In the world of teeny-bopper magazines, the cover model was everything. For Baby Boomers growing up in the 1960s and 70s, these stars were more than just faces—they were icons, idols, and heartthrobs whose posters adorned countless bedroom walls. Among the many stars featured, few captivated young fans as much as Donny Osmond and Michael Jackson. These two legends, along with other teen heartthrobs of the time, were frequent cover models for the popular teen magazines, such as Tiger Beat, 16 Magazine, and Right On!.
Here’s a look at the teeny-bopper cover models that defined an era:
Donny Osmond: The Ultimate Teen Idol
Few stars of the 1970s epitomized the teen idol status quite like Donny Osmond. As the youngest member of The Osmonds, Donny quickly became the standout heartthrob thanks to his smooth voice, charm, and wholesome good looks. His solo hits like “Go Away Little Girl” and his collaborations with sister Marie Osmond further cemented his status as a teen sensation.
Teeny-bopper magazines couldn’t get enough of Donny. His boyish smile graced the covers of Tiger Beat, 16 Magazine, and Fave Magazine month after month. Inside, fans could read interviews about his favorite foods, his love for his family, and even what he was looking for in a girl. Donny’s clean-cut, all-American image made him the perfect teen idol for Baby Boomers looking for a “boy next door” to swoon over.
Fans collected countless posters of Donny and hung them up, keeping their love for him alive even after his peak teen idol years. Today, Donny remains a beloved figure in pop culture, but for Baby Boomers, he will always be the star who captured their teenage hearts.
Michael Jackson: The Prince of Pop Before He Was King
Before he became the “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson was the boy wonder who stole the hearts of teens around the world. As the frontman of The Jackson 5, Michael’s charisma and undeniable talent made him a natural for the covers of magazines like Right On! and Tiger Beat. With hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC,” The Jackson 5 were a global sensation, and Michael’s youthful energy and angelic voice made him the center of attention.
During the early 1970s, teen magazines frequently featured Michael on their covers, usually smiling, dressed in funky clothes, and surrounded by his famous brothers. His image appealed to both boys and girls, as he was seen as a symbol of youth, talent, and unbridled success. Michael’s curly hair, infectious smile, and modest persona made him one of the most beloved teeny-bopper cover models of the era.
As he transitioned into a solo career, Michael’s image evolved, but for Baby Boomers, those early covers immortalized him as the talented and lovable young star of their youth.
David Cassidy: The Partridge Family Heartthrob
Another star who dominated teeny-bopper magazine covers was David Cassidy. As the lead singer in The Partridge Family, Cassidy’s charm, golden locks, and velvety voice made him an instant teen idol. His role as Keith Partridge on the hit TV show shot him to superstardom, and his face was seemingly everywhere in the 1970s.
Cassidy graced the covers of Tiger Beat, 16 Magazine, and Flip, with stories inside about his life on set, his love life, and his dreams outside of acting and singing. His natural charisma and talent made him one of the most beloved cover stars of the teeny-bopper era, and he remained a favorite for fans throughout the decade.
Leif Garrett: The Poster Boy of the Late 70s
While Donny Osmond and Michael Jackson dominated the early 70s, Leif Garrett emerged as the teen idol of the late 70s. With his feathered blonde hair and California cool attitude, Leif became a cover regular for Tiger Beat and Teen Beat. His career in both acting and music made him a double threat, and fans couldn’t get enough of him.
Leif’s carefree, laid-back image contrasted with the more wholesome teen idols of the earlier decade, but his appeal to young girls was undeniable. Fans clamored for posters of Leif, and teen magazines were happy to supply them.
Shaun Cassidy: The Teen Dream
The younger brother of David Cassidy, Shaun Cassidy followed in his brother’s footsteps, quickly becoming a teen heartthrob in his own right. With roles in The Hardy Boys Mysteries and a successful music career (remember “Da Doo Ron Ron”?), Shaun became a staple of teen magazines in the late 70s. His youthful good looks and star power ensured his place on the covers of Tiger Beat and 16 Magazine, much to the delight of his adoring fans.
Bobby Sherman: The 60s Sensation
Before Donny and Shaun, Bobby Sherman was the reigning king of teen magazines in the late 60s and early 70s. With his mop-top hair, boyish grin, and mega-hits like “Little Woman,” Bobby was a mainstay on the covers of 16 Magazine and Tiger Beat. He had a down-to-earth, approachable vibe that fans couldn’t resist.
Conclusion:
The teeny-bopper magazines of the 60s and 70s were more than just entertainment—they were the gateway to the world of stardom for millions of Baby Boomers. From Donny Osmond’s charming smile to Michael Jackson’s unparalleled talent, these cover models became cultural icons who shaped the teenage dreams of an entire generation. Even today, their images evoke a powerful sense of nostalgia, reminding us of a time when flipping through a magazine to find a new poster of your favorite star was the highlight of the month.