Tyra Banks
Tyra Banks claims she knew Law Roach would be a star early on David Shankbone/Wikimedia Commons CC BY 3.0

Tyra Banks cheekily reminded Law Roach that she gave him his first television opportunity, playfully highlighting her role in the celebrity stylist's early career following their heated Project Runway disagreement. The supermodel made the remark while discussing their relationship, revealing that the pair have not spoken since their on-screen confrontation.

Banks appeared amused when she was approached about the controversy, taking the opportunity to offer a reminder of how she recognised Roach's potential as a television personality before he became one of the fashion industry's best-known celebrity stylists.

Taking Credit for Law Roach's TV Break

During a recent on-the-spot interview, Banks reflected on her relationship with Roach and the attention surrounding their Project Runway confrontation. She recalled recognising that the stylist had something special, explaining that she had given him his first opportunity to appear on television.

Banks suggested that while the public initially knew Roach primarily as a fashion designer, she had already spotted his potential to become a television personality. His ability to deliver memorable soundbites was among the qualities that made her believe he would become a star.

Roach has also previously acknowledged Banks' role in his early television career, crediting her with giving him his opportunity to appear on America's Next Top Model. He described the programme as his first reality television show and said he would always respect her for the opportunity.

The America's Next Top Model creator also appeared amused by how their disagreement had played out publicly, laughing as she discussed Roach's outspoken approach. Her comments highlighted the contrast between their earlier professional history and the tension that unfolded in front of viewers. The exchange comes after viewers discussed the judges' disagreement during the show's 22nd season, which aired over the summer. Their contrasting opinions turned a judging session into a particularly tense moment.

Inside Their Explosive Project Runway Clash

The tension between Banks and Roach erupted during a judging session involving a paper-towel design challenge. The pair disagreed over which contestant's creation deserved the stronger evaluation, with Banks eventually accusing the celebrity stylist of dominating the conversation.

'You're overstepping,' Roach told Banks during the exchange. The supermodel immediately pushed back, telling him, 'No, you're overstepping... and you're over-talking everybody.'

Their disagreement continued as they exchanged blunt remarks about the contestants' designs and judging decisions. Roach later acknowledged agreeing with Banks on a subsequent decision, although their earlier confrontation had already attracted considerable attention.

Banks did not return to the judging panel after her appearances in the season's opening episodes, prompting viewers to speculate about whether her disagreement with Roach had played a role in her absence. However, she subsequently challenged that assumption, pointing out that viewers did not know what her contract required and questioning why they had expected her to appear in a particular number of episodes.

Roach also addressed the speculation at the 2026 Emmy Awards, insisting there was 'no Tyra situation at all.' He explained that disagreements were part of the judging process, adding that he was never afraid to challenge fellow judges when their opinions differed from his own.

Despite their on-screen disagreement, Roach has previously spoken positively about the opportunity Banks gave him early in his television career. However, the revelation that the pair have not spoken since their confrontation raises questions whether the former colleagues will eventually reconnect.