Tyra Banks is not shying away from the criticism surrounding America’s Next Top Model. She admits the show had its flaws but stands firm in its impact. For over 20 years, the hit competition series shaped the modeling world and pushed boundaries.

Now, Banks is looking back, acknowledging missteps, and embracing growth.

Recently, the “Coyote Ugly” actress accepted the Luminary Spotlight award at Essence’s 18th annual Black Women in Hollywood event. While reflecting on her groundbreaking career, she didn’t ignore the backlash ANTM has faced over the years. The show, which aimed to redefine beauty standards, has been criticized for its harsh critiques and controversial challenges.

Banks / IG / Looking back at the 2003 reality season, Tyra Banks, now 51, admits that some moments did not age well.

She admits that not every decision made on the show was perfect. Looking back, she recognizes that some moments didn’t age well. But she refuses to let a few viral clips define her legacy. The impact of ANTM spans beyond internet edits. It shaped the careers of many models who wouldn’t have had a shot otherwise.

Tyra Banks on Breaking Barriers in Fashion

When ANTM first aired, diversity in fashion was more of an afterthought than a priority. Tyra Banks set out to change that. She fought for models who didn’t fit the industry’s rigid beauty standards. She brought in contestants from all backgrounds: Girls from small towns, big cities, and even “the hood,” as she puts it. She challenged the idea that only one type of beauty deserved the spotlight.

It was not easy nonetheless. The industry resisted. Executives questioned her choices. Why, they asked, should a girl from an underprivileged background be seen as a high-fashion model? Banks pushed back. She argued that beauty is not confined to zip codes.

Because of that fight, ANTM became one of the first mainstream shows to truly embrace diversity in modeling.

The Show’s Legacy is Imperfect but Impactful

There is no denying ANTM had its problematic moments. Critics point to the intense makeovers, questionable challenges, and Tyra Banks’ sometimes blunt feedback. Social media resurfaced old clips that painted the show in a harsh light.

Some moments, she admits, were misguided. But does that erase the good? Not in her eyes.

Banks / IG / Banks reminds people that the show ran for 24 seasons, changing the way people saw beauty.

It was not just about competition. Instead, it was about representation. For many contestants, it was their first real opportunity in the fashion world. Some went on to successful careers. Others didn’t. But the platform itself was groundbreaking.

Growth and Evolution

Tyra Banks is not the same person she was when ANTM started. She has learned, changed, and evolved. She acknowledges past mistakes but doesn’t dwell on them. Instead, she focuses on how far the industry has come. Fashion is more inclusive today, and she played a role in that shift.

She won’t let internet compilations define her contributions. She stands by the show’s mission: to challenge beauty norms and open doors for those who were once overlooked. And as she sees it, the journey is not yet over. Growth never stops, and neither does she.

Love it or hate it, “America’s Next Top Model” left its mark. And so did Tyra Banks.