If Zoolander’s comedic portrayal of male models left you thinking all models are as dimwitted, vapid, and self-centered as Derek Zoolander, then David Gandy would like to put you straight.

The top male supermodel, who is best known for his advert with Dolce & Gabbana’s fragrance ‘Light Blue’, says that thanks to the comedy film, many have the wrong idea about men that model.

Discussing the male model stereotype, Gandy told the Sunday Times’ Style magazine: “People still just think Zoolander, and to come out with your pride and dignity intact is probably quite hard in this business.”

However, Gandy added that this disheartening impression of male models is fortunately getting better: “Now there are younger guys coming in who want to be models. I’m actually proud to say I’m a model now. You pay your dues of not being listened to, but now people are starting to say, ‘Maybe this guy’s onto something’.”

And we at Talent Management couldn’t agree more. Every day, companies come to us to find male models for marketing aimed at many different audiences, each one seeking a very specific look. So if you think you have what it takes, read more about becoming a male model here.