MARISA MILLER

​Marisa Miller, born Marisa Lee Bertetta on August 6, 1978, in Santa Cruz, California, is an American supermodel and actress renowned for her work with Sports Illustrated and Victoria’s Secret. Her distinctive blend of athleticism, California charm, and classic beauty has made her a prominent figure in the modeling industry.​

Early Life and Discovery

Raised in Santa Cruz, Marisa was a self-described tomboy who excelled in sports like surfing and volleyball. She attended Aptos High School and Monte Vista Christian School. At 16, while visiting a café in San Francisco, she was discovered by two Italian modeling agents. Despite initial reservations, she and her mother traveled to Italy, marking the beginning of her modeling journey. ​

Modeling Career

Marisa's early work included appearances in Perfect 10 magazine in the late 1990s. Her career gained momentum in 2001 after a photoshoot with renowned photographer Mario Testino, leading to features in Vogue and other high-profile publications. 

From 2002 to 2008, she was a staple in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, gracing the cover in 2008—a milestone that significantly boosted her profile. In 2007, she became a Victoria's Secret Angel, participating in their fashion shows and campaigns. Notably, in 2009, she wore the brand's $3 million Fantasy Bra, adorned with over 2,300 diamonds. ​

Beyond these, Marisa has modeled for brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Marc Jacobs, Guess?, and J.Crew, and appeared in magazines such as GQ, Maxim, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Elle, and Vanity Fair. ​

Brand Collaborations and Media Appearances

Marisa expanded her career through various brand partnerships. In 2008, she became the first spokesperson for Harley-Davidson in the company's history. She also served as a spokesperson for the NFL during the 2010–2011 season. Additionally, she collaborated with Captain Morgan Rum as their "Official First Mate" and worked with Surftech to develop a signature paddleboard. ​

Her television appearances include guest spots on Entourage, How I Met Your Mother, and serving as a judge on Bravo's Manhunt: The Search for America's Most Gorgeous Male Model. In 2013, she made her film debut in R.I.P.D., starring alongside Ryan Reynolds and Jeff Bridges. ​

Personal Life and Advocacy

Marisa married surfing promoter Jim Miller in 2000; they divorced in 2002. In 2006, she married music producer Griffin Guess. The couple has two sons: Gavin Lee Guess, born in 2012, and Grayson Lee Bazyl Guess, born in 2015. ​

A passionate advocate for health and environmental causes, Marisa became an ambassador for the American Cancer Society in 2009, promoting awareness about the dangers of tanning beds. She also supports the Young Survival Coalition, inspired by her younger sister's battle with breast cancer. Her commitment to ocean conservation led to her receiving the inaugural Paul Walker Ocean Leadership Award from the Monterey Bay Aquarium in 2014. ​

Legacy

Marisa Miller's career reflects a successful transition from modeling to broader roles in entertainment and advocacy. Her influence extends beyond the runway, as she continues to inspire with her dedication to health, family, and environmental causes.​