Jay Manuel Doesn’t Miss His Friendship With Tyra Banks - Vulture

The Deterioration of a Friendship: A Look into Jay Manuel and Tyra Banks' Relationship in "Reality Check"

The Netflix docuseries "Reality Check" has been making waves with its intimate look at the world of reality TV, and one of the most surprising revelations is the decline of the friendship between two of the most iconic faces in the industry: Jay Manuel and Tyra Banks.

For those who may not be familiar, Jay Manuel was a mainstay on "America's Next Top Model" (ANTM) from 2003 to 2012, serving as the show's mentor and guide for many seasons. Tyra Banks, of course, is the show's creator, host, and executive producer. The two became close friends during their time working together on ANTM, with Manuel often referring to Banks as his "sister."

However, in "Reality Check," it becomes clear that their friendship has not been without its challenges. Through a series of candid interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, the documentary reveals the ups and downs of their relationship over the years.

A Complex History

According to Manuel, he and Banks had a close but complicated relationship from the start. As a young model, Manuel was thrilled to be working with Banks, who had already established herself as a successful supermodel and TV personality. However, as time went on, Manuel began to feel like he was stuck in a rut, repeating the same challenges and tasks season after season.

"I felt like I was just going through the motions," Manuel admits in an interview. "I wasn't feeling challenged, and I wasn't feeling like I was growing as a person or as a model."

Banks, on the other hand, seemed to be thriving. She was living her dream, hosting a hit TV show and building a business empire. However, according to Manuel, she often didn't have time for him.

"She was so busy with work and with her own life that I felt like I was an afterthought," Manuel says. "I wasn't a priority to her, and it hurt."

A Rift Forms

As the years went by, the rift between Manuel and Banks grew wider. According to Manuel, he began to feel like he was being typecast as a TV personality, rather than being taken seriously as a model.

"I felt like I was stuck in this one role," Manuel says. "I wasn't being seen as an artist or as a creative person."

Banks, on the other hand, seemed content with her role as host and executive producer of ANTM. She was building a brand and making millions of dollars off the show.

"I don't understand why Jay feels like he's not getting the recognition he deserves," Banks says in an interview. "He's been a part of this show for years, and I've always made sure to support him."

However, Manuel felt like his contributions were being overlooked. He began to feel like he was just a accessory to Banks' main stage.

The Fallout

The tension between the two finally came to a head when ANTM was cancelled after 24 seasons. According to Manuel, he was devastated by the news.

"I had given so much of myself to that show," Manuel says. "I felt like I had invested my entire career in it."

Banks, on the other hand, seemed more pragmatic about the cancellation.

"It's a business decision," she says. "We made a lot of money off that show, and we decided it was time to move on."

However, as the years went by, Manuel began to realize that Banks had moved on with her life. She had started new projects and pursued other passions.

"I felt like I was still stuck in the same place," Manuel says. "I wasn't moving forward."

A Reconciliation?

In recent years, it seems like the tension between Manuel and Banks has finally begun to dissipate. According to Manuel, they have reconnected on social media and are working on a new project together.

"It's been great to reconnect with Tyra," Manuel says. "We've had some tough times in the past, but we're moving forward now."

Banks also seems more open to reconciliation. She has spoken highly of Manuel on social media and has even offered him support on his own projects.

"I'm so proud of Jay," Banks says. "He's an amazing model and a talented person. I'm glad we can work together again."

A Lesson in Friendship

The story of Jay Manuel and Tyra Banks' friendship serves as a reminder that even the closest relationships can be complicated and imperfect. It highlights the challenges of maintaining friendships over time, especially when there are differences in career goals and ambitions.

However, it also shows that forgiveness and reconciliation are possible with effort and commitment. As Manuel and Banks continue to work together on new projects, they serve as a reminder that even the most unlikely of friends can find common ground and move forward together.

Conclusion

The deterioration of Jay Manuel and Tyra Banks' friendship is a fascinating look into the world of reality TV and the complexities of celebrity relationships. Through their candid interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, "Reality Check" provides a unique glimpse into the ups and downs of fame and success.

As we watch the documentary, it's hard not to feel for Manuel, who felt like he was stuck in a rut despite his own talents and achievements. It's also clear that Banks has been busy building her brand and pursuing new passions.

However, as the story comes full circle, it's clear that both parties have learned from their experiences. They've learned the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation, and they're moving forward together once again.

In the end, "Reality Check" is a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, friendship can thrive despite adversity.