Cardi B Defends Tyra Banks Amid “ANTM” Criticism Following Victoria’s Secret Comeback

Cardi B has stepped up to defend Tyra Banks after attending the highly anticipated return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in New York City earlier this week. The star-studded event, held on October 15, 2024, marked a big moment not just for the iconic lingerie brand but also for Tyra Banks, who made her triumphant return to the runway after a nearly 20-year hiatus.

The event brought together celebrities and fashion icons, with Cardi B standing out in a baby pink bandage dress that highlighted her signature curves. But amid all the glamour, Cardi couldn’t help but reflect on the criticism Tyra Banks has faced over the years, particularly regarding her role as the host of America’s Next Top Model (ANTM).

Banks, who closed her ninth Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, had faced backlash for her tough treatment of contestants on ANTM, which aired in the early 2000s. The show became infamous for its extreme challenges and high-pressure situations, some of which fans and former contestants have labeled as harsh and even insensitive. Cardi B, however, had a different take.

In an Instagram Live session earlier this week, Cardi defended Banks, claiming that the challenges Tyra put contestants through were meant to prepare them for the difficult realities of the modeling world. “In real shows, they make you do s*** like that,” Cardi said, referencing how models often have to wear ill-fitting shoes or other uncomfortable outfits. “You gotta f****** walk around with a shoe that’s bigger than yours, gripping your f****** toes. Or you gotta wear a shoe that’s smaller than your foot.”

Cardi B even shared her own experiences from the runway, recalling how she had to walk in uncomfortable shoes during high-profile shows, including the Balenciaga fashion show last December. She suggested that the internet has made people overly sensitive, saying, “The challenges Tyra Banks used to give these b****** is the s*** that happens in the real f****** world… Y’all complain about it because the internet has made y’all soft.”

Tyra Banks herself addressed the criticism of her role on ANTM back in 2020 when a viral clip resurfaced. In the clip, she and the show’s judges had pressured contestant Danielle Evans to close the gap in her teeth with dental surgery, which drew widespread criticism. Tyra responded to the backlash, saying, “Looking back, those were some really off choices. Appreciate your honest feedback and am sending so much love and virtual hugs.”

In a later interview, Banks expressed regret over her handling of the situation, acknowledging that she should have taken a more positive approach. “Instead of me saying, ‘You must change this,’ on TV, I think what I should have said is, ‘You’re beautiful.’”

While Tyra Banks has since softened her stance, recognizing that some of the show’s methods were problematic, Cardi B’s defense highlights the competitiveness and pressures that models face in the real world. With the modeling industry notorious for its harsh standards, both women seem to agree that it’s a tough environment, though the approaches to preparing young models for it may need to be reconsidered.

As Tyra Banks celebrates her return to the runway and continues to address past criticisms, Cardi B’s vocal support adds a new layer to the ongoing conversation about the balance between tough love and compassion in an industry where perfection is often the expectation.

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Shivam Kumar

Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....