Yaya DaCosta opens up about forgiving Tyra Banks, closing old ANTM wounds with compassion and growth.
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Why is Tyra Banks being addressed by Yaya DaCosta at this time?
Following Tyra’s recent ESSENCE Awards speech, the Chicago Med star finally talked about her time as America’s Next Top Model.
Banks’ admission that “we didn’t always get it right” rekindled conversations about ANTM’s contentious moments, ranging from damaging criticism to tone-deaf challenges.
What criticism of ANTM reappeared?
In 2020, old videos of Banks instructing competitors to “fix” their physical characteristics or take part in racially offensive photo shoots (such as those with a Blackface theme) went viral.
DaCosta didn’t hold back when criticizing the show’s “manipulative editing” and the way it “weaponized insecurities.”
She even acknowledged that her “most shocking” moments were never broadcast.
How did Banks and DaCosta get back in touch?
DaCosta, who had interrupted her speech to use the restroom, ran into Banks backstage at the same awards show.
Rather than creating tension, the two laughed together as they recalled DaCosta’s memorable acting challenge with Taye Diggs.
She acknowledged that “the old me would have panicked,” but this time, her anger was replaced by warmth.
What was different between them?
Forgiveness. DaCosta lingered to give Banks a tight hug so she could feel “completely forgiven.”
She has been rephrasing her ANTM trauma for years, even attributing her success in Hollywood to the show’s teaching of her how to “regulate my nervous system.”
She is now focused on putting an end to that chapter: “I’m free at last.”
What does DaCosta want his fans to know?
“Forgiveness isn’t for others—it’s for you,” she stressed.
She went on to advise viewers to “choose freedom, compassion, and kindness” in order to let go of grudges.
For DaCosta, healing meant reclaiming her story—and she’s inviting others to do the same.
Yaya DaCosta & Tyra Banks’ ANTM Reckoning
- ANTM was criticized for its insensitive challenges and editing techniques.
- Despite its shortcomings, DaCosta attributes career tools to the show.
- Backstage at the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood event, a couple bonded.
- During a Taye Diggs challenge, Banks complimented DaCosta’s abilities.
- DaCosta’s embrace represented forgiveness and closure.