On December 27th, 2022, a devastating stroke changed everything for Miss J Alexander. He awoke in a hospital bed, disoriented and facing an unimaginable reality. The vibrant, commanding presence known for shaping aspiring models was suddenly robbed of his ability to walk and speak.
For five agonizing weeks, he remained in a coma, battling for recovery. The irony wasn’t lost on him – a career built on movement, on teaching the art of the runway walk, now threatened by his own body’s betrayal. “What was I going to do?” he wondered, a question laced with fear and uncertainty.
He wasn’t afraid to admit the emotional toll. “I’m not ashamed to say that I cried,” he confessed, vulnerability breaking through his typically polished exterior. The stroke’s impact was particularly cruel, silencing the voice that had guided countless models and diminishing the physicality that defined his expertise.
Miss J remembers a time when Tyra Banks personally sought his guidance, even before “America’s Next Top Model” existed. He’d coached her as a young aspiring model, and later, she invited him to become a cornerstone of the show, a role he extended to international versions. He deeply misses “being the queen of the runway,” the energy of the catwalks, the power of transforming a walk into a statement.
The stroke’s aftermath brought both support and a painful absence. Co-stars Jay Manuel and Nigel Barker rushed to his side, offering emotional solace during a terrifying time. Nigel Barker confessed to being “shocked and really upsetting and horrifying and scary” at the sight of his friend so vulnerable. However, Tyra Banks hadn’t visited, responding only with texts promising a visit “yet.”
Despite the immense challenges, Miss J refuses to surrender. “I can’t walk. Not yet,” he states with unwavering determination. “I’m determined to walk. I’m sure you’re gonna see me again, I’m sure. It’s not over for me yet.” His spirit remains unbroken, fueled by a fierce desire to reclaim his life and his passion.
The impact of Miss J extends far beyond the world of fashion. Many recognize him as a pioneering figure, a Black queer icon who shattered barriers and inspired a generation. One observer noted his profound influence, stating he “changed the game for this community.”
His legacy isn’t just about teaching models how to walk; it’s about instilling confidence, artistry, and self-ownership. To witness his struggle and his unwavering fight for recovery is profoundly moving, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. He was more than a mentor; he was an icon.
For fifteen years prior to “ANTM,” Miss J shared his expertise at the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design. While he and Tyra Banks still connect on social media, the documentary doesn’t delve deeply into the nuances of their current relationship.
The circumstances surrounding his departure from “America’s Next Top Model” in 2012 remain a point of reflection. He recalls receiving flowers from Tyra on his birthday, followed by a dismissal just five days later. Despite this, he cherishes the early seasons of the show, remembering them as a “fairytale,” while acknowledging the need for critical examination of how contestants were treated.
He’s openly questioned whether the show fully understood the impact on the young women involved, yet also recognizes they understood the competitive nature of the experience. His journey, both within and beyond the world of “ANTM,” continues to resonate, a powerful story of talent, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of passion.
Recognizing a stroke requires immediate action. Remember the acronym FAST: Face – look for drooping; Arms – check for weakness; Speech – listen for slurring; Time – call 999 immediately if you observe any of these signs. Prompt medical attention is critical.
For those affected by stroke, the Stroke Association offers vital support and information. Their helpline is available at 0303 3033 100, or you can reach them via email at helpline@stroke.org.uk. Help is available, and you are not alone.
