"That's what it was for me. To show you that it's 69 and feeling really fine," the 'CBS Mornings' co-host tells PEOPLE

Gayle King has revealed the most common reaction she's received for her Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover. "I've had so many women come up to me and say, that was so brave," Gayle, 69, told People magazine.

Once King realized it was genuine, the CBS Mornings host was "excited. That's what it was for me. To show you that it's 69 and feeling really fine."

The Emmy-winning journalist, 69, was surprised to be one of the mag’s cover stars for their 60th anniversary issue in May 2023.

Gayle King took plenty of risks in her career and life to get where she is today, but admits one opportunity she received felt like she was “being punked.” Earlier this month, she took a risk by eating a half-eaten slice of pie she received via delivery at her residence,