America’s Next Top Model is an absolute gem of a show and I refuse to hear otherwise. And as nice as it was to give Rita Ora a go at hosting for a little while, dedicated ANTM fans always knew that it was never going to be the same. Not without Tyra Banks.
But it’s all going to be okay now. Normality is about to be restored because Queen Tyra ‘Smile With Your Eyes’ Banks is returning for the next season of America’s Next Top Model and OMFG YES.
The news came yesterday when Tyra tweeted: ‘I missed my ANTM baby so Mama’s back!.
No doubt she’ll be welcomed back to the judging panel with open arms. You see, in the best and worst possible way the show was very much all about Tyra, and we were all okay with that. Because the drama just ain't the same without the levels of emotional turmoil that tore through our souls at soon as we see Tyra's not very smiley eyes when she utters those famous words in the opening credits: 'You wanna be on top?'. Oh, the chills.
In an official statement, Tyra said: ‘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’.
Never has a truer word been spoken. Tyra Banks is America’s Next Top Model and it’s only right that they be reunited for our viewing pleasure, don’t you think? Of course, Tyra thanked Rita Ora for keeping her spot on the show warm for her too. There’s no bad blood there. She tweeted: ‘Miss @ritaora, you exemplify Business Boss Brand to the fullest! Thank you for all the amazingness you brought to ANTM’.
And in case you were wondering where this leaves Rita though, don’t worry she’s still got plenty going on. In the caption of an Instagram post she shared reiterating the news that she’d be leaving the show, she mentioned that there’s a new album on the way, so she’ll probably been pretty caught up with that by the time the next season is up and running.
Rita said: ‘Words can't describe how much FUN I had hosting this show for you - it was such an honour - I grew up watching and loving the show it was a dream come true and I can't wait for you to hear my new album! It's TIME PEOPLE!!! Love the whole ANTM cast and crew and good luck for the future!! Love you @tyrabanks'
Besides yourself with excitement? Me too. Season 24 aka The Great Return Of Tyra Banks is officially on the cards, people! Bring on the Tyra Mail.
Like this? You might also be interested in…
5 Reasons Why America’s Next Top Model Was The Worst Best Thig On TV
Rita Ora Replacing Tyra Banks On America’s Next Top Model Is A Tall Order
5 Reality TV Shows From The Early 2000s They Absolutely Wouldn’t Get Away With Today
Follow Jazmin on Instagram @JazKopotsha
This article originally appeared on The Debrief.