Former 'America's Next Top Model' Coach Miss J Reflects on Health Struggles, Tyra Banks Relationship

Miss J Alexander, known as the "Queen of the Catwalk" on the show, opens up about his gallstone issues, teaching at SCAD, and the status of his friendship with Tyra Banks.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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J Alexander, better known as "Miss J" from America's Next Top Model, is set to appear in the upcoming Netflix documentary "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model." The documentary will feature Miss J, as well as other ANTM alums like Tyra Banks and Jay Manuel, revisiting their time on the show. In recent years, Miss J has been teaching fashion students at the Savannah College of Art and Design, but has kept a low profile on social media. The article delves into Miss J's past health struggles with gallstones, the current status of his relationship with Tyra Banks, and what he's been up to since his ANTM days.

Why it matters

Miss J was a beloved figure on ANTM, serving as the runway coach and judge for many seasons. His return to the spotlight in the Netflix documentary will likely be of great interest to fans of the show, who are curious to learn more about his life and experiences since the show ended. The article provides insight into Miss J's personal and professional journey, shedding light on his health challenges, teaching career, and the evolution of his relationship with Tyra Banks.

The details

In 2017, Miss J revealed on Facebook that he had been dealing with painful gallstones, which he compared to "giving birth to a pack of hyenas." He was treated at hospitals in Savannah, Georgia and New York City. While the exact status of his friendship with Tyra Banks is unclear, it appears they are no longer as close as they once were. Unlike ANTM's creative director Jay Manuel, who had a falling out with Banks, Miss J did not experience a total breakdown in their relationship, but there is no evidence of them maintaining a close friendship in recent years.

  • In 2017, Miss J revealed his gallstone health issues on Facebook.
  • In 2019, Miss J shared in an interview that he had been teaching fashion students at the Savannah College of Art and Design since 2003.
  • Miss J's last post on Instagram was in January 2024.
  • The Netflix documentary "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model" is set to premiere on February 16, 2026.

The players

J Alexander

Also known as "Miss J," he was the runway coach and judge on several seasons of America's Next Top Model.

Tyra Banks

The creator, host, and executive producer of America's Next Top Model.

Jay Manuel

The creative director of America's Next Top Model, who had a falling out with Tyra Banks after leaving the show in 2012.

André Leon Talley

The Vogue editor-at-large who suggested that Miss J come teach at the Savannah College of Art and Design in 2003.

Dr. Spiro, Dr. Schyberg, Dr. Conelly

The doctors who treated Miss J for his gallstone issues at Memorial Hospital in Savannah, Georgia.

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What they’re saying

“I started at SCAD in 2003 when Vogue Editor at Large, André Leon Talley, suggested I come down and train the students to move with a catwalk model spirit and voila, The Miss J Alexander and SCAD marriage bloomed.”

— J Alexander (Teen Vogue)

“But I would like to Thank Memorial Hospital in Savannah GA for getting me on the right track as well as Dr. Spiro, Dr. Schyberg, Dr. Conelly, and my nurses Tolandra and Charmaine that week.”

— J Alexander (Facebook)

“Tyra's a businesswoman and I thought for sure she'd understand. I thought I was being very lovely and respectful. She just had two words for me: 'I'm disappointed.' And that was it. That was the end of the discussion.”

— Jay Manuel, ANTM Creative Director (Variety)

What’s next

The Netflix documentary "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model" featuring Miss J, Tyra Banks, and other ANTM alums is set to premiere on February 16, 2026.

The takeaway

Miss J's return to the spotlight through the Netflix documentary provides an opportunity for fans to learn more about his personal and professional journey since his time on America's Next Top Model. The article sheds light on his health struggles, teaching career, and the evolving relationship with his former co-star Tyra Banks, offering a glimpse into the life of the beloved "Queen of the Catwalk" beyond the reality TV spotlight.