Summer Altice
Summer Altice – Life, Career & Public Persona
Explore the life and career of Summer Altice (b. Dec 23, 1979), American model, Playboy Playmate, actress, and media personality. Learn about her early years, notable works, public image, and influence.
Introduction
Summer Altice is an American model and former actress, best known for being Playboy’s Playmate of the Month for August 2000. Born on December 23, 1979, she built a career in modeling, magazine features, and occasional film or television work. While not as prominent today as during her peak years, her path illustrates how print modeling, brand partnerships, and media crossover defined many modeling careers at the turn of the millennium.
Early Life and Education
Summer Danielle Altice was born in Fountain Valley, California.
She attended Fountain Valley High School, where she played volleyball and gained athletic discipline and stature (she is often listed as about 5'10").
Following high school, she enrolled at San Diego State University (SDSU), where she continued playing volleyball and studied communications. During her time there, she was named to the Academic All-WAC team (i.e. recognized for combining sports and academic achievement).
In Spring 2000, she transferred to UCLA to further pursue modeling opportunities while continuing her communications studies.
Career & Achievements
Modeling & Magazine Features
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Summer’s modeling breakthrough came early: in 1995, she won the Young & Modern (YM) magazine Cover Girl contest, appearing on that issue's cover, which helped launch her career.
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She signed with Elite modeling agency following that success.
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She appeared on covers and in spreads for men’s lifestyle magazines such as GQ, Maxim, and Max.
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In 2002, she was ranked #100 in Stuff magazine’s “102 Sexiest Women in the World.”
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Her peak modeling recognition came when she was selected as Playmate of the Month for August 2000 by Playboy.
Acting, Media & Other Ventures
Summer Altice also explored screen and media roles, though more peripherally than her modeling work:
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She had small roles or appearances in films such as The Scorpion King, Grind, You, Me and Dupree, Wedding Crashers, and Shanghai Kiss.
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She appeared in TV or video projects like
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According to various sources, later in her career she also engaged in DJ or nightclub appearances in Los Angeles.
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In a 2015 update, she reportedly obtained certification as a sommelier and has worked privately as a cellar manager for certain celebrities and athletes.
Public Image & Persona
Summer Altice cultivated a public image combining glamour, athleticism, and a polished media presence. Her modeling and Playboy association gave her significant visibility in the early 2000s.
She was often praised for her physique, poise, and photogenic qualities. Her athletic background (volleyball) gave her height, physical confidence, and posture that translated well to modeling.
While her acting work was never central, her ability to cross between print, video, and public appearances demonstrated versatility—a useful trait in a shifting media environment.
Over time, as the modeling industry evolved (toward social media, influencers, and digital presence), Altice appears to have moved into more niche or private roles (e.g. wine industry / sommelier), thus shifting from being a widely known public figure to a more specialized professional.
Known Quotes
Though Summer Altice is not widely quoted in literary or political forums, a few statements attributed to her reflect aspects of her outlook:
“People are taken aback by a confident, pretty girl who knows what she wants in life and isn’t going to let anyone get in her way. And you know what it’s all about? Jealousy.”
“I’m the kind of person who just can’t wait to get on a train and not know where I’m going. I definitely want to live life to the fullest. And that’s the type of man I’m attracted to — somebody with that spontaneous spirit.”
These quotes emphasize self-assurance, independence, and a desire for freedom or adventure.
Legacy & Influence
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Summer Altice is representative of a modeling era when print magazines, glamour photography, and lifestyle branding had high cultural clout.
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Her transition into acting, media appearances, and later specialty work (e.g. sommelier) shows how models often diversify beyond their original platform.
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While she may not be a household name today in mainstream entertainment, her position as a Playboy Playmate and presence in notable magazine and film projects give her lasting recognition in modeling history.
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Her public statements and persona also reflect themes of female autonomy and confidence in industries where appearances and public perception are heavily mediated.
Lessons from Summer Altice’s Journey
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Leverage early wins
Winning the YM cover contest in her teens helped Altice gain entrance into modeling agencies and opportunities. Early momentum matters. -
Diversify within media
She didn’t stay in only print modeling; she tried acting, video, DJing, and later wine advisory work. Diversification helps prolong relevance. -
Transition wisely
As industries shift (magazines to digital, print to social media), adaptability is critical. Altice’s shift to more private or niche roles suggests a pragmatic approach. -
Own your image
Her outspoken quotes suggest she understood the value of public persona and how confidence becomes part of brand. -
Balance public and private life
While her modeling required public visibility, her later roles allowed for more discretion and control over which aspects of life she exposed.
Conclusion
Summer Altice’s journey illustrates a modeling career shaped by early successes in print, extended through media appearances, and rounded by transitions into new domains. Born December 23, 1979, she made a name for herself through her height, athleticism, magazine work, and a memorable Playboy feature. Over time, she has redefined her professional identity, moving into areas like event appearances and wine expertise.
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