Tyra Banks making a stunning return to close out the Victoria Secret Show 24′
Tyra Banks made a stunning return from retirement on Tuesday, gracing the runway to conclude the reimagined 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. After nearly two decades away, the 50-year-old emerged dramatically from beneath the stage, showcasing her signature strut and captivating “smize” in a striking VSX balconette catsuit, a chic bustier, and a shimmering metallic cape. However, the iconic angel wings were notably absent from her ensemble.
The star of “America’s Next Top Model” and a prominent talk show host was trailed by a throng of models who literally mirrored her steps during the grand finale. Banks made history as the brand’s first Black contract and catalog cover model, gracing the runway in nine prime-time shows before stepping back in 2005 to explore other entertainment opportunities and establish her media empire. “In case you forgot,” the former “Dancing With the Stars” host shared on Instagram, alongside a clip showcasing her return. This globe-trotting annual event, once deemed essential viewing when it aired on traditional television from 1995 to 2018, took a six-year hiatus after being canceled in 2019 due to criticism surrounding the representation of plus-size and transgender models and issues of exclusivity and body positivity. This year’s 45-minute lingerie showcase unfolded in Brooklyn at the Duggal Greenhouse in the Navy Yard and was streamed on Amazon Prime. The company promoted it as a celebration of “who we are today, along with all the elements you cherish — the glamour, the runway, the wings, musical performances, and much more!”
Model Gigi Hadid, who first graced the whimsical runway in 2015, heralded the show’s return alongside Banks back in May. This year, she made a stunning entrance in a pink satin romper adorned with mechanical angel wings, as the phrase “We Are Back” illuminated the screens behind her. Joining her was her sister Bella Hadid, followed by a dazzling array of models, including first-time participants like supermodel Kate Moss, 50; former French first lady Carla Bruni, 56; body positivity champion Ashley Graham, 36; and trans model and influencer Alex Consani, 21. Despite their presence, some critics argued that the revived show fell short of true inclusivity, suggesting it leaned more towards a performative gesture. For Banks, it was a nostalgic reunion as veteran Angels like Alessandra Ambrosio, Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel, Behati Prinsloo, Taylor Hill, Doutzen Kroes, and Jasmine Tookes—who donned the brand’s extravagant $3-million Fantasy Bra—graced the catwalk as well. The musical highlight of the evening featured the legendary Cher, who captivated the audience with her iconic hits “Strong Enough” and “Believe,” part of an all-female lineup that also showcased K-pop sensation LISA and South African artist Tyla.
Adriana Lima
Cher took the stage at the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in New York City, and what a show it was! 🌟 She captivated the audience with her iconic songs “Strong Enough” and “Believe,” all while supermodels like Bella Hadid and Adriana Lima strutted their stuff down the runway. This year marked a groundbreaking moment as Cher was part of the first-ever all-female lineup of performers, sharing the spotlight with Lisa from BLACKPINK and South African sensation Tyla. The event was a dazzling fusion of fashion and music, leaving everyone in awe! Did you manage to see it?
