Tyson Beckford: Life, Legacy, Career, Family & Everything to Know About the Iconic Supermodel

Tyson Beckford is one of the most recognizable male supermodels in the world — a face that defined 1990s fashion and continues to influence pop culture, modeling, television, and entertainment today. Known for his striking features, magnetic runway presence, and lasting cultural impact, Beckford remains a symbol of style, longevity, and versatility. This long-form article explores who Tyson Beckford is, his age, net worth, movies and TV shows, and his deeply personal life including his son, relationships, family, and connection to Berniece Julien.

Whether you’re searching for detailed biographical information or looking to understand how he became a global fashion icon, this in-depth guide covers it all.

⭐ Who Is Tyson Beckford?

Tyson Beckford is a Jamaican-American model, actor, TV personality, and cultural figure who rose to fame in the early 1990s. He became internationally known as the face of Ralph Lauren Polo, a campaign that transformed the visibility of Black male models in high fashion. His sharp jawline, athletic build, and powerful yet calm presence made him one of the most photographed men of the decade.

Beckford was discovered in New York in the early ’90s and quickly ascended into superstardom. What made him unique wasn’t just his look — it was his ability to embody luxury, masculinity, and elegance in a way that resonated across global markets. Over the years, he diversified into acting, hosting, reality TV, philanthropy, and business ventures, proving that his talent extended far beyond the runway.

Today, Tyson Beckford is respected as a trailblazer who broke barriers in the modeling world and created opportunities for generations of male models after him.

⭐ Tyson Beckford Age: How Old Is He?

Tyson Beckford was born on December 19, 1970, which makes him 54 years old as of 2025.

His youthful appearance, fitness-driven lifestyle, and continued modeling work show that he has maintained a remarkable presence even decades after first entering the spotlight. Very few male models achieve career longevity like Beckford, and his age only enhances his status as an industry veteran.

⭐ Early Life, Background & Heritage

Tyson Beckford’s background is rich and multicultural. He was born in The Bronx, New York, to parents of Jamaican, Panamanian, and Chinese-Jamaican heritage. Shortly after his birth, he spent part of his early childhood in Jamaica, surrounded by Caribbean culture, before returning to Rochester, New York, where he later attended high school.

His international heritage contributed to his distinctive appearance — one of the reasons he stood out so powerfully in the fashion industry. Beckford has often spoken proudly about his roots, acknowledging that his upbringing helped shape his resilience, discipline, and strong sense of identity.

⭐ Tyson Beckford Father, Mother & Family Background

Tyson’s mother, Hillary Dixon Hall, is of Afro-Jamaican descent. His father, Lloyd Beckford, is of Panamanian and Jamaican heritage, with additional Chinese-Jamaican ancestry.

These combined influences gave Tyson a diverse cultural foundation. Growing up, he was exposed to Caribbean values, American culture, and strong family ties — all elements that contributed to his grounded personality despite achieving global fame.

⭐ Tyson Beckford’s Brother and Sister (Siblings)

Although Tyson Beckford is a public figure, his family members remain largely private. Some biographical sources mention that Tyson has at least one brother (often identified as Patrick Beckford) and a sister, though their names and details are not widely public.

Tyson himself has kept his siblings out of media attention, choosing to protect their privacy. This is common for many celebrities, especially those who gained fame in the pre-social media era.

⭐ Rise to Fame: Modeling Career & Global Breakthrough

Beckford’s life changed dramatically when he was discovered by a talent scout working for The Source, a prominent hip-hop magazine, in 1991. With striking looks and undeniable charisma, he was quickly recruited into the world of modeling.

🔹 Ralph Lauren Polo Campaign

His big breakthrough came in 1993 when he signed an exclusive contract with Ralph Lauren. This instantly catapulted him into global visibility. Beckford became the primary male model for Ralph Lauren Polo — appearing in ads, billboards, runway shows, and promotional campaigns around the world.

This accomplishment also carried cultural significance: it challenged the overwhelmingly Eurocentric beauty standards that dominated high fashion at the time.

🔹 International Modeling Fame

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Beckford graced countless magazine covers, walked top runways, and appeared in fashion editorials across the globe. Publications such as Vogue, GQ, Men’s Health, and Esquire regularly featured him.

Today, Beckford is recognized as one of the most influential male supermodels of all time.

⭐ Tyson Beckford Movies and TV Shows

While Tyson Beckford is best known for modeling, he has also built an extensive acting and television career.

🎬 Notable Films

Some of his most recognized movie roles include:

• Boricua’s Bond (2000)
• Zoolander (2001 – cameo as himself)
• Trois 2: Pandora’s Box (2002)
• Biker Boyz (2003)
• Gas (2004)
• Into the Blue (2005)
• Hotel California (2008)
• Kings of the Evening (2008)
• Addicted (2014)
• Chocolate City (2015)
• Supermodel (2015)

These films highlight his ability to transition from fashion to acting while taking on diverse roles across drama, comedy, action, and romance.

📺 Television, Hosting & Appearances

Beckford has appeared on many popular shows, including:

• My Wife and Kids
• Half & Half
• I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!
• Hollywood Squares
• Hip Hop Squares
• Hollywood Game Night
• Huge in France

He also served as a judge/co-host on modeling competition series such as Make Me a Supermodel, where he mentored aspiring models — a full-circle moment for someone who helped shape the industry himself.

⭐ Tyson Beckford Net Worth

As of recent estimates, Tyson Beckford’s net worth is approximately $6 million.

His wealth comes from:

• High-paying modeling campaigns
• Film and TV roles
• Hosting and reality TV
• Brand endorsements
• Appearances and collaborations
• Business ventures

His long-running partnership with Ralph Lauren remains one of the most iconic model-brand relationships in fashion history and contributed significantly to his financial success.

⭐ Tyson Beckford Wife: Was He Ever Married?

Yes — Tyson Beckford was previously married to Berniece Julien, a businesswoman and entrepreneur. The marriage was private and reportedly short-lived, though their relationship received attention due to Beckford’s public profile.

⭐ Tyson Beckford and Berniece Julien

Tyson and Berniece Julien married in 2009, but their relationship ended quietly, and very little information has been publicly shared. The pair kept their marriage mostly out of the spotlight, and Beckford rarely discusses it in interviews.

Their separation did not lead to public controversy, further showing how Beckford handles personal matters with discretion.

⭐ Tyson Beckford Exes & Ex-Girlfriends

Over the years, Beckford has been linked to several well-known figures in entertainment and fashion. Some of the women he is reported to have dated include:

• April Roomet (mother of his son)
• Bridget Hall (model, reportedly dated in the ’90s)
• Others rumored in the modeling and celebrity world

Beckford has always maintained a respectful attitude toward former partners and avoids dramatizing his dating history.

⭐ Tyson Beckford Son

Tyson Beckford has one child — a son named Jordan Beckford, born in 1998. Jordan’s mother is stylist April Roomet.

Tyson has often expressed immense pride in his son, describing fatherhood as one of the most meaningful parts of his life. Jordan has followed in his father’s footsteps in some ways, working in entertainment and modeling projects.

Despite his busy career, Beckford prioritizes being present and supportive of his son’s growth.

⭐ Tyson Beckford Kids

As of current public information, Tyson Beckford has one child — his son Jordan.
There is no verified public record of additional children.

⭐ Personal Life, Character & Influence

Beyond his professional achievements, Tyson Beckford is admired for his grounded personality, spiritual perspective, and strong work ethic. One of the most defining events in his personal life occurred in 2005, when he survived a severe car accident that left his vehicle in flames. Tyson has since spoken about how the experience deepened his gratitude and strengthened his outlook on life.

Beckford also engages in philanthropic efforts, particularly those focused on youth empowerment, health, and fitness. His work with organizations like Kick 4 Life reflects his commitment to giving back.

⭐ Legacy of a Fashion Icon

Tyson Beckford’s legacy is monumental. He broke racial barriers, influenced generations of male models, revitalized the concept of masculine beauty in fashion, and transitioned into entertainment with ease.

His career longevity — over 30 years in the public eye — is rare in the modeling world. Beckford remains relevant because he constantly evolves while staying true to his identity.

Today, he stands not only as a model and actor, but as a mentor, cultural figure, and pioneer who permanently changed the landscape of fashion.

⭐ Conclusion

Tyson Beckford’s journey from a young man discovered on the streets of New York to becoming one of the most iconic male supermodels in history is a story of talent, determination, and evolution. His background, career achievements, relationships, and personal life continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Whether analyzing his modeling legacy, exploring his filmography, or understanding his family life, Tyson Beckford remains a compelling figure whose influence stretches far beyond the runway.

This article is published for readers of fanzineblog, where celebrity biographies and entertainment analysis come to life.