Short Summary
Tyra Banks is a renowned American television personality, model, producer, and businesswoman. She gained fame as one of the world's top-earning models and subsequently became a successful television host and producer. Banks is widely recognized for creating and hosting the reality TV show "America's Next Top Model," which has been influential in the fashion and modeling industry. Her career has spanned various facets of entertainment, and she has become a symbol of empowerment and diversity in media.
Early Life & Education
Tyra Banks was born on December 4, 1973, in Inglewood, California. She was raised by her mother Carolyn London, a medical photographer, and her father Donald Banks, a computer consultant. As a child, she faced challenges with self-esteem, which were compounded by her parents' divorce when she was six years old. Banks attended Immaculate Heart High School in Los Angeles, where she excelled academically despite her struggles with bullying. Her early interest in fashion and modeling was influenced by her mother, who supported her aspirations. Banks was accepted to Loyola Marymount University but decided to pursue modeling full-time instead.
Career Highlights
Banks' modeling career began at the age of 15, and she quickly rose to prominence after signing with Elite Model Management. Her breakthrough came when she became the first African American woman to be featured on the covers of GQ and Sports Illustrated's Swimsuit Issue. She transitioned into television with the creation of "America's Next Top Model" in 2003, which she hosted and produced. The show became a global phenomenon, running for 24 seasons. Banks also hosted her own talk show, "The Tyra Banks Show," which aired from 2005 to 2010 and earned her two Daytime Emmy Awards.
Major Achievements
- First African American woman on the covers of GQ and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, marking a significant milestone in her modeling career.
- Created and produced "America's Next Top Model," a highly successful reality TV series that redefined the modeling industry.
- Hosted "The Tyra Banks Show," which won two Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Talk Show/Informative.
- Inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2017, recognizing her contributions to entertainment and media.
- Graduated from Harvard Business School's Owner/President Management Program in 2012.
Famous Quotes
- "Never dull your shine for somebody else."
- "Self-love has very little to do with how you feel about your outer self. It's about accepting all of yourself."
Interesting Facts
- Banks was the first African American woman to sign a contract with CoverGirl cosmetics.
- She created the Tyra Banks Scholarship to support young women attending her alma mater, Immaculate Heart High School.
- Banks has authored a young adult novel titled "Modelland," which became a New York Times bestseller.
- She briefly returned to modeling by walking in the 2019 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway show.
- Banks changed her professional name to "BanX" to signify her evolution in the fashion industry.
Legacy / Influence
Tyra Banks has left an indelible mark on the fashion and entertainment industries by promoting diversity and inclusion. Through her work on "America's Next Top Model," she created opportunities for aspiring models from diverse backgrounds. Her transition from modeling to television and entrepreneurship has inspired many to pursue multifaceted careers. Banks' advocacy for self-esteem and body positivity continues to influence the cultural conversation around beauty standards.
FAQ
Q: Why is Tyra Banks famous?
A: She is famous for her successful modeling career and as the creator and host of "America's Next Top Model." She is also known for her influence in promoting diversity and empowerment in media.
Q: What major awards has Tyra Banks won?
A: She has won two Daytime Emmy Awards for "The Tyra Banks Show" and has been inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Q: Did Tyra Banks attend college?
A: She was accepted to Loyola Marymount University but chose to pursue modeling. She later completed a program at Harvard Business School.
