Tyson Beckford

In 1991, a features writer on the hip-hop magazine The Source approached Tyson suggesting that he could be a successful model. As a result, Tyson was signed by a New York model agency. One of his first assignments was a series of photo shoots with well-known photographers Bruce Weber and Herb Ritts. Through them, Tyson had a chance meeting with Ralph Lauren. This proved a big break, as later in 1993 Tyson was hired for the famous fahion brand’s nationwide promotional campaign, modeling the Polo range of men’s casualwear.

Tyson rapidly built a high-profile image in the fashion world, appearing on covers like Vogue, GQ, The New York Times and becoming a firm-favorite on the runway.

To develop his career, Tyson broadened into TV shows, such as Magic Hour, Mad TV, Keenan Ivory Wayans, Zoolander and ANTM. But beside these ‘celebrity appearances’, Tyson proved to be a natural actor. In 2002, he landed his first substantial movie part, in Pandora’s Box. Further films followed, including Biker Boyz, and Into The Blue. In 2008 Tyson co-produced for the first time (also appearing in a lead role) in the well-received Hotel California.