Tyra Banks is back hosting reality television.
Deadline reports that the former America’s Next Top Model host will take over for previous America’s Got Talent host Nick Cannon. AGT judge Howie Mandel made the announcement.
“Since I was a little girl, I’ve been obsessed with grandiose acts and performers who make the seemingly impossible possible,” said Banks. “I love how AGT brings that feeling into everyone’s home, capturing the best of people who come out and give it their all to make those big, fierce and outrageous dreams come true.”
“Tyra is the complete package: Out-of-this-world talented, funny, brilliant and all heart,” said NBC’s head of alternative Paul Telegdy. “In whatever she has done, she has always connected with audiences around the world. Her vivacious spirit will infuse AGT in a big way.”
Long-time host Cannon quit the series just recently after NBC allegedly threatened to fire him due to a NBC-related joke Cannon made during a Showtime stand-up special. In a lengthy Instagram and Facebook post Cannon wrote, “…my soul won’t allow me to be in business with corporations that attempt to frown on freedom of speech, censor artists, and question cultural choices.”
NBC renewed AGT for its 12th season last August. The series had one of its highest-rated seasons ever last year, in part thanks to new judge and producer Simon Cowell. Heidi Klum, Mel B. and Howie Mandel also act as judges.