banned from being a trustee of any charity in the UK for five years due to misconduct involving her charity’s spending practices.
Family Background
Family Background: She is of Black-Jamaican and Chinese-Jamaican descent, with her Chinese heritage coming from her maternal grandmother.
Mother's Influence
Mother’s Influence: Her mother, Valerie Morris, is a Jamaican-born dancer, and Campbell has never met her father, who left when her mother was pregnant.
Surnames
Surnames: She took the surname “Campbell” from her mother’s second marriage.
Half-Brother
Half-Brother: Campbell has a half-brother named Pierre, who was born in 1985.
Early Education
Early Education: She attended the Barbara Speake Stage School from the age of three and later the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, where she studied ballet.
Living Arrangements
Living Arrangements: During her childhood, she lived with relatives in London while her mother toured Europe with a dance troupe.