Karl’s daughter, 16, launches modelling career

In her first major photo shoot with Stellar, Willow Stefanovic, the eldest daughter of Today host Karl, reveals she has signed with a modelling agency and discusses her film and television aspirations for the future.

She bears one of the most famous surnames in Australia. And now, at 16 years of age, Willow Stefanovic is ready to take on the world

You’ve recently signed with Precision MGMT, and this is your first major photo shoot as well as your introduction to Australia as a newcomer to the world of modelling. How are you feeling about stepping into the limelight?

I don’t actually see it as “stepping into the limelight”. I see it more as a creative extension of my passion for all things that are fashion related.

Modelling is only one part of this ever-changing industry, and I can’t wait to have the opportunity to promote the latest trends.

“My family has always supported my dreams. Mum put in the hard yards and Dad... well, we all know I didn’t get my fashionista gene from him!” (Picture: Jedd Cooney)

When did you first find yourself interested in modelling?

Since I was a little girl I’ve been drawn to modelling. Thankfully Mum [Cassandra Thorburn] has such a sensible head; she always said, “When you’re old enough to make the decision that’s what you really want, then I will do everything to support you.”

I am now 16, turning 17 in March, and about to begin my final year at school. Embarking on a modelling career now means I can pursue my dreams one small step at a time.

I will never let it interfere or disrupt my studies, or let it consume me. My education will always be the number-one priority for me, and that will never change.

What did your mum say to you when you announced you wanted to try modelling? What about your father and brothers?

My family has always been supportive of my dreams and aspirations. Mum has been the one who put in the hard yards to get me to this point. She herself is very creative, especially in home decor.

She has instilled in the three of us to journey safely through life, always with impeccable manners, and never get ahead of ourselves.

“But they both have known for years that fashion and modelling were always going to be my destiny.” (Picture: Jedd Cooney)

“It really is a wonderful world of make-believe.” (Picture: Jedd Cooney)

And Dad [Karl Stefanovic]... well, we all know I didn’t get my fashionista gene from him! That said, he backs me 100 per cent, so long as I’m happy.

My brothers [River, 15, and Jackson, 22] are typical boys, but they both have known for years that fashion and modelling were always going to be my destiny.

Your parents have both been in the public eye and have also worked in the media. Would you consider a career in the media down the track?

Both my parents are incredibly confident, and I think I am far less so. While both my parents have enjoyed successful careers in the media, I’m not discounting it, except I would like to somehow tie it into my passion for fashion.

Willow Stefanovic features in this Sunday’s Stellar.

We’ve been told you also have a keen interest in film and television?

I’m fascinated by what goes on behind the scenes to create something so magical. I have loved television and film for as long as I can remember, and being able to work in the industry would be another exciting field I hope to explore.

I look at every small detail when I watch a movie, from the music to the costumes. It really is a wonderful world of make-believe.