Tyra Banks Reflects on ANTM’s Legacy Amid Backlash: The Good, The Bad, and The Beautiful
Tyra Banks recently revisited the controversial legacy of “America’s Next Top Model” (ANTM) during her emotional acceptance speech at the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards. More than six years after the show wrapped its 24-season run, Banks defended her efforts to introduce diversity at a time when the modeling industry was less inclusive. “For over 20 years, we fought hard to show different types of beauty. I was like, ‘Why can the girl from the trailer park become a supermodel but not the girl from the hood?'” she recalled, as she highlighted how groundbreaking her vision was for that era. Yet, Banks also acknowledged the mistakes made along the way, admitting, “Did we get it right? Hell no. I said some dumb s–t.”
Fans and critics alike have revisited some of the show’s more problematic moments, such as the notorious Cycle 6 scene where she criticized winner Dani Evans for her gap-toothed smile and the infamous “biracial-themed” photo shoot from Cycle 13 that used skin darkening—a decision that’s popped up in conversations about modeling and representation in media today. In a series of candid tweets in 2020, Banks addressed the uproar directly, stating she was “sending so much love and virtual hugs” to those sharing their feelings about the insensitivity of certain past moments.
It’s clear that while ANTM was revolutionary in many ways, it wasn’t devoid of controversy. Banks emphasized that she refuses to let these criticisms define her legacy, insisting the show opened doors for aspiring models of various backgrounds—getting us closer to a more inclusive industry today. And let’s face it—many of the winners, like Cycle 3’s Eva Marcille and Cycle 1’s Adrianne Curry, have evolved their careers beyond the runway, showcasing the long-lasting impact of the show. So while ANTM sparkled with glam, it also faced its share of criticism, making Tyra’s nostalgic reflection even more compelling. As the conversation around representation continues, Banks’ candid acknowledgment of past missteps is a stepping stone towards a more inclusive future in fashion and beyond.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and E! Online, People Magazine, The Guardian
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