Worried that you may have ‘seen it all’ on America’s Next Top Model? Well, put those fears to rest. Tyra Banks has reinvented the series for Cycle 14, delivering a lot more spunk, says Nigel Barker—tears, jeers and old-school counsel. “We’re not up there as judges to get along,” the noted photographer adds. “We’re there as experts in our own right, and there are a few head-to-head battles where the judges get at it. And there were tears this season.” Outspoken new panelist Andre Leon Talley is likely at the center of those squabbles. “I can be nice and harsh,” he tells E! Talley has no tolerance for models that deflect critique. “When we give them observations, whether personal or professional, I just don’t think they should make excuses. They should take notes and say ‘thank you.’ We are the teachers,” the Vogue editor-at-large explains to WSJ. Expect a greater emphasis on ‘life coaching,’ as opposed to all portfolio and catwalk skills. The 13 finalists are quite a handful, as you can see in their intro videos, and they’ll face the dreaded Ty-overs in this week’s extended premiere. Incidentally, casting has already begun for Cycle 15 which will air this fall. If you’re 5’7” or taller, between the ages of 18-27, and think you have fierce modeling potential, click here for application details and submit your tape by April 6. New this year, contestants can also easily apply online; however, the photo deadline is March 30.
America’s Next Top Model / Cycle 14 Premiere! Wed. 8pm (encore Fri. 8pm)
