Tyra Stares Down Stalker and Attempts to Send Him Packing

Sketch by Jane Rosenberg

Tyra Banks took the stand today in the trial of the man accused of stalking her. Brady Green, 39, was arrested for stalking and harassment after he showed up to see Banks last March at the Chelsea studios where she tapes her talk show. Staffers of the show had panicked when Green arrived, recognizing his name from flowers he had sent and phone calls he had made—including one where he threatened a producer. In court today, the model-turned-entrepreneur said, "I know I have fans, but I've never in my entire career had my staff react in this way."

Banks told the court how having a stalker has infringed upon her everywoman status. She said, "I don't live that kind of sheltered, protected life. I like to walk around my neighborhood...(But now), I fear for my safety. I feel extremely vulnerable."

Green's lawyer has said that he was simply one of the "ordinary people with ordinary problems" that the supermodel features on her talk show. He claims to have loved watching many talk shows, from Oprah to Montell. Apparently his affinity for the supermodel's show was strong enough to inspire a note attached to flowers he sent saying, "When I see you, I love you."

Green had called the show before his visit in order to seek the studio's address. Danny Verdugo, the producer who fielded the call, testified today that when he refused to give it out, Green threatened to slit his throat. Once he did arrive at the studio, Green found his way into an unsanctioned area. When cops picked him up, he was carrying two copies of a recent Essence magazine with Tyra on the cover.

Banks told the court, "I fear the safety of my staffers. I fear the safety of my family. I fear the safety of people in my vicinity." Green is expected to take the stand shortly.