The former Victoria's Secret Angel returns to host the show that she created as 'ANTM' is renewed for a 24th cycle by VH1.
- Mar 17, 2017
AceShowbiz - Tyra Banks is taking not just one, but two TV hosting gigs. Just days after it was announced that she would be the new host of "America's Got Talent", she now announces her return to "America's Next Top Model".
Banks hosted the show that she created from the first until the twenty-second season before it was canceled by The CW. When VH1 revived the show, the 43-year-old actress/former model remains as executive producer while Rita Ora stepped in to fill her role as the host.
But as Banks said, she missed "ANTM" so much. "I missed my ANTM baby so Mama's back! #ANTM #ANTM24," she tweeted on Thursday, March 16. She also said in a statement, "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."
I missed my ANTM baby so Mama's back! #ANTM #ANTM24
— Tyra Banks (@tyrabanks) March 16, 2017
Co-executive producer Ken Mok said of Banks' return, "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. 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."
Banks also thanked Ora for her amazing job in the last season. "Mizz @ritaora, you exemplify Business Boss Brand to the fullest! Thank you for all the amazingness you brought to ANTM," she tweeted.
I love you!!! https://t.co/yYJ5YC9Vv9
— Rita Ora (@RitaOra) March 16, 2017
Ora, for her part, was grateful for the chance to host the show for a season. She replied to Banks' tweet, "@tyrabanks Thank you Tyra! Was such an honour and pleasure being on your show. Everyone welcome Tyra back!!" She also wrote to her fans, "Love to you all for amazing ride! Cannot wait for you all to hear my new music."
@tyrabanks Thank you Tyra! Was such an honour and pleasure being on your show. Everyone welcome Tyra back!!
— Rita Ora (@RitaOra) March 16, 2017
Love to you all for amazing ride! Cannot wait for you all to hear my new music β€οΈπΆπ
— Rita Ora (@RitaOra) March 16, 2017
"ANTM" season 24 is slated to air this summer.