Even behind the glitz and glam of the runway, life can hit hard — and Miss J. Alexander is living proof. Since his iconic run on America’s Next Top Model alongside Tyra Banks, the legendary runway coach has faced health battles fans never saw coming. And, while some familiar faces have been there for him, other dynamics hint at a complicated, tension-filled backstage that viewers are only now seeing unfold.
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Miss J. Alexander Reveals Stroke Struggles & Tyra Response
In the series, the 67-year-old reveals he suffered a stroke in December 2022, leaving him in a coma for five weeks and temporarily unable to walk or speak. “I woke up, I didn’t know where I was. I was in the hospital… [and] cried. I’m not ashamed to say I cried,” Alexander shared, recalling the emotional struggle. He found comfort in visits from former co-stars Jay Manuel and Nigel Barker, describing tearful reunions that reminded him of the bond they built on the show. “I miss being the queen of the runway… I taught models how to walk, and then I can’t walk, not yet. Not yet. I’m determined to walk. You’re going to see me again, I’m sure,” he said, showing fans that hope and determination remain at the heart of his journey.
In the clip, Miss J. can also be heard saying “not yet” when asked if Tyra Banks has visited, though she has reached out with a supportive text and promised a future visit, leaving fans questioning what’s stopping her but still hopeful that the runway legend is surrounded by love as he works toward recovery.
Fans Wondering If Tyra Is Busy Or Leaving People Hanging?
Fans didn’t waste any time running to The Shade Room’s Instagram comment section to share their takes. Some were quick to call out Tyra Banks, saying she’s wrong for not physically showing up during this time. While others pointed out that J. Alexander himself said “not yet.” Of course, that didn’t stop many from wondering if she’s really that busy… or just leaving people hanging.
The Instagram user @mrjaymanuel added, “🙏🏽🥹🫶🏽💖✨✨✨”
This Instagram user @lovedarrenfleet said, “Tyra get yo a** over there now! Miss J made that damn show.“
And, Instagram user @loreane_beonca commented, “I love how he’s saying ‘Not yet’ ❤️❤️❤️❤️”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @iam_msjack added, “As a Stroke survivor ‘NOT YET’ are 2 of the most important words to keep in our vocabulary 🤌🏾🙏🏾”
But, Instagram user @jshawne79 shared, “Tyra dead wrong, he had that stroke in 2022..😔 Goes to show people ain’t ya friend fr. Prayers to him ❤️🩹”
Finally, Instagram user @_southernnbellee wrote, “I love love love Miss J! That shady look over the glassesssssss😂”
Miss J. Alexander Is Back On His Feet & Serving Comeback Energy
Yass! In a new clip, Jay Manuel gave fans a major update on Miss J. Alexander, showing that the runway legend is mother. Since filming ‘Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model,’ Miss J. has gone from wheelchair to taking actual steps. As we’ve previously reported, the docuseries revealed that he suffered a stroke a few years ago, but true to form, he’s proving he’s determined to strut down that runway again.
