America's Next Top Model will implement a major change when the series returns to VH1 with Season 24.
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According to Banks, America's Next Top Model is dropping its age limit.
"There have been 23 cycles of America's Next Top Model, and every single cycle we say you have to be 27-years-old or younger," the 43-year-old supermodel said in a video message to her fans. "You know what I hear all the time? 'Tyra, come on! Why have an age limit?' So you know what? I'm taking that age limit off."
The reappointed host continued, "You want to audition for America's Next Top Model? I don't care how old you are, honey. You just need to know how to smize and be open to learning how to work the runway like a supermodel."
In a subsequent post on social media, Banks clarified that anyone over the age of 18 can audition for America's Next Top Model going forward.
"Age ain't nothing but a number," Banks wrote in a hashtag.
VH1 announced last month Banks would resume her Top Model hosting duties after only serving as an executive producer for Season 23. Banks, creator of the reality modeling competition, realized fans missed her just as much as she missed being so involved with the models.
"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," said Banks, who will also be hosting the twelfth season of America's Got Talent this summer, which premieres May 30 on NBC.
"After giving it a lot of thought, I realized that remaining behind the camera wasn't enough because ANTM is woven into my DNA."
Production on Season 24 of America's Next Top Model is slated to begin this summer, and in addition to Banks, Ken Mok will continue serving as an executive producer.
"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," Mok explained in March.
Model India Gants, 20, was crowned last season's winner of America's Next Top Model earlier this year. Gants took home the $100,000 grand prize, a one-year talent deal with VH1, a commercial feature on behalf of Rimmel London, and a fashion spread in Paper magazine.
About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski
