Tyra Banks Returns To Her Roots

Andy Gray | Feb 19, 2013

Former SI Swimsuit model Tyra Banks, who graced the cover of the 1996 and 1997 swimsuit issues, has become one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood due to her role as creator and host of America's Next Top Model and The Tyra Banks Show. But before she ever posed for SI or hosted her own show, Banks played Will Smith's old flame on The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, her first role on television. Though she only appeared in seven episodes, she made a lasting impression for many (male) fans of the show.

Nearly 20 years later, Banks had a Fresh Prince reunion of sorts when she guest-starred on an episode of the Disney Channel sitcom Shake It Up. Also appearing in the episode is Alfonso Ribeiro, who played Carlton, Smith's geeky and awkward cousin on The Fresh Prince. According to EW.com, the episode will air on Feb. 24 and will feature Banks trying to win over her crush, played by Ribeiro. For those who have never seen the model on The Fresh Prince, here's a classic scene from the show with Banks and Smith dancing up a storm:

And for those who can't get enough Banks, below are some of her greatest hits from her five appearances (1996, 1997, 1998, 2002, 2007) in the SI Swimsuit issue, where she remains one of the most popular all-time models and the inspiration to many of the girls who appeared in the 2013 issue.

GALLERY: Tyra Banks SI Swimsuit Photos

EW.com: Tyra Banks reunites with Alfonso Ribeiro

Tyra Banks :: Russell James/SI

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Tyra Banks :: Russell James/SI

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Tyra Banks :: Robert Erdmann/SI

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Tyra Banks :: Russell James/SI