Selita Ebanks is letting the world into her world in new Freeform reality series, “Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise.”
The former Victoria’s Secret model says the decision to open up on screen was one that required “confidence,” a trait she admits to struggling with over the years.
“It took a long time for me to feel comfortable enough to say I’m going to put myself out there again, you know, I stopped modelling a long time ago, I kind of like, went off the radar just wanted time to like get to know myself a little bit better,” Ebanks told the Daily News. “I took that time to really get to know myself find confidence that I had lost over the years.”
And Ebanks attributes that time in her life to experiences she navigated as a Victoria’s Secret angel.
“I’m gonna be honest and, it was my modeling career. Starting out very young, navigating the fashion world on my own and of course, being in fashion in a different era. I mean, it’s much more inclusive now. But back in the day, it just wasn’t easy,” she continued.
“You’re kind of you’re being led and being told, This is who you need to be, this is who you should be. There is no time to figure out who you really are.”
Being a minority within predominantly white spaces compounded the pressure to conform even more..
“Being a Black woman and trying to navigate that and also being a Caribbean woman, multi-dimensional and colorful with a big personality, and I had to, like, tone it down, bring it in. It was a very difficult time for me.”
But these days, Ebanks can be seen boldly speaking her mind on “Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise,” as the series explores an unfiltered glimpse into the personal lives of wealthy locals on the island.
Also a part of the cast is Elizabeth Chambers, Chelsea Flynn and Craig Jervis. Chambers is already a fan favorite as fans anticipate the show will address her high-profile split from actor Armie Hammer.
The secrets swirling around paradise make for the perfect recipe for drama, which EBanks says she maneuvers with caution.
“I just don’t put myself in situations that I have no business and I know it’s not great for reality TV, but I don’t,” she told The News. “I think also because my whole adult life was in the spotlight of rumors you know, there’s no need for me to add to that. I’m okay with just hearing something and letting it go. That is how I stay positive. I allow people to be who they are. I allow things to play out however they’re going to play out.”
Originally from Cayman Islands, Ebanks created the show so that she could work close to home.
“In 2019, I’m the one that came in and I shot a sizzle reel because I have always dreamed of living home, being with my family and being able to work. And I also wanted to like show a different side of Cayman just to like, give it a platform.”
“Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise” is currently streaming on Hulu.
