By Nadria Tucker

Awards shows. Designer impostors. Drinking binges. This episode of “America’s Next Top Model” has it all!

Kendal Brown of Northport wants to move ahead at the turning point in this competition. But does she really want to “be here”? And do the girls really know their fashion history?

What goes best with white wine? Drama! See more, after the jump …

The models head to the Grammy Museum where they ogle clothes worn by Jennifer Lopez and Michael Jackson. They learn that one of them will appear at the Grammys! As the girl who carries the statue to the presenter. I didn’t even realize the Grammys had those …

The women style each other as part of the competition. Rather than sabotage their partners, they actually help one another? What reality show am I watching here? Hey, ladies: You did not come here to make friends!

The challenge goes well for most of the models, but only one can win, of course. It’s Kayla Ferell (left) and her amazing zebra dress. Her partner, Liz Williams doesn’t impress.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

Liz drowns her sorrows at losing the challenge with a bottle of white wine, then crawls on the floor. (Look at her freaky foot in the background, there. I swear this isn’t a still from “Paranormal Activity 2.”)

For the photo shoot challenge, the girls impersonate fashion designers while posing next to models wearing fashions by the same designer. Why? Because it’s important to know fashion history and be able to impersonate designers.

Liz channels John Galliano, breaking Ann Ward’s five-time winning streak with these impressive photos.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

Kendal fails to capture Vera Wang’s signature humility, and creative director Jay Manuel questions her desire to “be here.” Finally, a reality show cliché!

Kendal admits her nerves got the better of her, and she’s eliminated. Host Tyra Banks says Kendal has the talent, but not the skill … not yet.

Kendal’s journey on “America’s Next Top Model” has come to an end. It’s been a weird, not-very-dramatic-but-occasionally-awkwardly-amusing ride.

Birmingham writer Nadria Tucker (@NadriaTucker) dabbles in magical realism and the Southern gothic tradition, but always keeps an eye toward the future of Southern fiction. Her award-winning fiction is character driven and sometimes dark, but usually plays fair. Her work has been featured in publications such as The2ndHand, Lipstick and Birmingham Magazine.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

Did Kendal deserve the boot? Or should she have gone further in the competition? Tell us in the comments.

Previous: Episode 6 – The Ann supremacy
Next: A “Top Model” world without Kendal. (sniff!)

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Kendal Brown, the 24-year-old contestant from Northport, was eliminated in tonight’s episode of “America’s Next Top Model.” She was in the Bottom Two with Esther Petrack of Boston.

In the previous week, the judges had praised Brown in her photos, but the seventh week of competition proved disastrous for her.

We’ll have more soon in Nadria Tucker’s full recap.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Video: Preview of tonight’s episode. You know
what reality TV needs? More drinking.

We’re just about at the halfway point, with six models sent home and eight remaining on “America’s Next Top Model.” Tonight, the girls party like rock stars and dress each other up.

Northport’s Kendal Brown can be hit or miss. Last week, her photos were a hit with the judges, but can she keep up the momentum as weird Ann Ward continues her dominance in the competition?

See the show tonight, and come back for Nadria Tucker’s weekly recap after the show.

Also:

• Episode 6 recap

Video: And what else does it need more of? Shopping!

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

By Nadria Tucker

My boyfriend thinks “America’s Next Top Model” is “setting Ann [Ward] up for a fall.” I certainly hope so.

After all, she’s won best photo for 4 weeks in a row, and this cycle badly needs a jumpstart. Sure, there’s the usual “Bish stole my hair extensions” drama, but where are the slap fights? The obligatory trip to the hospital? Host Tyra Banks’ signature meltdown? Nowhere to be found.

Maybe Northport’s Kendal Brown can inject some flair into the proceedings and break Ann’s winning streak. Find out, after the jump …

Will the do-your-own-makeup-and-write-your-own-script Cover Girl/Walmart/Duff Beer challenge stir up some trouble? Not likely.

Kendal leads the first and worst group in a makeup demo for a group of comprised mostly of children and grown men. Weird, but not dramatic.

Poor, weird Ann gets the lowest score in the ColonBlow challenge, further supporting the boyfriend’s theory that Ann is ’bout to go down.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

“I was in heaven. Oh my gosh. You know, I watch TV about Rodeo Drive,” Kendal says. Ah yes, RO-deo Drive, home to cowboys, steers and tragedy.

For the photo challenge, the models walk along Rodeo Drive in pairs, joined by a male model. Kendal loves the attention, and creative director Jay Manuel says she “looks like Sarah Jessica Parker in ‘Sex and the City,’ just feeling it.”

Several models struggled with this Beverly Hills shoot, as you can see from the jank above, featuring Kacey Leggett. And this jank gets her sent home.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

The judges love Kendal in both of her photos …

… but Ann wins again, of course, for the 5th week in a row, breaking her own record from last week. “Beyond,” says Vogue editor-at-large André Leon Talley. Beyond, indeed.

So much for the boyfriend’s conspiracy theory. My conspiracy theory — the one that poor, weird Ann is an alien sent from the planet Amazonia to take over Earth, starting with an invasion of Tyraland — still stands. Yawn.

Birmingham writer Nadria Tucker (@NadriaTucker) dabbles in magical realism and the Southern gothic tradition, but always keeps an eye toward the future of Southern fiction. Her award-winning fiction is character driven and sometimes dark, but usually plays fair. Her work has been featured in publications such as The2ndHand, Lipstick and Birmingham Magazine.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

Is Ann the one to beat this season? Tell us in the comments.

Previous: Episode 5 – Get me off this crazy thing
Next: A Grammy challenge, in which the girls dress each other, and maybe Ann doesn’t win? [Episode 7 – Being Vera Wang]

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”


Video: Rodeo Drive puts the models
head to head and strut to strut.

Nine contestants remain on “America’s Next Top Model,” heading to Beverly Hills for a street-side shoot. Who will be left standing on Rodeo Drive?

Kendal Brown of Northport landed in the Bottom 3 last week, so she must step up ship out. Be sure to tune in tonight for all the fun and drama.

Then read Nadria Tucker’s take in her weekly recap, after the show.

Also:

• Episode 5 recap

Video: A look at last week’s moving walkway
challenge, and Kendal’s near disaster.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

By Nadria Tucker

Fierce, but in a different way.

We’ve followed Kendal Brown of Northport on her journey toward becoming “America’s Next Top Model” for the last 4 weeks. With each new episode, we’ve watched her progress from a girl with “potential” to a model who seems to know how to pose (and not act the fool) in front of the camera.

Can she keep up the momentum? And can she hold her own with … a masked wrestler? And just who did leave the bobby pins in the dishwasher?

Find out, after the jump …

The runway challenge? Walking on a moving conveyor belt, which should make for great physical comedy.

Kendal readies herself for the task …

… but loses a shoe on the conveyor belt.

(I love how the audience member sitting behind runway coach J. Alexander gazes at the shoe so lovingly.)

Despite the mishap, Kendal makes sure to remind us that she’s “still fierce” and possibly studied at the Jack Nicholson School for the Advancement of Eyebrows.

• • •

Read our special interview with Kendal Brown.

• • •

Kacey Leggett wins the conveyor belt challenge! (She doesn’t seem too happy about it, does she?)

Kacey, left, and Lexie Tomchek fight about who left whose bobby pins in the dishwasher or something. Note the photo of host Tyra Banks in the background. What a perfect reaction: Gasp! Zut alors!

For the photo shoot challenge, the models pose with wrestlers like Shamu Jr., whose catchphrase is “Welcome to my office.” His business is whooping butt, and business is goo-o-o-o-od.

Kendal screams and squeals, trying to channel some aggression, but creative director Jay Manuel isn’t buying it.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

The judges say Kendal’s photo lacks emotion and question her talent. This photo lands her in the Bottom 3.

Poor, weird Ann Ward takes another amazing photo and comes away with best one for the fourth week in a row, a “Top Model” record.

Lexie is sent home for this piece of dreckitude.

Birmingham writer Nadria Tucker (@NadriaTucker) dabbles in magical realism and the Southern gothic tradition, but always keeps an eye toward the future of Southern fiction. Her award-winning fiction is character driven and sometimes dark, but usually plays fair. Her work has been featured in publications such as The2ndHand, Lipstick and Birmingham Magazine.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

Is Ann the one to beat this season? Tell us in the comments.

Video: Beverly Hills, that’s where I want to be.

Previous: Episode 4 – Jewels of the sea
Next: The girls head to the rodeo. No, wait, the girls head to Rodeo Drive. [Episode 6 – The Ann supremacy]

Also:

• Kendal: “Every time I went up to the panel, my whole body would shake, but you get the hang of being around (the judges).”

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Video: Before you pose, you see the ring.

One runway was four stories up. This week’s runway is a conveyor belt. What’s the next runway? Hot coals? Broken glass? Venomous snakes?!

Anything goes on “America’s Next Top Model,” including a photo shoot with masked wrestlers.

Let’s watch to see if Kendal Brown of Northport tames the moving walkway and the covert crusher. Then come back here to check out Nadria Tucker’s recap.

Also:

• Episode 4 recap
• Our interview with Kendal Brown

Video: In Soviet Russia (and L.A. undergound),
runway walks you!

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Before “America’s Next Top Model,”
Kendal Brown was on track to work in health care.

By Nadria Tucker

Kendal Brown’s first plane ride didn’t just take her to Los Angeles, but into living rooms across the country.

The then-23-year-old Northport native left her small, close-knit community to join the ranks of contestants hoping to be crowned “America’s Next Top Model”

Her risk has paid off. For the last 4 weeks, Brown has earned praise from judges such as designer Diane von Fürstenberg and Vogue editor-at-large André Leon Talley. Her performance on the show has steadily improved, and she seems poised to go far in the competition.

Brown answered questions via e-mail on host Tyra Banks, her competitors and her teeny tiny problem with becoming a nurse.

• Why did you try out for “Top Model” on Tyra.com? Had you auditioned before?

I was a member of Tyra.com, and I always follow her to see what she is doing. She always gave you tips on makeup, clothes, food, hair, everything a girl loves, and you also get to be picked by Tyra herself. Who doesn’t want that?

The supermodel herself wants me to try our for “America’s Next Top Model” — that’s awesome.

People think I didn’t have to audition and wait for hours, but I did. I had to experience everything everyone else had to do.

I went to an audition in Birmingham for Cycle 14 and didn’t get to go in because I didn’t have a passport. I was devastated. That’s OK: God wanted me to be in [Cycle 15], the high fashion cycle. That’s the way I see it.

• • •

Buy the entire Season Pass from iTunes. [aff. link]

• • •

• Do you think the show portrays you accurately?

I think they did, because I am funny, kind of shy at times and say whatever is on my mind. I will tell you the truth.

You can tell everything I’m thinking from my facial expressions. I show everything on my face. My facial expressions are priceless, ha ha. I don’t try to hide anything.

• Who did you get along with? Who did you dislike?

I pretty much got along with everyone. I’m not a person who likes to get into arguments and fights. I was away from my family. I was already missing them, so fighting and arguments would have made me stressed out. I was more focused on the prize and winning.

The two I was really close with were Terra and Chris (White). Terra and I, we are similar in ways. We are about the same age. She is a very sweet, down-to-earth person. Her sister Chris is hilarious. She knows how to have a good time. They are honest and loyal, and they are from the South, so you can’t go wrong with that.

An upcoming challenge puts Brown in the wrestling ring.

• What was working with Tyra really like?

Working with Tyra is awesome. It’s a little intimidating at first, because she is so beautiful, and we’re talking about the Tyra Banks, the supermodel who graced the covers of thousands of magazines.

Once you get comfortable and get to know her and talk with her, all your nerves go away, because she is just that down to earth. She is an all-around beautiful person inside and out.

There are many working models who probably didn’t get the opportunity to work with her, and I did.

• Why did Tyra ask you about your virginity in the first episode?

On the application, it asks you to name three interesting things about yourself, and I stated I was a virgin. I haven’t dated in high school at all. I started my real, first relationship when I was 20.

I’d rather experience love and get to know that person, rather than just have sex with them. You can have sex with anybody, but if you don’t have love, true feelings, commitment, honesty, trust, it’s nothing. I like to have those before I make a big decision like that.

• Are you still enrolled at Virginia College in Birmingham?

No.

• What were you studying?

I was studying to be a health care reimbursement specialist, because I wanted to work in the nursing field, but I didn’t want to be hands-on with the patients. I am a germaphobe. That wouldn’t be a good job for me, so I figured I can be behind the desk, working with computers, typing and putting health information in the computer system. As I get older, I can see myself behind a desk.

I was on the president’s list two semesters in a row, 4.0 (GPA), so I am pretty smart.

• What was the most important thing you learned on the show?

(Modeling) is not as easy as people might think it is. It is hard work.

I remember watching the shows and always saying, “Why is she crying?” I can honestly understand now, since I have experienced it. You will never know how much it takes, until you experience it.

• How does the reality of modeling compare to what you imagined it to be?

It’s harder than what I expected. Waking up early in the mornings, staying on set for hours and hours …

You have to know your angles and your best side, take direction well and model from head to toe. It’s not just standing there like people think. You may think you’re doing well, but the picture is saying otherwise.

• What advice would you give aspiring models?

Do your homework. Study your favorite model: the way she poses, everything.

Know the fashion designers, the latest trends and photographers. Know what type of modeling you want to do.

Send your pictures to modeling agencies. It doesn’t have to be professional, but make sure you have a swimsuit on, so the agency can see your body. They should tell you what kind of pictures to send them on their website.

Stay away from scams. You shouldn’t have to pay up front or at all.

Stay focused, passionate, dedicated, driven and just believe in yourself. You can do anything you put your mind to.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

• • •

Birmingham writer Nadria Tucker (@NadriaTucker) dabbles in magical realism and the Southern gothic tradition, but always keeps an eye toward the future of Southern fiction. Her award-winning fiction is character driven and sometimes dark, but usually plays fair. Her work has been featured in publications such as The2ndHand, Lipstick and Birmingham Magazine.

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

By Nadria Tucker

So far, “America’s Next Top Model” has been a slow burner, with few meltdowns, fights or catastrophes. Week 4, though, looks to be action packed, as we find the ladies, including Kendal Brown of Northport, posing while riding a roller coaster

It sounds simple, but in Tyraland — presided over by host/producer/supermodel/dictator Tyra Banks — nothing is ever simple.

See them go head over heels, after the jump …

The episode starts off with a plot, orchestrated by Kacey Leggett, to invite over some male models.  The girls cook, the male models arrive, and the party promptly fizzles. Do I dare say that this year’s crop of models is … boring?

The models are surprised to learn where their next shoot will take place and …

… Chris White, left, has a minor breakdown after the ride …

… but overall the models perform well, and it’s on to the real challenge …

… tea with Tyra!

Technically, this is a prize for the roller coaster challenge winner, Liz Williams, but taking tea with the Mad Hatter must be, well, tea-dious. (Blame the champagne I had before writing this recap, OK?)

• • •

Look for our special interview with Kendal Brown
next week on Wade on Birmingham!

• • •

Finally, more drama!  I’m not even sure what exactly this is about, but it boils down to Kacey essentially saying, “I’m not here to make friends.” Cliché much?

Why can’t the girls fight like they used to? Remember that cycle where one girl rubbed her dirty underwear on another girl’s bed? Now that was quality television.

The real photo shoot involves jewelry. In addition, the girls must pose with friendly creatures of the sea, like this charmer, no doubt a distant cousin to the octopus who predicted World Cup results.

Photographer Matthew Rolston styles the models as sea goddesses. Jay Manuel advises Kendal to channel an emotion during the shoot, and it pays off. The judges shower her with praise: “beautiful,” “stunning” and “fantastic.”

Ann Ward three-peats with a stunning photo.

But her direct competition, Rhianna Atwood of San Diego, pales in comparison and is sent packing.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

Birmingham writer Nadria Tucker (@NadriaTucker) dabbles in magical realism and the Southern gothic tradition, but always keeps an eye toward the future of Southern fiction. Her award-winning fiction is character driven and sometimes dark, but usually plays fair. Her work has been featured in publications such as The2ndHand, Lipstick and Birmingham Magazine.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

Are this cycle’s contestants … dull? Tell us in the comments.

Previous: Episode 3 – More than meets the eye
Next: The models walk on a moving runway for some reason, plus three-way catfight. [Episode 5 – Get me off this crazy thing]

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Video: Preview for tonight’s episode. You spin me right
round, baby, right round like a model, baby,
right round round round.

A trip to the amusement park can be fun, right? Unless it’s for work, say, like shooting a high fashion look on a high-looping roller coaster.

Get ready for the ups (sigh) and downs (groan) on tonight’s episode of “America’s Next Top Model.”

Kendal Brown of Northport goes on the ride of her life in her fight to win the challenge and the competition. But who will coast, and who will crash?

Watch the episode, and then look right here for Nadria Tucker’s recap.

Also:

• Episode 3 recap

Video: Show me screaming. Now scared. Now vomit-y.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

By Nadria Tucker

“America’s Next Top Model” has been calm … so far. The little bit of “she doesn’t want to be here” drama that erupted in Episode 1 fizzled quickly as the girl who “doesn’t want to be here” was eliminated.

Episode 2 found the models moving into mansions and walking sky-high runways with no time for any extracurricular shenanigans. If that was the calm before the storm, then tonight’s episode is gonna be a blizzard, y’all.

It’s makeover week.

See Kendal Brown of Northport and the other girls as they magically transform into butterflies, crazy crying butterflies, after the jump …

Makeovers! And that means surgery! I believe it’s a technique pioneered in the film “Face/Off.”

But seriously folks: hair extensions. Hometown girl Kendal is un-be-weave-able!

More hair extensions! Ann Ward goes from long brown hair to longer brown hair!

Kacey Leggett’s hair extensions look exactly like her real hair! Fab!

Curveball! Terra White is eliminated right after the makeovers. Not really a surprise though: She was the only girl to cry in the hair chair, and she had a major meltdown during last week’s photo shoot.

Those tears in the photo aren’t because she got eliminated, but because she was eliminated after they cut her hair.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. link]

• • •

The photo shoot involves men and emotions, so study the models as they try to look emotional while hovering over shirt-less, pants-less men …

Kendal’s photo lands her in the Bottom 4. The judges say she fails to show any expression on her face, but that she has potential.

Ann has the best photo for the second week in a row. This caterpillar is becoming a butterfly before host Tyra Banks’ very eyes!

Sara Blackwell is eliminated for her failed attempt to be seductive. If watching “America’s Next Top Model” has taught me anything over the last 75 years, it’s that models can’t act. Or dance. Or do anything except (sometimes) model.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. link]

• • •

Birmingham writer Nadria Tucker (@NadriaTucker) dabbles in magical realism and the Southern gothic tradition, but always keeps an eye toward the future of Southern fiction. Her award-winning fiction is character driven and sometimes dark, but usually plays fair. Her work has been featured in publications such as The2ndHand, Lipstick and Birmingham Magazine.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

Whose makeover was best? Or worst? Tell us in the comments.

Previous: Episode 2 — Bully for them
Next: Something involving lobsters. [Episode 4 — Jewels of the sea]

Also:

• Recap from Rickey.org
• Q&A with judge Nigel Barker

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Video: Preview for tonight’s episode. There may be
no crying in baseball, but this ain’t baseball.

It’s time for makeover madness on tonight’s episode of “America’s Next Top Model.”

Who will look better? And who will look bitter? Can Kendal Brown of Northport continue to perform well at the photo shoots?

Tune in for all the tears and tantrums, and then come on back for Nadria Tucker’s recap.

Also:

• Episode 2 recap

Video: Host Tyra Banks drops by the house.
Totally casual, ya know.

Video: A giant walks among them.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

By Nadria Tucker

Week 2, Cycle 15, “America’s Next Top Model.” Wait …

Has this show has been on for 15 years? Has host Tyra Banks finally decided to shrug the conventions of man, including calendars, to create her own society of Tyraland, where long-necked models run free and flocks of wild hair extensions fill the air?

Kendal Brown of Northport is among the denizens, but will she stay another week? Find out, after the jump …

Note: That’s not a graphic on the screen. Tyra actually has a person stand next to her at all times holding that sign below her chin.

After a sticky beginning in Week 1 …

… Kendal has made into the group of 14 finalists.

Now, the real challenges begin. First, the girls have to move into their giant new house on Venice Beach. The poor things.

Kendal admits that all of this is new to her — back home she lives in a trailer — but has no trouble settling in.

And then there’s Ann Ward. Poor, weird Egg—er, Ann. We’re supposed to track Kendal’s performance, but Ann is just so … compelling. Another contestant asks Ann her preference in men …

Yes, Ann (left) admits, “Hobos are kinda hot.”

Ann goes on to describe her ideal mate: “He has to be a warlock. And he has to spit fire. And he has to know how to make sushi.” Mmm-kay.

Then the contestants obsess about their weight and … Tyramail!

Tidings from Tyraland: The girls will walk in a Diane von Fürstenberg fashion show on a runway four stories in the air. On top of that, they’ll have to do their own hair and makeup. Gasp!

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

I gotta give it to these girls. They put on their harnesses and DVF dresses and went to work on this terrifying runway wa-a-a-a-ay up in the sky above a crowd of fashionistas and extras who you know were just willing them to fall.

Later, the competitors obsess about being teased as youngsters, then set off for the photo shoot. This week’s theme: teen bullying awareness.

Shooting with Deborah Anderson, the models end up painted with words they were bullied with and words to empower them. It’s one of the more effective cause awareness shoots “Top Model” has done over the years.

The girls cry. And then Disney’s Demi Lovato shows up. And the girls cheer! And then Demi Lovato talks some more about bullying. And the models frown.

Kendal’s photo isn’t so great. But Vogue editor-at-large André Leon Talley loves her in person, comparing her to a gazelle and shouting, “Zut alors!” or some such French nonsense.

Ann wins the challenge. Her? Yes, the girl who likes sandwiches and cats and hobos takes a mean photograph. Kendal finishes near the top of the pack.

The judges give New Yorker Anamaria Mirdita a lecture on being too skinny, and then send her tiny tail home.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

Birmingham writer Nadria Tucker (@NadriaTucker) dabbles in magical realism and the Southern gothic tradition, but always keeps an eye toward the future of Southern fiction. Her award-winning fiction is character driven and sometimes dark, but usually plays fair. Her work has been featured in publications such as The2ndHand, Lipstick and Birmingham Magazine.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

Is Anamaria too skinny for professional modeling? Too skinny to be healthy? Tell us in the comments.

Previous: Episode 1 — Fine, fresh, fierce, we got it on lock
Next: Makeovers! More tears, more screaming and, of course, more hair extensions. [Episode 3 – More than meets the eye]

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Video: Preview for tonight’s episode.
This catwalk puts the high in high fashion.

The 14 contestants are set. The real battle begins tonight on “America’s Next Top Model.”

So far, Northport’s Kendal Brown has dodged the Drama with a capital D that her fellow competitors have stirred up. Tonight, the challenge will be to work the catwalk, one raised four stories into the air.

Who will fall? Who will soar? Check out the show tonight, and come back for Nadria Tucker’s recap without a net.

Also:

• Episode 1 recap

Video: More from tonight’s catwalk challenge.

Video: Tyra Banks asks Kendal Brown about her “purity.”

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

By Nadria Tucker

Welcome to Cycle 15 of “America’s Next Top Model.” Let the drama fly.

Dozens of contestants fly to Los Angeles to stand in judgment before host Tyra Banks, but only 14 will make the cut. Will Kendal Brown of Northport survive the first set of challenges?

See who can pass for a weeping willow, who needs development and who makes the Top 14, after the jump …

This season, the stakes are higher, and the models are skinnier, but one thing remains the same: Tyra. Tyra, Tyra, Tyra.

The season begins with the customary weird flashback: Tyra dressed as a schoolgirl re-enacting the surprise and wonder she feels every morning waking up and knowing that she has a room full of fake hair and corsets to call her own.

Another change this year: The winning model will receive two spreads, one in Vogue Italia and one in Beauty in Vogue. Ciao, bella! Quite a step up from shilling zit cream in Seventeen.

Once again, the pack of semi-finalists contains a hometown girl. Kendal, 23, is excited to travel to Palm Springs!

But she’s also confused about what Palm Springs is …?

This is Ann Ward. She’s weird. You can tell by the sandwich and the cat.

The drama begins. Meet Lexie Tomchek, left, and Jordan. Lexie listens, while Jordan poo-poos consumerism and fakeness and kind of everything “Top Model” represents. (The editors’ use of sepia tone denotes foreshadowing.)

Mr. and Miss Jay — Jay Manuel, right, and J. Alexander — give the girls their first assignment: Walk a runway wearing a Cynthia Rowley gown.

The girls walk in groups organized by genre. First the quirky ones; note that this group includes both Weird Ann and Crazy Jordan.

The sexy girls and the brunettes. Kendal didn’t appear to be in any of the groups, but I’m fairly sure they just stuck her in an ethnic group with the Asian girls that didn’t get any face time.

Lexie rats out Crazy Jordan’s lack of enthusiasm to the rest of the girls.

“I will cut you.”

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

During the interviews, the judges ask Rhianna Atwood to pose as a cactus.

And a weeping willow.

And a tumbleweed.

Meet Emily from West Virginia. She’s the racist of this season’s bunch. And that makes her sad.

The elusive Kendal makes an appearance. She is shy but curious.

Tyra sizes up her prey: “I understand that you’re pure.”

Kendal: “Yes.”

Now, I know what you’re thinking. On a show full of stereotypes about weird girls with cats and racists from the South, Kendal must surely be a Bible-thumping celibacy nut, right? Right?

Tyra: “Tell me why being intimate with a guy grosses you out.”

Kendal: “I don’t like semen.”

Kendal: “I don’t like it on my hand.”

Kendal: “It grosses me out.”

Congratulations, Kendal. You’ve certainly made yourself memorable.

Mr. Jay manages to look past Kendal’s “confession” and declares her “stunning.” Tyra concludes that Kendal is “one of the most beautiful ‘Top Model’ girls I’ve seen in a while.”

After the interviews, the girls are invited to a party with Cynthia Rowley. Well, just 20 girls are invited. The rest are deported to … their crummy non-televised lives.

Ann is in.

Poor, weird Ann.

Kendal is in.

For the photo shoot, the girls are placed in pairs, based on similarities. In other words, their direct competitors.

Mr. Jay is impressed, but doesn’t say by whom.

The judges retire to the set of “Austin Powers” to confer before making final cuts. They decide that Kendal needs development …

But, she’s in!!

After the dust settles, 14 finalists remain. The racist and the crazy girl are out. The weird girl, the snitch and tree girl are in. The rest shall earn their nicknames in time. But for now …

The Tyra abides.

• • •

Buy this episode or the entire Season Pass
from iTunes. [aff. links]

• • •

Birmingham writer Nadria Tucker (@NadriaTucker) dabbles in magical realism and the Southern gothic tradition, but always keeps an eye toward the future of Southern fiction. Her award-winning fiction is character driven and sometimes dark, but usually plays fair. Her work has been featured in publications such as The2ndHand, Lipstick and Birmingham Magazine.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21.

How did Kendal do? Who are you pulling for to win “Top Model”? Leave a comment below.

Previous: Meet Kendal Brown.
Next: Walking the runway? Tough. Walking the runway a hundred feet in the air? Dizzying. [Episode 2 — Bully for them]

Also:

• Crimson White: “Local woman to compete on ‘Top Model'”

• • •

Subscribe to the RSS feed or e-mail for the latest “America’s Next Top Model” news and updates.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Kendal Brown of Northport is one of 14 contestants
competing this fall for the title of “America’s Next Top Model.”

Does Alabama have the look? We’ll see on Wednesday, as the 15th season of “America’s Next Top Model” begins.

Fourteen women will compete in the CW reality TV show, including Kendal Brown, 24, of Northport. A student at Virginia College in Birmingham, Brown graduated from Tuscaloosa County High School in 2004. (During taping, Brown was still 23.)

The winner, who will be crowned in late November, will receive a contract with IMG Models, a $100,000 contract with CoverGirl Cosmetics and appearances in Vogue Italia and Beauty in Vogue.

Brown and fellow contestant Jane Randall landed their spots in the competition thanks to a photo contest on Tyra.com, official website of “Top Model” host Tyra Banks. Brown’s winning photo is shown at right.

Brown’s contestant bio lists a few of her favorites:

• Height: 5-foot-11
• Occupation: unemployed
• Favorite designer: Versace
• Favorite shoe: a comfortable one
• Must-have photo shoot accessory: my man
• Would never wear: animal print
• If trapped on an island, would bring: cell phone

Brown isn’t the first Alabamian to compete on “America’s Next Top Model.” In 2007, Samantha Francis of Pinson and Dionne Walters of Montgomery fought it out in season 8.

Video: “People think that no models are from Alabama,
and I’m here to prove that there are a a lot of them.”

Also:

• Kendal Brown’s Facebook profile.
• Meet the 14 contestants.
• Need more “America’s Next Top Model”?
  • The official DVDs, book and video game. [aff. link]
  • Purchase episodes from all seasons on iTunes. [aff. link]

Brown visits the CW21 station in Birmingham.

• • •

Do you have what it takes … to recap the show for us?
Contact us to apply to be our official recapper.

• • •

“America’s Next Top Model” will air at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW21.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Shoe seller. Dental student. Mom. And now, TV model.

For two months, Dionne Walters of Montgomery lived the fantasy of flashy clothes, international travel and celebrity encounters. But on last week’s episode of “America’s Next Top Model,” the 21-year-old hopeful went home in fourth place.

The CW reality show ends its eighth season Wednesday with one of three contestants winning a $100,000 contract with CoverGirl.

Walters spoke by phone today to talk about facing the panel, being away from family and keeping it real.

Her competitors may have burst into tears or fallen into pools, but Walters seemed to avoid the drama in Los Angeles and Sydney.

Still, her stint wasn’t completely drama free.

Perhaps the biggest verbal scuffle of the season was her showdown with fellow mother Renee DeWitt. The two had to be separated after Walters called out her competitor for being fake.

“We were all stressed out,” Walters says. “I was tired of talking about hearing this person talking about that person, so I got fed up and gave her a piece of my mind.”

Quality time

Her softer side emerged when the two ended up sharing a special prize, visits from family members, allowing viewers to meet Ta’kya, her two-year-old daughter.

“It was real tough being away, not being able to see her, bathe her. But I had to tune her out and know that she’s OK with her father.” That would be Lorenzo, who serves in the Air Force.

Modeling was an interest early on, but Walters didn’t know how to get started. Auditioning for the show in Montgomery paid off, leading to a callback in Atlanta and then to Los Angeles, where she and 12 others made the final cut.

Her track record during the competition was a mixed bag. She was called first once for having the best photo of the week and won a challenge — but was also nearly eliminated twice while in the bottom two.

The judging panel seemed especially critical of Walters’ appearance in person, noting her choices for clothes and hair.

“They were a little hard on me. They always had something to say about me — maybe it was because I was their favorite?

“We couldn’t wear certain patterns, stripes and polka dots, which made it hard to mix and match.”

Conspiracy theory

One of the final four is finished …
[buy this episode]

Her third trip to the bottom two did her in [show recap], losing to to Natasha Galkina, who also survived against another Alabama contestant, Samantha Francis, in the second episode.

“We never ganged up on Natasha,” Walters says. “Renee didn’t scheme or have a master plan to get rid of Natasha.”

In the episode, Walters, DeWitt and Jaslene Gonzalez distanced themselves from Galkina, even telling the judges that Galkina should be eliminated.

“I love Natasha! She’s a great girl,” says Walters, insisting no animosity existed.

“I have my hopes up for all three girls, and may the best model win.”

That congeniality may have cost her dearly with the panel. When asked who should be the next top model, first-up Walters said “Jaslene,” while the other three cited themselves.

She says it was a mistake.

The work ahead

Walters’ life has resumed as before, working in the shoe department at JCPenney and finishing her sophomore year at Alabama State University working toward becoming a dentist.

She keeps in touch with Felicia Provost, another early evictee, known as “Baby Tyra” for her resemblance to show host and executive producer Tyra Banks.

And she still keeps modeling as an option, even considering a move to New York to further her career.

The agencies shouldn’t be too surprised with Walters off camera: “They (the producers) got everything right about me — except when they showed me talking a lot when meeting the (judging) panel.”

That memorable first impression from the season premiere featured a montage of Walters appearing to ramble about herself. While that scene may have been heavily edited, the show left a strong impression of the real deal: no nonsense, direct and down to earth.

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21, repeating at 8 p.m. Sundays and available for free online.

Also:

• Dionne answers viewer questions

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

The contestants learn the art of aboriginal storytelling, but the real story ends up being poor, sick Natasha vs. Renee, Jaslene and Montgomery’s Dionne Walters. Go native, go overboard or go home.

All the photos, after the jump …

Highlights from episode 11 of the CW reality series …

The drab four, or the silent looks of panel death,
like the ones before Brittany’s exit last week.

Natasha’s so phone-y. Ha!

Jerry Garcia’s hiding out in the Outback.

Niece work if you can get it.

All hands.

Thong!

The challenge: Use body art, storytelling and movement to
tell a ridiculously dull story about yourself.

Chicka, chicka, chickabee.

The I Hate Natasha Fan Club.

Your challenge winner? Renee
(who picks Jaslene as prize companion).

The prize? Pearls before whine.

Natasha goes to bed, sicker by the minute.

The mean girls go clubbing,
conspiring to oust Natasha.

Par-tay, Wholahay.

Too preppy. Could we try more wild child?

Nailed it.

Dionne needs lots of coaching,
wearing out Jay’s patience.

Natasha can’t pull it together;
Jay falls apart.

Renee floats like a butterfly, stings like a bitch.

The panel

I’m not like a regular mom — I’m a cool mom.

Natasha, stop trying to make ‘fetch’ happen!
It’s not going to happen!

Natasha and Dionne in the bottom two.

Natasha makes the Top 3.

One-look Jaslene and too-old Renee are stunned.
And neither has been in bottom two all season.

Tyra gives Dionne the Hug of Death.

‘I’m very disappointed, because
I know I could’ve did a better job.’

Next week: Renee, Jaslene or Natasha
becomes America’s Next Top Model.

What would you like to ask Dionne? Who will win in the season finale?

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21, repeating at 8 p.m. Sundays and available for free online.

Previously: Once more, unto the beach; Brittany bursts.
And next: Someone wins, someone loses, and someone else loses.

Also:

• Our interview with Dionne Walters
• Jay Manuel takes over as host of “Canada’s Next Top Model,” eh?
• Buy this episode or the entire season.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

The final five, including Montgomery’s Dionne Walters, take in Sydney’s sands while working with boy toys and Tyra, who’s not only judging the pics but snapping them, too. But before that, the contestants race to see who can book the most gigs.

Plus, Brittany cries. A lot.

All the photos, after the jump …

Highlights from episode 10 of the CW reality series …

Australia: It’s not just for convicts anymore.

The host of ‘Australia’s Next Top Model’ shows her personality
by never uttering a word. She must have some runway walk.

Like ’24,’ but with models.

Jaslene: hot.
Dionne: smokin’.
Natasha: dowdy.

Yes, Dionne, you can have the bikini you just wore.
Ew.

Dionne also wants shoes to match.
And the designers are caught (cough) flat-footed.

Where’s Jack Bauer when you need him?

Renee wants a high-five because Brittany and Natasha’s
tardiness means challenge disqualification.
Or, Renee’s just a bitch.

Personality!
Maybe this show should just be about how many
times Brittany can cry, because that would be awesome.

As the challenge judges listen to Brittany’s tantrum,
assuming a dingo ate her baby.
(Had to use it at least once.)

Your challenge winner? Jaslene,
who picks Dionne to accompany her to the bonus shoot.

We need you to look shocked.
No, really shocked.

Perfect.

Nigel shoots Jaslene and Dionne
atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Cagney.

And Lacey.

Dionne takes direction from Tyra the photographer.

It puts the ferocity in the basket.

Renee turns it on.

Dionne warms up.

The panel

For the women’s magazine. Read by women.

For the men’s magazine. Read by women.

The judges notice Dionne’s de-evolution:
1. Tryouts: fun and easy-going.
2. Makeover: model-licious.
3. This week: tired and sad.

The bottom two — the second time for each one.

No more tears: Brittany is bounced.

Next week: Renee gets tagged.

Can Dionne overcome her weak photos? Are Natasha and Jaslene headed for the Final Two?

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21, repeating at 8 p.m. Sundays and available for free online.

Previously: New footage and old clips. Bleah.
And next: Boring the aborigines; Renee wants Natasha exiled to Siberia.

Also:

• Tyra named one of People’s 100 Most Beautiful, fights back with “So What” campaign
• Buy this episode or the entire season.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Whee.

At least Tyra gave us some new clips of our current and departed contestants, including Top Five finalist Dionne Walters of Montgomery and long-long-lost Samantha Francis of Pinson.

All the photos, after the jump …

Highlights from the clip show of cycle 8 the CW reality series …

Baby Tyra and Samantha judge the in-house runway show.

I think I saw this on ‘Alias.’

Jael annoys Samantha.
Heck, Jael annoys everyone.

The ‘grr’ in swinger, baby.

Yeah, how could they have shown eight episodes
and left out this bitchin’ picnic?

Blurg.

Ooh, burn. No, really, burn, as in third degree
to Natasha’s head, thanks to a stylist’s curling iron mishap.

Jael …

digs …

hula-hoops …

and stupid outfits.

Lessons in pain: Jael’s eight-hour weave
ordeal is for naught. Heh.

Lessons in pain: Brittany’s weave
fights back.

Lessons in pain: I scream, you scream,
Cassandra screams from ice cream. And frostbite.

Lessons in pain: Natasha has a wisdom tooth
extracted. Without anesthetic. What’s Russian for ‘yow’?

‘And I say, that England’s greatest Prime Minister was
Lord Palmerston!’
‘Pitt the Elder!’
‘Lord Palmerston!‘

Booty!

To live like a top model means never having
to clean the nasty-ass bathroom.

Acting.

Acting!

Now is she Mary-Kate or Ashley? We forget.

Jael’s a big kid.
A big, spastic, horrifying kid.

Warning: Renee causes seizures.

Next week: bikini battle.

Which of the final five — Dionne, Natasha, Brittany, Renee or Jaslene — will win?

“America’s Next Top Model” airs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays on CW 21, repeating at 8 p.m. Sundays and available for free online.

Previously: They go to a land down under.
And next: Once more, unto the beach; Brittany bursts.

Also:

• The school of Tyra is now in session.
• And a few more lessons from the clip show.
• Buy this episode or the entire season.

• • •

On the runway: more on “America’s Next Top Model.”