Model Lucy Markovic, known for her rise on Australia’s Next Top Model and her work with major fashion houses like Armani and Versace, has passed away at the age of 27.
Her agency, Elite Model Management, announced her death on social media Thursday, revealing that she had been battling a rare brain condition. A message confirming her passing was also shared on her official Instagram Stories, just hours after a previous post indicated she was “battling for her life.”
In its tribute, Elite Model Management described Markovic as “a bright shining light,” adding, “Modeling was one of Lucy’s dreams, and we are deeply honored to have been part of that journey with her. She brought elegance, strength, and beauty to her work. But more than that, she brought herself — her warmth, her laughter, her light.”
Markovic first gained national attention as a teenager during the ninth season of Australia’s Next Top Model in 2015, where she finished as runner-up to Brittany Beattie. She went on to enjoy a successful international modeling career, featuring in campaigns for luxury brands like Versace and Victoria Beckham, and walking in shows for designers including Oscar de la Renta, Bulgari, Givenchy, and Dolce & Gabbana. Her work also appeared in prominent publications such as Marie Claire and various international editions of Vogue.
Just three weeks ago, Markovic revealed via Instagram that she was preparing to undergo surgery for a brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM), a rare condition involving a tangled cluster of blood vessels that can lead to seizures, brain damage, or stroke. She shared that the AVM was “the size of a golf ball” and had impacted her health for the past four years. Alongside a hospital photo and a brain scan, she wrote: “Full flood of emotions in this time. Life’s a journey and I’m ready for the next chapter.”
Following the news of her death, tributes poured in from across the fashion industry. Model of the Year Alex Consani left a heartfelt message on Markovic’s Instagram, while Donatella Versace, now the chief brand ambassador for the label she helped define, also expressed her condolences.
“I am so sorry to hear the news about @lucymarkovicc,” Versace wrote. “Rest in peace beautiful girl.”
Kult Australia, Markovic’s agency in her home country, shared its own tribute, writing: “Today, we lost a star… She was radiant, warm and a beautiful soul.”