Dani Evans Net Worth

What is Dani Evans' Net Worth?

Dani Evans is an American fashion model who has a net worth of $500 thousand.

Dani Evans is best known as the winner of Cycle 6 of "America's Next Top Model," the reality competition show created and hosted by Tyra Banks. Her victory in 2006 marked one of the franchise's most memorable and widely praised seasons, launching her into a professional modeling career that extended well beyond reality television. Known for her distinctive Southern charm, strong runway presence, and editorial versatility, Evans transitioned from small-town Arkansas to international fashion runways, proving she was more than just a reality show champion.

During her time on "America's Next Top Model," Evans became a central figure in one of the show's most debated makeover storylines, when she was pressured to close the gap between her two front teeth. Though she initially resisted, saying she loved her smile, she ultimately agreed after being told it could cost her the competition. Years later, Evans spoke candidly about the experience in the Netflix documentary "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model," challenging the narrative that the change was necessary for her success. Despite that controversy, she emerged as one of the show's most successful alumni and built a lasting career in fashion.

Early Life

Danielle "Dani" Evans was born on June 7, 1985, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Raised in the South, she grew up with a strong sense of family and community. Before modeling, she worked various jobs, including as a waitress, and had little exposure to the high-fashion world.

Evans has often spoken about her Southern accent being a point of critique during her time on television. On "America's Next Top Model," judges encouraged her to soften her accent to fit industry standards, a suggestion she approached with determination rather than resentment. Her willingness to adapt while maintaining her identity became a defining trait of her journey.

"America's Next Top Model" Breakthrough

Evans rose to national prominence in 2006 when she competed on Cycle 6 of "America's Next Top Model." From early in the competition, she impressed judges with her strong walk, expressive face, and adaptability in front of the camera.

Her makeover storyline became one of the season's most talked-about moments. As part of the show's dramatic transformation episode, Evans and fellow contestant Joanie Dodds were sent to a dentist. While Dodds underwent extensive dental work, Evans was encouraged to close the gap between her front teeth. She initially declined, saying she loved her smile and believed she could succeed as a model with it.

After discussing the situation with her mother, who warned that refusing might jeopardize her place in the competition, Evans ultimately agreed to have the gap narrowed. In later years, she questioned whether the change was truly necessary for her career, arguing that it did not open professional doors and that the moment was heightened for television drama.

Despite the controversy, Evans went on to win the cycle, securing a modeling contract and solidifying her status as one of the franchise's standout champions.

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Professional Modeling Career

Unlike many reality competition winners whose careers stall after their television exposure fades, Evans successfully transitioned into high-fashion modeling. She signed with major agencies and walked runways during New York Fashion Week.

Her portfolio expanded to include editorial spreads, commercial campaigns, and runway work for prominent designers. Over time, she established herself as a working model with staying power, rather than a short-term reality television personality.

Evans has credited her discipline and resilience for her continued success, noting that winning the show provided a platform but did not guarantee longevity in the competitive fashion industry.

Later Reflections and Advocacy

In 2026, Evans appeared in the Netflix docuseries "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model," where she revisited her experience on the show. She spoke candidly about the pressure to alter her appearance and expressed skepticism that closing her tooth gap was necessary for her career. Her comments contributed to a broader reassessment of the show's more extreme makeover practices.

Despite these critiques, Evans has also acknowledged that the platform changed her life. She has emphasized the importance of self-confidence and authenticity, encouraging aspiring models to embrace their unique features rather than conform to shifting industry standards.

Legacy

Dani Evans remains one of the most respected winners in "America's Next Top Model" history. Her career demonstrates that reality television exposure can translate into legitimate fashion industry success when paired with talent and determination.

Her story also serves as part of a larger conversation about beauty standards and the pressures faced by models, particularly women of color navigating predominantly white spaces in fashion. Through both her runway work and her candid reflections, Evans has helped reshape how audiences view modeling competitions and their lasting impact.

From Arkansas waitress to international runway model, Dani Evans built a career that extended far beyond a television title — and continues to influence conversations about identity, image, and authenticity in fashion.

Who's Richer?

Dani
Evans

Compare!

J.
Alexander