Brianna ‘Chickenfry’ LaPaglia Shines in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, Embraces Freedom After High-Profile Breakup

Brianna LaPaglia, famously known as “Chickenfry” from Barstool Sports, is turning heads—and loving every minute of it. Fresh off her stunning Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition digital cover shoot in California, the 25-year-old podcaster is embracing her independence and a fresh start after her public breakup with country star Zach Bryan last year.

At a recent SI event in Manhattan, LaPaglia revealed how the photoshoot has led to an influx of messages from admirers, joking, “They were popping off. They’re fine.” But beyond the fan attention, Brianna is truly enjoying the single life—a first for her since her teenage years.

“I really genuinely enjoy being single,” LaPaglia told People. “I was in a relationship from 16 until 25, so being single for the first time ever is frigging awesome. I can order Taco Bell whenever I want, go out, hang with friends—it’s really fun. I feel like I’m figuring out who I am.”

What makes her story even more compelling is Brianna’s openness about her journey toward healing. Unlike many celebrities, she never signed a non-disclosure agreement with Bryan, giving her the freedom to speak candidly about the emotional abuse she endured during their relationship.

“I’m in that time zone where I’m discovering who I am, trying new things, and leaving negativity behind,” she said. “It shouldn’t be discouraging to be figuring things out; there’s no timeline for this.”

Despite swirling rumors, Brianna has denied dating Barstool founder Dave Portnoy, who has been a steadfast supporter through her breakup. Portnoy even released a diss track targeting Bryan and hasn’t held back calling him out publicly.

With her career gaining momentum and her personal life on a positive trajectory, Brianna LaPaglia is proving that strength, authenticity, and self-discovery make for the most captivating story—and she’s only just getting started.