*Tyra Banks is well aware of the criticism surrounding “America’s Next Top Model” (ANTM) but believes the show’s impact on diversity and representation shouldn’t be ignored.
Speaking at Essence’s 18th Annual Black Women in Hollywood Awards last Thursday, Banks accepted the Luminary Spotlight award and reflected on her time as the host and creator of ANTM. She acknowledged the show’s flaws but emphasized the progress it helped drive in an industry that was resistant to change.
Banks recalled the pushback she received for casting a diverse range of models, saying, “We fought to bring the diversity to that television show at a time when it didn’t exist, to show different beauties at a time when the world was like, ‘What? You casting that?’”
She also shared how the fashion industry questioned her choices, asking, “You putting the girls from the hood on your show?”
“I was like, ‘Why can the girl from the trailer park become a supermodel but the girl that’s chilin’ in the park in the hood can’t?'” Banks continued. “And we fought and we struggled and we made it happen.”
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Your impact is immeasurable.For 24 cycles, America’s Next Top Model broke barriers, challenged beauty standards, and fought for diversity in an industry that often refused to make space for us.
From the moment you stepped into the industry to the creation of ANTM, you’ve given… pic.twitter.com/brg7aNhvRn
— ESSENCE (@Essence) February 28, 2025
Despite ANTM’s success, Banks has faced criticism over the years for some of her comments and decisions on the show. During her speech, she admitted, “Did we get it right? Hell no! I said some dumb s–t”
She added, “But I refuse to have my legacy be about some stuff linked together on the internet when there were 24 cycles of changing the world. And I am so excited that I, and so many of us, have opened that door for others to follow.”
The reality television competition series originally aired across multiple networks from 2003 to 2018. Banks created the show to discover new modeling talent, offering contestants a chance to become a successful model. ANTM featured aspiring models competing in various challenges related to the modeling world, including photo shoots, runway walks, and acting gigs. The series became widely known for its dramatic moments, iconic challenges, and sometimes controversial judging decisions.
“American’s Next Top Model” made a significant impact on the modeling industry by showcasing diverse contestants and pushing for more inclusivity, particularly in terms of race, body type, and gender, though it also faced criticism for its occasional reluctance to fully embrace these changes.
Throughout its run, ANTM introduced viewers to numerous models who went on to have successful careers, and it addressed important topics like self-confidence, the pressure of the fashion industry, and the complexities of beauty standards.
Banks maintains that ANTM’s mission to challenge beauty standards and create opportunities for underrepresented models remains a crucial part of its legacy.
READ MORE FROM EURWEB.COM: Tyra Banks Advocated for Diversity in Fashion Despite Criticism Over ANTM Casting ‘Girls from the Hood’
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