If you’ve played GTA 5, you’ve definitely seen her: the blonde woman in a red bikini, flashing a peace sign while snapping a selfie. She’s become one of the most iconic images associated with the game, especially during its loading screens. But while many fans speculated she was based on a celebrity like Lindsay Lohan or Kate Upton, the truth is a bit different.
Is Shelby Welinder the GTA 5 Selfie Girl?
Yes. Despite persistent rumors and fan theories, Rockstar Games confirmed that model and writer Shelby Welinder was hired for a photo shoot in 2012 to provide reference material for the character known as “Lacey Jonas”—the bikini-clad woman seen on loading screens and promotional artwork.
She signed a standard modeling contract through her agency and was listed in the game credits.
Did Rockstar Base the GTA 5 Girl on Lindsay Lohan?
Lindsay Lohan thought so. In fact, she sued Rockstar Games in 2014, alleging that the game used her likeness without permission. She claimed that the character Lacey Jonas was a clear reference to her—citing similarities in voice, appearance, and even storyline.
However, New York’s highest court ultimately threw out the case. Judge Eugene Fahey wrote that the image was “indistinct” and a “satirical representation” of a generic, beach-going young woman—not recognizable as Lohan.
Was the GTA 5 Girl Based on Kate Upton?
Around the same time, fans noticed a resemblance between the GTA 5 girl and supermodel Kate Upton, particularly because of the timing—Upton was at peak popularity in 2012 and 2013. But Rockstar never confirmed any inspiration based on Upton, and Shelby Welinder’s contract and public statements make it clear she was the model used.
What Else Has Shelby Welinder Done Besides GTA 5?
Born in Los Angeles on September 17, 1992, Welinder began modeling at 15 and later moved into acting. She had a brief appearance on Inside Amy Schumer in 2013, playing a model in a comedy sketch.
But her career took a more intellectual turn: as of 2022, Shelby Welinder is a freelance journalist. Her writing has been featured on Medium, HuffPost UK, Yahoo India, Business Insider, and other major publications. Some of her standout work includes reporting on young creatives in war-torn Kyiv and writing about emotional support in underserved communities.
Why Did Shelby Welinder Criticize Rockstar Fans?
In a now-deleted Vine, Welinder addressed internet rumors that she was a porn star hired by Rockstar. She clapped back with sarcasm: “It’s nice to see all these people referring to me as a porn star and a slut. Quite entertaining to say the least.”
She also posted a photo of a paycheck from Rockstar with the caption, “Another day, another dollar,” confirming her modeling role in a very Rockstar fashion.
Where Can You Read Shelby Welinder’s Journalism?
If you’re curious about her work beyond GTA, Welinder’s articles are easy to find online. She’s written features on politics, war, social issues, and mental health. A few notable publications include:
- HuffPost UK
- New York Daily News
- Business Insider
- City Limits
- Medium
Her style blends investigative insight with empathy, showing she’s not just a model but a thoughtful voice in modern journalism.
Did Shelby Welinder Get Paid for GTA 5?
Yes—Welinder was hired through a modeling agency in 2012 and signed a release with Rockstar Games. Her confirmation came not only in interviews but visually through a now-famous photo of her paycheck, shared online. Despite years of speculation and myth-building, the reality is simple: she was contracted talent, and she got the job done.
Want to Know More About GTA 5’s Characters and History?
Check out these deep dives:
FAQ: Shelby Welinder GTA 5
Who is Shelby Welinder in GTA 5?
Shelby Welinder is the model behind the iconic GTA 5 loading screen character—Lacey Jonas, the blonde woman in a red bikini taking a selfie. Rockstar Games hired her in 2012 through a modeling agency, and she is credited in the game.
Is the GTA 5 selfie girl based on Lindsay Lohan or Kate Upton?
No. Although there was speculation, and Lindsay Lohan even filed a lawsuit, Rockstar denied using either celebrity as inspiration. The courts dismissed Lohan’s case, ruling that the character was a generic, satirical depiction of a beach-going young woman.
Did Shelby Welinder confirm her involvement with GTA 5?
Yes. Welinder posted a photo of her paycheck from Rockstar on social media with the caption, “Another day, another dollar,” directly confirming her role as the model.
What does Shelby Welinder do now?
As of 2022, she works as a freelance journalist. Her articles have appeared in HuffPost UK, Business Insider, Medium, Yahoo India, and other outlets. She covers topics ranging from war in Ukraine to emotional health and support systems.
Does the character Shelby Welinder modeled appear in GTA 5’s story mode?
No. While Lacey Jonas appears briefly in an in-game paparazzi side mission, the bikini-clad selfie girl modeled by Welinder is mainly used in promotional art and loading screens.
