DOB: Born Tyson Craig Beckford on December 19, 1971, in New York.
Career Highs:
In 1991, Tyson was barely out of his teens when his striking looks caught the eye of the editor of hip-hop magazine "The Source." This led to a contract with a New York modeling agency, and to a life of cameras and runways.
Tyson has posed for top photographers Herb Ritts and Bruce Weber who introduced him to Ralph Lauren who praised his "all-American look with a dramatic edge", saying: "He conveys power, style and intelligence in a very exciting way." Lauren signed Tyson exclusively to represent the Ralph Lauren campaign. Beckford's unique face has since graced the covers of dozens of magazines such as Essence and Paper, and has been featured in fashion spreads for well-known publication such as Vogue, GQ, Details, Men's Health, Vibe, and The New York Times.
1995 was a big year for Beckford, who was named VH1's "Model of the Year" and one of People Magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People in the World.
Career Lows:
As a forerunner in his field, Tyson's path hasn't always been smooth. He once turned down a spot on the coveted Milan Fashion Week catwalk because he was the only black man invited to the event. He said, "There are so many African-American and African men who are trying to get jobs, and they weren't giving the jobs to them."
Breaking into Hollywood hasn't been easy either. Tyson says his good looks are sometimes more of a hindrance than a help. "A bad day for me now is going on an audition and not getting the gig," he says. "I've got to prove myself because (casting directors) think I am a pretty boy who can't speak."
TV Appearances:
Tyson has appeared in a number of music videos including Toni Braxton's video for "Unbreak My Heart," Britney Spears' "Toxic," and videos for artists Mia X, Notorious B.I.G., and Shaquille O'Neal. He has also appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Magic Hour, Keenan Ivory Wayans, Mad TV, Entertainment Tonight, VH1, as in commercials for Polo Jeans.
Films:
Tyson made an appearance in the little-seen "Boricua's Bond" and as himself in the Ben Stiller male model spoof "Zoolander." Higher-profile roles include a part in "Biker Boyz" (2003) alongside "The Matrix" star Laurence Fishburne. Other film credits include: "Dream Street" (2005), "Gas" (2004), "Searching for Bobby D" (2004).
Racial/Ethnic Heritage:
Tyson's exotic looks can be attributed to his interesting mix - his father is Jamaican/Panamanian and his mother is Chinese/American.
FAQ: Where did he grow up?
Tyson grew up in Jamaica and Rochester, New York. In fact, his exotic look, resulting from his Jamaican-Panamanian-Chinese heritage, often drew ridicule from his schoolmates.
FAQ: In response to his success:
Tyson says, "I thank God every day. That's all I can do. That, and try to help all those other guys who are trying to do what I did." Tyson looks forward to paving the way for up-and-coming models of color.
FAQ: What else is he up to?
Tyson Beckford is working on an exercise video, and keeps busy riding and collecting motorcycles, snowboarding, reading, and hoping to someday beat Dennis Rodman's collection of tattoos (he currently has 8).
Also in the Spotlight on Celebrities series
Halle Berry
Thandie Newton
Rosario Dawson