Tyra Banks Reassumes Her Rightful Place as Host of America’s Next Top Model

March 17, 2017

Yesterday, America’s Next Top Model fans the world over received a long-awaited bit of Tyra Mail. After a season spent behind the camera, Tyra Banks will reassume her rightful place as host of the resurrected modeling competition.

Much as we love Rita Ora (and Ashley Graham), we’ve gotta admit, America’s Next Top Model just wasn’t America’s Next Top Model without Tyra’s over-the-top-personality — her joie de vivre, her wisdom, her bite. (The words “I have one photo in my hand…” will forever strike fear and exhilaration in our hearts.)

“I’m overwhelmed and humbled by the intensity of the ANTM fan base whose deep affection for the show led me to have a change of heart. After giving it a lot of thought, I realized that remaining behind the camera wasn’t enough because ANTM is woven into my DNA,” said Tyra in a statement released by VH1.

ANTM producer Ken Mok would like us to know that Tyra’s return is in no way a reflection on Rita Ora’s performance (though we’d be curious to see those ratings). “Tyra has always been the heart and soul of the franchise and her absence was deeply felt by our fiercely loyal fans who missed their Queen of the Smize,” he stated. “We’d like to thank Rita Ora for being a great partner and total pro. She infused this new iteration of ANTM with passion and creativity and we wish her nothing but the best in her future endeavors.”

Based on the following Twitter exchange between Rita and Tyra, the changing of the guard was by no means contentious. The singer, designer and erstwhile host will be refocusing on her music.

Love to you all for amazing ride! Cannot wait for you all to hear my new music

— Rita Ora (@RitaOra) March 16, 2017

Mizz @ritaora, you exemplify Business Boss Brand to the fullest! Thank you for all the amazingness you brought to ANTM

— Tyra Banks (@tyrabanks) March 16, 2017