Tyra Banks has addressed the longstanding criticism of her show, “America’s Next Top Model” (ANTM), acknowledging past mistakes while stating the show’s pioneering role in promoting diversity.
During her acceptance speech at the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards on February 27, Banks reflected on the challenges and criticisms faced throughout the show’s 24 seasons.
Banks, 51, highlighted the efforts made over two decades ago to introduce diversity into the modeling industry through ANTM.
She recounted the resistance encountered, stating, “You guys have no idea how hard we fought to bring the diversity to that television show at a time when it didn’t exist.”
She questioned industry biases by asking, “Why can the girl from the trailer park become a supermodel but the girl that’s chillin’ in the park in the hood can’t?”
Despite the challenges, Banks and her team persisted in showcasing varied representations of beauty.
In recent years, ANTM has faced backlash for certain controversial moments. In 2020, old clips resurfaced, drawing negative feedback. One notable instance involved Banks advising a contestant to “fix” a gap in her teeth.
Another contentious episode featured a “race-swapping” challenge where contestants appeared in blackface, leading to significant criticism. This particular episode from Season 4, titled “The Girl Who Is Contagious,” was eventually removed by Hulu due to its offensive content.
Addressing these criticisms in her speech, Banks admitted, “Did we get it right? Hell no. I said some dumb s—.” However, she said these missteps should not overshadow the show’s broader impact over its 24 cycles.
I talked to Tyra Banks (!!!) about the legacy of Cycle 3 of America’s Next Top Model’s breakout stars: Eva Marcille, Yaya DaCosta and Toccara Jones. #ESSENCEBWIH #ANTM https://t.co/g15MnHq3zo pic.twitter.com/sM16hys5Xz
— reporting for duty. (@TheGreatIsNate) February 28, 2025
Banks expressed pride in the strides made toward inclusivity and the opportunities created for aspiring models from diverse backgrounds.
Despite the controversies, Banks remains proud of ANTM’s legacy. She concluded her speech by celebrating her personal journey and the progress made in the industry, stating, “Now my 51-year-old, dimpled, cellulite-covered bigger tummy and 10 million times bigger titties is walking through that door that I opened with all of us behind us on that runway saying, ‘Baby, it’s just the beginning.'”
“America’s Next Top Model,” which premiered in 2003, has been both influential and contentious. While it opened doors for many aspiring models, it has also been criticised for certain practices and portrayals.