Tyra Banks Inks First Look Deal With Universal TV

Tyra Banks has inked a first-look deal with Universal Television and Universal Television Alternative Studios. The producer, supermodel and entrepreneur will develop and produce scripted and unscripted programs, using her Bankable Productions banner. The deal does not interfere with her position as host of NBC’s America’s Got Talent.

“Tyra is one of the most driven producers in television, said Pearlena Igbokwe, President, Universal Television. “She had long brought incredible passion to her unscripted projects and I can’t wait to start collaborating with her on the scripted side.”

Banks’ producing credits include America’s Next Top Model, The Tyra Banks Show and Freeform’s upcoming holiday movie sequel, Life Size 2.

“America’s Next Top Model has been on the air for 24 seasons, proving Tyra’s standing and commitment as one of television’s top producers,” said Meredith Ahr, President, Universal Television Alternative Studio. “We are thrilled to infuse her creative vision, expertise and dedication into our studio’s development.”

The show continues to air in 150 countries and has 25 international versions worldwide. Banks has also won two Daytime Emmys for her daytime talk show, The Tyra Banks Show. Last year, Banks replaced Nick Cannon as host of NBC’s summer reality staple America’s Got Talent.The show was recently renewed for its 14th season, which will air in 2019.

Banks has been on the scene for quite some time now. The reasons she continues to stand out is because she not only uses her beauty to promote her brand but, she also uses her brain.

Banks is worth an estimated $90 million. She has a young son with her former boyfriend, photographer Erik Asia. Her deal seems to be developing while other notable Black stars are creating content for networks & services such as; Amazon, Netflix, Apple and HBO. She joins the ranks of Oprah, Shonda Rhimes, Spike Lee, Jordan Peele, Ava DuVernay, and more.