Model Lucy Markovic, who rose to fame through “Australia’s Next Top Model” and later walked the runways for prestigious fashion houses like Armani and Versace, has tragically passed away at the age of 27.
Her agency, Elite Model Management, announced her passing on Thursday via social media, revealing that Lucy had been bravely fighting a rare brain condition. A message confirming her death was also posted to her official Instagram Stories, just hours after a previous post stated that she was “battling for her life.”
In a heartfelt tribute, Elite remembered her as “a bright shining light.”
“Modeling was one of Lucy’s dreams, and we are deeply honored to have been part of that journey with her,” the agency shared. “She brought elegance, strength, and beauty to her work. But more than that, she brought herself — her warmth, her laughter, her light.”
Lucy first captured hearts as a teenager on Season 9 of “Australia’s Next Top Model” in 2015, finishing as the runner-up. Despite not taking the title, she quickly became a sought-after name in the fashion world.
Her career flourished as she worked with Versace, Armani, Oscar de la Renta, Bulgari, Givenchy, and Dolce & Gabbana, and starred in campaigns for Victoria Beckham. She also appeared in Marie Claire and international editions of Vogue, cementing her place among top global models.
Three weeks prior to her death, Lucy revealed on Instagram that she would be undergoing brain surgery for a condition called arteriovenous malformation (AVM) — a tangle of abnormal blood vessels in the brain that she had quietly battled for four years. She described the AVM as being “the size of a golf ball,” sharing that it had caused seizures and neurological complications.
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“Full flood of emotions in this time,” she wrote from her hospital bed, alongside a scan of her brain. “Life’s a journey and I’m ready for the next chapter.”
Alongside her modeling achievements, Lucy was also known for her close bond with her family and the unwavering support they offered during her health struggles. She often shared loving moments with her mother and younger sister on social media, crediting them as her emotional pillars. Her fans admired how grounded she remained, often describing her as a blend of grace, strength, and vulnerability.
Lucy was also in a long-term relationship with Australian photographer and creative director Liam Rhodes, who frequently captured moments from her personal and professional life. The two shared a deep connection and often expressed their admiration for each other through heartfelt posts and tributes. Liam has yet to publicly comment, but friends say the two shared a bond full of creativity, understanding, and mutual love.
Tributes poured in across the fashion world following the announcement. Model of the Year Alex Consani left a heartfelt message on Lucy’s Instagram. Fashion icon Donatella Versace also paid tribute, writing:
“I am so sorry to hear the news about @lucymarkovicc. Rest in peace beautiful girl.”
Her Australian agency, Kult Australia, added:
“Today, we lost a star… She was radiant, warm, and a beautiful soul.”
Lucy’s journey, though tragically cut short, left a lasting impact not just on fashion, but on those who knew her and followed her story. She will be remembered not only for her incredible talent but also for her courage, kindness, and light.