America's favorite model didn't always have the reputation that she does now, despite what others might say about her, and if any person knows what it's like to overcome setbacks, it's Tyra Banks. Before the star was famous and known world-wide for her charm, charisma, and stunningly unique appearance, she had to overcome the cruelty of the teenage world along with her own personal limitations.
The star didn't stop for anything and her clear-cut path to the top is obvious when watching her on America's Next Top Model. But what about the woman she was before she took her place in front of a film crew? The model even premiered her own modeling-themed theme park this year, but Banks has also had a unique history that's both inspiring as well as intriguing. Here is everything that's known about her, prior to ANTM fame.
13 The Model Was Called An "Ugly Duckling" As A Child
As a child, Banks was familiar with the cruel intentions that can sometimes come along with growing pains. She was teased for her unique appearance and even called an "ugly duckling" by those who had yet to realize that her unique features would be exactly what made her so famous. While some models embrace the no-makeup look, Banks learned at a young age to love herself as a model and a human being, deserving of self-care.
12 At Only 11-Years-Old, She Underwent A Huge Change In Appearance
Losing weight is not an easy task by any means, but at the age of only 11, Banks found the willpower and determination to seek out a healthier version of herself. She had a growth spurt that year which added an extra three inches to her height and ended up losing a total of 30 pounds to boot.
11 Her First Modeling Gig Was When She Was Only 15-Years-Old
Many models get their start at a young age but Banks got hers at a vulnerable age in her life: 15-years-old. The model began taking on photoshoots as a teen and was first recognized as getting her start while attending high school in Los Angeles... Talk about an early bloomer!
10 ...But Not Before Facing Rejection From Four Modeling Agencies
Rejection is tough at any age, but it's even tougher at such a young and innocent age. For Banks, rejection came in the form of four modeling agencies, all of which refused to sign her. However, it only took roughly a year after her modeling career began for her to sign with an agency - L.A. Models - and when she was 16-years-old, she went on to sign with Elite Model Management.
9 The Same Year She Graduated High School, She Was Booked For 25 Runway Shows
Most of us know our senior high school careers as being overloaded with last-minute projects, extra credit, seeing our friends, and working hard to get into college or land jobs. Banks knew her graduation year as the year she was signed on to work 25 runway shows, back in 1991.
8 She Made History After Being Featured On GQ And Sports Illustrated's Magazine Covers
It wasn't only her magnetic looks that helped Banks become one of the most well-known models in the world, it was also the fact that her career made history. She became the first black woman to grace the covers of both GQ and the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue in an inspiring and ground-breaking photo spread.
7 She Also Made The Same History With Victoria's Secret
Banks didn't just stop at that, though. In 1997, the same year that she was voted "Supermodel of the Year" by VH1, she also became the first black woman to appear on the cover of Victoria's Secret magazine. This alone was, and still is, an empowering and inspirational moment that made history.
6 Fans Of The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air Might Recognize A Young Tyra Banks
Surprise! Banks wasn't always just a model. She also appeared alongside Will Smith on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, taking the role of Jackie Ames, who was a friend of his on-screen. A woman of many talents, this wouldn't be her only role in the world of acting.
5 However, Her TV Credentials Extend Far Past That
This is a throwback for sure! Every millennial remembers watching Life-Size, where Banks portrayed a Barbie doll IRL. Not only was she perfect for the role, but her acting was sweet and convincing, and we all went home after watching it to stare at our dolls, hoping they'd come to life and be our BFFs.
4 The Model And Actress Has Spoken Out Against Domestic Abuse, From A Personal Standpoint
Banks took a stand against domestic abuse, speaking out about it back in 2005. She recalled one relationship, specifically, where she dealt with the issues of cheating as well as emotional abuse. She also said that it made her strong, serving as motivation and encouragement to those who may have gone through, or are going through, the same thing.
3 Banks Took Some Heat For Implying She Had Been A Graduate Of Harvard
The topic is somewhat controversial, as Banks enrolled in Harvard's nine-week OPM - Owner/President Management Program, and graduated with her full certification after completing the Executive Education Training Program. Some didn't view this as being considered a "Harvard graduate", despite her completing a Harvard course in-full.
2 However, She Did Get Accepted To Every College She Applied To Post-High School Graduation
Regardless of what the world's opinion is of her Harvard learning, Banks' intelligence should never be underestimated. She was a stellar student throughout her school life and was accepted to every single college she applied for, post-high school. So in reality, she had her pick of where to further her education.
1 She's No Stranger To Music, Either: The Model Has A Song-Worthy Voice
Back in 2004, Banks recorded the song "Shake Ya Booty", and the music video featured America's Next Top Model contestants from two separate seasons. She also sung the song featured in Life-Size, "Be A Star", and even sung a song with the late Kobe Bryant called K.O.B.E.