Zach Bryan’s Ex Brianna LaPaglia Calls Sports Illustrated Shoot Her Ultimate ‘F— You’ to the Country Star

Brianna LaPaglia, widely known as “Brianna Chickenfry,” is starting 2025 with a powerful statement following her high-profile breakup with country music star Zach Bryan. The 25-year-old internet personality made waves this week as she graced the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit for the January 2025 digital issue.

In the accompanying interview, LaPaglia opened up about using the cover to reclaim her identity after the messy split from the 28-year-old singer. “It’s a lot more than me looking hot in a swimsuit,” she shared. “It’s me reclaiming who I am as a woman, reclaiming my body, my decisions, and my choices.”

The Barstool Sports podcaster emphasized that the cover marks a turning point in her life. “This cover is me being me again and taking control of my life,” she said, highlighting the personal significance of the milestone, according to the E Online.

While LaPaglia maintained that the decision to appear on the cover was for herself, she admitted it carried a bit of satisfaction directed at her ex. “It is just, on a petty level, my favorite f*** you,” she remarked. “This is me, I wanted to do this, and now I’m on the digital cover.”

LaPaglia revealed that she was previously invited to host the red carpet for Sports Illustrated’s 60th-anniversary celebration last year but chose not to attend. In her new cover story, she explained that Bryan had discouraged her from accepting the opportunity, calling the event “trashy” for her brand. Despite her initial excitement about the invitation, she ultimately backed out under his influence.

Reflecting on that experience, LaPaglia said the cover shoot felt like a moment of liberation. “This time, it was about doing what I wanted, not what anyone else thought was best for me,” she said.

The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover represents more than a career achievement for LaPaglia—it’s a bold declaration of independence and self-empowerment. After navigating a public breakup, she’s using her platform to celebrate her personal growth and reclaim control over her life and choices.