Charlotte McKinney

Charlotte McKinney is an American model and actress known for her transition from Instagram personality to Hollywood performer. Facing bullying at school due to dyslexia, McKinney left high school at age 17 to pursue a modeling career, initially struggling to secure agency representation. She used Instagram as a portfolio, gaining significant attention and being profiled in Esquire, which contributed to her success and led to campaigns for Guess. McKinney later signed with Wilhelmina Models and appeared on the covers of fashion magazines including Jezebel, Ocean Drive, GQ Mexico, Galore, and Miami Living.

McKinney's career gained widespread attention when she starred in Carl's Jr.'s viral "All Natural Burger" campaign. The commercial, released online and aired regionally during Super Bowl XLIX, featured McKinney at a farmers' market and quickly generated nearly 2.5 billion media impressions and 9.5 million YouTube views. Despite airing only in the western United States, the ad received industry recognition, making AdAge's index of Most Engaging Ads and ranking as the third most shared Super Bowl ad across all social media networks. The commercial led to comparisons between McKinney and Kate Upton, who also appeared in a Carl's Jr. Super Bowl ad.

Following her viral success, McKinney transitioned into acting and television. She competed on season 20 of "Dancing with the Stars" and moved into film, playing Julia in the action-comedy "Baywatch" and appearing in the sci-fi thriller "Flatliners." McKinney also starred as Chastity in the horror remake "Fantasy Island," produced by Blumhouse. On television, she secured roles in "Historical Roasts" and "MacGyver."

In addition to her work in modeling and acting, McKinney has pursued stand-up comedy, performing in venues such as San Diego. She has stated that comedy has always been a part of her life. McKinney is also a supporter of Best Buddies, a nonprofit organization focused on creating opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Despite challenges related to bullying and a chronic health condition, McKinney has leveraged her Instagram presence into a multifaceted career in entertainment, modeling, and comedy.