Ali Landry may have first burst onto the national stage as Miss USA in 1996, but the Southern-born beauty quickly proved she was much more than a crown and sash. With a mix of charisma, charm, and an unforgettable screen presence, Landry transformed a fleeting moment during a Super Bowl commercial into a lasting cultural impression. Today, she’s not just remembered for her iconic Doritos ad, but also for her journey through television, business, motherhood, and wellness.
A Small-Town Beginning with Big Dreams
Born on July 21, 1973, in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana—a town known more for its crawfish festivals than red carpets—Ali Landry grew up with traditional Southern values and a deep sense of community. She excelled in school and cheerleading and went on to attend the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where she majored in mass communications. It was during her college years that she began competing in beauty pageants, eventually earning the title of Miss Louisiana USA and, later, Miss USA in 1996.
Winning the national pageant brought Ali into the spotlight, but it was her grace and grounded personality that helped her navigate the whirlwind of fame with authenticity. Though she didn’t win the Miss Universe crown, her Miss USA title opened doors in modeling, hosting, and acting—fields she approached with discipline and dedication.
The Doritos Commercial That Made Pop Culture History
While many pageant winners fade from the public eye, Ali became the face that no one could forget—thanks to a 30-second Super Bowl commercial that aired in 1998. In the now-iconic Doritos ad, Landry playfully somersaults through a laundromat, catching chips in slow motion. The commercial was fun, flirty, and memorable, instantly turning her into a household name. It wasn’t just a commercial—it was a moment. One that branded her as “The Doritos Girl” and launched her into mainstream recognition.
That single ad spot turned out to be a defining moment of her career, proving that personality and presence can shine through even in the shortest of formats. Over two decades later, fans still recall it as one of the most beloved Super Bowl ads of all time.
Building a Television Career
Following her Doritos fame, Ali began to explore the world of acting and television. She appeared on popular shows like Felicity, Two Guys and a Girl, and Eve, showing off a comedic flair and dramatic range that expanded her appeal. She even took on hosting duties, co-hosting Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, and various red-carpet events.
In 2002, she appeared on Fear Factor: Celebrity Edition—and to the surprise of many—won. It wasn’t just a fun appearance; it solidified her image as not only graceful and beautiful but also mentally and physically strong. Her willingness to take on challenges, both onscreen and off, became a recurring theme in her career.
Motherhood, Marriage, and Finding Balance
Behind the scenes, Ali’s personal life also took center stage. After a highly publicized first marriage that ended shortly after the wedding, she found love and stability with Mexican film director Alejandro Gómez Monteverde. The two married in 2006 and have since built a beautiful life together, raising three children: Estela, Marcelo, and Valentin.
Ali often speaks candidly about motherhood—the joys, the challenges, and the balancing act it requires. Rather than stepping back from her career, she has used her experiences as a mom to inspire new ventures that reflect her values: family, health, and self-empowerment.
Reinvention Through Wellness and Fashion
In recent years, Landry has reinvented herself once again—this time as a lifestyle and wellness advocate. After struggling with fatigue and other health issues, she embarked on a personal health journey that led to the launch of her book, Reshape Your Life, Don’t Settle, in 2022. In it, she shares practical tips, interviews with health experts, and honest reflections on how she reclaimed her energy and purpose.
She also founded RE/SHAPE, a lifestyle platform focused on wellness, nutrition, and beauty for busy women. Through her brand, she promotes a message of aging gracefully, living intentionally, and empowering others to take control of their health and happiness.
Additionally, Ali has explored fashion design, partnering with various brands and launching curated collections that reflect her chic yet approachable style. Her fashion sense—elegant but accessible—has made her a favorite on lifestyle segments and style blogs alike.
A Role Model for Resilience and Reinvention
Ali Landry’s story is one of evolution. From a small-town girl to Miss USA, from the face of a famous Super Bowl commercial to a thriving entrepreneur and wellness advocate—she has worn many hats and worn them well. She’s navigated fame with humility, built a strong family life, and remained relevant by being unafraid to grow and change.
At 50, she continues to defy expectations. Whether she’s crossing a marathon finish line, interviewing doctors for her wellness platform, or spending time with her children, Ali Landry exudes the grace, strength, and authenticity that have defined her for more than two decades.
And while many still remember her for that now-legendary Doritos commercial, it’s clear that Ali Landry’s impact stretches far beyond a single moment. Hers is a legacy of beauty, yes—but also of grit, transformation, and purpose.