Are Tyra and John Engaged?

Tyra Lynne Banks, 35, is a former supermodel and now television personality. With shows like The Tyra Banks Show and America's Next Top Model, she is indeed a formidable personality. Not too long ago she was in the tabloids sporting an unbecoming bathing suit and was called fat. She started the "So What" campaign and I think has had a positive impact on young women.

In 2009 she was honored by Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) with the Excellence in Media Award.

If someone has a ring on their left ring finger does it mean she is engaged? Certainly not since many people wear a variety of rings on a variety of fingers. Still people are buzzing that Tyra is engaged to her long time boyfriend, John Utendahl.

Utendahl, 50, is the founder and owner of Utendahl Capital Management Group, the largest African American-owned investment banking group in the United States He is considered to be one of the most successful African Americans on Wall Street.

Mr. Utendahl was born in Queens, NY and earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus and an MBA from Columbia University. He is certainly no slouch and though he may be rich I am confident Tyra isn't after his money. He is quite good looking though.

Although Tyra doesn't have the academic credentials that Utendahl has one does not write a book and get to where she has gotten without smarts and lots of it.

The two were seen at Little Next Door, a restaurant in Los Angeles. It appears they don't go out too much since this is the first I have heard about him and I read all the covers while standing in line at the supermarket!

Tyra has not acknowledged that she and John are engaged. Remember though that not too long ago she moved her shows to New York, which as you remember from above, is where Utendahl lives.

Before you go out and buy a dress for the wedding remember that in 2007 there were rumors that the two were getting married. Obviously those were just that - rumors. I do like Tyra and hope that they get married and have children. I watch her show occasionally and she has been hurt so seeing her with a man who treats her well and respects her would be another point for the role model she already is to many.