Full Breakdown
Olivia Dunne: From Gymnastics to Influencer and Model
12/9/2025, 12:12:04 AM
Transitioning from Athlete to Influencer
Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, a former gymnast and current model, is navigating her identity in the public eye as she embraces her role as the winter 2025 cover star of Maxim. In a recent interview, Dunne expressed her struggle with the label of "influencer," preferring to identify as a "former athlete" and "model." At 23 years old, she is also venturing into acting, working with a coach and exploring scripts, while humorously noting that her recent reading material consists of contracts.
Rise to Fame
Dunne gained significant attention during her gymnastics career, particularly after the NCAA rule change in 2021 that allowed student-athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL). She became the highest-paid female college athlete during her tenure at Louisiana State University (LSU), where she won an NCAA title in 2024. Her popularity surged further when her gymnastics videos went viral on TikTok during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to her feature in the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue.
Personal Life and Brand Expansion
In her Maxim interview, Dunne reflected on her personal growth, stating, “I created something larger than sport.” She has recently purchased an apartment in New York City and is actively expanding her brand portfolio, which includes partnerships with companies such as Accelerator, Vuori activewear, Nautica, and American Eagle. Additionally, she participated in a joint interview and photoshoot with her boyfriend, Paul Skenes, a pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, earlier this year.
Official Statements & Responses
Dunne's comments in her interviews highlight her multifaceted career and the challenges of transitioning from sports to the entertainment industry. She noted the importance of feeling her performances, akin to her gymnastics training, where she would "turn off my brain and just let my body do what it knows how to do."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite her success, some critics argue that the influencer label diminishes the achievements of athletes like Dunne. They contend that the focus on social media presence can overshadow athletic accomplishments, raising concerns about the long-term implications for sports culture.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Somebody pinch me!!!” — Olivia Dunne, on seeing her Maxim cover for the first time.
- “I created something larger than sport,” — Olivia Dunne, reflecting on her impact beyond athletics.
What's Next
As Dunne continues to develop her acting career and expand her brand, her journey will be closely watched by fans and industry observers alike. Her ability to balance her past as an athlete with her aspirations in modeling and acting will likely shape her future endeavors.
