Yaya DaCosta: From 'America's Next Top Model' to 'Chicago Med' and Beyond
Yaya DaCosta, known for her role as ER nurse April Sexton on NBC's "Chicago Med," first gained fame as the runner-up on Cycle 3 of "America's Next Top Model" in 2004. Transitioning to acting after her stint on the reality show, DaCosta landed the role of April in 2015, becoming a key member of the medical team at Gaffney Chicago Medical Center. Her character's relationship with Dr. Ethan Choi was a central storyline on the show.
After leaving "Chicago Med" at the end of Season 6, DaCosta made a brief return in Season 8 for April and Ethan's wedding. She has since appeared in TV series like "Our Kind of People" and Netflix's "The Lincoln Lawyer." Despite her success in acting, DaCosta had refrained from discussing her time on "America's Next Top Model" until recently.
During her time on "ANTM," DaCosta impressed with her performance in challenges but faced criticism for her attitude and reluctance to embrace her African heritage. Despite finishing as the runner-up, DaCosta used the platform to launch her acting career, securing roles in shows like "All My Children" and "Ugly Betty" before joining "Chicago Med."
In 2022, DaCosta spoke out about her experience on "America's Next Top Model," criticizing the show for its treatment of certain ethnicities. Her candid posts on social media and previous hints in interviews hinted at her dissatisfaction with her time on the reality show.