Tyra Banks Is Officially Back As The Host Of "America's Next Top Model"

    The queen is back.

    Michael Blackmon
    by Michael Blackmon

    BuzzFeed News Reporter

    After stepping down from her throne for the first season of the reboot of America's Next Top Model, it was announced on March 16 that Tyra Banks will officially return and host the show again.

    Cindy Ord

    The announcement was made in a press release from VH1. “Tyra has always been the heart and soul of the franchise and her absence was deeply felt by our

    fiercely loyal fans who missed their Queen of the Smize," said Ken Mok, who has served as executive producer on the show since its inception.

    Rita Ora replaced banks in the most recent season and a new panel of judges were selected, as well.

    Bryan Bedder / Getty Images

    Supermodel Ashley Graham, image architect Law Roach, and Creative Director of Paper magazine Drew Elliot rounded out the rest of the newest group of judges.

    "I’m overwhelmed and humbled by the intensity of the ANTM fan base whose deep affection for the show led me to have a change of heart," Banks said in the press release.

    Cindy Ord

    She continued, "After giving it a lot of thought, I realized that remaining behind the camera wasn’t enough because ANTM is woven into my DNA."

    The announcement also says "additional panelists to be announced at a later date," which means the status of the show's newer judges is unclear.

    Brad Barket / Getty Images

    Even though fans were excited about the show's most recent season, many couldn't help but express their desire for Banks to return.

    Ameika. ♡ @__N0L0VE

    Y'all let me know when Tyra becomes the judge again. #ANTM

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    A lot of people tweeted that they wanted Banks to be back at the helm.

    LAURYN🍒TRILL @watermalondreaa

    So the whole season they talked about how much they wanted a boss and a brand only to choose the one without it? Br… https://t.co/gSyNhmXBoN

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    Your wish has been granted, passionate fans.

    Yeah. @MorganYvette

    Tyra don't bring antm back unless you plan on hosting it. #antm

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    She's back, y'all.

    Tyra Banks @tyrabanks

    I missed my ANTM baby so Mama's back! #ANTM #ANTM24

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    Here's to many more seasons of smizing.

    The CW