Ever since the 90s, I’ve wanted to be on top – of America’s Next Top Model, that is. I remember watching the show vividly as a young girl and loving it. (I sang the song and everything).
To many young viewers like me, the series pulled back the curtain on the modeling industry in ways never shown on television before. Each week, I felt like I learned more about Tyra Banks and her cutthroat world.
Tyra Mail was my jam.
‘America’s Next Top Model’ was – and still is – iconic. We all want to be on top.
The photo shoots were – and still are – iconic. The transformations models went through were jaw-dropping (some causing major tears). And the drama? The quips and relationships between the contestants had us glued to the screen, and they kept us talking for days after. These fierce women—and eventually men—wanted to be on top, and nothing could stop them from clawing their way to the highest ranks of fashion.
Cycle 3 Winner Eva Marcille and Cycle 3 Contestant Toccara Jones have been vocal about the show’s impact on their lives. They used their quick wit, flawless looks, and undeniable Black girl magic to snag their spots on the show. For them, ANTM wasn’t just a competition; it became the opportunity of a lifetime.
Check out a recent Atlanta V103 interview below, where they spilled the tea on getting on the series.
Since the show aired, there’s been no shortage of critiques. Some of the series’ challenges, questionable activities and photoshoots, and the treatment of contestants have all been discussed in public commentary. But love it or hate it, Tyra’s show is remembered fondly for its exposure to the modeling industry and its push for change and diversity.
Let’s be real: ‘America’s Next Top Model’ forced the beauty and fashion world to wake up and recognize that representation matters.
Before ANTM, we weren’t seeing many plus-size models, dark-skinned beauties, or gender-fluid faces on the runway like we do now. The show helped open those doors.
Tyra’s empire was the launchpad for many of today’s top models, Hollywood stars, and “it girls.” Whether they stayed in the modeling game or branched out into acting, music, or even entrepreneurship, these contestants left their mark on pop culture in a way that just can’t be denied.
So let’s look at some of our favorite leading America’s Next Top Model alums.
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