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Yaya DaCosta Reflects on Healing Reunion with Tyra Banks

Yaya DaCosta, known for her roles in Chicago Med and The Lincoln Lawyer, recently opened up about a significant encounter with Tyra Banks, host and executive producer of America’s Next Top Model, where DaCosta was a runner-up during Cycle 3. This reunion, which took place at the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards on February 27, allowed DaCosta to address some of the unresolved feelings stemming from her experiences on the reality show.

During an emotional moment, DaCosta shared on social media, “I haven’t had a real interaction with this woman since 2004.” She reflected on the long-standing narrative of trauma she associated with her time on the show, acknowledging the impact that the program’s editing and portrayal of contestants had on mental health, particularly concerning issues like body dysmorphia and eating disorders. She stated, “Yes, there was real trauma. And it wasn’t by accident. It was by design. The goal was entertainment over real-world modeling preparation, and especially over mental health.”

Despite the controversies, DaCosta found a silver lining in the reunion. She described the encounter with Banks as “an amazing opportunity for me to close that chapter as I’m beginning a new one and to model grace.” Her excitement about reconnecting with Banks was palpable, as she approached her with warmth and gratitude.

In her acceptance speech at the awards ceremony, Banks spoke about the dual nature of Top Model. While addressing its flaws, she also highlighted the strides made in onscreen representation. DaCosta echoed this sentiment, noting the show’s efforts to showcase diverse beauty standards by featuring plus-size models and those from the LGBTQ+ community. “Yes, things change,” DaCosta remarked. “Like she said, we all evolve. Society as a whole is shifting, and so no wonder we as individuals are shifting.”

She emphasized the show’s profound impact, stating, “Let’s not pretend the show wasn’t wildly successful, because its audience was right up there on the judging table.” DaCosta advocated for understanding and growth, stressing, “We all evolve. We are all doing the best we can at all times with the resources that we have.”

As their evening came to a close, DaCosta shared a poignant moment with Banks—a hug that she intended to represent transformation and healing. “Y’all, I held that woman,” she recounted. “I took a deep breath because I wanted her to feel what it feels like to fully be forgiven, appreciated, and loved.” This moment, laden with mutual respect and hope, highlighted their shared journey towards accountability and support.

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