The 15^th cycle of America’s Next Top Model (ANTM) saw ultra-thin 6’2″ winner Ann Ward spark immediate controversy before the series even aired.

Tyra Banks, who is known for being pro plus-size, was criticised for promoting an anorexic look when she gushed over the model’s ‘wasp’ waist in the show’s promotional trailer.

ANTM Photoshoot Director, Jay Manuel, then said: “She’ll make Miss J eat Tic-Tacs and watercress for the rest of the season!”

Banks later apologised, and Ward, who said she has struggled to keep weight on since she was a baby, has become one of the show’s most loved and successful winners to date.

Ward recently spoke to StyleList, and said: “This is my natural body weight. It’s how I’ve been since I was born. Everyone has their own healthy weight and this is mine. I can’t gain weight because of my naturally high metabolism. I’ve tried.

“I basically grew up with people staring at me. In the third grade I was taller than the teacher. I was viewed as a freak,” she said.

“On the show, my whole world kind of flip-flopped. My height and my look made me stand out and seem unique and for once, it became an asset.”

We at Talent Management know that there are different perceptions of beauty, and just like plus-size models aren’t necessarily a chocolate bar away from a heart attack, it is also wrong to assume that all skinny models are anorexic.

Looking back on Banks’ modelling career, it’s clear she can relate to both sides. “I have experienced body image scrutiny from one extreme to the next she told People, “as an awkward, extremely thin pre-teen who couldn’t gain weight no matter what I did, to later being slammed by the media for my fuller, curvier frame.”

On her site, she said: “Whether it’s exaggerated curves (or lack thereof), bee-sting boobies, a juicy booty, or a big ole’ forehead (eh-hem) — it’s about rocking what we’ve got.”

We applaud Banks and think she’s doing a great job of exposing the diversity of models to both the media and viewers.