Sandra Taylor, once a Playboy cover girl in the ’90s, now serves as the head sommelier at Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders. Her friendship with Anna Nicole Smith, the 1993 Playmate of the Year, profoundly influenced her career path.
Sandra’s Early Days with Anna Nicole Smith
Taylor discussed her connection with Smith on Kim Alexis’ podcast, “Unexpired.” She recalled how their mutual makeup artists introduced them. “I was friends with Anna Nicole Smith, and she was a darling,” Taylor shared with Fox News Digital. “When she first came from Texas, she needed a place to stay. We became friends.” This relationship would later guide Taylor’s career.
A pivotal moment came when Taylor visited Smith on the set of “Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult.” Encouraged by Smith and her makeup artist, Taylor pursued an opportunity with Playboy during its 40th anniversary search, which changed her life’s trajectory.
A New Career Path
Reflecting on her unexpected journey, Taylor said, “I never thought I would ever be in Playboy. My plans were to be a mathematician, like my dad.” After her father’s sudden death at 19, she left her math studies and embraced modeling. Her friendship with Smith opened doors to Playboy, shaping her future in ways she had not imagined.
Playboy and the Friendship with Hugh Hefner
Taylor credits Smith for paving her way into Playboy and cherishes the lasting friendship she developed with Hugh Hefner. “Even when you do the magazine, it doesn’t end there,” she explained. “Hef opens up his home for years.” Taylor recounts flying on Hefner’s jet and experiencing his kindness, which left a lasting impact on her.
Years later, Taylor learned from Traci Bingham that Hefner regarded her as one of the most attractive models. “She said, ‘Hef thought you were the most sexy model.’ That revelation was beautiful,” Taylor recalled.
Modeling and Acting Endeavors
Her modeling career brought unexpected opportunities, like posing for romance novel covers with Fabio. Taylor described the experience as delightful, with elaborate outfits and hair styling. She embraced these opportunities with enthusiasm.
As an actress, Taylor collaborated with notable figures like director Garry Marshall, Steven Seagal, and Robert De Niro. “Steven Seagal was kind to me in auditions,” she shared. Dan Aykroyd also made a memorable gesture by buying Taylor her SAG card, which she cherishes to this day.
Embracing New Roles
Today, Taylor’s life is different. After losing her home in the 2025 Palisades Fire, she is rebuilding and thriving as a professional sommelier. She helped create Raider Rosé, reflecting her continued drive to explore new paths.
“I’m proud of the life I’ve led,” Taylor expressed. “I’ve faced ups and downs, but I’ve been blessed and remain ready for what life throws at me.”