Jennifer Aniston Appears on the Vanity Fair September Cover, Sparking Buzz

The 56-year-old "Friends" alum debuted a bold cover look that quickly ignited conversation across social media.

Jennifer Aniston is the face of Vanity Fair's September 2025 issue. The Hollywood star appears in a floor-length satin gown, posing side profile against an ornate, gold-toned decorative screen. Her hair cascades over one shoulder as she looks away from the camera, framed by intricate patterns in the background.

In an Instagram post on August 11, Vanity Fair described the "Murder Mystery" alum as being in her "zen era." The post highlighted how Aniston has navigated decades in the spotlight, facing tabloid scrutiny, stalkers, and speculation about her personal life.

Despite these challenges, the actress said she is at ease with the life she has built and confident in her career. "If there's an area in my life where I have no fear, it's in my career—of speaking up for what I want. I don't do it in a scary or mean way. I just know my value," she shared.

The magazine's cover story features Aniston reflecting on her female friendships, her peace with the loss of her "Friends" co-star Matthew Perry, saying, "I'm glad he's out of that pain," and her experiences during the media attention of the early 2000s. Regarding that period, she remarked, "It's a shame that it had to happen."

Vanity Fair also released a short video of Aniston posing in nature while wearing various outfits for the cover shoot. The footage captured her in multiple serene outdoor settings.

Online reactions to the cover image varied widely. One person wrote, "She looks so different." Another said, "Weird pose for the cover."

A third commented, "The stylist, photographer, set design, and the individual who approved the cover should be fired! Worst cover ever so awkward [sic]." Another added, "I love her but whatever work she has had done makes her look weird. Fillers, injections...[sic]"

A different commenter wondered, "Why did she allow this? Not flattering. Leaning against a wall side view- hardly looks like her. Why do stars get all done up & over made up for these covers [sic]?"

Some offered positive feedback, with one fan saying, "Such an inspiring cover and interview! Love how Jennifer embraces her peace, strength, and self-worth," while another penned, "She is really amazing, with all that she has been through, I just love her energy."

Reactions to the video also ranged from critical to complimentary. One comment read, "Love her.. but she looks uncomfortable."

Another stated, "Love her but she seems out of place and not secure. Jen seems her best in jeans, tshirt [sic] and laughing." One more person remarked, "Ouch !!! Her face is gone !! Why botox? Filles? She looks so bad [sic]."

"Amazing hair! Unbelievable body! But that under-eye filler makes her look tired and unnatural [sic]," quipped another netizen.

Supportive messages were also present, such as, "A woman in her natural skin!!! Finally!!! Thanks for showing here [sic]." Yet another fan gushed, "She is absolutely gorgeous! And such an inspiration!"

Jennifer Aniston's latest Vanity Fair appearance has sparked discussion across social media, with both criticism and admiration highlighting the public's long-standing interest in her career and image. Scroll down to take a look at a few of the magazine covers the A-lister has appeared in over the years.

2018

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2019

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2020

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2021

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2025

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