Hooters Names Ohio Woman Sophia Zullo as 2027 Bikini Calendar Cover Model
Hooters has selected Sophia Zullo, an Ohio woman, as the cover model for its 2027 bikini calendar, a surprising move as the brand has been retreating to its Florida roots and operates only two locations in Ohio. The announcement comes as the chain closed a 30-year-old Panama City Beach store earlier this month.
Hooters has named Sophia Zullo, an Ohio woman, as the cover model for its 2027 bikini calendar, a decision that caught longtime brand observers off guard as the chain has been steadily retreating to its Florida roots. The announcement, made this week, marks one of the biggest upsets in the calendar's history, given that Ohio now hosts just two Hooters locations — one in Dayton and one in Mason.
The selection of an Ohio woman for the top honor runs counter to expectations that the brand would lean into its Florida operations. As someone who has tracked Hooters for nearly two decades, the choice of Ohio over Florida represents a notable shift in the company's marketing strategy. Florida, after all, is where Hooters was founded in 1983 and where it maintains a significant presence.
But the news is not entirely positive for Hooters in Florida either. Earlier this month, the company closed a location in Panama City Beach that had been open for 30 years. The closure adds to a growing list of store shutdowns as the brand continues to contract nationwide. The combination of an Ohio cover model and a Florida store closure paints a mixed picture for the iconic chain.
Hooters has faced significant challenges in recent years, including shifting consumer habits, rising operational costs, and increased competition in the casual dining sector. The brand has been closing underperforming locations and adjusting its footprint. The 2027 calendar, which features bikini-clad models, remains a longstanding tradition for the company and a key marketing asset.
The calendar announcement comes amid a broader cultural moment for the brand. Hooters has been working to revitalize its image while staying true to its roots. The selection of Zullo, a relatively unknown model from a state with minimal Hooters presence, suggests the company may be looking to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional strongholds.
Meanwhile, the sports world delivered its own drama this week as the Green Bay Packers suffered a lopsided 35-14 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. The Packers were booed off the field at halftime, a humbling performance that dominated football commentary. The defeat adds to a rocky start for the team and gives fans plenty to discuss as the season progresses.
In other news, Oktoberfest celebrations are underway, bringing seasonal festivities to communities across the country. The annual event, rooted in German tradition, features food, music, and gatherings that mark the arrival of fall. For many, it is a welcome distraction from the ups and downs of the sports calendar.
The Hooters calendar news also sparked reactions from longtime followers of the brand. Some expressed surprise at the Ohio selection, while others noted the broader trend of the chain's contraction. The Panama City Beach closure, in particular, resonated with locals who had frequented the establishment for decades.
As Hooters navigates a changing restaurant landscape, the 2027 calendar serves as both a promotional tool and a symbol of the brand's enduring identity. Whether the Ohio cover model signals a new direction or simply a one-off decision remains to be seen. For now, the company is pressing forward with its signature blend of food, sports, and hospitality.
The Packers' loss and Oktoberfest festivities round out a week of mixed headlines. While football fans lament their team's performance, others are embracing the fall season with traditional celebrations. Together, these stories reflect the varied interests of American readers — from sports and dining to cultural events that bring communities together.
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