Written by The Strategy
From the second that America’s Next Top Model first aired in 2003, it quickly gathered a dedicated following. Through its twenty two seasons the show has evolved from a goofy modelling reality show, to a goofy modelling reality show with a dash of flare for the dramatics. ANTM, as us loving viewers refer to it, is down right addictive. If you aren’t there for the models and the fashion, you’re there for the antics and the hilarity.
The show has seen it’s fair share of criticisms, spanning from the moral judgment of its effect on young women, to the not-so-realistic reality it portrays. And though it may be known to cause a stir now and then, ANTM is certainly no stranger to iconic television moments.
Starting off, we have to mention the array of personalities the show has seen take the judges seats. Namely Twiggy, André Leon Talley, Kelly Cutrone, staple stars Nigel Barker and J Alexander (who we’ll come back to), and last but not least the great and powerful Janice Dickinson. Ms. Dickinson, widely considered the first official supermodel, brought an attitude to the show that will never be matched. She’s said recently that she was hired to be a voice of harsh, negative criticism, and we have to say, job well done. Miss J Alexander was and is the heart of the show. With legs to rival anyone, woman or man, the confidence to pull off any look his heart desired, and some of the most memorable moments, Miss J stole the show. Next to Tyra, Miss J has been on the most episodes over the show’s run, dishing out advice on judging panels and challenges alike. His incredulous glares and quirky, undeniable words of wisdom will always have a place in our hearts.
Of course, Tyra’s antics are not to be forgotten. To cut short the long list of “Remember when…’s” that comes to mind, we’ll give you the Cliff’s Notes of Tyra on ANTM: there was the time she “died”, the time she got really, really mad, the time(s) she gave smizing lessons, the time she enlisted a beard weave, and the time she dubbed herself “The Forehead Master”.
America’s Next Top Model has introduced the world to the cult-followed Allison Harvard, brought Toronto-native Winnie Harlow to the forefront, gave transgender model Isis a spotlight, and in the current and final season, includes Nyle Dimarco, the shows first deaf contestant.
It is yet another show to the masses that the fashion industry does not always take itself so seriously. There is personality behind all the images—however varied and ridiculous that personality can be.
Farewell, ANTM. You will be missed.
Written by Katrina Garofalo
