The Reality Show You Forgot Yaya DaCosta Was On

May 2024 · 2 minute read

If you're hoping for a shocking reveal ("YaYa DaCosta got her start eating cockroaches on "Fear Factor"), then we're sorry to disappoint. Nope, it turns out that the gorgeous star was once a contestant on "America's Next Top Model." Considering her good looks and charisma, it probably doesn't come as a huge surprise. Additionally, during her time on the sho, she was a fan favorite, placing in the bottom two only once during her stint, per Complex.

In fact, DaCosta came very close to winning the title, before ultimately finishing in second place to winner Eva Marcille (née Pigford). Although "ANTM" likely contributed to her rising profile, DaCosta is hesitant to credit it for her acting career. DaCosta, who competed during the reality show's third cycle, doesn't exactly have fond memories of the experience, even reportedly telling VH1 that she purposely tries to forget about it.

"No disrespect, love to Tyra [Banks] always, but I have to keep it real because there's this myth out there that it's a stepping stone and if it were, would everyone else involved not be doing the same things?," she told the outlet (via EurWeb). She continued, "I just have to be honest because little girls are thinking those shows are a goal and I want them to work hard and figure out what they're good at."

So, there you have it. Not only is DaCosta a top actress, but she was almost a Top Model.

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