Tyra Lynne Banks Featured

Biography

Tyra Banks is an American supermodel, television host, and entrepreneur who became one of the most recognizable and influential figures in fashion and entertainment. She began modeling at age 15 and quickly broke barriers in the early 1990s, becoming one of the first African-American women to achieve global supermodel status.

Tyra made history as the first Black woman to appear solo on the covers of GQ and the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She walked for top fashion houses like Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and Valentino, and became a Victoria’s Secret Angel, where she helped redefine beauty standards in the modeling world.

After retiring from full-time modeling, Tyra transitioned into television and business. She created and hosted the hit show America’s Next Top Model (2003–2018), which became a global success and introduced new generations to the modeling industry. She also hosted The Tyra Banks Show (2005–2010), earning two Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Talk Show.

Beyond entertainment, Tyra is a successful entrepreneur. She founded TYRA Beauty, a cosmetics brand focused on empowering self-expression, and has taught personal branding courses at Stanford University. Known for her intelligence, creativity, and advocacy for body positivity, she remains a trailblazer for women of color in fashion and media.