Tyra Banks recently addressed the backlash she has faced regarding her long-running reality TV show, America’s Next Top Model (ANTM), during her speech at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards. The supermodel and TV personality reflected on her journey of creating the show over 20 years ago, emphasizing her efforts to bring diversity to the fashion industry at a time when it was sorely lacking. Banks shared how she fought against skepticism and resistance to feature models from all walks of life, including those from underrepresented communities. “Did we get it right? Hell no,” she admitted, acknowledging the mistakes and criticisms the show has faced over the years. Despite these challenges, Banks expressed pride in the doors she and her team opened for future generations of models and creators.
Banks, who received the inaugural Luminary Spotlight award, used her platform to celebrate her own evolution and resilience. She humorously and confidently referenced her physical changes over the years, saying, “My 51-year-old, dimpled, cellulite-covered bigger tummy and 10 million times bigger titties is walking through that door that I opened.” Her speech was a powerful mix of gratitude, self-awareness, and hope for the future. She emphasized the importance of learning from past mistakes while also recognizing the progress made. By addressing both her achievements and her regrets, Banks showcased her vulnerability and commitment to growth.
The backlash against ANTM resurfaced in recent years as clips from the show went viral on social media, highlighting problematic moments that left fans cringing. One memorable incident involved Banks telling contestant Dani Evans that her gap teeth would prevent her from becoming a cover girl. Another uncomfortable moment showed a contestant being dressed in blackface for a photoshoot. These clips sparked widespread criticism, with many accusing the show of being insensitive and exploitative. Banks has since acknowledged some of her past remarks as “dumb s–t” and admitted that certain decisions were “off.” She has also expressed appreciation for the feedback, showing a willingness to engage with the criticism and learn from it.
Despite the controversy, ANTM played a significant role in reshaping the modeling industry. When the show premiered in 2003, it was one of the first platforms to showcase a diverse range of models and challenge traditional beauty standards. Banks and her team faced pushback from industry insiders who questioned their decision to feature models from different backgrounds, including those from “the hood” or trailer parks. Banks recalled asking, “Why can the girl from the trailer park become a supermodel but the girl that’s chilling in the park in the hood can’t?” This ethos of inclusivity was groundbreaking at the time and paved the way for more diverse representation in fashion and media.
However, the show’s legacy is complicated by allegations of mistreatment of contestants and questionable production choices. Former contestants and viewers have criticized the show for prioritizing drama over the well-being of the models. For example, Banks allegedly told a contestant named Rachel Hargrove during her 2005 audition that she was “too big” to be a model, labeling her as a “plus-size” model. Such comments, while reflective of the industry’s narrow standards at the time, have been called out for being harmful and limiting. Banks has since apologized for her insensitivity, recognizing that her words carried significant weight and could have long-lasting effects on the contestants.
In her speech, Banks celebrated the progress made and the opportunities created by ANTM. She expressed excitement about the doors she helped open for others, both in front of and behind the camera. While the show was far from perfect, its impact on the fashion and entertainment industries cannot be denied. Banks’ willingness to confront her past mistakes and acknowledge the show’s flaws demonstrates her growth and commitment to moving forward. As she concluded her speech, she seemed to embody the same confidence and resilience she once encouraged in her contestants. Her journey serves as a reminder that even those who pave the way for change can evolve and learn from their experiences.
