Ex-Playboy Model Kendra Wilkinson Embraces ‘Aging Poorly’

Kendra Wilkinson appears to be done with people’s opinions about her looks, firmly shutting down critics who claim she is aging “poorly.”

The “Girls Next Door” star is now speaking openly about how happy she feels at this stage of her life, especially as she returns to her career in real estate after previously stepping away.

Amid criticism ranging from comments about her looks to her fashion choices, the former Playboy model shares a major life update as she embarks on an alcohol detox.

In an Instagram post, Wilkinson shared a selfie of herself wearing a red top with light makeup. She accessorized with a necklace whose pendant rested neatly at the base of her neck, while her hair was pulled back into a ponytail.

“I used to use a light filter on myself, but now I’m just embracing myself as it is,” she captioned the selfie. “I’ve seen many people comment saying I’ve aged ‘poorly,’ and that is ok. I’m ok with aging ‘poorly.'”

The 40-year-old mom went on to say that she is the happiest she has ever been, despite “a little weight gain and wrinkles.” According to her, she would no longer tie her happiness to any negative energy.

Wilkinson continued to celebrate her personal growth while reflecting on the turbulent years that defined much of her early career, recounting the effort it took to reach her current level of peace. In her words:

“I was verrrry young when I started TV and lived a crazy chaotic 20 years of impressing others, but now it’s about ME. Giving back to ME. Even with less money and way less fame.”

She explained that her focus is now on her life as a realtor and as a mother of two, adding that watching her children grow has brought her immense joy.

Fans quickly rallied around her with supportive messages. “I would love to see what the people who are criticizing you look like?!?! You look great!” one follower wrote.

Another added, “We love to see it! Great example for women and beautiful inside and out, always.” A third fan commented, “Girl, you look amazing. Some people don’t get the privilege to age at all.”

Another joked, “If this is aging poorly, can I age like Kendra? She looks amazing!” One more supporter chimed in, “Jealous people! You are amazing and look amazing. You are leading a good, happy, healthy life.”

It might appear that Wilkinson’s conservative appearance may have contributed to why some critics claim she is aging poorly.

Months ago, she was forced to address comments about her choice of clothing. Wilkinson was seen clad in a vintage long-sleeved shirt tucked into wide-leg black pants, paired with black shoes.

Her hair was pulled back in a low ponytail as she posed with a wide smile beside her open house sign, as reported by The Blast.

“I’m so happy I’m evolving into myself and growing [into] who I want to be,” she noted, acknowledging that she knew people didn’t like her choice of outfits but explaining that it represents who she is.

“Yes, I’ve never really had the greatest fashion sense, but that’s just who I’ve always been. This outfit isn’t the hottest, but it makes me feel good in different ways,” she admitted.

Wilkinson also joked that there is a sense of freedom that comes with not always looking like she is ready for TV or a photoshoot, adding boldly that her focus now is on her real estate career.

Although she is now confidently embracing her work as a realtor, Wilkinson had earlier stepped away from the industry.

In 2024, she announced the decision on social media, writing, “My relationship with real estate has come to an end at this moment, and I’m on to new projects.”

As The Blast previously reported, she explained that her career had become stressful and that she wanted to prioritize her mental health and her children.

While waves of criticism continue to come from different angles, Wilkinson remains focused on being the best version of herself.

The former reality ended last year with an alcohol detox plan. On December 4, she posted a bare-faced selfie on her Instagram Story from inside her car, showing off glowing skin and a small smile, per The Blast.

Alongside the image, she wrote: “Rise and grind. Please respect my alcohol detox, people. If you’re my friend or follower, I hope you do or [four middle finger emojis].”

The update arrived about 11 months after she addressed public concerns about her weight and drinking habits, signaling another step in her ongoing journey toward self-care and balance.