Tyra Banks is a new mom

Supermodel-turned-TV star Tyra Banks is a mom after welcoming a baby boy via a surrogate.

The America's Next Top Model host surprised fans on Wednesday (27Jan16) by announcing she and her boyfriend of two years, photographer Erik Asla, are the proud parents of little York Banks Asla.

"We are so excited for our new baby boy bundle of joy," Banks says in a statement. "The journey to now has not been an easy process, as I've shared before. But there was a beautiful bright light at the end of the tunnel for me and his father, Erik.

"As I gaze into the beautiful eyes of my son, I think about all the people who struggle with fertility or carrying a child and continue to pray for them every day. My hopes and dreams are filled with well wishes that they get to feel what my little treasure, York Banks Asla, feels like in my arms."

Last year (15), Banks divulged that she and Asla had been trying to start a family together, and had undergone in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment after struggling to conceive naturally.

Banks, 42, also shared the news on her Instagram.com page by posting a photo of the tot's tiny hat, along with the caption, "The best present we worked and prayed so hard for is finally here. He's got my fingers and big eyes and his daddy Erik's mouth and chin.

"As we thank the angel of a woman that carried our miracle baby boy for us, we pray for everyone who struggles to reach this joyous milestone. York Banks Asla, welcome to the world."