When we think of models gracing international runways and magazine covers, the image often conjures glamor, perfection, and effortless beauty. But Chase Carter — Bahamian-born model, social media influencer, and wife of MLB star Cody Bellinger — wants the world to know that success didn’t come without pain. In a deeply personal and candid revelation, she shared that her dream of becoming a model was nearly destroyed by brutal rejections at the tender age of 13.
Now a Sports Illustrated cover model and a mother of two, Chase’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience often starts in silence, away from the spotlight, when the world says “no” and you choose to keep going anyway.
A Childhood in Paradise, With Dreams Beyond It
Born and raised in the Bahamas, Chase Carter grew up in one of the world’s most idyllic settings. But beneath the palm trees and postcard beaches, her ambitions stretched far beyond the islands.
“I always wanted to travel and do something different,” Chase has said in previous interviews. “I loved the camera, not for vanity, but for storytelling. Modeling seemed like the door that could open that world for me.”
That dream began to take shape early. By the age of 13, she convinced her parents to let her attend casting calls in New York during summer breaks.
What happened next nearly broke her spirit.
Facing the Harsh Reality of the Fashion World
At 13, most girls are navigating puberty and schoolyard friendships. Chase was facing rooms full of adults critiquing her body, her face, her walk, her worth — or so it felt.
In her own words:
“I was told I was too short, too broad-shouldered, not unique enough. Sometimes, they just said ‘next’ without even looking up. I went back to my hotel room and cried for hours.”
For a teenager used to encouragement and community support back home, this was a jarring contrast. The modeling industry’s cutthroat standards and zero-sugar-coating feedback hit like a freight train.
At one point, she confessed she almost gave it up:
“I thought, maybe this isn’t for me. Maybe I’m just not meant for this world.”
The Turning Point: Belief Over Approval
What pulled her through wasn’t external validation — it was a growing internal fire.
With encouragement from her close-knit family, especially her grandmother who often reminded her, “You’re more than their ‘yes’ or ‘no,’” Chase returned to the grind. She revamped her portfolio, sought better agencies, and learned how to separate industry feedback from personal identity.
She started focusing not on trying to look like other models, but on what made her different — her Caribbean background, athletic build, and raw personality.
Eventually, her persistence paid off.
Breakthrough with Sports Illustrated
In 2018, Chase Carter earned a breakout opportunity with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, one of the modeling world’s most coveted platforms. Her bold poses and effortless energy stunned audiences — and suddenly, the very attributes once criticized became her unique edge.
“Sports Illustrated didn’t ask me to be anything but myself,” she said. “They wanted my curves, my freckles, my loud laugh. That’s when I realized — the right door won’t ask you to shrink to fit in.”
From there, campaigns with PINK by Victoria’s Secret, Maybelline, and Urban Outfitters followed, cementing her status as a rising star.
Love, Motherhood, and New Chapters
In 2020, Chase made headlines again — this time in the sports world — when she began dating Chicago Cubs outfielder and former NL MVP Cody Bellinger.
Their relationship blossomed, fueled by mutual respect, shared values, and a down-to-earth lifestyle away from the spotlight. In 2021, the couple welcomed their first daughter, Caiden, followed by a second child in 2023.
Chase’s role as a mother transformed her — not just personally, but professionally.
“I’ve become more selective about what I do. I want my kids to look back and feel proud — not just because of what I achieved, but how I achieved it.”
Motherhood, far from slowing her down, seems to have given her purpose.
Breaking the Stereotype: Models Have Depth
Chase is part of a new generation of models redefining beauty beyond the superficial. With a strong social media presence, she often shares unfiltered glimpses of motherhood, fitness, mental health, and personal insecurities.
She frequently posts about:
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Stretch marks and postpartum changes
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Behind-the-scenes pressure of photo shoots
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Emotional vulnerability, including anxiety and body dysmorphia
Her openness resonates with thousands, especially young women who feel overwhelmed by filtered perfection online.
“People see the final photos and think that’s reality. I want to show the process, the sweat, the self-doubt. That’s where the real strength is.”
Cody Bellinger: Her Biggest Supporter
Cody Bellinger has remained largely private about their relationship, but in interviews, he often praises Chase for her strength and perspective.
“She’s an incredible mother and partner. What she’s overcome, how she balances everything — it’s inspiring.”
When asked how they navigate fame and parenting together, Chase once joked:
“It’s teamwork. We both have demanding careers, but our kids come first. And honestly, watching him change diapers is kind of hot.”
Impact Beyond the Camera
Today, Chase Carter is more than a model — she’s a mentor and advocate, especially for young girls facing rejection early in life.
She’s launched conversations around:
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Toxic beauty standards
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The psychological cost of early rejection
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Building confidence from within
She’s also rumored to be developing a children’s book series based on her own life — a story about a girl from a small island who learns that “no” can be the beginning of something better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓Who is Chase Carter?
Chase Carter is a Bahamian model known for her work with Sports Illustrated and other major fashion brands. She is also the wife of MLB star Cody Bellinger and mother of their two children.
❓How did she get into modeling?
Chase began modeling at age 13 but faced harsh rejections early in her career. She persisted, revamped her image, and eventually gained recognition, leading to major modeling opportunities.
❓What challenges did she face at 13?
Chase was repeatedly told she was “not right” for the modeling industry — too athletic, not unique enough, or simply dismissed outright. The emotional toll nearly led her to quit.
❓When did she gain popularity?
Her career breakthrough came with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition in 2018. Since then, she’s modeled for Victoria’s Secret, Urban Outfitters, and several beauty brands.
❓How did she meet Cody Bellinger?
They reportedly met through mutual friends and began dating in 2020. Their relationship became public later that year.
❓Is she still modeling after becoming a mother?
Yes. Chase remains active in modeling, though she has shifted her focus to more intentional work that aligns with her values and family priorities.
❓Is she involved in any advocacy or social causes?
Chase speaks openly about mental health, motherhood, body image, and navigating rejection. She’s also involved in discussions around better representation of Caribbean women in fashion.
❓What’s next for Chase Carter?
In addition to modeling, she’s hinted at writing projects, brand collaborations, and possibly launching a mentorship platform for aspiring young models.
Conclusion: The Power of ‘No’
Chase Carter’s story is proof that success isn’t built on instant fame — it’s built on grit, rejection, and choosing yourself when others don’t.
Her modeling dream may have been bruised at 13, but she didn’t let it break. And today, she’s not only walking runways — she’s walking her truth, and showing young girls everywhere that being “different” isn’t a disqualification. It’s a superpower.
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