Tyra Banks returned to the runway at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show nearly two decades after leaving the lingerie brand’s iconic annual runway. The supermodel and entertainment mogul, 50, closed the show in what became an emotional and powerful moment. Banks’ return felt like more than just a return to fashion; it was a celebration of her self-confidence and growth trajectory since she retired from modeling in 2005.

Banks reflected on this comeback during an appearance on “The Drew Barrymore Show,” where she talked about how deeply she felt connected to the moment. Barrymore, 49, complimented Banks on how radiant she looked during her walk, noting that she seemed “good about” herself and was “living in the moment.”

© Mike Coppola

Banks couldn’t agree more, describing how this experience was vastly different from her previous years on the runway. For Banks, the walk wasn’t just about herself. She admitted that in recent years the emphasis has been on the personal: her confidence, presence and attitude. This time, she embraced a broader sense of purpose, representing not only herself but other women, especially those who might struggle with self-confidence as they age.

Banks described feeling powerful and connected to the audience, as if her experience spoke to women who shared similar insecurities. “This time I felt like everyone was inside me,” Banks said. “50-year-old women, insecure women – I just felt like there was more. I look at the display and think boom, boom, boom. I stomped because I felt like I was a ship, more than that It’s all about me.”

This return to the catwalk also highlighted how her body has evolved. Banks humorously acknowledged the physical changes she has undergone, saying, “My breasts were ten times bigger because I was about 40-50 pounds heavier on this runway than when I retired. So I thought, ‘Fall there don’t fall out, don’t fall out.'”

After walking nine Victoria’s Secret shows before retiring, “America’s Next Top Model” has come full circle and brought new depth and meaning to her performance. As Banks put it, she became a “vessel” of empowerment for women everywhere – proving that at 50, she still has the wings and strength to soar.

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024 behind the scenes

The iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is officially back after a six-year hiatus. HOLA! USA had exclusive backstage access before the show, where the Victoria’s Secret models were pampered and prepared from head to toe.

A stream of beauty professionals came together, each playing a crucial role in preparing the models for the catwalk. Makeup artists painstakingly apply layers of foundation, hairstylists work diligently to create stunning hairstyles, and nail technicians contribute their artistry by creating manicures and pedicures.