"America's Next Top Model" Returns to The CW with Tyra Banks

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 10:27 GMT by USA Today
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Los Angeles, CA - February 17th, 2026 - After nearly five years off the air, the reality television landscape is about to get a significant dose of smize-inducing drama and high fashion. "America's Next Top Model" (ANTM) is officially returning to The CW, sparking a wave of excitement amongst dedicated fans and prompting a broader conversation about the evolution of beauty standards and the modeling industry itself. The revival, announced earlier today, isn't just a nostalgic callback; it's a deliberate attempt to recapture the magic of the original series while addressing past criticisms and embracing contemporary values.

Central to this ambitious undertaking are the return of the show's key creative forces: Tyra Banks, the creator, host, and driving personality of ANTM, and Jay Manuel, the longtime judge, creative director, and executive producer. Their involvement isn't merely a branding exercise; it's a signal that the revival intends to honor the series' legacy while simultaneously forging a new path.

"It's exciting to bring 'ANTM' back to The CW, where we can truly honor its legacy while evolving the format for today's audiences," Banks stated in an official press release. This sentiment encapsulates the core strategy behind the revival - a delicate balance between preserving beloved elements and adapting to a vastly different media environment.

But what does "evolving the format" actually mean? The original "America's Next Top Model," while groundbreaking in its time, was not without its flaws. Critics frequently pointed to challenges that were perceived as insensitive, unrealistic, or even harmful, and a judging panel that sometimes prioritized drama over constructive criticism. The show's focus on unattainable beauty standards also drew fire, prompting a necessary re-evaluation of its impact on viewers.

According to Jay Manuel, the new season will directly address these concerns. Speaking with USA TODAY, Manuel emphasized the commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and genuine empowerment. "We're going to honor the past, but we're also going to look toward the future," he explained. "We want to create a platform for diverse voices and perspectives. It's always been about empowerment, and that's the core of what we're doing."

This commitment extends beyond simply casting a more diverse group of contestants. Sources close to the production team indicate a significant overhaul of the challenges, moving away from stunts designed for shock value and towards assessments that genuinely evaluate a model's skills, professionalism, and adaptability. Expect to see a greater emphasis on business acumen, social media savvy, and the demands of a modern modeling career--skills that were often overlooked in earlier seasons. There's talk of incorporating mentorship programs with established industry professionals and focusing on the mental health and well-being of the contestants.

Furthermore, the judging criteria are expected to be more nuanced, prioritizing constructive feedback and celebrating individuality rather than adhering to rigid, outdated ideals of beauty. The show aims to showcase the modeling industry's increasing embrace of different body types, ethnicities, and gender identities. While the iconic photo shoots will undoubtedly remain a staple, expect them to be approached with greater sensitivity and creativity, avoiding problematic themes or imagery.

The revival comes at a particularly interesting time for the modeling industry. The rise of social media influencers and the democratization of fashion have disrupted traditional power structures, creating new opportunities for aspiring models while simultaneously raising questions about the definition of "professionalism" and the sustainability of the industry. ANTM's return could serve as a valuable platform for exploring these complex issues.

The show also faces increased competition in the reality TV space. Numerous modeling-focused programs have emerged in recent years, each vying for a piece of the market. To stand out, ANTM will need to deliver on its promise of a fresh, relevant, and genuinely empowering experience.

The premiere date for the revived "America's Next Top Model" has not yet been announced, but sources suggest it will likely air in late Summer 2026. The CW is reportedly planning a robust marketing campaign to generate buzz and attract a new generation of viewers, as well as re-engage the show's loyal fanbase. One thing is certain: the smize is back, and this time, it's coming with a renewed sense of purpose.