In an inspiring return to her roots, former Miss South Africa and Miss Universe (1978), Margaret Gardiner has made her literary debut with an enthralling novel that dives deep into the glitzy yet tumultuous realm of the modelling industry.
Gardiner is currently in South Africa where she is promoting “Damaged Beauty: Joey Superstar”.
This comes after a challenging battle with face cancer, which she bravely confronted while living in the United States.
The launch of her book is not just a personal triumph, it embodies Gardiner’s journey of resilience and renewal following her health challenges.
Set against the backdrop of 1980s America, the narrative follows the rise and fall of Joey Superstar, a cover model whose life spirals amid the chaos of parties, drugs and the pressures of an industry obsessed with perfection.
“The book isn’t my story,” Gardiner reflects in a recent Instagram post, “But it is inspired by some of the things I saw.”
She also shared: “It’s about a model who is long, lean and lovely. She’s what a supermodel used to be. She’s living the life of glamour and glitz at parties and premieres. Men want her, women want to be her, but her husband is having open affairs, and that drives her to the brink of sanity.
“When she emerges, she goes to New York to reclaim her life as a model while fighting to hold on to her sanity. ‘Damaged Beauty: Joey Superstar’ is many women’s story.
“It’s what happens in the shadows to us that we’re afraid to bring into the light and share with the world, but if you struggle, it’s important to ask for help. And finally, Joey may have the courage to do just that.”
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In a separate post, Gardiner wrote: “Hello South Africa, I am so excited and nervous. I am headed out for the launch of my book … I hope that you will fall in love with her as I did while I was writing about her. Wish me luck.”
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Gardiner’s journey mirrors her protagonist’s in significant ways.
Rising to fame at just 16, she spent her formative years navigating the complex dynamics of the fashion world, ultimately working as a fashion editor and collaborating with celebrities from Angelina Jolie to Zendaya.
Her experiences, her degree in psychology and her advocacy for women’s rights lend a rich, informed perspective to her narrative.
