Tyra Banks and Jay Manuel were once one of the most iconic duos in reality television, famously known for their roles on “America’s Next Top Model” (ANTM), where they formed a strong creative partnership and seemingly a close friendship. Both played pivotal roles in shaping the show, with Tyra serving as the host and principal judge while Jay took on the role of creative director. Their onscreen chemistry and camaraderie contributed significantly to the show’s success during its run.
However, the relationship between Tyra and Jay took an unexpected turn after Jay chose to leave the show following its eighth cycle. In a revealing new Netflix documentary titled “Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model,” which explores the show’s impact on participants and its behind-the-scenes dynamics, Jay elaborated on the complexities of their friendship and the circumstances leading to his departure.
In the documentary, Jay explained that while ANTM began to evolve in directions he no longer recognized, he ultimately decided to send a heartfelt email to Tyra expressing his intention to quit. Her response, which he described as “disappointed,” marked the beginning of a strained relationship. Despite returning to the show for another cycle, Jay noted the absence of communication between them off-camera, a stark contrast to the positive interaction they maintained while filming.
The documentary further reveals that Tyra has chosen not to publicly comment on the state of their relationship but acknowledged Jay as a “special man.” After leaving ANTM in 2012, both Jay and Tyra have continued their respective careers, with Jay expressing that their relationship has evolved into a distant acquaintance. In a 2020 interview, he stated, “We really have no relationship to speak of,” highlighting a sense of sadness over their fractured connection.
As of 2023, Jay shared that there has been no subsequent communication, reflecting on his readiness to reconnect with Tyra, should she reach out. He maintains a level of respect for her past contributions to his life and warns against vilifying her, stating, “My life was changed for good because of her.”
While the journey of their friendship appears to have come to a standstill, the documentary offers a reflective glimpse into the past, allowing fans to appreciate the profound impact of their collaboration on “America’s Next Top Model.”
“Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model” is currently available for streaming on Netflix, providing a deeper understanding of the show’s legacy and the relationships that defined its run.