Yaya DaCosta and Tyra Banks: A Reunion That Speaks Volumes
Yaya DaCosta, a noteworthy contestant from Cycle 3 of America’s Next Top Model (ANTM), recently shared insights about a personal reunion with the show’s creator, Tyra Banks. This encounter took place backstage during the 2025 Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards, where they discussed the show’s multifaceted legacy and its implications in today’s society.
Heartfelt Reflections on a Pivotal Moment
In an Instagram post dated March 15, 2025, DaCosta recounted a significant moment when she embraced Banks, conveying:
“There’s a hug you give acquaintances and strangers, and there’s a hug you give when words don’t suffice.”
Having not seen Banks since her appearance on the reality show in 2004, DaCosta described their reunion as a crucial opportunity for resolution and healing. She emphasized that her journey through ANTM had lasting effects, characterizing elements of it as “real trauma.”Nonetheless, she recognized this reunion as a moment of closure, expressing her hope that Banks could “feel what it feels like to completely be forgiven.”
Confronting the Legacy of America’s Next Top Model
Addressing Criticism and Controversies
During the awards ceremony, Tyra Banks openly addressed the critiques directed at ANTM over the years, particularly in relation to past photoshoots that have drawn scrutiny.
Banks acknowledged her questionable decisions, asserting:
“We all evolve. We all get better together.”
In response, DaCosta highlighted the changing societal perceptions surrounding ANTM, noting that what was once considered merely entertainment is now often referred to as problematic. She reflected on her experience as indicative of a broader narrative of trauma, citing influential factors such as “manipulative editing”and the “weaponization of girls’ vulnerabilities,”which have lasting ramifications on the mental health of participants.
Recognizing Progress and Diversity
Despite the controversies, DaCosta acknowledged Banks’ impact on diversity within the modeling industry, stating:
“Let’s not pretend the show wasn’t wildly successful, because its audience was right there on the judging table.”
She further cited Banks’ early efforts to cast plus-size and transgender models, recognizing these choices as groundbreaking in an industry historically resistant to change.
A Discussion Without an Apology
DaCosta clarified that her conversation with Banks did not involve a direct apology. She stated:
“No, there was no explicit apology, but you could see in that [speech] she’s sick of people every once in a while bringing up these controversial clips from the show.”
She perceived Banks’ comments as reflective of a significant shift in understanding while also acknowledging the collective responsibility of the media and audience in shaping the legacy of America’s Next Top Model. DaCosta pointed out:
“Some of the same people who are making these little videos and commentaries … back then, were watching it and laughing and not really seeing anything wrong with it.”
Fostering Healing and Growth
In closing her reflections, DaCosta highlighted the personal significance of her hug with Banks, explaining:
“When it was time for the hug to be over, I held some more. I took a deep breath because I wanted her to feel what it feels like to fully be forgiven, appreciated, and loved.”
She emphasized the importance of healing, suggesting that a transformative process occurs when one chooses to let go of past grievances. DaCosta expressed feeling “free”after releasing these burdens and encouraged others to pursue their own paths to forgiveness and healing.
For those interested in revisiting America’s Next Top Model, episodes are available for streaming on platforms such as Hulu and Amazon Prime Video.