Don’t those three make up the entire show? Well, Tyra Banks certainly doesn’t think so. After 17 seasons and nearly 10 years of America’s Next Top Model, creative director Jay Manuel, photographer Nigel Barker, and runway coach J. Alexander have been fired, and will not be returning for Cycle 18.
Tyra Banks confirmed their dismissal on Thursday, via Twitter:
“Fierce & love 2 my @NigelBarker, @MrJayManuel & Miss J. #ANTM turned us in2 a family. Excited for what the future holds for us.”
Barker replied:
@tyrabanks best of luck with Cycle 19, It has been a pleasure working with you the past 8 years. Much love Nigel.”
In a statement, executive producers Bank and Ken Mok told Us Weekly: “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. 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.”
Hmm! Still no explanation yet as to why they all got the boot, but it certainly doesn’t look like it was they decision. All three of them deciding to leave at the same time, after all those years? Doubtful. The show has been declining in popularity, bringing in lower ratings every season; perhaps the network is looking to shake things up a bit!
Can’t wait to see who they bring to the table next!