Say it isn't so! After 22 cycles, Tyra Banks' hit show "America's Next Top Model," which forever changed the way we look at fashion, is coming to an end — and the announcement came out of nowhere!
Earlier today, the 41-year-old model hinted that this could be the end for the ever-so-popular CW modeling competition. "TYRA MAIL!" she tweeted. "Thinking #ANTM22 should be our last cycle. I truly believe it's time. May your pics be forever fierce! Keep on Smizing!"
Fans of the long-running show were immediately heartbroken at just the thought of this idea, but Banks went on to confirm that it will, in fact, be the last cycle.
In a lengthy Instagram caption, Banks thanked the "diehard" fans who have stuck around from the beginning of the show, which "expanded the definition of beauty."
"Yeah, it's time. It really is. Wow, I am SO proud of what Top Model has done," she wrote of "ANTM," which was essentially the first fashion reality show. "I never thought my little idea would have people everywhere thinking differently about how they take photos. And I never thought we'd do 22 cycles."
After explaining that the fans are the reason the show is as successful as it is, she sadly put an end to her announcement with some powerful words of wisdom.
"I hope you continue to love your freckles, your moles, your big forehead, your big eyes, your small eyes, your pointy chin, your tiny boobs, your full chest, your ivory or ebony skin (or every color in between) - the stuff about you that makes you well...you," wrote Banks. "And I hope you've learned a heck of a lot from watching. I have an inkling you have. May your photos (and selfies) be forever fierce. May you always find your light. And may you werk hallways like runways. Always remember, you are beautiful and BOOTYful. And please, keep on Smizing each and every day for TyTy."
For those who are still in complete disbelief, the show's executive producer, Ken Mok, confirmed the news on Twitter. "Looks like #Cycle22 is going to be our last," he wrote. "Want to thank all of you for making the last 13 years so wonderful! Stay fierce!"
As Cycle 22 only has a few episodes left, it has been confirmed that the series finale will air on December 4, according to E! News. The network is currently talking about possibly airing a retrospective special sometime late in 2016.
"'America's Next Top Model' was a successful franchise for two networks, first at UPN and then The CW, and it became not just a ratings hit, but a global pop culture phenomenon," CW President Mark Pedowitz said in a statement. "I want to thank Tyra and Ken for all their years of success in establishing a show that was not just popular in the U.S., but all across the world."
