NEWSTyra Banks Fires Nigel Barker, Jay Manuel & J. Alexander From 'America's Next Top Model'
April 20 2012, Published 2:01 p.m. ET
Wow! Tyra Banks has let go of some of our favorite America's Next Top Model cast members, opting not to renew Nigel Barker's, Jay Manuel's or J. Alexander's contracts.
The NY Post is reporting that the model turned mogul fired the three personalities yesterday, who have been on the show since its debut in 2003. They will not appear on the next season of the hit CW show.
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Of course, famed photographer Nigel was on the judging panel, along with Tyra and newcomer Kelly Cutrone. Miss Jay helped the contestants perfect their runway walks and Jay was the creative director, who assisted the models on photoshoots.
“Nigel Barker, Jay Manuel and J. Alexander have been an integral part of the America’s Next Top Model brand and they helped turn this show into the household name it is today," executive producer Ken Mok said in a statement. "They have been amazing assets to the show and will always be a part of the 'Top Model’ family. We will continue to actively work with each of them on future projects.”
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A source close to the show tells Page Six that the cast cuts were a "production decision" and that there are "major changes planned for season 19." The producers are reportedly planning to add a social media aspect to the show and plan to hire bloggers and web producers with a fashion background, like street-style blogger Bryan Boy.
What do you think about the decision to let go of Nigel, Miss J and Jay?
