It’s news to no one that there’s been a generational clash in the modelling industry, with certain former cover stars deeming the present day generation as “not true supermodels.”
But now in an attempt to end the catwalk cattiness, OG Tyra Banks has weighed in with a lengthy essay entitled Model War, that specifically defends today’s reality-turned-cover stars Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid.
Speaking out to her generation of “original supermodels” which includes the likes of Naomi Campbell, Heidi Klum, Giselle Bundchen and Cindy Crawford, the America’s Nex Top Model host began by acknowledging their hard work.
“We worked runways and shot magazine spreads together, schlepped to countless go-sees, used pay phones for on-the-go communication, and subways for transportation around the globe – no cell phones.”
“And, after all that hard work, dedication… after all the blood, sweat, fears and floods of tears… we finally were bestowed with the coveted title of Supermodel!”
Models Tyra Banks, Heidi Klum, Gisele Bundchen, Adriana Lima and Naomi Campbell pictured here at the 2003 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
The 42-year-old uploaded this mini-rant before posting her “Model War” essay.
The new mum then brings to light the mindset of some, who believe that the modern-day supermodel’s fame was fast-tracked by television and social media.
“Fast forward to present day, and some of us are in a state of shock.”
“We witness young girls on reality shows and super popular girls on social media now being called Supermodels and think, “WHAT?! It’s not fair! Is that kind of success even real?”
“Yes. IT IS REAL.”
Finally, she praises Gigi and Kendall with the message, “you’re on countless covers, rule all the campaigns, walk everyone’s runway, have top designers on speed dial and everyone knows your name.”
Watch Tyra powerfully address body image in the video player below! Post continues…
The conflict began in April earlier this year when actress and former model Rebecca Romijn called out best friends Kendall and Gigi as “not true supermodels” in an interview with Entertainment Tonight.
Seconding her notion was ex-model Stephanie Seymour, who went as far to call the 20-somethings the “b—hes of the moment.”
Unsurprisingly, the remarks made their way across the whole internet. Some fans agreed, whilst others rushed to the pair’s defense.
The two former-supermodels became the subject of a relentless online debate.
Following their comments and an influx of backlash, both Stephanie and Rebecca took to social media with apologies for Kendall and Gigi, but the damage had been done.
Clearly hurt by the scrutiny, Kendall took to her app with a post addressing the drama.
“Being a ‘supermodel’ is a relative term,” she began. “If people want to call Gigi and I supermodels now, it doesn’t take anything away from supermodels of the past.”
“Obviously, I have so much respect for those women, but right now, we’re the models of this time. Significant? Maybe. Hardworking? For sure.”
Watch Kendall and Gigi take Fashion Week in the video below!
Unfazed, Kendall and Gigi will no doubt continue to dominate the fashion industry.
