"Okay, let me put it out there," said fashion guru Jay Manuel, the driving force behind Canada's Next Top Model.
"I'm very proud of being Canadian. But when people look at this production, I don't want them to say, 'Canada's Next Top Model is a nice Canadian show'.
"Canada in the fashion industry has produced huge talent in the international arena. So why is it that a lot of Canadian shows end up, well, very Canadiana?
"Why can't a show be produced in Canada, and be called Canada's Next Top Model, but it can compete on an international level? And I already can tell you, CBS Paramount, before we even have aired here, already has sold it internationally, officially."
The second season of Canada's Next Top Model debuts this Wednesday on City-TV. For this cycle, Manuel has taken on the role that Tyra Banks plays on America's Next Top Model — namely, the overall narrative voice but also the executioner.
"I was prepared for everything within the show, with the exception of when I'm standing in front of that desk and I have to hand out those photos," said Manuel, referring to the elimination process on Canada's Next Top Model.
"You're dashing a young girl's dream, but it was important for me to let that girl understand what she had learned and what she still needed to learn. It wasn't just a diss. And I really wanted people to see the nurturing side of me, because I really like to empower people, women especially. It's one of the reasons I got into this business."
Manuel, 34, was born in Springfield, Ill. — "it has been mis-reported many times that I was born in Toronto," he said — but moved with his family to Canada when he was two years old.
"So I am a Canadian citizen and I really do relate to the upbringing, because I lived here till I was 19," Manuel said.
"I don't get to come up here as often as I would like. My parents still live here, so they visit me more in the States, because I'm on planes all the time, flying all over the world. But it was really exciting to come back here and actually be able to work for a chunk of time.
"It's strange. I've worked in Canada for different projects, but it's different when you come and work in your hometown, like Toronto, and work in a building like Chum/City-TV. When I was growing up, Saturdays at 5 p.m., it was religion for me, Fashion Television. So it really feels like closure, full circle, because that show was such a huge inspiration for me as a young teenager."
Having now become the executive producer for Canada's Next Top Model, Manuel has overseen every detail. And that hopefully is a good thing, because the first season, quite frankly, was a little flat.
"They missed that important narrative in the first cycle, you know, the Jay Manuel role on the American show," Manuel said. "And it's such an important part of the show.
"But also, on the American show, the first five girls who go, you sort of can say, 'Oh yeah, I can see them going, they never were going to win.' I didn't want that. I didn't want the first five girls to be obvious. I wanted it to be a tighter competition, and I'm really proud of it."
In other words, Manuel has set up Canada's Next Top Model to appeal to Canadians ... but not only to Canadians.
"I think a lot of Canadians get insulted by that," Manuel said. "And as a Canadian, I do, too."
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Top model to host TV fashion show
Never mind the $100,000 prize.
Coming face to face with Iman will be thrill enough for some of the designers competing in Project Runway Canada.
The still-stunning-at-50-something supermodel and founder of Iman Cosmetics was in Toronto today to announce that she will host the show set to air on Slice in October.
Project Runway Canada is produced by Insight Production Co. Ltd. and modelled after the Emmy-nominated U.S. series, developed by Miramax and The Weinstein Company for Bravo.
Iman had the role sewn up after her stellar appearance as a judge on the American show.
"It was one of their highest-rated episodes," she beamed, after decending the staircase in her Le Germain Hotel suite. But she refused to sit down lest she wrinkle her electric blue trapeze dress by Toronto designer Jay Godfrey.
"I had no idea he was Canadian!" she exclaimed. "And I didn't get it free. I bought it at Intermix in New York. I love the colour. I'm a big, big supporter of Canadian design."
Earlier this month, she took to the red carpet in a gown by London, Ont. native Romona Keveza at a fundraising dinner in New York. "Both Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King commented on how beautiful the dress was. People always say `nice dress,' but the next day Gayle actually called me and said, `Where did you get that dress?' "
Show producers expect equally high standards from the 12 Canadians who will compete on the show. The last one standing receives $100,000 to launch a collection and a spread in a fashion magazine.
"We've had a range of people apply," remarked supervising producer Andrea Webb. Including some local names we already know. "Some live and work in small towns, others have been in the business for 10 or 15 years and just never made it to the big time."
Heidi Klum hosted the American Project Runway and Tim Gunn, formerly chair of fashion design at Parson's in New York, guided the designers through each of their challenges. Judges included designer Michael Kors and Elle magazine's Nina Garcia. There's no word yet on who might play the latter roles in Canada.
Iman was born in Somalia and studied political science at Nairobi University, where influential photographer Peter Beard first laid eyes on her in 1975. Beard brought her to New York and introduced her to the fashion community as a goatherder who couldn't speak English. In fact, Iman spoke five languages, and didn't need an exotic story to get attention. When she met Iman, legendary editor Diana Vreeland remarked, "What a neck!"
There were more legends to come along the way, including Yves Saint Laurent. "Mr. Saint Laurent created an entire couture collection from fabrics to accessories on me," she recalled. "I was the muse for that season and it was called the African Queen collection. That's where I really got to see the agony and the ecstacy of the process."
Shooting for Project Runway Canada will go from mid-June to mid-July, during which time Iman will settle into the plush Windsor Arms Hotel. Husband David Bowie will stay home in New York but her 6-year-old daughter and nanny will accompany her.
"I've already bought every book there is on Toronto," Iman says. "And I definitely want to go to Niagara Falls, which I've never seen."
And then there are all those shops near the hotel. "Yes, I'm a shopper," she smiles. "But I am not interested in the labels that I can find in New York. I want Canadian!"
Coming face to face with Iman will be thrill enough for some of the designers competing in Project Runway Canada.
The still-stunning-at-50-something supermodel and founder of Iman Cosmetics was in Toronto today to announce that she will host the show set to air on Slice in October.
Project Runway Canada is produced by Insight Production Co. Ltd. and modelled after the Emmy-nominated U.S. series, developed by Miramax and The Weinstein Company for Bravo.
Iman had the role sewn up after her stellar appearance as a judge on the American show.
"It was one of their highest-rated episodes," she beamed, after decending the staircase in her Le Germain Hotel suite. But she refused to sit down lest she wrinkle her electric blue trapeze dress by Toronto designer Jay Godfrey.
"I had no idea he was Canadian!" she exclaimed. "And I didn't get it free. I bought it at Intermix in New York. I love the colour. I'm a big, big supporter of Canadian design."
Earlier this month, she took to the red carpet in a gown by London, Ont. native Romona Keveza at a fundraising dinner in New York. "Both Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King commented on how beautiful the dress was. People always say `nice dress,' but the next day Gayle actually called me and said, `Where did you get that dress?' "
Show producers expect equally high standards from the 12 Canadians who will compete on the show. The last one standing receives $100,000 to launch a collection and a spread in a fashion magazine.
"We've had a range of people apply," remarked supervising producer Andrea Webb. Including some local names we already know. "Some live and work in small towns, others have been in the business for 10 or 15 years and just never made it to the big time."
Heidi Klum hosted the American Project Runway and Tim Gunn, formerly chair of fashion design at Parson's in New York, guided the designers through each of their challenges. Judges included designer Michael Kors and Elle magazine's Nina Garcia. There's no word yet on who might play the latter roles in Canada.
Iman was born in Somalia and studied political science at Nairobi University, where influential photographer Peter Beard first laid eyes on her in 1975. Beard brought her to New York and introduced her to the fashion community as a goatherder who couldn't speak English. In fact, Iman spoke five languages, and didn't need an exotic story to get attention. When she met Iman, legendary editor Diana Vreeland remarked, "What a neck!"
There were more legends to come along the way, including Yves Saint Laurent. "Mr. Saint Laurent created an entire couture collection from fabrics to accessories on me," she recalled. "I was the muse for that season and it was called the African Queen collection. That's where I really got to see the agony and the ecstacy of the process."
Shooting for Project Runway Canada will go from mid-June to mid-July, during which time Iman will settle into the plush Windsor Arms Hotel. Husband David Bowie will stay home in New York but her 6-year-old daughter and nanny will accompany her.
"I've already bought every book there is on Toronto," Iman says. "And I definitely want to go to Niagara Falls, which I've never seen."
And then there are all those shops near the hotel. "Yes, I'm a shopper," she smiles. "But I am not interested in the labels that I can find in New York. I want Canadian!"
Jaslene Gonzalez Opens Up About Her Past
In a recent interview given after she won America's Next Top Model, Jaslene Gonzalez alluded to a difficult personal situation in her past that contributed to her failed first attempt on the show.
Although it was not in the final audition episode aired in Cycle Seven, she mentioned that her elimination in that cycle was due to “something personal [she] spoke about to [the judges].” When she did make it past the auditions, in Cycle Eight, Jaslene made a passing reference to some troubles during the “story-telling” exercise with the Aboriginal tribe in one of the final episodes.
Until now, she has not revealed any specifics about what that situation might have been. This week, however, she has opened up about her past, and started to provide some additional insight into a very difficult time in her life.
One of Jaslene’s prizes for winning America’s Next Top Model was both a cover and six-page spread in Seventeen magazine. In the interview that accompanies the photos, she finally reveals that the difficult situation she has alluded to was an abusive relationship in her past.
Jaslene discusses the effect the relationship had on her. It chipped away at her self-esteem. She says she stopped taking good care of herself physically, and emotionally shut down, no longer “walk[ing] with [her] head high.”
It was after the rejection for Cycle Seven that she took the time to seek therapy to help her with these issues. It was this outside assistance and the progress she made in therapy that helped her feel on track enough to try for the top spot for America’s Next Top Model again – this time successfully.
Jaslene recommends that anyone going through a similar situation also seeks help, saying that for her, actually talking about it was key to her getting through it and moving on to succeed.
The interview and photos will be in the July issue of Seventeen magazine, and will include photos from the shoot featured during the season finale of America’s Next Top Model.
Although it was not in the final audition episode aired in Cycle Seven, she mentioned that her elimination in that cycle was due to “something personal [she] spoke about to [the judges].” When she did make it past the auditions, in Cycle Eight, Jaslene made a passing reference to some troubles during the “story-telling” exercise with the Aboriginal tribe in one of the final episodes.
Until now, she has not revealed any specifics about what that situation might have been. This week, however, she has opened up about her past, and started to provide some additional insight into a very difficult time in her life.
One of Jaslene’s prizes for winning America’s Next Top Model was both a cover and six-page spread in Seventeen magazine. In the interview that accompanies the photos, she finally reveals that the difficult situation she has alluded to was an abusive relationship in her past.
Jaslene discusses the effect the relationship had on her. It chipped away at her self-esteem. She says she stopped taking good care of herself physically, and emotionally shut down, no longer “walk[ing] with [her] head high.”
It was after the rejection for Cycle Seven that she took the time to seek therapy to help her with these issues. It was this outside assistance and the progress she made in therapy that helped her feel on track enough to try for the top spot for America’s Next Top Model again – this time successfully.
Jaslene recommends that anyone going through a similar situation also seeks help, saying that for her, actually talking about it was key to her getting through it and moving on to succeed.
The interview and photos will be in the July issue of Seventeen magazine, and will include photos from the shoot featured during the season finale of America’s Next Top Model.
BuddyTV Fan Popularity Rankings - May 14-20
he season is all over, everyone. Bask in the glory of summer or mourn the passing of Spring (and a plethora of TV options). You know, whichever floats your boat. Many of your favorite shows bid adieu for the summer months last week, which also happened to be the last week of May sweeps. As a result, ratings were high. This past week's BuddyTV Fan Popularity Rankings were, therefore, probably some of the most true rankings we've had all year. Almost all of the shows end at the same time, so fans are all out in full force. It's an equal playing field. Here is what the final verdict was, followed by some commentary.
Is there any doubt about Lost getting the top spot? The lead up to the finale was nail-biting in and of itself. When you add-in the utter glory that was Lost's two-hour finale, there is no reason to balk at its number one ranking. America's Next Top Model hangs onto to the two spot, despite finishing the week before. Perhaps our model interviews propelled the show this high.
American Idol, oh how you have fallen. Idol seemed to be a shoe-in for the top spot earlier this year. Well, I guess number three isn't all that bad. The Bachelor hits number four and there isn't much to say except that BuddyTV users loooooove their Bachelor content.
Dancing with the Stars, not surprisingly, rounds out the top 5. The show keeps trucking along, and it doesn't look like it will let up any time soon. Grey's Anatomy had a disappointing finale according to most fans. If the show can turn it around next year, look for it to jump up the list.
Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll continues to make our top ten, despite being off the air for a long time. We do have pictures of every contestant on our profile pages, which couldn't have hurt. UFC has received a lot of coverage over the past couple of wees and the lead-up to UFC 71 proved to be enough for the UFC to make its first entrance into our top ten.
Survivor, somewhat surprisingly, makes the top ten despite being off the air for a week. Again, it's probably a result of all our exclusive interviews. Smallville continues its online popularity and rounds out the top ten.
Is there any doubt about Lost getting the top spot? The lead up to the finale was nail-biting in and of itself. When you add-in the utter glory that was Lost's two-hour finale, there is no reason to balk at its number one ranking. America's Next Top Model hangs onto to the two spot, despite finishing the week before. Perhaps our model interviews propelled the show this high.
American Idol, oh how you have fallen. Idol seemed to be a shoe-in for the top spot earlier this year. Well, I guess number three isn't all that bad. The Bachelor hits number four and there isn't much to say except that BuddyTV users loooooove their Bachelor content.
Dancing with the Stars, not surprisingly, rounds out the top 5. The show keeps trucking along, and it doesn't look like it will let up any time soon. Grey's Anatomy had a disappointing finale according to most fans. If the show can turn it around next year, look for it to jump up the list.
Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll continues to make our top ten, despite being off the air for a long time. We do have pictures of every contestant on our profile pages, which couldn't have hurt. UFC has received a lot of coverage over the past couple of wees and the lead-up to UFC 71 proved to be enough for the UFC to make its first entrance into our top ten.
Survivor, somewhat surprisingly, makes the top ten despite being off the air for a week. Again, it's probably a result of all our exclusive interviews. Smallville continues its online popularity and rounds out the top ten.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
The Final Nielsen Ratings: A Litany of Horrors for the CW
The final 2006–2007 season television ratings were released last week, and they yield some interesting tidbits. Of course, American Idol has 50 percent more viewers than anything else, and the top 25 is full of shows like Criminal Minds and Shark, shows watched by no one East Coast jerks like us have ever met. But way down near the bottom of the list, tied for 112th place, we found three interesting series that each averaged a mediocre 5.4 million viewers an episode. What was the fate of these three TV underachievers?
Fox's Drive? Canceled after four episodes. NBC's Andy Barker, P.I.? A huge disappointment, moved to Saturdays at eight and then given the ax. And, of course, the CW's top-rated show, America's Next Top Model, the centerpiece of the network's press release heralding its upcoming 2007–2008 season.
In fact, of the bottom ten shows in the year-end Nielsens, guess how many aired on the CW? Five? Guess again. Eight? Nope. How about … all ten?
So that's the bad news. The good news is we can't imagine they'll be able to cancel Reaper, even if we're literally the only ones watching it.
Fox's Drive? Canceled after four episodes. NBC's Andy Barker, P.I.? A huge disappointment, moved to Saturdays at eight and then given the ax. And, of course, the CW's top-rated show, America's Next Top Model, the centerpiece of the network's press release heralding its upcoming 2007–2008 season.
In fact, of the bottom ten shows in the year-end Nielsens, guess how many aired on the CW? Five? Guess again. Eight? Nope. How about … all ten?
So that's the bad news. The good news is we can't imagine they'll be able to cancel Reaper, even if we're literally the only ones watching it.
Waif for it: Alice a big chance
SHE'S been the central figure in the ongoing skinny debate, but Australia's Next Top Model contender Alice Burdeu has been given the big fat thumbs up from judges and viewers of the series.
Producers of the Fox 8 reality show have been criticised for not enforcing stricter measures on Burdeu's slim situation, but the willowy redhead surged ahead in the contest last night when she was named as one of the two remaining finalists.
While Burdeu is the favourite to take out the catwalk crown over Stephanie Hart next Tuesday, the 19-year-old said she thought the backlash over her waif-like shape would work against her in the poll.
"Can you imagine reading that you look like you're from a concentration camp?" Burdeu said, referring to a concerned viewer's comment.
Hitting back at claims she suffered from an eating disorder, the 58kg, 185cm tall glamour girl said she had always been naturally thin.
"People can think what they want but I'm happy with the way I am," Burdeu said.
"My family and friends know that Idon't have a problem - if anything I eat too much chocolate."
While fashion experts say Burdeu's lean look would be a hot hit in the cut-throat fashion markets of Milan and Paris, the teen's gaunt appearance drew concern from series host Jodhi Meares and special guest star Ian Thorpe - both encouraging her to gain weight.
But when asked if she had gained any kilos, Burdeu said that she wasn't sure as she didn't own a set of scales.
Hart also weighed in on the debate yesterday, saying Burdeu "eats more than me, I can tell you".
Producers of the Fox 8 reality show have been criticised for not enforcing stricter measures on Burdeu's slim situation, but the willowy redhead surged ahead in the contest last night when she was named as one of the two remaining finalists.
While Burdeu is the favourite to take out the catwalk crown over Stephanie Hart next Tuesday, the 19-year-old said she thought the backlash over her waif-like shape would work against her in the poll.
"Can you imagine reading that you look like you're from a concentration camp?" Burdeu said, referring to a concerned viewer's comment.
Hitting back at claims she suffered from an eating disorder, the 58kg, 185cm tall glamour girl said she had always been naturally thin.
"People can think what they want but I'm happy with the way I am," Burdeu said.
"My family and friends know that Idon't have a problem - if anything I eat too much chocolate."
While fashion experts say Burdeu's lean look would be a hot hit in the cut-throat fashion markets of Milan and Paris, the teen's gaunt appearance drew concern from series host Jodhi Meares and special guest star Ian Thorpe - both encouraging her to gain weight.
But when asked if she had gained any kilos, Burdeu said that she wasn't sure as she didn't own a set of scales.
Hart also weighed in on the debate yesterday, saying Burdeu "eats more than me, I can tell you".
A would-be model answers the call
I want to be America's next top model.
I so wanted that chance that I hopped into my brother's black Honda at 4:30 in the morning and made a three-hour trip from Absecon to Harrisburg for an open casting call. Mind you, there is nothing modelesque about my body. I'm just your typical size 12 American woman, standing 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighing in at 175 pounds.
Every time I watched America's Next Top Model it reminded me of the times I spent with my best friend dressing up, coloring my 13-year-old face, and trying to look "fierce," as supermodel Tyra Banks says, in front of the camera. Being on the show was all I ever thought about.
I worked for the U.S. Postal Service and when I delivered mail, the sidewalks became my catwalk and the mailbag was my fashion accessory. In my mind, the judges critiqued my walk and suggested changes for improvement, and I obliged.
My 6-hour-long "runway" - from the first address to which I made a delivery to the last - served as motivation to finish my routes.
Despite losing 20 pounds and going from a size 16 to a size 12 from so much walking, I still felt very self-conscious and unsure about my body.
Finally, in March, when I started watching the show's eighth season, I promised myself that no matter how I felt about my body or what people would think of me, I was going to answer a casting call.
I got up at 3:30 a.m. on a Saturday, dressed in a form-fitting black kimono-style top, blue jeans, and black high-heel boots, and left for Harrisburg.
When I arrived at the Harrisburg Mall, I couldn't believe that I was actually going to brave the line of size 0s and 2s with my plus-size body. Clutching the manila envelope holding my pictures and application, I made my way with my boyfriend to the back of the 250-person line.
No sooner did I get there than a young woman who worked for the CW television network announced that applications would not be taken if you did not have two forms of identification: driver's license, passport, birth certificate or Social Security card.
All I had was my driver's license.
I had to think fast.
I went over to Outdoor World (the only store open at 8 in the morning), explained my problem to the managers and asked to use their fax machine. I had my birth certificate faxed to me, and an hour later, ran back to the end of the line.
A security guard then came up to me and a few other girls and told us that they were not taking any more applicants.
I felt sick.
The young lady who worked for the network approached us, and after a little arguing, she allowed us to stay.
Four hours later, I hit another obstacle - my height.
I'm 5 feet, 6¾ inches tall, maybe a bit taller. Girls were being pulled out of line if they were below 5 feet, 7 inches.
My heart began to pound.
I took off my boots and inched myself up against the wall.
Once again, I made it through.
Finally, it was my turn to audition.
"Hi, my name is Luz Martinez. I'm 23 years old, 5 feet, 7 inches tall, weigh 175 pounds, and I'm representing America's favorite playground, Atlantic City," I said in an enthused voice.
I gave them my best catwalk, minus the mailbag, then turned back to the camera to answer a few more questions.
"Thank you. Production will start sometime in August," the producer said to me.
I thanked him and left.
I had waited five painful, foot-burning hours to be seen for five minutes.
When I got into my car, I pulled off my boots and massaged my feet. I turned to my boyfriend and said, "You know what? I'm glad that I did this, but after all that mess that I went through, I'd at least better get a call back."
America's Next Top Model, I'm still waiting.
I so wanted that chance that I hopped into my brother's black Honda at 4:30 in the morning and made a three-hour trip from Absecon to Harrisburg for an open casting call. Mind you, there is nothing modelesque about my body. I'm just your typical size 12 American woman, standing 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighing in at 175 pounds.
Every time I watched America's Next Top Model it reminded me of the times I spent with my best friend dressing up, coloring my 13-year-old face, and trying to look "fierce," as supermodel Tyra Banks says, in front of the camera. Being on the show was all I ever thought about.
I worked for the U.S. Postal Service and when I delivered mail, the sidewalks became my catwalk and the mailbag was my fashion accessory. In my mind, the judges critiqued my walk and suggested changes for improvement, and I obliged.
My 6-hour-long "runway" - from the first address to which I made a delivery to the last - served as motivation to finish my routes.
Despite losing 20 pounds and going from a size 16 to a size 12 from so much walking, I still felt very self-conscious and unsure about my body.
Finally, in March, when I started watching the show's eighth season, I promised myself that no matter how I felt about my body or what people would think of me, I was going to answer a casting call.
I got up at 3:30 a.m. on a Saturday, dressed in a form-fitting black kimono-style top, blue jeans, and black high-heel boots, and left for Harrisburg.
When I arrived at the Harrisburg Mall, I couldn't believe that I was actually going to brave the line of size 0s and 2s with my plus-size body. Clutching the manila envelope holding my pictures and application, I made my way with my boyfriend to the back of the 250-person line.
No sooner did I get there than a young woman who worked for the CW television network announced that applications would not be taken if you did not have two forms of identification: driver's license, passport, birth certificate or Social Security card.
All I had was my driver's license.
I had to think fast.
I went over to Outdoor World (the only store open at 8 in the morning), explained my problem to the managers and asked to use their fax machine. I had my birth certificate faxed to me, and an hour later, ran back to the end of the line.
A security guard then came up to me and a few other girls and told us that they were not taking any more applicants.
I felt sick.
The young lady who worked for the network approached us, and after a little arguing, she allowed us to stay.
Four hours later, I hit another obstacle - my height.
I'm 5 feet, 6¾ inches tall, maybe a bit taller. Girls were being pulled out of line if they were below 5 feet, 7 inches.
My heart began to pound.
I took off my boots and inched myself up against the wall.
Once again, I made it through.
Finally, it was my turn to audition.
"Hi, my name is Luz Martinez. I'm 23 years old, 5 feet, 7 inches tall, weigh 175 pounds, and I'm representing America's favorite playground, Atlantic City," I said in an enthused voice.
I gave them my best catwalk, minus the mailbag, then turned back to the camera to answer a few more questions.
"Thank you. Production will start sometime in August," the producer said to me.
I thanked him and left.
I had waited five painful, foot-burning hours to be seen for five minutes.
When I got into my car, I pulled off my boots and massaged my feet. I turned to my boyfriend and said, "You know what? I'm glad that I did this, but after all that mess that I went through, I'd at least better get a call back."
America's Next Top Model, I'm still waiting.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Tech Tyra Banks show a new low on TV
Am I speaking about Don Imus? Well, as inappropriate and insulting as what he uttered was, there is a recent occurrence that some people may believe to be just as bad and perhaps even worse.
I'm talking about Tyra Banks and her reality TV show, "America's Next Top Model."
I have to confess to never having seen this show, but I work at a nonprofit organization, Spectrum Youth and Family Services, which has as one of its principal aims the prevention of domestic violence, and the men and women on our staff who are involved in this work are disgusted over a recent episode.
Through the wonder of zap2it.com, I was able to view still shots and the dialogue from the offending episode, entitled "Crime Scene Victims." Apparently "America's Next Top Model" consists of aspiring models competing each week against each other, and in this particular episode there were pictures of each model posed in a different death scene, each garbed in a gown or lingerie.
One model is slumped over a table, eyes open but posing as dead; according to the script she was poisoned. One of the judges, a J. Alexander, states, "What's great about this is that you can also look beautiful in death." Another shot is of a model slumped on the ground, having been pushed off a rooftop, with judge Nigel Barker proclaiming, "Death becomes you, young lady." Another model lies lifeless, draped off of an outside stairway, depicted as partially decapitated. A model named Whitney has been stabbed to death, a gaping wound in her neck; "I think you look absolutely wonderful," states J. Alexander. Finally, the model Dionne is propped up against a wall, in a gown, blood splattered behind her. She has been shot to death. Tyra Banks's reaction? "Absolutely beautiful."
In the mind of Tyra Banks and her producers, this passes for fashion and entertainment. In my mind and in the minds of our staff who work to prevent the battering and homicide of women every day, it trivializes what has become a national epidemic in America: violence against women.
I wonder if Banks knows that, on average, more than three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends in America every day. Or that pregnant women are more likely to be victims of homicide than to die of any other cause. That one third of American women report being physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives.
Apparently we at Spectrum are not the only ones offended by "America's Next Top Model." Sixteen representatives from the Vermont Legislature introduced a joint resolution during the waning days of the session which just ended, stating that, "The General Assembly deplores the grotesque and unseemly depiction of a crime scene on a recent episode of CW Television Network program "America's Next Top Model," and its airing in the early evening hours, and be it further resolved that the secretary of state be directed to send a copy of this resolution to the corporate offices of CBS and Time Warner in New York City."
I doubt that the higher-ups in those conglomerates will take notice, but I take solace in the fact elected representatives from our state declared, "This is wrong."
Mark Redmond of Essex is the executive director of Spectrum Youth and Family Services in Burlington.
I'm talking about Tyra Banks and her reality TV show, "America's Next Top Model."
I have to confess to never having seen this show, but I work at a nonprofit organization, Spectrum Youth and Family Services, which has as one of its principal aims the prevention of domestic violence, and the men and women on our staff who are involved in this work are disgusted over a recent episode.
Through the wonder of zap2it.com, I was able to view still shots and the dialogue from the offending episode, entitled "Crime Scene Victims." Apparently "America's Next Top Model" consists of aspiring models competing each week against each other, and in this particular episode there were pictures of each model posed in a different death scene, each garbed in a gown or lingerie.
One model is slumped over a table, eyes open but posing as dead; according to the script she was poisoned. One of the judges, a J. Alexander, states, "What's great about this is that you can also look beautiful in death." Another shot is of a model slumped on the ground, having been pushed off a rooftop, with judge Nigel Barker proclaiming, "Death becomes you, young lady." Another model lies lifeless, draped off of an outside stairway, depicted as partially decapitated. A model named Whitney has been stabbed to death, a gaping wound in her neck; "I think you look absolutely wonderful," states J. Alexander. Finally, the model Dionne is propped up against a wall, in a gown, blood splattered behind her. She has been shot to death. Tyra Banks's reaction? "Absolutely beautiful."
In the mind of Tyra Banks and her producers, this passes for fashion and entertainment. In my mind and in the minds of our staff who work to prevent the battering and homicide of women every day, it trivializes what has become a national epidemic in America: violence against women.
I wonder if Banks knows that, on average, more than three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends in America every day. Or that pregnant women are more likely to be victims of homicide than to die of any other cause. That one third of American women report being physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives.
Apparently we at Spectrum are not the only ones offended by "America's Next Top Model." Sixteen representatives from the Vermont Legislature introduced a joint resolution during the waning days of the session which just ended, stating that, "The General Assembly deplores the grotesque and unseemly depiction of a crime scene on a recent episode of CW Television Network program "America's Next Top Model," and its airing in the early evening hours, and be it further resolved that the secretary of state be directed to send a copy of this resolution to the corporate offices of CBS and Time Warner in New York City."
I doubt that the higher-ups in those conglomerates will take notice, but I take solace in the fact elected representatives from our state declared, "This is wrong."
Mark Redmond of Essex is the executive director of Spectrum Youth and Family Services in Burlington.
Only pretty girls need apply
Nekesa Mumbi Moody, The Associated Press
Published: Monday, May 28, 2007
NEW YORK - She was an "amazing talent," a young singer with a wonderful voice who wrote beautiful songs. But she was no beauty, and was flat-chested and overweight to boot.
Remembering the aspiring star, music executive Jody Gerson still feels terrible about thinking: "She's never going to get signed, even though she's fabulous."
Gerson might feel even worse after the early exit of the matronly Melinda Doolittle from American Idol. In today's music industry, Plain Janes need not apply. Sex appeal was once considered a bonus for a woman -- now it's practically a requirement.
Avril Lavigne recently boasted about being hot.View Larger Image View Larger Image
Avril Lavigne recently boasted about being hot.
Doolittle and the heavyset, gap-toothed LaKisha Jones were widely considered this season's most talented Idol contestants. Yet both were eliminated from the final four in favour of Blake Lewis, who makes the teen girls swoon, and the long-locked, 17-year-old looker Jordin Sparks, who eventually won the contest.
A quick check of the Billboard Top 40 turns up a list of candidates for America's Top Model (or Canada's) -- Avril Lavigne, blond stunner Carrie Underwood; tomboyish but sexy Ciara, hip-swivelling Shakira.
The only two in the Top 40 who might not be considered perfect 10s are Pink, who is still svelte and appealing; and multi-platinum Grammy-winner Kelly Clarkson, who got her break only through winning the democratically elected American Idol.
When asked whether a female with so-so looks and sex appeal could get a record deal, country singer Gretchen Wilson quickly replied: "They can't."
"I believe that very few will get through and they better be amazing," Wilson said in an interview. "The music is not about just music anymore, it's about the look, the 'it' factor if you will ... it's marketing."
True, looks have always been a part of the music business. Diana Ross played a model in the movie Mahogany, Marianne Faithfull was considered a beauty, Tina Turner's legs were part of her sex appeal, Olivia Newton-John was the lovely girl-next-door and Stevie Nicks rocked teenage boys with more than just her guitar.
But there also were stars like wild-haired, pudgy Janis Joplin and Barbra Streisand, who challenged beauty standards with her protruding nose. Even curvy Aretha Franklin was known mainly for her one-of-a-kind voice.
Today, it's hard to find a singer larger than a size six and without a sexy look -- all of which are played up with sensuous videos, modelling spreads and provocative magazine covers. Lavigne, who once scoffed at singers who stripped for the cameras, fronts the new issue of Blender topless, save for a strategically placed banner that reads "Hell Yeah, I'm Hot!"
The hit reality show Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll is a striking example. In finding a replacement for current lead doll, stunner Nicole Scherzinger, the judging panel -- which included the cosmetically enhanced rapper Lil' Kim -- did talk about vocal qualities. But while a few contestants had strong voices, all were taut, toned and sexy, and the focus was more on their dancing and overall desirability. Which is to be expected from the group responsible for the anthem Don't Cha (as in, "don't cha wish your girlfriend was hot like me?").
Published: Monday, May 28, 2007
NEW YORK - She was an "amazing talent," a young singer with a wonderful voice who wrote beautiful songs. But she was no beauty, and was flat-chested and overweight to boot.
Remembering the aspiring star, music executive Jody Gerson still feels terrible about thinking: "She's never going to get signed, even though she's fabulous."
Gerson might feel even worse after the early exit of the matronly Melinda Doolittle from American Idol. In today's music industry, Plain Janes need not apply. Sex appeal was once considered a bonus for a woman -- now it's practically a requirement.
Avril Lavigne recently boasted about being hot.View Larger Image View Larger Image
Avril Lavigne recently boasted about being hot.
Doolittle and the heavyset, gap-toothed LaKisha Jones were widely considered this season's most talented Idol contestants. Yet both were eliminated from the final four in favour of Blake Lewis, who makes the teen girls swoon, and the long-locked, 17-year-old looker Jordin Sparks, who eventually won the contest.
A quick check of the Billboard Top 40 turns up a list of candidates for America's Top Model (or Canada's) -- Avril Lavigne, blond stunner Carrie Underwood; tomboyish but sexy Ciara, hip-swivelling Shakira.
The only two in the Top 40 who might not be considered perfect 10s are Pink, who is still svelte and appealing; and multi-platinum Grammy-winner Kelly Clarkson, who got her break only through winning the democratically elected American Idol.
When asked whether a female with so-so looks and sex appeal could get a record deal, country singer Gretchen Wilson quickly replied: "They can't."
"I believe that very few will get through and they better be amazing," Wilson said in an interview. "The music is not about just music anymore, it's about the look, the 'it' factor if you will ... it's marketing."
True, looks have always been a part of the music business. Diana Ross played a model in the movie Mahogany, Marianne Faithfull was considered a beauty, Tina Turner's legs were part of her sex appeal, Olivia Newton-John was the lovely girl-next-door and Stevie Nicks rocked teenage boys with more than just her guitar.
But there also were stars like wild-haired, pudgy Janis Joplin and Barbra Streisand, who challenged beauty standards with her protruding nose. Even curvy Aretha Franklin was known mainly for her one-of-a-kind voice.
Today, it's hard to find a singer larger than a size six and without a sexy look -- all of which are played up with sensuous videos, modelling spreads and provocative magazine covers. Lavigne, who once scoffed at singers who stripped for the cameras, fronts the new issue of Blender topless, save for a strategically placed banner that reads "Hell Yeah, I'm Hot!"
The hit reality show Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll is a striking example. In finding a replacement for current lead doll, stunner Nicole Scherzinger, the judging panel -- which included the cosmetically enhanced rapper Lil' Kim -- did talk about vocal qualities. But while a few contestants had strong voices, all were taut, toned and sexy, and the focus was more on their dancing and overall desirability. Which is to be expected from the group responsible for the anthem Don't Cha (as in, "don't cha wish your girlfriend was hot like me?").
Sunday, May 27, 2007
America's Next Top Model Recap: Aboriginal Sin
First of all, how the hell do you think I can dance while telling a story. Tell what story? What story do you want to know? My boyfriend tries to get me to dance all the time and I just don’t want to do it. Period.
- Dionne, dissing Aborigine culture
It’s the latest ANTM and you know, I realize I haven’t really started out with any exciting tales from my life during the last couple of recaps, but seriously, nothing’s been going on. I mean there was that one thing that involved a reverse cowgirl position, and one of the lesser known Baldwin brothers. But it wasn’t anything spectacular. All I learned is 1) Cheese Whiz is really hard to get out of upholstery and 2) Next time I should aim higher on the family chain. Live and learn. Anyhoo, this week starts with Tyra Mail. Some of you believe that you were born to be a top model, but I sense that only one of you will have the heart. That could be me! I have a heart! But I keep mine in a jar on my desk. The girls to out to the Australian forest and meet with Aborigine tribe leader Uncle Max. And here's a recent photo:
Jerry Garcia Lives! I knew he’d come back. A million deadheads can't be wrong. Or course they also can't follow the rules of basic hygiene. Anyhoo, Jerry - er Max and his niece Calita tell the girls that they will have to describe their own personal story using body art, movement and speech. Renee astutely declares that the Aborigine culture is a lot like modeling in that “models are storytellers. Only we tell ours through pictures and runway.” Yes Renee. Cause, I’m sure someone like, say, Kate Moss has a lot of stories to tell. Only I think hers would involve waking up in a pool of her own sick next to Pete Doherty. Good times! The girls will be judged by the premier expert on Aborigine culture Carissa Rosenburg, editor of Seventeen magazine.
First up is Renee (Nene) who does a pretty awesome job I must say, describing abuse as a child. Jaslene is next, not as awesome, but she describes pain, agony and suffering. Fun! Then there’s Dionne (see the quote at the top of the page). And congratulations Wholahay. You have officially out-ignoramused your “f**king lesbo” comment. How is that she’s here and Brittany is gone? Anyhoo, Dionne does her speech and she’s just okay. Natasha is next and although her moves are beautiful, she speaks so softly no one can hear her. In the end, Renee wins! She chooses Jaslene as her friend and they both get beautiful Auture pearls. Awesome! However, it’s sort of a hollow victory because we all know she’s going to hock them for cash as soon as she gets to the mainland.
Back at the house, Dionne spontaneously says: “Hey. Guys. Why. Don’t. We. Try. To. Have. Some. Fun.” Which translates to: “The producers want to shake things up a bit and they’ve already set up cameras at the predetermined bar.” Natasha is very sick and can’t go so at the bar, Renee plays her game of “ Pick on the girl who isn’t here to defend herself” and tells Jaslene and Dionne that they all should want Natasha to go. And they agree. Bitches.
Tyra Mail! Sorry girls, you’re history! And….just like that the season is over. Yeah! Nah, they never make it that easy. Instead, the girls will be posing with members of the Ngemba tribe while demonstrating Aborigine dance. First up is Jaslene, who learns her dance well but pretty much says the moves are lame. More trashing of the local culture. Why yes, we are American, how did you know? Jaslene's intensity is good however and her photo shoot rocks. Dionne does a food gathering dance, has to be posed constantly and gives consistent “mean face.” Poor Natasha is sick as a dog and looks terrible. She interviews that she has a sore throat and that it’s “really hard for her to swallow”. Oh boy. Her husband is not going to happy about that. She learns the wiggly wag tail dance and her posing is pretty bad in that she looks about ready to pass out. Renee is last and gets the dance of the butterfly (lucky) and does a great job.
Tyra Mail! Someone’s going home and if it’s not Dionne I’m cutting off all my hair in protest. At the house, Natasha tries to make small talk, asking the girls what they think will happen at elimination and the girls respond by being universally snarky and bitchy to her. It’s so Mean Girls! Except none of the bitchy girls are as pretty as Rachel McAdams. And the only thing Natasha and Lindsey Lohan share is poor taste in men. Still, it’s close enough. Only thank god, there’s no Tina Fey. Tina Fey (shudder).
Elimination time! In the judging room, Tyra is dressed like a cross between Morticia Addams and Cruela De Vil. And….I have to say that the collar of her dress does look an awful lot like Dalmatian puppy fur. Poor doggies. It would be less tragic if they died for something fashionable. All the rest of the judges are there and guest judge is Carissa Rosenburg, Seventeen editor and expert on Aborigine culture. Individual evaluations:
Dionne’s photo is not that great (shocker) and her eyes didn’t connect with the camera. Tyra asks her to state who she thinks has the most and least potential in the competition because “that’s how you get ahead.” Which translates to “Fight, Bitches Fight!” Dionne thinks Jaslene has the most potential but says Natasha has the least and that “something is missing.” Jaslene’s photo is good as always but she always gives the same look and Nigel thinks she has to vary it. She thinks she has the most potential because “it’s her dream” but she thinks Natasha has the least potential because she “comes off as phony.” At this point, poor Natasha looks like she’s close to tears but turns it into a smile. I really like that girl. Renee’s photo gets universal praise from the judges but I have to say, to me it looks a little bland. She says she has the most potential because “I want to take my family places.” Cause models travel with their families and are all known for their strong family values. Renee thinks Natasha has the least potential because “she’s playing games.” OH NO SHE DIN’T! Natasha plays games? Oh hypocrisy thy name is Renee. Or Nene. Whatever the hell you’re name is. You’re aging badly. Yeah I said it.
Finally we have Natasha and her photo doesn’t look as lousy as we would have expected from the photo shoot but it’s nothing special either. She talks about being sick and naturally gets bitched her out for this but we all kinda knew that would happen. Natasha thinks that she has the most potential because she has the Eastern European features and I have to say, she isthe one who looks most like a model in person. Course all opinions are welcome on this board. Just as long as they agree with mine : ). Natasha also adds that she is “thankful for the girls’ critique” and that they are “still my friends.” Ever the salesperson this girl, ya gotta love her. No seriously, you have to because if you don't, she simply refuses to accept it. Twiggy calls Natasha one of the warmest girls, saying that she takes initiative, is extremely beautiful and that that there may be a slight jealously issue among the girls. Yeah Twiggy! It's so nice to have her on the panel. Can anyone imagine how this would have gone if Janice were still here? Natasha states that if Gisele Bunchen were here she should say she had the least potential because she’d be the biggest competition. She also addes that the girls talk about her constantly but it’s “better to be talked about than being not noticeable.” CHECK AND MATE. Feast on it bitches.
While the judges deliberate, Natasha tries to talk to the girls in the Judges Holding Room (and yes, they actually called it that) saying that she wishes everyone of them luck. It’s just who she is. Jaslene responds by saying “We don’t accept who you are.” Then proceeds to tear Natasha a new one. Nooooooooo! Jaslene I used to like you! Why ya gotta be a hater? Anyhoo the whole thing backfires on the Trio of Bitches because during deliberations, the judges say they feel that Natasha handled the negativity well and that the other girls were jealous.
After deliberations, eliminations. First called is Renee, then Jaslene and we get down to Natasha and Dionne and after the last elimination, I’ve lost all faith so I had no idea what would happen. In the end, the judges make the right decision and based on both girls body of work they finally get rid of Brown. Jaslene looks shocked and pissed, what happened to my cha cha diva? She's lost me. Before getting her photo, Natasha tries to hug Dionne who stares straight ahead with her “mean face” and doesn’t hug back. Bitch. Dionne finally hugs all three girls and leaves. Thank God! Cover girl of the week is Jaslene. If only we knew then what we did now…..
Next week: It’s the finale! It’s anyone’s guess!
- Dionne, dissing Aborigine culture
It’s the latest ANTM and you know, I realize I haven’t really started out with any exciting tales from my life during the last couple of recaps, but seriously, nothing’s been going on. I mean there was that one thing that involved a reverse cowgirl position, and one of the lesser known Baldwin brothers. But it wasn’t anything spectacular. All I learned is 1) Cheese Whiz is really hard to get out of upholstery and 2) Next time I should aim higher on the family chain. Live and learn. Anyhoo, this week starts with Tyra Mail. Some of you believe that you were born to be a top model, but I sense that only one of you will have the heart. That could be me! I have a heart! But I keep mine in a jar on my desk. The girls to out to the Australian forest and meet with Aborigine tribe leader Uncle Max. And here's a recent photo:
Jerry Garcia Lives! I knew he’d come back. A million deadheads can't be wrong. Or course they also can't follow the rules of basic hygiene. Anyhoo, Jerry - er Max and his niece Calita tell the girls that they will have to describe their own personal story using body art, movement and speech. Renee astutely declares that the Aborigine culture is a lot like modeling in that “models are storytellers. Only we tell ours through pictures and runway.” Yes Renee. Cause, I’m sure someone like, say, Kate Moss has a lot of stories to tell. Only I think hers would involve waking up in a pool of her own sick next to Pete Doherty. Good times! The girls will be judged by the premier expert on Aborigine culture Carissa Rosenburg, editor of Seventeen magazine.
First up is Renee (Nene) who does a pretty awesome job I must say, describing abuse as a child. Jaslene is next, not as awesome, but she describes pain, agony and suffering. Fun! Then there’s Dionne (see the quote at the top of the page). And congratulations Wholahay. You have officially out-ignoramused your “f**king lesbo” comment. How is that she’s here and Brittany is gone? Anyhoo, Dionne does her speech and she’s just okay. Natasha is next and although her moves are beautiful, she speaks so softly no one can hear her. In the end, Renee wins! She chooses Jaslene as her friend and they both get beautiful Auture pearls. Awesome! However, it’s sort of a hollow victory because we all know she’s going to hock them for cash as soon as she gets to the mainland.
Back at the house, Dionne spontaneously says: “Hey. Guys. Why. Don’t. We. Try. To. Have. Some. Fun.” Which translates to: “The producers want to shake things up a bit and they’ve already set up cameras at the predetermined bar.” Natasha is very sick and can’t go so at the bar, Renee plays her game of “ Pick on the girl who isn’t here to defend herself” and tells Jaslene and Dionne that they all should want Natasha to go. And they agree. Bitches.
Tyra Mail! Sorry girls, you’re history! And….just like that the season is over. Yeah! Nah, they never make it that easy. Instead, the girls will be posing with members of the Ngemba tribe while demonstrating Aborigine dance. First up is Jaslene, who learns her dance well but pretty much says the moves are lame. More trashing of the local culture. Why yes, we are American, how did you know? Jaslene's intensity is good however and her photo shoot rocks. Dionne does a food gathering dance, has to be posed constantly and gives consistent “mean face.” Poor Natasha is sick as a dog and looks terrible. She interviews that she has a sore throat and that it’s “really hard for her to swallow”. Oh boy. Her husband is not going to happy about that. She learns the wiggly wag tail dance and her posing is pretty bad in that she looks about ready to pass out. Renee is last and gets the dance of the butterfly (lucky) and does a great job.
Tyra Mail! Someone’s going home and if it’s not Dionne I’m cutting off all my hair in protest. At the house, Natasha tries to make small talk, asking the girls what they think will happen at elimination and the girls respond by being universally snarky and bitchy to her. It’s so Mean Girls! Except none of the bitchy girls are as pretty as Rachel McAdams. And the only thing Natasha and Lindsey Lohan share is poor taste in men. Still, it’s close enough. Only thank god, there’s no Tina Fey. Tina Fey (shudder).
Elimination time! In the judging room, Tyra is dressed like a cross between Morticia Addams and Cruela De Vil. And….I have to say that the collar of her dress does look an awful lot like Dalmatian puppy fur. Poor doggies. It would be less tragic if they died for something fashionable. All the rest of the judges are there and guest judge is Carissa Rosenburg, Seventeen editor and expert on Aborigine culture. Individual evaluations:
Dionne’s photo is not that great (shocker) and her eyes didn’t connect with the camera. Tyra asks her to state who she thinks has the most and least potential in the competition because “that’s how you get ahead.” Which translates to “Fight, Bitches Fight!” Dionne thinks Jaslene has the most potential but says Natasha has the least and that “something is missing.” Jaslene’s photo is good as always but she always gives the same look and Nigel thinks she has to vary it. She thinks she has the most potential because “it’s her dream” but she thinks Natasha has the least potential because she “comes off as phony.” At this point, poor Natasha looks like she’s close to tears but turns it into a smile. I really like that girl. Renee’s photo gets universal praise from the judges but I have to say, to me it looks a little bland. She says she has the most potential because “I want to take my family places.” Cause models travel with their families and are all known for their strong family values. Renee thinks Natasha has the least potential because “she’s playing games.” OH NO SHE DIN’T! Natasha plays games? Oh hypocrisy thy name is Renee. Or Nene. Whatever the hell you’re name is. You’re aging badly. Yeah I said it.
Finally we have Natasha and her photo doesn’t look as lousy as we would have expected from the photo shoot but it’s nothing special either. She talks about being sick and naturally gets bitched her out for this but we all kinda knew that would happen. Natasha thinks that she has the most potential because she has the Eastern European features and I have to say, she isthe one who looks most like a model in person. Course all opinions are welcome on this board. Just as long as they agree with mine : ). Natasha also adds that she is “thankful for the girls’ critique” and that they are “still my friends.” Ever the salesperson this girl, ya gotta love her. No seriously, you have to because if you don't, she simply refuses to accept it. Twiggy calls Natasha one of the warmest girls, saying that she takes initiative, is extremely beautiful and that that there may be a slight jealously issue among the girls. Yeah Twiggy! It's so nice to have her on the panel. Can anyone imagine how this would have gone if Janice were still here? Natasha states that if Gisele Bunchen were here she should say she had the least potential because she’d be the biggest competition. She also addes that the girls talk about her constantly but it’s “better to be talked about than being not noticeable.” CHECK AND MATE. Feast on it bitches.
While the judges deliberate, Natasha tries to talk to the girls in the Judges Holding Room (and yes, they actually called it that) saying that she wishes everyone of them luck. It’s just who she is. Jaslene responds by saying “We don’t accept who you are.” Then proceeds to tear Natasha a new one. Nooooooooo! Jaslene I used to like you! Why ya gotta be a hater? Anyhoo the whole thing backfires on the Trio of Bitches because during deliberations, the judges say they feel that Natasha handled the negativity well and that the other girls were jealous.
After deliberations, eliminations. First called is Renee, then Jaslene and we get down to Natasha and Dionne and after the last elimination, I’ve lost all faith so I had no idea what would happen. In the end, the judges make the right decision and based on both girls body of work they finally get rid of Brown. Jaslene looks shocked and pissed, what happened to my cha cha diva? She's lost me. Before getting her photo, Natasha tries to hug Dionne who stares straight ahead with her “mean face” and doesn’t hug back. Bitch. Dionne finally hugs all three girls and leaves. Thank God! Cover girl of the week is Jaslene. If only we knew then what we did now…..
Next week: It’s the finale! It’s anyone’s guess!
Losers real winners here
With every winner comes a loser. And this week, reality TV was all about both.
We saw Olympic medalist Apolo Anton Ohno and his partner Julianne Hough waltz away with the cheesy disco ball trophy on Dancing With the Stars; Jordin Sparks steal the American Idol crown and Tessa Horst win bachelor Andy Baldwin's heart.
But the real fun came from watching the losers have their dreams crushed on TV.
Take, for example, Laila Ali, who was booted off Dancing With the Stars in third place. Instead of faking happiness for the final two pairs, she provided reality fans with an actual real moment.
"Of course, I'm pissed. I mean, come on," she said, before adding it didn't matter who won now that she'd been cut from the competition.
Another great moment came when Bevin Powers was flat out rejected on The Bachelor. Believing she was a shoo-in from the first episode, she was clearly shocked by the breakup, saying nothing as Baldwin, bursting into tears, tried to explain his decision.
Blake Lewis, who lost Idol, was not as entertaining. In fact, he actually looked happy for Sparks, which made for a rather boring ending to television's most popular show.
Let's just hope all the contestants on this summer's slough of reality shows are not as well-behaved:
- Pirate Master (premieres Thursday on CBS): From the mind of Mark Burnett, Pirate Master is Survivor on a 179-foot ship. Over 33 days, 16 contestants will travel around the Caribbean in search of hidden treasure. Each week, one pirate will become the captain of the ship and one will be "cut adrift."
- On the Lot (premiered last Tuesday on Fox): Burnett and Steven Spielberg are searching for the next great filmmaker. This week it was all about the pitch - selling yourself and your movie to a bunch of uptight execs. While it was fun to watch, it seemed a bit unfair to crush the hopes of filmmakers just because they get a little white-faced in front of crowds.
- Canadian Idol (premieres June 5 on CTV): Zack, Sass, Jake, Farley and Ben are back for a fifth season. Basically American Idol with Canadian contestants who, this year, are allowed to play instruments. Let's hope it brings out musicians instead of just the teeny-boppers.
- Canada's Next Top Model (premieres May 30 on City-TV): Jay Manuel of America's Next Top Model is taking over the Canadian version as the new Tyra Banks. Other than that, and a few changes on the judging panel, it's pretty much the same show as last year.
- So You Think You Can Dance 3 (premiered last Thursday on Fox): It's back. After two incredibly successful seasons, SYTYCD is on the hunt for the next Benji Schwimmer. And with all the talented dancers out there, this summer's cast is sure to strut right into the hearts of reality TV fans to become the next big thing.
- Last Comic Standing 5 (premieres June 13 on NBC): In hopes of appealing to a broader audience, Comic has opened the competition to comedians from around the world and thrown in a $250,000 US grand prize.
The winner will also receive an NBC talent contract and Bravo half-hour comedy special.
- The Next Best Thing (premieres Wednesday on ABC): Do we really need to find the country's best celebrity impersonators? Apparently we do. So, ABC has gone on a search for all those people who bare an uncanny resemblance to movie stars, singing sensations and Paris Hiltons past and present.
- Hell's Kitchen 3 (premieres June 4 on Fox): Foul-mouthed British chef Gordon Ramsay will torment a new crop of cooks as they fight it out in the kitchen to win the head chef job at the luxurious Green Valley Ranch Resort in Las Vegas.
- Fast Cars & Superstars - Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race (premieres June 7 on ABC): A dozen celebrity drivers, including Jewel, Tony Hawk and William Shatner, partner with the Gillette Young Guns to learn how to live life in the really fast lane.
- Age of Love (premieres June 18 on NBC): Tennis pro Mark Philippoussis will date seven women in their 20s - the "Kittens" - and seven women in their 40s - the "Cougars." Then he'll have to decide if age really matters when looking for love, which, of course, it does.
We saw Olympic medalist Apolo Anton Ohno and his partner Julianne Hough waltz away with the cheesy disco ball trophy on Dancing With the Stars; Jordin Sparks steal the American Idol crown and Tessa Horst win bachelor Andy Baldwin's heart.
But the real fun came from watching the losers have their dreams crushed on TV.
Take, for example, Laila Ali, who was booted off Dancing With the Stars in third place. Instead of faking happiness for the final two pairs, she provided reality fans with an actual real moment.
"Of course, I'm pissed. I mean, come on," she said, before adding it didn't matter who won now that she'd been cut from the competition.
Another great moment came when Bevin Powers was flat out rejected on The Bachelor. Believing she was a shoo-in from the first episode, she was clearly shocked by the breakup, saying nothing as Baldwin, bursting into tears, tried to explain his decision.
Blake Lewis, who lost Idol, was not as entertaining. In fact, he actually looked happy for Sparks, which made for a rather boring ending to television's most popular show.
Let's just hope all the contestants on this summer's slough of reality shows are not as well-behaved:
- Pirate Master (premieres Thursday on CBS): From the mind of Mark Burnett, Pirate Master is Survivor on a 179-foot ship. Over 33 days, 16 contestants will travel around the Caribbean in search of hidden treasure. Each week, one pirate will become the captain of the ship and one will be "cut adrift."
- On the Lot (premiered last Tuesday on Fox): Burnett and Steven Spielberg are searching for the next great filmmaker. This week it was all about the pitch - selling yourself and your movie to a bunch of uptight execs. While it was fun to watch, it seemed a bit unfair to crush the hopes of filmmakers just because they get a little white-faced in front of crowds.
- Canadian Idol (premieres June 5 on CTV): Zack, Sass, Jake, Farley and Ben are back for a fifth season. Basically American Idol with Canadian contestants who, this year, are allowed to play instruments. Let's hope it brings out musicians instead of just the teeny-boppers.
- Canada's Next Top Model (premieres May 30 on City-TV): Jay Manuel of America's Next Top Model is taking over the Canadian version as the new Tyra Banks. Other than that, and a few changes on the judging panel, it's pretty much the same show as last year.
- So You Think You Can Dance 3 (premiered last Thursday on Fox): It's back. After two incredibly successful seasons, SYTYCD is on the hunt for the next Benji Schwimmer. And with all the talented dancers out there, this summer's cast is sure to strut right into the hearts of reality TV fans to become the next big thing.
- Last Comic Standing 5 (premieres June 13 on NBC): In hopes of appealing to a broader audience, Comic has opened the competition to comedians from around the world and thrown in a $250,000 US grand prize.
The winner will also receive an NBC talent contract and Bravo half-hour comedy special.
- The Next Best Thing (premieres Wednesday on ABC): Do we really need to find the country's best celebrity impersonators? Apparently we do. So, ABC has gone on a search for all those people who bare an uncanny resemblance to movie stars, singing sensations and Paris Hiltons past and present.
- Hell's Kitchen 3 (premieres June 4 on Fox): Foul-mouthed British chef Gordon Ramsay will torment a new crop of cooks as they fight it out in the kitchen to win the head chef job at the luxurious Green Valley Ranch Resort in Las Vegas.
- Fast Cars & Superstars - Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race (premieres June 7 on ABC): A dozen celebrity drivers, including Jewel, Tony Hawk and William Shatner, partner with the Gillette Young Guns to learn how to live life in the really fast lane.
- Age of Love (premieres June 18 on NBC): Tennis pro Mark Philippoussis will date seven women in their 20s - the "Kittens" - and seven women in their 40s - the "Cougars." Then he'll have to decide if age really matters when looking for love, which, of course, it does.
TELEVISION
As we put the 2006-07 television season in the books and head off to summer (and cable fare), it's that time again: final grades.
Now, first, you have to throw out everything you know about grades -- grading on a curve, average mean, whatever. It doesn't matter. Consider this artistic merit. And I'm the Russian judge. There will be no grading based on hits as judged by the Nielsen ratings. That's for bean counters and network execs who are waiting for their pay packages to kick in. Me? I just want to break something.
No, these grades aren't given out because you've got a No. 1 show or finished No. 1 in the 18-34 demo. Or because your audience was more educated or affluent. Or because you won the night in teen girls or African American households or boys who previously bought a Nintendo Wii online and have now pre-ordered a Scion with their parents' line of credit.
No, I'm judge and jury for one simple reason: It's my job. No, wait, there's another reason. I had to watch all the shows, no matter if I wanted to or not. In some cases, that was cruel. In a few cases, that was unusual. In more than I care to remember, that was punishment.
So here, based on whether the network gave the world anything of value, real entertainment or actual interest, are the final grades of the season.
ABC
Grade: B. For all networks, let's start with the freshman class. At ABC, "Ugly Betty," "Men in Trees" and "Brothers & Sisters" were the fall shows that survived. In midseason, "Notes From the Underbelly" immediately became ABC's best sitcom and was renewed. Against better judgment, "October Road" also hit a chord with viewers and was renewed. Because of the small sample from the latter two, we don't know exactly how they'll pan out, though "Notes" has loads of potential. Although the network bungled the end of "Men in Trees," the series still worked. "Ugly Betty" was one of the fall's most talked-about new shows -- a grand surprise -- and "Brothers & Sisters" benefited from ABC's patience, becoming somewhat of a surprise hit. It's an adult drama with a great cast and stories that are well told.
What went right: "Dancing With the Stars" was a major hit. "Grey's Anatomy" survived its homophobia scandal and managed to retain its audience. "Lost" fell victim to a scheduling scheme designed to help it, plus lethargic scripts early on, but rallied in fantastic fashion for a superb close to the season, re-establishing it as one of broadcast TV's finest shows. "Desperate Housewives" was slightly less insufferable than the prior year, though it lacked real buzz. And, if you are as generous as can be, ABC finally managed a decent comedy in "Notes From the Underbelly." Plus, in late night, "Jimmy Kimmel Live" has become a real jewel.
What went wrong: The network really botched "Lost" in the early going and pulled it for what was supposed to be 13 weeks of another serialized drama, "Day Break," but that show, with its illogical rules and "Lost" viewer resentment, never had a chance. ABC is woefully behind both NBC and CBS in developing quality sitcoms. It didn't know what to do with "The Knights of Prosperity" and the promising series withered. The network also mishandled the number of series it had -- with failure to launch being an epidemic for all networks. "Six Degrees" got lost in the shuffle; perhaps the best pilot of the season, "The Nine," never lived up to its first hour.
Canceled: "What About Brian," "The Knights of Prosperity," "Help Me Help You," "The Nine," "Six Degrees," "Big Day," "Day Break," "According to Jim" and "George Lopez."
CBS
Grade: B-. Fall series that made it include, uh, "Shark." Not a great fall, but CBS benefits from having an existing lineup littered with hits. The midseason sitcom "Rules of Engagement" also got renewed. The relatively high grade comes from the fact that CBS doesn't have much room on the schedule, because it has consistently been loaded with successful shows. This network has staples all across the week. It was nice to see returning comedies "How I Met Your Mother" and "The New Adventures of Old Christine" grow.
What went right: Consistency. CBS may not have a lot of dangerous right angles or a schedule that takes risks, but it delivers.
What went wrong: "Survivor" is over the hill, though CBS is trying to goose it. The "CSI" franchise seems creatively tired. The network pulled the plug on "Smith" too quickly and mishandled "Jericho."
Canceled: "The Class," "Smith," "Jericho," "Close to Home," "3 Lbs." and "The King of Queens."
FOX
Grade: D. Where to start with this mess? Yes, the Death Star, "American Idol," continued to be a huge hit (though it showed the slightest bit of a dent), and "House" remains one of the most popular dramas on TV. But after that -- what? The fall launch was a total failure and though Fox returned " 'Til Death" for next season, the network has a history of renewing series without merit to avoid total embarrassment. Fox is stuck in a rut. It stumbles through fall and rallies in midseason, but much of its success is tied to a couple of megahits. It hasn't developed a quality sitcom since "Arrested Development," and, worse, it just hasn't made a series in a long time that's compelling.
What went right: Despite what many considered to be the worst "Idol" season yet (complete with Paula Abdul making a lot of headlines for loopy off-camera behavior), the franchise is still unstoppable. "Prison Break" kept itself viable. And the good news ends right there.
What went wrong: A lousy development season was heavily influenced by the viewing public turning its back (and hiding its eyes) from serialized dramas. "24" became a joke. There was little to laugh at -- intentionally -- on the network, and it lacked buzz aside from "Idol."
Canceled: "Vanished," "Standoff," "Justice," "Happy Hour," "The War at Home," "The Winner," "The Wedding Bells," "Drive" and apparently "Nanny 911" and "Trading Spouses: Meet Your New Mommy." The network had also renewed "The Loop" but chose to essentially burn it off after the season.
NBC
Grade: B+. Not only did NBC develop a huge hit (and potential franchise given next fall's minor spin-off) in "Heroes," it stayed patient with "30 Rock" and allowed that sitcom to become one of the funniest shows on television and arguably the biggest surprise of the fall. (A toss-up, maybe, with "Heroes"? Or perhaps even a three-way surprise with the renewal of ratings-challenged "Friday Night Lights"?) Either way, some good came out of that freshman crop. Getting NFL football and creating "Football Night in America" were pluses, as was the continued excellence of Conan O'Brien in late night. But NBC is in a precarious spot. It needs more and better dramas. Its "Law & Order" franchise is creaky (to say nothing of derelict "ER") and there's still some worry on this end about taste issues (someone green-lit "Twenty Good Years" but let "Andy Barker, P.I." die with absolutely no support?).
What went right: "Heroes," obviously, and "30 Rock." For some reason that escapes all logic, "Deal or No Deal" continues to enrapture the nation. The network earned viewer gratitude by continuing a loyalty streak that started with "The Office" and extended to "Friday Night Lights."
What went wrong: Let's start at "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip." That was a pilot, along with ABC's "The Nine," that was extremely impressive. And yet, neither show lived up to that hour again. Like all networks, NBC got stung by the serialized drama backlash, but it gave up far too early on "Kidnapped." For a network that needs dramas to work, "Raines" could have been better nurtured. The network also needs a reality franchise.
Canceled: "Kidnapped," "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip," "Twenty Good Years," "Crossing Jordan," "Andy Barker, P.I.," "The Black Donnellys," "Raines" and "The Apprentice."
THE CW
Grade: C-. The only reason this grade isn't lower is that as the CW tries to figure out what it is, a little slack should be let out. Plus the network has, once again, renewed "Everybody Hates Chris," perhaps the most underappreciated series on television. And the fledgling network has shown some smarts in keeping "Smallville" and "Supernatural" paired. If you're a "Veronica Mars" fan who might be annoyed that the run is over, remember that the CW showed an awful lot of patience with it, given the numbers. There's a worry that the CW is going to find its niche with reality shows, since "America's Next Top Model" is the big prize at the network and "Beauty and the Geek" has lived on. Going in that direction is just the kind of thing that allows the "Pussycat Dolls" projects to slink in the door. The CW needs to ramp up its quality on all fronts and prove, in the process, that it's a viable and valuable network.
What went right: Unfortunately, after selling the series as "aspirational" for women, "Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll" worked quite well. "Top Model" continues to be a franchise series. "The Game," despite being lousy, was also renewed.
What went wrong: The network still had trouble launching scripted fare, as "Runaway," the CW's entry in the serialized drama hootenanny, didn't attract viewers and not enough people are watching shows like "Chris" or "Supernatural" that might attract a wider audience. With so few hours to program, an argument can be made that the CW isn't trying hard enough. But again -- new networks take time to find a foothold and understand what they need to be to survive.
Canceled: "Runaway," "Veronica Mars," "Gilmore Girls," "7th Heaven," "All of Us" and "Reba." The network is essentially burning off "Hidden Palms."
Now, first, you have to throw out everything you know about grades -- grading on a curve, average mean, whatever. It doesn't matter. Consider this artistic merit. And I'm the Russian judge. There will be no grading based on hits as judged by the Nielsen ratings. That's for bean counters and network execs who are waiting for their pay packages to kick in. Me? I just want to break something.
No, these grades aren't given out because you've got a No. 1 show or finished No. 1 in the 18-34 demo. Or because your audience was more educated or affluent. Or because you won the night in teen girls or African American households or boys who previously bought a Nintendo Wii online and have now pre-ordered a Scion with their parents' line of credit.
No, I'm judge and jury for one simple reason: It's my job. No, wait, there's another reason. I had to watch all the shows, no matter if I wanted to or not. In some cases, that was cruel. In a few cases, that was unusual. In more than I care to remember, that was punishment.
So here, based on whether the network gave the world anything of value, real entertainment or actual interest, are the final grades of the season.
ABC
Grade: B. For all networks, let's start with the freshman class. At ABC, "Ugly Betty," "Men in Trees" and "Brothers & Sisters" were the fall shows that survived. In midseason, "Notes From the Underbelly" immediately became ABC's best sitcom and was renewed. Against better judgment, "October Road" also hit a chord with viewers and was renewed. Because of the small sample from the latter two, we don't know exactly how they'll pan out, though "Notes" has loads of potential. Although the network bungled the end of "Men in Trees," the series still worked. "Ugly Betty" was one of the fall's most talked-about new shows -- a grand surprise -- and "Brothers & Sisters" benefited from ABC's patience, becoming somewhat of a surprise hit. It's an adult drama with a great cast and stories that are well told.
What went right: "Dancing With the Stars" was a major hit. "Grey's Anatomy" survived its homophobia scandal and managed to retain its audience. "Lost" fell victim to a scheduling scheme designed to help it, plus lethargic scripts early on, but rallied in fantastic fashion for a superb close to the season, re-establishing it as one of broadcast TV's finest shows. "Desperate Housewives" was slightly less insufferable than the prior year, though it lacked real buzz. And, if you are as generous as can be, ABC finally managed a decent comedy in "Notes From the Underbelly." Plus, in late night, "Jimmy Kimmel Live" has become a real jewel.
What went wrong: The network really botched "Lost" in the early going and pulled it for what was supposed to be 13 weeks of another serialized drama, "Day Break," but that show, with its illogical rules and "Lost" viewer resentment, never had a chance. ABC is woefully behind both NBC and CBS in developing quality sitcoms. It didn't know what to do with "The Knights of Prosperity" and the promising series withered. The network also mishandled the number of series it had -- with failure to launch being an epidemic for all networks. "Six Degrees" got lost in the shuffle; perhaps the best pilot of the season, "The Nine," never lived up to its first hour.
Canceled: "What About Brian," "The Knights of Prosperity," "Help Me Help You," "The Nine," "Six Degrees," "Big Day," "Day Break," "According to Jim" and "George Lopez."
CBS
Grade: B-. Fall series that made it include, uh, "Shark." Not a great fall, but CBS benefits from having an existing lineup littered with hits. The midseason sitcom "Rules of Engagement" also got renewed. The relatively high grade comes from the fact that CBS doesn't have much room on the schedule, because it has consistently been loaded with successful shows. This network has staples all across the week. It was nice to see returning comedies "How I Met Your Mother" and "The New Adventures of Old Christine" grow.
What went right: Consistency. CBS may not have a lot of dangerous right angles or a schedule that takes risks, but it delivers.
What went wrong: "Survivor" is over the hill, though CBS is trying to goose it. The "CSI" franchise seems creatively tired. The network pulled the plug on "Smith" too quickly and mishandled "Jericho."
Canceled: "The Class," "Smith," "Jericho," "Close to Home," "3 Lbs." and "The King of Queens."
FOX
Grade: D. Where to start with this mess? Yes, the Death Star, "American Idol," continued to be a huge hit (though it showed the slightest bit of a dent), and "House" remains one of the most popular dramas on TV. But after that -- what? The fall launch was a total failure and though Fox returned " 'Til Death" for next season, the network has a history of renewing series without merit to avoid total embarrassment. Fox is stuck in a rut. It stumbles through fall and rallies in midseason, but much of its success is tied to a couple of megahits. It hasn't developed a quality sitcom since "Arrested Development," and, worse, it just hasn't made a series in a long time that's compelling.
What went right: Despite what many considered to be the worst "Idol" season yet (complete with Paula Abdul making a lot of headlines for loopy off-camera behavior), the franchise is still unstoppable. "Prison Break" kept itself viable. And the good news ends right there.
What went wrong: A lousy development season was heavily influenced by the viewing public turning its back (and hiding its eyes) from serialized dramas. "24" became a joke. There was little to laugh at -- intentionally -- on the network, and it lacked buzz aside from "Idol."
Canceled: "Vanished," "Standoff," "Justice," "Happy Hour," "The War at Home," "The Winner," "The Wedding Bells," "Drive" and apparently "Nanny 911" and "Trading Spouses: Meet Your New Mommy." The network had also renewed "The Loop" but chose to essentially burn it off after the season.
NBC
Grade: B+. Not only did NBC develop a huge hit (and potential franchise given next fall's minor spin-off) in "Heroes," it stayed patient with "30 Rock" and allowed that sitcom to become one of the funniest shows on television and arguably the biggest surprise of the fall. (A toss-up, maybe, with "Heroes"? Or perhaps even a three-way surprise with the renewal of ratings-challenged "Friday Night Lights"?) Either way, some good came out of that freshman crop. Getting NFL football and creating "Football Night in America" were pluses, as was the continued excellence of Conan O'Brien in late night. But NBC is in a precarious spot. It needs more and better dramas. Its "Law & Order" franchise is creaky (to say nothing of derelict "ER") and there's still some worry on this end about taste issues (someone green-lit "Twenty Good Years" but let "Andy Barker, P.I." die with absolutely no support?).
What went right: "Heroes," obviously, and "30 Rock." For some reason that escapes all logic, "Deal or No Deal" continues to enrapture the nation. The network earned viewer gratitude by continuing a loyalty streak that started with "The Office" and extended to "Friday Night Lights."
What went wrong: Let's start at "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip." That was a pilot, along with ABC's "The Nine," that was extremely impressive. And yet, neither show lived up to that hour again. Like all networks, NBC got stung by the serialized drama backlash, but it gave up far too early on "Kidnapped." For a network that needs dramas to work, "Raines" could have been better nurtured. The network also needs a reality franchise.
Canceled: "Kidnapped," "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip," "Twenty Good Years," "Crossing Jordan," "Andy Barker, P.I.," "The Black Donnellys," "Raines" and "The Apprentice."
THE CW
Grade: C-. The only reason this grade isn't lower is that as the CW tries to figure out what it is, a little slack should be let out. Plus the network has, once again, renewed "Everybody Hates Chris," perhaps the most underappreciated series on television. And the fledgling network has shown some smarts in keeping "Smallville" and "Supernatural" paired. If you're a "Veronica Mars" fan who might be annoyed that the run is over, remember that the CW showed an awful lot of patience with it, given the numbers. There's a worry that the CW is going to find its niche with reality shows, since "America's Next Top Model" is the big prize at the network and "Beauty and the Geek" has lived on. Going in that direction is just the kind of thing that allows the "Pussycat Dolls" projects to slink in the door. The CW needs to ramp up its quality on all fronts and prove, in the process, that it's a viable and valuable network.
What went right: Unfortunately, after selling the series as "aspirational" for women, "Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll" worked quite well. "Top Model" continues to be a franchise series. "The Game," despite being lousy, was also renewed.
What went wrong: The network still had trouble launching scripted fare, as "Runaway," the CW's entry in the serialized drama hootenanny, didn't attract viewers and not enough people are watching shows like "Chris" or "Supernatural" that might attract a wider audience. With so few hours to program, an argument can be made that the CW isn't trying hard enough. But again -- new networks take time to find a foothold and understand what they need to be to survive.
Canceled: "Runaway," "Veronica Mars," "Gilmore Girls," "7th Heaven," "All of Us" and "Reba." The network is essentially burning off "Hidden Palms."
The model hopefuls
When Canada's Next Top Model returns Wednesday on City-TV, Jay Manuel takes over as host from actress/model Tricia Helfer, who leaves to focus on her role in the series Battlestar Galactica. Manuel will spearhead a team of judges – photographer Paul Alexander, supermodel Yasmin Warsame and FT-FashionTelevision's Jeanne Beker – as they whittle 10 model hopefuls from across Canada down to one over the course of eight weeks. Model Stacey Mackenzie returns to the reality series as model coach.
Manuel promises that Canada's Next Top Model will be "more rooted in fashion than the American show. We have access to all the runway footage that FashionTelevision owns, so we will be looping runway shows on plasma screens for the girls to study."
"And for the first time in history," he adds, "you will see the real Jeanne Beker – the loving mother. You are going to see a very sensitive, human side to her."
The 10 aspiring models include a 22-year-old factory worker from Mannheim, Ont. and a 25-year-old travel representative from Toronto.
The winner receives a contract with Sutherland Models, an editorial spread in Fashion magazine and a $100,000 contract from Procter & Gamble.
Manuel promises that Canada's Next Top Model will be "more rooted in fashion than the American show. We have access to all the runway footage that FashionTelevision owns, so we will be looping runway shows on plasma screens for the girls to study."
"And for the first time in history," he adds, "you will see the real Jeanne Beker – the loving mother. You are going to see a very sensitive, human side to her."
The 10 aspiring models include a 22-year-old factory worker from Mannheim, Ont. and a 25-year-old travel representative from Toronto.
The winner receives a contract with Sutherland Models, an editorial spread in Fashion magazine and a $100,000 contract from Procter & Gamble.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Chamber co-founder Davis left his mark on local theater
Although Montgomery Davis relinquished his leadership of the Milwaukee Chamber Theatre two years ago, his death in his sleep last Sunday at the age of 67 leaves a sad void in the state's professional theater community. Davis was the godfather of local theater, in the best sense of that term.
An actor and director, he founded the Chamber Theatre with his close friend and professional colleague Ruth Schudson 32 years ago to give Equity (union) actors another place to work in Milwaukee. At that time, the Milwaukee Repertory Theater and the now-defunct Melody Top summer stock theater were the only companies in town that hired Equity performers.
When he and Schudson rented Vogel Hall at the Marcus Center to mount "Don Juan in Hell" on Father's Day 1975, they began the expansion of professional theater in Milwaukee that greatly accelerated in the 1980s and '90s. More jobs for seasoned actors meant more seasoned actors living in Milwaukee, and that was an important factor in the proliferation of other professional companies. Davis began the process that in the following decades reached theatrical critical mass.
Renaissance Theaterworks, In Tandem Theatre Company, Milwaukee Shakespeare, Cornerstone Theatre, First Stage Children's Theatre, Boulevard Ensemble, Windfall Theatre, Bunny Gumbo Theatre Company, Clavis Theatre (closed), Bialystock & Bloom (closed), American Inside Theatre (closed), Northern Stage Company (closed) and Great American Children's Theatre, (closed) followed. Two more companies founded after the Chamber's birth, Theatre Tesseract and Next Generation Theater, merged to become Next Act Theatre. Davis directed Great American Children's Theatre's first production and continued staging shows for the company for eight seasons.
Actor James Tasse worked closely with Davis in the Chamber offices as well as on stage, and he described his former boss last week as a "joyous gardener who planted many seeds, prayed for sun, stepped back and watched."
"I consider Monty Davis a pioneer," added C. Michael Wright, Davis' successor at the Chamber. Wright noted that the U.S. regional theater movement was only beginning to blossom when Davis and Schudson took the leap of faith to start their company.
It's not unusual for arts organizations to reflect the preferences and personalities of their founders, and the Chamber personified Davis. A Princeton University graduate who studied voice in London, he strongly favored literary theater and was among Milwaukee's leading Anglophiles. British playwrights and plays had a home at the Chamber Theatre, and Milwaukee theater-goers became experts in the work of George Bernard Shaw, one of Davis' favorites.
For 20 years, Davis and the Chamber Theatre produced an annual Shaw Festival, staging the dramatist's famous and obscure works. The festival even presented an American premiere of a Shaw play.
"Monty was an extremely sophisticated man, very direct and very, very smart," said Rhoda Nathan, the New York based president of the Bernard Shaw Society. A retired professor of English at Hofstra University, she traveled to Milwaukee to see Shaw Festival productions.
"He staged Shaw with élan and panache, and Monty was daring. Very few people in New York would dare to do 'Back to Methuselah,' but Monty did."
Davis reviewed a new biography of Shaw for the Independent Shavian, a Shaw Society journal. It will be published in the next issue, Nathan said.
Michael Stebbins, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's moribund Professional Theatre Training Program, said Davis was an inspiration for young stage artists beginning their careers and a role model for working in regional theater.
"Monty did it all out of pure love of the craft," Stebbins said. "He was such a well-rounded theater artist because he did it all."
Stebbins went on to say that he originally thought he wanted to be an actor only, but Davis' example opened his eyes to the importance of developing directing and producing skills. Today he is the producing artistic director of Rep Stage in Columbia, Md. Before Davis' death, Stebbins had cast his role model in a production of Shaw's "Mrs. Warren's Profession," which is scheduled for early next year.
Offstage and out of the spotlight, Davis was a bit of a character. In recalling him last week, Nagle Jackson, the artistic director of the Milwaukee Rep for much of the 1970s, noted how buoyant and gentlemanly he was. Davis moved here from New York in 1973 when Jackson offered him a spot in the Rep's acting company.
"I never heard Monty say a bad thing about anybody," Jackson said. "The worst thing he would do was lift his eyebrows if he didn't like someone."
Those of us who knew Monty can picture those arched brows.
A memorial for Davis will be held at 6 p.m. June 4 in the Cabot Theatre at the Broadway Theatre Center, 158 N. Broadway. Online thoughts and memorials can be sent to
An actor and director, he founded the Chamber Theatre with his close friend and professional colleague Ruth Schudson 32 years ago to give Equity (union) actors another place to work in Milwaukee. At that time, the Milwaukee Repertory Theater and the now-defunct Melody Top summer stock theater were the only companies in town that hired Equity performers.
When he and Schudson rented Vogel Hall at the Marcus Center to mount "Don Juan in Hell" on Father's Day 1975, they began the expansion of professional theater in Milwaukee that greatly accelerated in the 1980s and '90s. More jobs for seasoned actors meant more seasoned actors living in Milwaukee, and that was an important factor in the proliferation of other professional companies. Davis began the process that in the following decades reached theatrical critical mass.
Renaissance Theaterworks, In Tandem Theatre Company, Milwaukee Shakespeare, Cornerstone Theatre, First Stage Children's Theatre, Boulevard Ensemble, Windfall Theatre, Bunny Gumbo Theatre Company, Clavis Theatre (closed), Bialystock & Bloom (closed), American Inside Theatre (closed), Northern Stage Company (closed) and Great American Children's Theatre, (closed) followed. Two more companies founded after the Chamber's birth, Theatre Tesseract and Next Generation Theater, merged to become Next Act Theatre. Davis directed Great American Children's Theatre's first production and continued staging shows for the company for eight seasons.
Actor James Tasse worked closely with Davis in the Chamber offices as well as on stage, and he described his former boss last week as a "joyous gardener who planted many seeds, prayed for sun, stepped back and watched."
"I consider Monty Davis a pioneer," added C. Michael Wright, Davis' successor at the Chamber. Wright noted that the U.S. regional theater movement was only beginning to blossom when Davis and Schudson took the leap of faith to start their company.
It's not unusual for arts organizations to reflect the preferences and personalities of their founders, and the Chamber personified Davis. A Princeton University graduate who studied voice in London, he strongly favored literary theater and was among Milwaukee's leading Anglophiles. British playwrights and plays had a home at the Chamber Theatre, and Milwaukee theater-goers became experts in the work of George Bernard Shaw, one of Davis' favorites.
For 20 years, Davis and the Chamber Theatre produced an annual Shaw Festival, staging the dramatist's famous and obscure works. The festival even presented an American premiere of a Shaw play.
"Monty was an extremely sophisticated man, very direct and very, very smart," said Rhoda Nathan, the New York based president of the Bernard Shaw Society. A retired professor of English at Hofstra University, she traveled to Milwaukee to see Shaw Festival productions.
"He staged Shaw with élan and panache, and Monty was daring. Very few people in New York would dare to do 'Back to Methuselah,' but Monty did."
Davis reviewed a new biography of Shaw for the Independent Shavian, a Shaw Society journal. It will be published in the next issue, Nathan said.
Michael Stebbins, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's moribund Professional Theatre Training Program, said Davis was an inspiration for young stage artists beginning their careers and a role model for working in regional theater.
"Monty did it all out of pure love of the craft," Stebbins said. "He was such a well-rounded theater artist because he did it all."
Stebbins went on to say that he originally thought he wanted to be an actor only, but Davis' example opened his eyes to the importance of developing directing and producing skills. Today he is the producing artistic director of Rep Stage in Columbia, Md. Before Davis' death, Stebbins had cast his role model in a production of Shaw's "Mrs. Warren's Profession," which is scheduled for early next year.
Offstage and out of the spotlight, Davis was a bit of a character. In recalling him last week, Nagle Jackson, the artistic director of the Milwaukee Rep for much of the 1970s, noted how buoyant and gentlemanly he was. Davis moved here from New York in 1973 when Jackson offered him a spot in the Rep's acting company.
"I never heard Monty say a bad thing about anybody," Jackson said. "The worst thing he would do was lift his eyebrows if he didn't like someone."
Those of us who knew Monty can picture those arched brows.
A memorial for Davis will be held at 6 p.m. June 4 in the Cabot Theatre at the Broadway Theatre Center, 158 N. Broadway. Online thoughts and memorials can be sent to
Jay Manuel: The Eye of the Beholder
Canada's Next Top Model host Jay Manuel truly believes in Canada's beauty. It's reflected in his actions and his words. His faith in the potential of his home and native land is crystal clear.
"Let's not just produce a show for just Canada because I think it's insulting as a Canadian myself," he says. "We can compete. [Canada's Next Top Model] really demonstrates that there is amazing talent here. Basically, I highlighted this many times throughout the show."
Manuel says he is "in the business of managing the esthetic," meaning he travels the world, judging and sculpting other's beauty and doing make-up for the world's most sought-after superstars. He also designed the sets and runway that will become home to the judges and talent in the second season of Canada's Next Top Model, debuting Wednesday, May 30 on Citytv. And his sharp yet insightful commentary as a judge on series originator America's Next Top Model has increased his reputation as a man not afraid to say exactly what's on his mind, be it infuriating or flattering.
In an industry full of so much deception, his blunt honestly is a beautiful thing. Manuel has been a fashion industry globe-trotter for more than a decade. Yet, he decided to split his time between good friend Tyra Banks' America's Next Top Model and the Canadian equivalent, primarily because of his ever-increasing faith in Canada's diverse modelling talents. When asked if he believes Toronto has what it takes to be the next Milan or Paris, he asserts we are already a world-class fashion city, populated with world-class women.
"Linda Evangelista, Shalom Harlow, Jessica Stam -- I can keep going. All of these names, these supermodels, come from Canada, but get claimed by the international world of fashion," says Manuel.
Beauty fades and sensations change, but primetime TV hasn't abandoned the Canadian fashion contingent as yet. Season 2 of Canada's Next Top Model has already been sold into the international market. (To be fair, the Next Top Model series has been repeatedly picked up in 17 other countries as well, including Israel, Nigeria and the Philippines.) But Canada's hidden influence on the fashion industry extends beyond the beauty on the catwalk.
Manuel praises Fashion Television host Jeanne Beker as "one of the most respected fashion journalists in the industry right now." He insists Canada should shed its notorious inferiority complex and stand tall and proud.
"This is the resource for a lot of the majors in this industry, so take us seriously."
Other beautiful subjects he takes seriously are the A-list celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez, Kim Cattrall, Iman and David Bowie, who he's done photo shoots with. Though he is not given carte blanche when coming up with ideas to apply to his subjects, Manuel enjoys the balancing act of compromise.
"I get a lot more creative control when it comes to editorials and things that are creative, but when it comes down to a person's brand, you can bring your personal spin, but you really need to keep the essence of that personal brand intact. And I think that's why I've been able to be so successful," says Manuel.
Essence magazine has praised Manuel for being "known for an airbrush technique that gives his clients a next-to-nothing look," perfect for making a supermodel stand out while still having her embellished beauty seem subtle.
And, yes, beauty sometimes is only skin deep. But for those tabloid readers who believe everything that is written about the angry outbursts of Naomi Campbell or the cocaine addictions of Kate Moss, Manuel advises them to take what they read with a grain of skeptical salt.
"The majority [of supermodels] go home at the end of the day and live their life. I don't know why people have painted this picture. There are certain stories that can support this negative stereotype, but for the most part, they are not like that," he explains, adding not even the notorious Campbell is a diva. "You know what the funny thing is? I've worked with Naomi and everyone thinks she's just this strong, bitchy person. You know, Naomi is actually insecure. She's very sweet. I can't speak for the fact that she does crazy things, but who she is as a person is not what people portray her as."
So, for every vapid, shallow, hedonistic diva throwing a temper tantrum and refusing to sashay down catwalk because her favorite frappucino isn't the right temperature, many more models are simply attractive individuals living like the proverbial "girl next door." Maybe more Canadian supermodels need to achieve worldwide fame our infamous humility might change a few perceptions about "the supermodel attitude."
Manuel's own beauty seems rooted in his self-confidence, an essential ingredient for sustained success in the fashion industry. With his virtually perfect complexion, he doesn't look a day over 21. His physique looks like he could be a Calvin Klein underwear model, if he chose to switch positions. And even though his image seems like it might require hours of preparation, it never takes him very long in the morning to achieve the look of the legendary "Jay Manual brand."
"I get up, I shower, you know, what have you," he explains. "Even my hair, people wonder, 'Is it a big deal?' It takes three minutes. It's gel, no brush, run my hands through, spike it up, throw some hairspray on it, and then I blow-dry it for a second and that's it."
Yet as easy as it is for him to create his look, he points out that it's increasingly difficult to alter it as his status in the industry increases.
"Now it's part of the brand, and certain jobs are in place where they say I can't even change it back!"
Manuel and his trademark frosted tips have also cropped up at worked at dozens of important functions and he's well known to fashionistas and fans alike. He was the official fashion correspondent for E! Network at the Emmy Awards, the Golden Globe Awards, the Grammy Awards and the Academy Awards. He also recently hosted the annual Fashion Cares Gala, Canada's biggest AIDS awareness fundraiser. This year's event featured Dita Von Teese, Kelly Rowland, Mya and Bedouin Soundclash, among others. His work with Fashion Cares helps him stay grounded as a fashion icon, a job that can offer a variety of hedonistic, flamboyant diversions.
Canada's globally recognized Gay Pride Day is one of the many manifestations of our country's diverse examples of aesthetic appreciation. And in regards to the seriousness of the continuing AIDS epidemic, its connection to the gay community and communities beyond, Manuel stays very involved in charity events, possibly inspired by his father, who is a doctor. He's also hopeful of a cure.
"I have faith in the medical community, because people didn't even think we could get here in five or 10 years" he says. "It's not this serious kinda 'let's all mourn' thing. It's not about that. Let's be happy about where we are, and where we're going to go."
Remaining balanced in such an extreme industry is a daunting task, but Manuel has consistently succeeded at it. There may be a dichotomy, even outright hypocrisy, at play with many aspects of fashion industry, but Manuel concentrates on the task at hand, produces professional results, and, ultimately, doesn't take it all too seriously.
"Fashion is fun. You can change it. You can wear something crazy one day and be in a boardroom suit the next. That's the amazing thing about it," he says.
Diversity and beauty promoted by a multicultural man. How very Canadian. He practices what he preaches, and between his humanitarian efforts and his entertaining television-hosting efforts, Manuel seems like the perfect candidate to continue building Canada's connection to the international world of fashion.
"If you really do have the passion for this industry, [Canada's Next Top Model] can catapult you into a huge career," declares Manuel. "And with that added support of those that helped get you there, you will be a huge success, and that's what I believe."
"Let's not just produce a show for just Canada because I think it's insulting as a Canadian myself," he says. "We can compete. [Canada's Next Top Model] really demonstrates that there is amazing talent here. Basically, I highlighted this many times throughout the show."
Manuel says he is "in the business of managing the esthetic," meaning he travels the world, judging and sculpting other's beauty and doing make-up for the world's most sought-after superstars. He also designed the sets and runway that will become home to the judges and talent in the second season of Canada's Next Top Model, debuting Wednesday, May 30 on Citytv. And his sharp yet insightful commentary as a judge on series originator America's Next Top Model has increased his reputation as a man not afraid to say exactly what's on his mind, be it infuriating or flattering.
In an industry full of so much deception, his blunt honestly is a beautiful thing. Manuel has been a fashion industry globe-trotter for more than a decade. Yet, he decided to split his time between good friend Tyra Banks' America's Next Top Model and the Canadian equivalent, primarily because of his ever-increasing faith in Canada's diverse modelling talents. When asked if he believes Toronto has what it takes to be the next Milan or Paris, he asserts we are already a world-class fashion city, populated with world-class women.
"Linda Evangelista, Shalom Harlow, Jessica Stam -- I can keep going. All of these names, these supermodels, come from Canada, but get claimed by the international world of fashion," says Manuel.
Beauty fades and sensations change, but primetime TV hasn't abandoned the Canadian fashion contingent as yet. Season 2 of Canada's Next Top Model has already been sold into the international market. (To be fair, the Next Top Model series has been repeatedly picked up in 17 other countries as well, including Israel, Nigeria and the Philippines.) But Canada's hidden influence on the fashion industry extends beyond the beauty on the catwalk.
Manuel praises Fashion Television host Jeanne Beker as "one of the most respected fashion journalists in the industry right now." He insists Canada should shed its notorious inferiority complex and stand tall and proud.
"This is the resource for a lot of the majors in this industry, so take us seriously."
Other beautiful subjects he takes seriously are the A-list celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez, Kim Cattrall, Iman and David Bowie, who he's done photo shoots with. Though he is not given carte blanche when coming up with ideas to apply to his subjects, Manuel enjoys the balancing act of compromise.
"I get a lot more creative control when it comes to editorials and things that are creative, but when it comes down to a person's brand, you can bring your personal spin, but you really need to keep the essence of that personal brand intact. And I think that's why I've been able to be so successful," says Manuel.
Essence magazine has praised Manuel for being "known for an airbrush technique that gives his clients a next-to-nothing look," perfect for making a supermodel stand out while still having her embellished beauty seem subtle.
And, yes, beauty sometimes is only skin deep. But for those tabloid readers who believe everything that is written about the angry outbursts of Naomi Campbell or the cocaine addictions of Kate Moss, Manuel advises them to take what they read with a grain of skeptical salt.
"The majority [of supermodels] go home at the end of the day and live their life. I don't know why people have painted this picture. There are certain stories that can support this negative stereotype, but for the most part, they are not like that," he explains, adding not even the notorious Campbell is a diva. "You know what the funny thing is? I've worked with Naomi and everyone thinks she's just this strong, bitchy person. You know, Naomi is actually insecure. She's very sweet. I can't speak for the fact that she does crazy things, but who she is as a person is not what people portray her as."
So, for every vapid, shallow, hedonistic diva throwing a temper tantrum and refusing to sashay down catwalk because her favorite frappucino isn't the right temperature, many more models are simply attractive individuals living like the proverbial "girl next door." Maybe more Canadian supermodels need to achieve worldwide fame our infamous humility might change a few perceptions about "the supermodel attitude."
Manuel's own beauty seems rooted in his self-confidence, an essential ingredient for sustained success in the fashion industry. With his virtually perfect complexion, he doesn't look a day over 21. His physique looks like he could be a Calvin Klein underwear model, if he chose to switch positions. And even though his image seems like it might require hours of preparation, it never takes him very long in the morning to achieve the look of the legendary "Jay Manual brand."
"I get up, I shower, you know, what have you," he explains. "Even my hair, people wonder, 'Is it a big deal?' It takes three minutes. It's gel, no brush, run my hands through, spike it up, throw some hairspray on it, and then I blow-dry it for a second and that's it."
Yet as easy as it is for him to create his look, he points out that it's increasingly difficult to alter it as his status in the industry increases.
"Now it's part of the brand, and certain jobs are in place where they say I can't even change it back!"
Manuel and his trademark frosted tips have also cropped up at worked at dozens of important functions and he's well known to fashionistas and fans alike. He was the official fashion correspondent for E! Network at the Emmy Awards, the Golden Globe Awards, the Grammy Awards and the Academy Awards. He also recently hosted the annual Fashion Cares Gala, Canada's biggest AIDS awareness fundraiser. This year's event featured Dita Von Teese, Kelly Rowland, Mya and Bedouin Soundclash, among others. His work with Fashion Cares helps him stay grounded as a fashion icon, a job that can offer a variety of hedonistic, flamboyant diversions.
Canada's globally recognized Gay Pride Day is one of the many manifestations of our country's diverse examples of aesthetic appreciation. And in regards to the seriousness of the continuing AIDS epidemic, its connection to the gay community and communities beyond, Manuel stays very involved in charity events, possibly inspired by his father, who is a doctor. He's also hopeful of a cure.
"I have faith in the medical community, because people didn't even think we could get here in five or 10 years" he says. "It's not this serious kinda 'let's all mourn' thing. It's not about that. Let's be happy about where we are, and where we're going to go."
Remaining balanced in such an extreme industry is a daunting task, but Manuel has consistently succeeded at it. There may be a dichotomy, even outright hypocrisy, at play with many aspects of fashion industry, but Manuel concentrates on the task at hand, produces professional results, and, ultimately, doesn't take it all too seriously.
"Fashion is fun. You can change it. You can wear something crazy one day and be in a boardroom suit the next. That's the amazing thing about it," he says.
Diversity and beauty promoted by a multicultural man. How very Canadian. He practices what he preaches, and between his humanitarian efforts and his entertaining television-hosting efforts, Manuel seems like the perfect candidate to continue building Canada's connection to the international world of fashion.
"If you really do have the passion for this industry, [Canada's Next Top Model] can catapult you into a huge career," declares Manuel. "And with that added support of those that helped get you there, you will be a huge success, and that's what I believe."
Here's hoping reality TV's summer lineup features plenty of sweet bitterness
With every winner, comes a loser. And this week, reality TV was all about both.
We saw Olympic medalist Apolo Anton Ohno and his partner Julianne Hough waltz away with the cheesy disco ball trophy on Dancing With the Stars; Jordin Sparks steal the American Idol crown and Tessa Horst win bachelor Andy Baldwin's heart.
But the real fun came from watching the losers have their dreams crushed on TV.
Take, for example, Laila Ali, who was booted off Dancing With the Stars in third place. Instead of faking happiness for the final two pairs, she provided reality fans with an actual real moment.
"Of course, I'm pissed. I mean, come on," she said, before adding it didn't matter who won now that she'd been cut from the competition.
Another great moment came when Bevin Powers was flat out rejected on The Bachelor. Believing she was a shoo-in from the first episode, she was clearly shocked by the breakup, saying nothing as Baldwin, bursting into tears, tried to explain his decision.
Blake Lewis, who lost Idol, was not as entertaining. In fact, he actually looked happy for Sparks, which made for a rather boring ending to television's most-popular show.
Let's just hope all the contestants on this summer's slough of reality shows are not as well-behaved:
Pirate Master (premieres Thursday on CBS): From the mind of Mark Burnett, Pirate Master is Survivor on a 179-foot ship. Over 33 days, 16 contestants will travel around the Caribbean in search of hidden treasure. Each week, one pirate will become the captain of the ship and one will be "cut adrift."
On the Lot (premiered last Tuesday on Fox): Burnett and Steven Spielberg are searching for the next great filmmaker. This week it was all about the pitch -- selling yourself and your movie to a bunch of uptight execs. While it was fun to watch, it seemed a bit unfair to crush the hopes of filmmakers just because they get a little white-faced in front of crowds.
Canadian Idol (premieres June 5 on CTV): Zack, Sass, Jake, Farley and Ben are back for a fifth season. Basically American Idol with Canadian contestants who, this year, are allowed to play instruments. Let's hope it brings out musicians instead of just the teeny-boppers.
Canada's Next Top Model (premieres May 30 on City-TV): Jay Manuel of America's Next Top Model is taking over the Canadian version as the new Tyra Banks. Other than that, and a few changes on the judging panel, it's pretty much the same show as last year.
So You Think You Can Dance 3 (premiered last Thursday on Fox): It's back. After two incredibly successful seasons, SYTYCD is on the hunt for the next Benji Schwimmer. And with all the talented dancers out there, this summer's cast is sure to strut right into the hearts of reality TV fans to become the next big thing.
Last Comic Standing 5 (premieres June 13 on NBC): In hopes of appealing to a broader audience, Comic has opened the competition to comedians from around the world and thrown in a $250,000 US grand prize. The winner will also receive an NBC talent contract and Bravo half-hour comedy special.
The Next Best Thing (premieres Wednesday on ABC): Do we really need to find the country's best celebrity impersonators? Apparently we do. So, ABC has gone on a search for all those people who bare an uncanny resemblance to movie stars, singing sensations and Paris Hiltons past and present.
Hell's Kitchen 3 (premieres June 4 on Fox): Foul-mouthed British chef Gordon Ramsay will torment a new crop of cooks as they fight it out in the kitchen to win the head chef job at the luxurious Green Valley Ranch Resort in Las Vegas.
Fast Cars & Superstars -- Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race (premieres June 7 on ABC): A dozen celebrity drivers, including Jewel, Tony Hawk and William Shatner, partner with the Gillette Young Guns to learn how to live life in the really fast lane.
American Inventor 2 (premieres June 6 on ABC): Does anyone even know what happened to last year's winner? Has anyone ever seen, or bought, that rotatable baby car seat? Regardless, ABC felt it necessary to, once again, search for America's next great inventor.
Age of Love (premieres June 18 on NBC): Tennis pro Mark Philippoussis will date seven women in their 20s -- the "Kittens" -- and seven women in their 40s -- the "Cougars." Then he'll have to decide if age really matters when looking for love, which, of course, it does.
Shaq's Big Challenge (premieres June 26 on ABC): Shaquille O'Neal will help transform six obese American middle-schoolers into healthy kids in this weigh-loss series. Predictably, there will be a lot of moaning, tears and broccoli. Yuck.
America's Got Talent 2 (premieres June 5 on NBC): NBC is bringing in Dancing With the Stars' standout Jerry Springer as the new Regis Philbin and crazy Sharon Osbourne as the older and more-opinionated Brandy. David Hasselhoff will also be back. Don't expect much from the acts on stage.
Big Brother 8 (premieres July 5 on CBS): A new group of house guests will move in together for the summer. The one who can outlast all the rest will walk away with $500,000 and exactly 15 minutes of fame.
We saw Olympic medalist Apolo Anton Ohno and his partner Julianne Hough waltz away with the cheesy disco ball trophy on Dancing With the Stars; Jordin Sparks steal the American Idol crown and Tessa Horst win bachelor Andy Baldwin's heart.
But the real fun came from watching the losers have their dreams crushed on TV.
Take, for example, Laila Ali, who was booted off Dancing With the Stars in third place. Instead of faking happiness for the final two pairs, she provided reality fans with an actual real moment.
"Of course, I'm pissed. I mean, come on," she said, before adding it didn't matter who won now that she'd been cut from the competition.
Another great moment came when Bevin Powers was flat out rejected on The Bachelor. Believing she was a shoo-in from the first episode, she was clearly shocked by the breakup, saying nothing as Baldwin, bursting into tears, tried to explain his decision.
Blake Lewis, who lost Idol, was not as entertaining. In fact, he actually looked happy for Sparks, which made for a rather boring ending to television's most-popular show.
Let's just hope all the contestants on this summer's slough of reality shows are not as well-behaved:
Pirate Master (premieres Thursday on CBS): From the mind of Mark Burnett, Pirate Master is Survivor on a 179-foot ship. Over 33 days, 16 contestants will travel around the Caribbean in search of hidden treasure. Each week, one pirate will become the captain of the ship and one will be "cut adrift."
On the Lot (premiered last Tuesday on Fox): Burnett and Steven Spielberg are searching for the next great filmmaker. This week it was all about the pitch -- selling yourself and your movie to a bunch of uptight execs. While it was fun to watch, it seemed a bit unfair to crush the hopes of filmmakers just because they get a little white-faced in front of crowds.
Canadian Idol (premieres June 5 on CTV): Zack, Sass, Jake, Farley and Ben are back for a fifth season. Basically American Idol with Canadian contestants who, this year, are allowed to play instruments. Let's hope it brings out musicians instead of just the teeny-boppers.
Canada's Next Top Model (premieres May 30 on City-TV): Jay Manuel of America's Next Top Model is taking over the Canadian version as the new Tyra Banks. Other than that, and a few changes on the judging panel, it's pretty much the same show as last year.
So You Think You Can Dance 3 (premiered last Thursday on Fox): It's back. After two incredibly successful seasons, SYTYCD is on the hunt for the next Benji Schwimmer. And with all the talented dancers out there, this summer's cast is sure to strut right into the hearts of reality TV fans to become the next big thing.
Last Comic Standing 5 (premieres June 13 on NBC): In hopes of appealing to a broader audience, Comic has opened the competition to comedians from around the world and thrown in a $250,000 US grand prize. The winner will also receive an NBC talent contract and Bravo half-hour comedy special.
The Next Best Thing (premieres Wednesday on ABC): Do we really need to find the country's best celebrity impersonators? Apparently we do. So, ABC has gone on a search for all those people who bare an uncanny resemblance to movie stars, singing sensations and Paris Hiltons past and present.
Hell's Kitchen 3 (premieres June 4 on Fox): Foul-mouthed British chef Gordon Ramsay will torment a new crop of cooks as they fight it out in the kitchen to win the head chef job at the luxurious Green Valley Ranch Resort in Las Vegas.
Fast Cars & Superstars -- Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race (premieres June 7 on ABC): A dozen celebrity drivers, including Jewel, Tony Hawk and William Shatner, partner with the Gillette Young Guns to learn how to live life in the really fast lane.
American Inventor 2 (premieres June 6 on ABC): Does anyone even know what happened to last year's winner? Has anyone ever seen, or bought, that rotatable baby car seat? Regardless, ABC felt it necessary to, once again, search for America's next great inventor.
Age of Love (premieres June 18 on NBC): Tennis pro Mark Philippoussis will date seven women in their 20s -- the "Kittens" -- and seven women in their 40s -- the "Cougars." Then he'll have to decide if age really matters when looking for love, which, of course, it does.
Shaq's Big Challenge (premieres June 26 on ABC): Shaquille O'Neal will help transform six obese American middle-schoolers into healthy kids in this weigh-loss series. Predictably, there will be a lot of moaning, tears and broccoli. Yuck.
America's Got Talent 2 (premieres June 5 on NBC): NBC is bringing in Dancing With the Stars' standout Jerry Springer as the new Regis Philbin and crazy Sharon Osbourne as the older and more-opinionated Brandy. David Hasselhoff will also be back. Don't expect much from the acts on stage.
Big Brother 8 (premieres July 5 on CBS): A new group of house guests will move in together for the summer. The one who can outlast all the rest will walk away with $500,000 and exactly 15 minutes of fame.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Canada's next top ego
When I was flipping channels the other day , a familiar-looking head of platinum spikes caught my attention.
Canada's Next Top Model host Jay Manuel was shilling some sort of eyebrow-shaping product on the Home Shopping Network.
The Toronto native is everywhere these days. He's hanging with Miss Tyra over on America's Next Top Model, and now he's taken over for Battlestar Galactica robo-babe Tricia Helfer as the host of season two of Canada's Next Top Model. (Don't call it the Canadian version of America's Next Top Model; Jay gets a little pissy).
Sure, there are a dozen or so hot young Kate Moss wannabes striking a pose on the newest CNTM poster. But they're just window dressing behind Manuel, front and centre, jaw set, cheeks sucked in and dressed like a Spider-villain in a skin-tight black outfight that looks like the tread of my Adidas sneakers.
Jay Manuel has become a brand. He refers to the Jay brand several times when we meet for an interview across the street from the CHUM building.
"One of the things I teach the girls is that there's Jay the brand and then there's Jay you don't want it to over-inflate who you are." Riiiight.
At this point you're wondering one of two things: Who the hell cares about Jay Manuel? Or what does he look like you know, in person?
On the first count, turns out a lot of people care, if the ratings for these runway showdowns are any indication.
As for how he looks pretty much the same as on TV and billboards, except shorter. He's like the less cartoonish, less plastic love child of Bart Simpson and a Barbie doll.
Jay would make a great drag queen, I think, as our conversation follows its light and fluffy path.
About maintaining his anonymity: "I have a lot of baseball caps."
About his hair: "It's part of that brand of that person. It's written into my contracts that I can't change that."
About Tyra Banks's habit of wearing pirate-style headscarves and at one point a wig that looked like David Bowie's in Labyrinth: "We all know what Tyra can do and how she can look, and if she's not having her best day, well, unfortunately, she's doing it in front of millions of people."
About recent ANTM contender Jael: "I didn't get it. Did I enjoy Jael? She was fun, but a model? Naw."
But therein lies the problem with the Next Top Model shows. While real models need to have a certain tabula rasa quality they are merely clothes hangers for the designers, after all the women cast in these shows need to have strong personalities or the runoff would be duller than Fashion Television.
"There's a little bit of a mixed message there," Manuel admits, "but true top models and supermodels are muses. Especially today they're expected to be superwomen spokesmodels, runway models and role models."
Which is why when it comes to casting (and make no mistake, these shows are cast just like any sitcom or drama), hundreds, sometimes thousands of potential clothes hangers are screened to find just the right mix. "Not that we think we need two alpha girls so they clash," Manuel says.
Perhaps the biggest criticism levelled at the model shows (and ANTM in particular) is that unlike American Idol, which has produced actual pop stars, they've come up with nothing resembling an actual supermodel.
"Where's our Kelly Clarkson? Yeah, it's a comment I've heard a few times," says Manuel.
"With ANTM, beyond the show there isn't the support to help the winner grow beyond the brand. With Canada's Next Top Model, it's a very different energy.
"The winner will be getting a great prize but also will have my commitment to manage her beyond the show, and both [judge] Jeanne Beker and I will use our contacts to help grow this talent."
And if there's anyone who knows how to grow a brand, it's Jay Manuel.
Canada's Next Top Model host Jay Manuel was shilling some sort of eyebrow-shaping product on the Home Shopping Network.
The Toronto native is everywhere these days. He's hanging with Miss Tyra over on America's Next Top Model, and now he's taken over for Battlestar Galactica robo-babe Tricia Helfer as the host of season two of Canada's Next Top Model. (Don't call it the Canadian version of America's Next Top Model; Jay gets a little pissy).
Sure, there are a dozen or so hot young Kate Moss wannabes striking a pose on the newest CNTM poster. But they're just window dressing behind Manuel, front and centre, jaw set, cheeks sucked in and dressed like a Spider-villain in a skin-tight black outfight that looks like the tread of my Adidas sneakers.
Jay Manuel has become a brand. He refers to the Jay brand several times when we meet for an interview across the street from the CHUM building.
"One of the things I teach the girls is that there's Jay the brand and then there's Jay you don't want it to over-inflate who you are." Riiiight.
At this point you're wondering one of two things: Who the hell cares about Jay Manuel? Or what does he look like you know, in person?
On the first count, turns out a lot of people care, if the ratings for these runway showdowns are any indication.
As for how he looks pretty much the same as on TV and billboards, except shorter. He's like the less cartoonish, less plastic love child of Bart Simpson and a Barbie doll.
Jay would make a great drag queen, I think, as our conversation follows its light and fluffy path.
About maintaining his anonymity: "I have a lot of baseball caps."
About his hair: "It's part of that brand of that person. It's written into my contracts that I can't change that."
About Tyra Banks's habit of wearing pirate-style headscarves and at one point a wig that looked like David Bowie's in Labyrinth: "We all know what Tyra can do and how she can look, and if she's not having her best day, well, unfortunately, she's doing it in front of millions of people."
About recent ANTM contender Jael: "I didn't get it. Did I enjoy Jael? She was fun, but a model? Naw."
But therein lies the problem with the Next Top Model shows. While real models need to have a certain tabula rasa quality they are merely clothes hangers for the designers, after all the women cast in these shows need to have strong personalities or the runoff would be duller than Fashion Television.
"There's a little bit of a mixed message there," Manuel admits, "but true top models and supermodels are muses. Especially today they're expected to be superwomen spokesmodels, runway models and role models."
Which is why when it comes to casting (and make no mistake, these shows are cast just like any sitcom or drama), hundreds, sometimes thousands of potential clothes hangers are screened to find just the right mix. "Not that we think we need two alpha girls so they clash," Manuel says.
Perhaps the biggest criticism levelled at the model shows (and ANTM in particular) is that unlike American Idol, which has produced actual pop stars, they've come up with nothing resembling an actual supermodel.
"Where's our Kelly Clarkson? Yeah, it's a comment I've heard a few times," says Manuel.
"With ANTM, beyond the show there isn't the support to help the winner grow beyond the brand. With Canada's Next Top Model, it's a very different energy.
"The winner will be getting a great prize but also will have my commitment to manage her beyond the show, and both [judge] Jeanne Beker and I will use our contacts to help grow this talent."
And if there's anyone who knows how to grow a brand, it's Jay Manuel.
Exclusive Interview: America's Next Top Model Winner, Jaslene Gonzalez
Jaslene Gonzalez is undoubtedly very proud to be the first Latina to become America’s Next Top Model. BuddyTV had the chance to chat with Jaslene in an exclusive one-on-one interview yesterday to about her experience. As you might expect, she didn’t hold back and made some pretty bold statements about both herself and some of the other competitors.
Top 5 queer Asian-American women in entertainment and media
May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which provides a perfect opportunity to give a shout out to the queer Asian-American women who have been out both in front of the camera and behind it, giving a much-needed face to the queer Asian-American community.
5. Alice Wu
The Stanford-educated computer scientist-turned-filmmaker burst onto the queer scene in 2004 with her debut feature film, Saving Face, about a Chinese-American medical student, Wil (Michelle Krusiec), who falls for a dancer, Vivian (Lynn Chen). The film, which began as a wholly independent feature from an unknown and previously untested director, went on to be picked up for distribution by Sony Pictures Classics, making it the first theatrically released film about an Asian-American lesbian.
Wu is currently working on her second feature film, Paramount's Foreign Babes in Beijing, an adaptation of Rachel DeWoskin's memoir about a 21-year-old poetry major who goes to China to work for an American PR firm, then tries out for an acting job on a whim and becomes an overnight success on a Chinese soap.
4. Nisha Ganatra
The out Indian-American director and actor's first feature-length film, Chutney Popcorn (1999) earned both critical and popular acclaim, taking home audience awards at both Outfest and Frameline that year. The New York Times' Stephen Holden wrote: "The story of an Indian-American lesbian who impulsively decides to have a baby for her married, infertile older sister carries off the tricky feat of being wisecracking one minute and serious the next while staying true to its characters and sustaining a jovial easygoing tone. Here is one comedy that actually earns its mostly happy ending."
Ganatra went on to direct Cosmopolitan (2003), a PBS film about an Indian-American family and starring Purva Bedi, who was recently cast in the upcoming When Kiran Met Karen, as well as the romantic comedy Cake (2005), starring Heather Graham (Gray Matters). She hasn't been idle since then, either. Look for her in Margaret Cho's Bam Bam and Celeste this summer, and in the upcoming Don't Go, a TV series debuting at Outfest this July.
3. Jenny Shimizu
Shimizu first gained our attention back in the early '90s when she became the face of Calvin Klein's unisex One cologne, but she really made headlines when her brief relationship with Angelina Jolie in the mid-'90s (the two met on the set of the film Foxfire) became public knowledge. After the Jolie affair, Shimizu dropped out of sight for awhile, but the motorcycle-riding, tattooed model-turned-actor began to test the Hollywood waters again a couple of years ago.
She appeared on an episode of America's Next Top Model, dealt with even more rumors about her love life (this time involving Madonna), floated a reality series on the now-defunct Q Television Network, and recently played the part of Laurel in POWER UP's first feature-length film, Itty Bitty Titty Committee. Last month, here! announced that Shimizu had been cast in Season 3 of its supernatural soap, Dante's Cove, so we can be sure to see more of her in the future. (Or watch this video of her talking about motorcycles and girls on our Video Picks page now.)
2. Margaret Cho
The outspoken comedian has always been one to lay it on the line, being open about everything from her relationship with her mother to her feelings about racism and her sexual experiences with women. In 1994, Cho was also the first Asian-American actor to carry her own prime-time show, the short-lived sitcom All American Girl. Its cancellation sent her into an alcoholic depression, but she turned that experience into the nationally touring, hilarious 1999 performance, I'm the One That I Want.
After that rousing success, Cho went on to produce two more national one-woman shows, Notorious C.H.O. (2002) and the politically charged CHO Revolution (2004). In 2005, Cho wrote, produced and acted in the feature film Bam Bam and Celeste, which hits theaters (and will be available on DVD) later this summer.
1. Helen Zia
Journalist Helen Zia has been reporting on the Asian-American community and feminism for decades (she is a former executive editor of Ms. magazine). Though pressure from feminist and Asian-American groups in the 1970s kept her closeted during the early years of her career, Zia has long since been an openly lesbian activist and writer, covering stories on date rape, women in neo-Nazi organizations and homophobia. Her work in the civil-rights case that arose after the murder of Vincent Chin was documented in the Academy Award-nominated film Who Killed Vincent Chin?
In 2000, Zia's book Asian American Dreams: The Emergence of an American People was a finalist for the prestigious Kiriyama Pacific Rim Book Prize, and in 2001 she co-wrote with Wen Ho Lee My Country Versus Me: The First-Hand Account by the Los Alamos Scientist Who Was Falsely Accused of Being a Spy. These days, Zia is an active part of the marriage equality movement, and married her partner, Lia Shigemura, in 2004 in San Francisco.
5. Alice Wu
The Stanford-educated computer scientist-turned-filmmaker burst onto the queer scene in 2004 with her debut feature film, Saving Face, about a Chinese-American medical student, Wil (Michelle Krusiec), who falls for a dancer, Vivian (Lynn Chen). The film, which began as a wholly independent feature from an unknown and previously untested director, went on to be picked up for distribution by Sony Pictures Classics, making it the first theatrically released film about an Asian-American lesbian.
Wu is currently working on her second feature film, Paramount's Foreign Babes in Beijing, an adaptation of Rachel DeWoskin's memoir about a 21-year-old poetry major who goes to China to work for an American PR firm, then tries out for an acting job on a whim and becomes an overnight success on a Chinese soap.
4. Nisha Ganatra
The out Indian-American director and actor's first feature-length film, Chutney Popcorn (1999) earned both critical and popular acclaim, taking home audience awards at both Outfest and Frameline that year. The New York Times' Stephen Holden wrote: "The story of an Indian-American lesbian who impulsively decides to have a baby for her married, infertile older sister carries off the tricky feat of being wisecracking one minute and serious the next while staying true to its characters and sustaining a jovial easygoing tone. Here is one comedy that actually earns its mostly happy ending."
Ganatra went on to direct Cosmopolitan (2003), a PBS film about an Indian-American family and starring Purva Bedi, who was recently cast in the upcoming When Kiran Met Karen, as well as the romantic comedy Cake (2005), starring Heather Graham (Gray Matters). She hasn't been idle since then, either. Look for her in Margaret Cho's Bam Bam and Celeste this summer, and in the upcoming Don't Go, a TV series debuting at Outfest this July.
3. Jenny Shimizu
Shimizu first gained our attention back in the early '90s when she became the face of Calvin Klein's unisex One cologne, but she really made headlines when her brief relationship with Angelina Jolie in the mid-'90s (the two met on the set of the film Foxfire) became public knowledge. After the Jolie affair, Shimizu dropped out of sight for awhile, but the motorcycle-riding, tattooed model-turned-actor began to test the Hollywood waters again a couple of years ago.
She appeared on an episode of America's Next Top Model, dealt with even more rumors about her love life (this time involving Madonna), floated a reality series on the now-defunct Q Television Network, and recently played the part of Laurel in POWER UP's first feature-length film, Itty Bitty Titty Committee. Last month, here! announced that Shimizu had been cast in Season 3 of its supernatural soap, Dante's Cove, so we can be sure to see more of her in the future. (Or watch this video of her talking about motorcycles and girls on our Video Picks page now.)
2. Margaret Cho
The outspoken comedian has always been one to lay it on the line, being open about everything from her relationship with her mother to her feelings about racism and her sexual experiences with women. In 1994, Cho was also the first Asian-American actor to carry her own prime-time show, the short-lived sitcom All American Girl. Its cancellation sent her into an alcoholic depression, but she turned that experience into the nationally touring, hilarious 1999 performance, I'm the One That I Want.
After that rousing success, Cho went on to produce two more national one-woman shows, Notorious C.H.O. (2002) and the politically charged CHO Revolution (2004). In 2005, Cho wrote, produced and acted in the feature film Bam Bam and Celeste, which hits theaters (and will be available on DVD) later this summer.
1. Helen Zia
Journalist Helen Zia has been reporting on the Asian-American community and feminism for decades (she is a former executive editor of Ms. magazine). Though pressure from feminist and Asian-American groups in the 1970s kept her closeted during the early years of her career, Zia has long since been an openly lesbian activist and writer, covering stories on date rape, women in neo-Nazi organizations and homophobia. Her work in the civil-rights case that arose after the murder of Vincent Chin was documented in the Academy Award-nominated film Who Killed Vincent Chin?
In 2000, Zia's book Asian American Dreams: The Emergence of an American People was a finalist for the prestigious Kiriyama Pacific Rim Book Prize, and in 2001 she co-wrote with Wen Ho Lee My Country Versus Me: The First-Hand Account by the Los Alamos Scientist Who Was Falsely Accused of Being a Spy. These days, Zia is an active part of the marriage equality movement, and married her partner, Lia Shigemura, in 2004 in San Francisco.
It's the Janice Knicker-son show
Maybe she's trying to drum up some business for her new show - for what other reason could there be for the Janice Dickinson knicker flashing episode.
Former model Miss Dickinson, best known for being a judge on reality show America's Next Top Model, was seen leaving a restaurant wearing a white dress, which she unceremoniously hoiked up to display her brief lacy panties.
A tipsy looking Dickinson walked to a waiting car with the skirt of dress pulled right up to her waist, and definitely caught the eye of waiting photographers.
She might have a fine pair of pins for a fifty-three year old, but it's hardly ladylike behaviour for the New York native and self-proclaimed 'first supermodel' whose former boyfriends include Mick Jagger, Warren Beatty, Liam Neeson and Sylvester Stallone.
Dickinson, who was replaced as a judge on America's Next Top Model by sixties icon Twiggy, has her own reality TV show on Living TV.
In 'Abbey and Janice, Beauty and the Best', she mentors footballer Peter Crouch's model girlfriend Abbey Clancy, who is hoping to make it big in the States.
She said: "Abbey is the type of person you want to get your hands on because Abbey can ride with the punches. She's a tomboy, she's clever - I think she's going to be a very gifted actress."
Her flash follows a bizarre appearance on Jonathan Ross last week - where at one point the chat-show host lay prostate as the once super model straddled him.
And indiscreet Dickinson told Ross that Jagger had a 'little willy', and Stallone didn't fare much better as she hinted the Rocky star was similarly challenged: "Big, buff, but down there, mmm mmm."
Loud-mouthed Dickinson caused mayhem during her guest appearance flirting with Ross, sitting on his knee and draping herself across the table, she said: "I didn't come over here to have tea with you baby.
"How's the missus? Are you happy? I have plans for you young man."
When a flustered Ross asked: "Would you like to have intercourse with me?" She replied: "Yes."
The 53-year-old also revealed how she looks so young for her age. She said: "Everything about me is fake and I'm perfect. Fake tits, fake teeth, fake hair, fake nails, I'm perfect."
CW's America's Next Top Model Winner Signs as CoverGirl Model
HUNT VALLEY, Md., May 22 /PRNewswire/ -- CoverGirl is proud to welcome
"CW's America's Next Top Model" cycle 8 winner, Jaslene Gonzalez, into the
CoverGirl family. Jaslene, the first ever Latina to win the competition,
received a $100,000 CoverGirl cosmetics contract under which she will
appear in a print ad for CoverGirl TruShine Lipcolor, a year's
representation by Elite Model Management and a cover and six-page spread in
Seventeen magazine.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070522/NYTU029 )
"Jaslene's lively zest for life was evident on "America's Next Top
Model," said Esi Eggleston Bracey, Vice President and General Manager,
CoverGirl Cosmetics in North America. "Jaslene Gonzalez's hard work and
determination is inspiring to all women, and her inner and outer beauty
make her an excellent choice to represent CoverGirl."
Jaslene, a 21 year old Chicago native of Puerto Rican heritage, proved
to be a viewer favorite during the season, as evidenced by her being voted
CoverGirl of the Week. Her ability to master the runway and captivate the
cameras convinced judges she was worthy of the CoverGirl model contract.
Jaslene's unwavering drive to win fueled her through the competition.
Her confidence showed viewers and judges alike that she's more than a
pretty face. Jaslene's charisma, determination and energetic spirit
garnered high praise for her photos and will continue to leverage her as a
role model for Latina women world-wide.
"It means so much to me to be working with a cosmetics company that
celebrates the diverse look of women in this country," said Jaslene. "As a
Latina, I am proud to represent CoverGirl and follow in the footsteps of
beautiful Latinas like Yamilla Diaz-Rahi, Inez Rivera, Elsa Benitez, and
Amelia Vega."
Since its introduction in 1961, CoverGirl has helped numerous modeling
careers and was one of the first brands to link models' names and faces
with a product. CoverGirl is known for signing models that embody both
inner and outer beauty, and the long list of famous CoverGirl models
include Queen Latifah, Christie Brinkley, Drew Barrymore, Rihanna, Tyra
Banks, Patricia Velasquez, Molly Sims, and Amelia Vega.
Visit http://www.covergirl.com for more information on CoverGirl's family of
models and makeup or to chat LIVE with a beauty consultant that can answer
questions on an array of beauty topics and provide make-up suggestions. P&G
Beauty products help make beauty dreams real and grooming enjoyable
everyday for millions of women and men worldwide. With more than 100 brands
available in nearly 130 countries, P&G Beauty delivered sales of more than
$21 billion in fiscal year 2005/06, making it a leading global beauty
company. P&G Beauty offers trusted brands with leading technology to meet
the full complement of beauty and grooming needs: Pantene(R), Olay(R), Head
and Shoulders(R), Max Factor(R), Cover Girl(R), Always(R), Sassoon
Professional(R), Wellaflex(R), Rejoice(R), Sebastian Professional(R),
Herbal Essences(R), Koleston(R), Clairol Professional(R), Nice 'n Easy(R),
Venus(R), Gillette(R), SK-II(R), Wella Professionals(R), Joy(R) by Jean
Patou, Rochas(R), Escada(R), Hugo Boss(R) and Lacoste(R) fragrances. Please
visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G
Beauty and its brands.
"America's Next Top Model" is produced by 10 by 10 Entertainment, in
association with Bankable Productions. Tyra Banks is the creator and
executive producer along with Ken Mok ("Making the Band") and Anthony
Dominici ("The Amazing Race").
"CW's America's Next Top Model" cycle 8 winner, Jaslene Gonzalez, into the
CoverGirl family. Jaslene, the first ever Latina to win the competition,
received a $100,000 CoverGirl cosmetics contract under which she will
appear in a print ad for CoverGirl TruShine Lipcolor, a year's
representation by Elite Model Management and a cover and six-page spread in
Seventeen magazine.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070522/NYTU029 )
"Jaslene's lively zest for life was evident on "America's Next Top
Model," said Esi Eggleston Bracey, Vice President and General Manager,
CoverGirl Cosmetics in North America. "Jaslene Gonzalez's hard work and
determination is inspiring to all women, and her inner and outer beauty
make her an excellent choice to represent CoverGirl."
Jaslene, a 21 year old Chicago native of Puerto Rican heritage, proved
to be a viewer favorite during the season, as evidenced by her being voted
CoverGirl of the Week. Her ability to master the runway and captivate the
cameras convinced judges she was worthy of the CoverGirl model contract.
Jaslene's unwavering drive to win fueled her through the competition.
Her confidence showed viewers and judges alike that she's more than a
pretty face. Jaslene's charisma, determination and energetic spirit
garnered high praise for her photos and will continue to leverage her as a
role model for Latina women world-wide.
"It means so much to me to be working with a cosmetics company that
celebrates the diverse look of women in this country," said Jaslene. "As a
Latina, I am proud to represent CoverGirl and follow in the footsteps of
beautiful Latinas like Yamilla Diaz-Rahi, Inez Rivera, Elsa Benitez, and
Amelia Vega."
Since its introduction in 1961, CoverGirl has helped numerous modeling
careers and was one of the first brands to link models' names and faces
with a product. CoverGirl is known for signing models that embody both
inner and outer beauty, and the long list of famous CoverGirl models
include Queen Latifah, Christie Brinkley, Drew Barrymore, Rihanna, Tyra
Banks, Patricia Velasquez, Molly Sims, and Amelia Vega.
Visit http://www.covergirl.com for more information on CoverGirl's family of
models and makeup or to chat LIVE with a beauty consultant that can answer
questions on an array of beauty topics and provide make-up suggestions. P&G
Beauty products help make beauty dreams real and grooming enjoyable
everyday for millions of women and men worldwide. With more than 100 brands
available in nearly 130 countries, P&G Beauty delivered sales of more than
$21 billion in fiscal year 2005/06, making it a leading global beauty
company. P&G Beauty offers trusted brands with leading technology to meet
the full complement of beauty and grooming needs: Pantene(R), Olay(R), Head
and Shoulders(R), Max Factor(R), Cover Girl(R), Always(R), Sassoon
Professional(R), Wellaflex(R), Rejoice(R), Sebastian Professional(R),
Herbal Essences(R), Koleston(R), Clairol Professional(R), Nice 'n Easy(R),
Venus(R), Gillette(R), SK-II(R), Wella Professionals(R), Joy(R) by Jean
Patou, Rochas(R), Escada(R), Hugo Boss(R) and Lacoste(R) fragrances. Please
visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G
Beauty and its brands.
"America's Next Top Model" is produced by 10 by 10 Entertainment, in
association with Bankable Productions. Tyra Banks is the creator and
executive producer along with Ken Mok ("Making the Band") and Anthony
Dominici ("The Amazing Race").
America's Next Top Model Recap:
Okay, so last week was a recap episode but during my brief hiatus I almost saw Tyra Banks get killed. I was watching Halloween: Resurrection and if you’ve never heard of it, it’s because Tyra Banks is in it. And if you saw it and forgot it, it’s because her death scene was cut. Here's a screen shot of that missing scene.
Back to the show. The girls are still in Australia and we know this only because the producers add unnecessary shots of koalas and kangaroos. Tyra Mail! There’s more to go-see than Kangaroos and Koalas. Sure, Australia is also known for… Crocodile Dundee! And….Crocodile Dundee II! And….that third one also. Anyways, if you didn’t get it from the clue, it’s go-see time. The girls meet with Jodhi, a model and new host of Australia’s Next Top Model and Priscilla Leighton-Clark, who owns a modeling agency. And how to describe them? Jodhi looks like the fun, pretty girl at the bar every guy drools over. And Priscilla is…. her fat plain friend who sits at the bar eating fried mozzarella sticks and jock-blocking every guy in who tries to talk to Jodhi. Yeah I get bitter and mean-spirited after recap shows, I’ll admit it. But seriously my analogy fits pretty well. Jodhi and Priscilla give the girls the go-see information and tell them they have to be back by 4:30pm or they will be disqualified.
And they’re off. It’s pretty much a mixed bag. Jaslene is calm, cool and collected and rocks pretty much every go-see she gos and sees. Renee is good and plays it off well. Dionne uses the go-sees as an excuse to scam every ounce of clothing she can and keeps asking the agents if she can keep the clothing. Natasha does a good job and keeps her energy level up. Brittany is a scattered mess, cannot read addresses (short term memory issues perhaps?) and is pretty much set-up to be this week’s disaster. After all, there’s always one. And it is her turn. It's only fair.
After the go-sees, Dionne, Renee and Jaslene make it back in time. Natasha is one minute late (damn) and misses it but accepts her disqualification with grace. Brittany comes last, blames her cab driver and has a complete meltdown on the front porch of the agency, crying, screaming and I swear if she still had her weave on, she’d be pulling it out. It’s pretty embarrassing as the rest of the girls can hear it from inside. The girls all got good feedback (with the exception of Brittany) and Jaslene wins the contest! Yeah Jaslene! My chica diva is back! She chooses Dionne as her friend and they get to have their pictures taken off the top of the Sydney Harbor Bridge by Nigel Barker. It’s a perfect opportunity for Jaslene to push Dionne off and eliminate some of the competition, but cooler heads prevail and the photos look awesome. Still it would have been cool. Yeah, I’m still fuming over the lack of a Tyra death scene. But I'm making up my own version. And it's pretty gruesome. Still Fun!
Thumbs Up
Back at the house, Tyra Mail! Men are from Mars, Woman are from Venus, so what the hell am I still doing in Albuquerque? Okay, I may have misquoted. My mind’s still a little fuzzy from the recap hiatus, or perhaps the strange blue pill I found behind the 7-11. No matter, the girls are taken to the beach where they will be shot twice. Bang Bang! And they get to wear sexy swimwear and even sexier men. Yeah! The first photos will be taken by Tyra (who’s not giving up that head scarf) and will be a romantic woman’s magazine shot.. The second photo will be taken by…some guy, and will be slightly sexier (men’s magazine). So it’s kind of like Woman’s Day meets Maxim. Which is so like my life. At the shoots, the girls all do pretty well. Brittany is good in both shots but looks nervous. Dionne looks pissed off. Tyra complains about Jaslene at first but she warms up and her second shot is pretty good. Natasha is all over her man in the second shot but she’s been sleeping with a 40 year old Texas geek named Stuart so I say kudos to her! Renee is growing on me and does pretty good in both shots.
Tyra Mail! Someone’s going down under. Can’t ya hear, can’t ya hear the thunder (yeah I really needed to get at least one more Australian reference in there). At eliminations, Tyra is not wearing a do-rag but is wearing extensions that make me long for her to wear one. She also is wearing false eyelashes which have appeared to eaten her entire face and that would make an AWESOME death scene. And I’m a writer for hire! Call me horror movie directors! Guest judge is fat best friend Priscilla Leighton-Clark.
First up is Brittany, who was disqualified and she cries, which as we all know is elimination panel death. Tyra tells her that not one of the agencies would book her. Bummer. However, both her photos are rocking awesome and I think they’re the best of the bunch. Tyra helpfully points out that Brittany is not sexy in real life and that “guys don’t understand your type of beauty.” Face it, no matter how you feel about Brittany, you wouldn’t mind seeing Michael Myers tear apart Tyra after a statement like that. Natasha, not surprisingly, looks great in both shots and continues to grow in the competition. Jaslene rocks both of the photos. Yeah chica! Dionne has a “mean face” in both her photos and had to be directed as to how to move. Again. Why is she still here? Renee is getting much better and looks great in both her photos but Tyra, who previously told her she was too harsh, says she’s on the verge of being “too soft and sweet”. Huh? Renee’s not my favorite but no one deserves this. Go Michael!
At deliberations, Dionne’s photo is called the weakest and it should be all over right? I mean, shouldn’t a model have to take great photos? Let’s face it, Naomi Campbell ain’t being booked on her sparkling personality. Just ask her assistants. If they’re still alive. So I figure this is all over. Dionne goes home. I sit back with a cold one. Everyone’s happy. Right?
Elimination time! First up is Jaslene, then Natasha, then predictably Renee, and it’s down to Dionne, who has yet to take a good picture, and Brittany who has yet to take a bad picture. And they choose Dionne to go home, everything’s right with the world and I casually open my Fosters and take a good sip secure in the knowledge that the judges made another great decision.
No, instead it is Brittany! Brittany who goes home cause she had a bad day while Dionne is free to stick around, take another lousy picture and bitch about everyone in the house. Damn! If I had a weave (and who’s to say I don’t) I’d totally pull it out right now. Yes, our little moppy redhead great picture taking girl is sent off and I must say she leaves with a great deal of grace and restraint. Don’t worry Britt. You can still have the timeless long-running career of one Paul Hogan, beloved Australian and star of Crocodile Dundee. And Crocodile Dundee 2. And.... oh bloody hell, just try to keep your original hair and teeth okay?
Next week! The girls destroy Aborigine culture! Renee talks trash! Natasha gets sick! Brittany, if allowed to stay, would have taken another kick-ass picture!
Back to the show. The girls are still in Australia and we know this only because the producers add unnecessary shots of koalas and kangaroos. Tyra Mail! There’s more to go-see than Kangaroos and Koalas. Sure, Australia is also known for… Crocodile Dundee! And….Crocodile Dundee II! And….that third one also. Anyways, if you didn’t get it from the clue, it’s go-see time. The girls meet with Jodhi, a model and new host of Australia’s Next Top Model and Priscilla Leighton-Clark, who owns a modeling agency. And how to describe them? Jodhi looks like the fun, pretty girl at the bar every guy drools over. And Priscilla is…. her fat plain friend who sits at the bar eating fried mozzarella sticks and jock-blocking every guy in who tries to talk to Jodhi. Yeah I get bitter and mean-spirited after recap shows, I’ll admit it. But seriously my analogy fits pretty well. Jodhi and Priscilla give the girls the go-see information and tell them they have to be back by 4:30pm or they will be disqualified.
And they’re off. It’s pretty much a mixed bag. Jaslene is calm, cool and collected and rocks pretty much every go-see she gos and sees. Renee is good and plays it off well. Dionne uses the go-sees as an excuse to scam every ounce of clothing she can and keeps asking the agents if she can keep the clothing. Natasha does a good job and keeps her energy level up. Brittany is a scattered mess, cannot read addresses (short term memory issues perhaps?) and is pretty much set-up to be this week’s disaster. After all, there’s always one. And it is her turn. It's only fair.
After the go-sees, Dionne, Renee and Jaslene make it back in time. Natasha is one minute late (damn) and misses it but accepts her disqualification with grace. Brittany comes last, blames her cab driver and has a complete meltdown on the front porch of the agency, crying, screaming and I swear if she still had her weave on, she’d be pulling it out. It’s pretty embarrassing as the rest of the girls can hear it from inside. The girls all got good feedback (with the exception of Brittany) and Jaslene wins the contest! Yeah Jaslene! My chica diva is back! She chooses Dionne as her friend and they get to have their pictures taken off the top of the Sydney Harbor Bridge by Nigel Barker. It’s a perfect opportunity for Jaslene to push Dionne off and eliminate some of the competition, but cooler heads prevail and the photos look awesome. Still it would have been cool. Yeah, I’m still fuming over the lack of a Tyra death scene. But I'm making up my own version. And it's pretty gruesome. Still Fun!
Thumbs Up
Back at the house, Tyra Mail! Men are from Mars, Woman are from Venus, so what the hell am I still doing in Albuquerque? Okay, I may have misquoted. My mind’s still a little fuzzy from the recap hiatus, or perhaps the strange blue pill I found behind the 7-11. No matter, the girls are taken to the beach where they will be shot twice. Bang Bang! And they get to wear sexy swimwear and even sexier men. Yeah! The first photos will be taken by Tyra (who’s not giving up that head scarf) and will be a romantic woman’s magazine shot.. The second photo will be taken by…some guy, and will be slightly sexier (men’s magazine). So it’s kind of like Woman’s Day meets Maxim. Which is so like my life. At the shoots, the girls all do pretty well. Brittany is good in both shots but looks nervous. Dionne looks pissed off. Tyra complains about Jaslene at first but she warms up and her second shot is pretty good. Natasha is all over her man in the second shot but she’s been sleeping with a 40 year old Texas geek named Stuart so I say kudos to her! Renee is growing on me and does pretty good in both shots.
Tyra Mail! Someone’s going down under. Can’t ya hear, can’t ya hear the thunder (yeah I really needed to get at least one more Australian reference in there). At eliminations, Tyra is not wearing a do-rag but is wearing extensions that make me long for her to wear one. She also is wearing false eyelashes which have appeared to eaten her entire face and that would make an AWESOME death scene. And I’m a writer for hire! Call me horror movie directors! Guest judge is fat best friend Priscilla Leighton-Clark.
First up is Brittany, who was disqualified and she cries, which as we all know is elimination panel death. Tyra tells her that not one of the agencies would book her. Bummer. However, both her photos are rocking awesome and I think they’re the best of the bunch. Tyra helpfully points out that Brittany is not sexy in real life and that “guys don’t understand your type of beauty.” Face it, no matter how you feel about Brittany, you wouldn’t mind seeing Michael Myers tear apart Tyra after a statement like that. Natasha, not surprisingly, looks great in both shots and continues to grow in the competition. Jaslene rocks both of the photos. Yeah chica! Dionne has a “mean face” in both her photos and had to be directed as to how to move. Again. Why is she still here? Renee is getting much better and looks great in both her photos but Tyra, who previously told her she was too harsh, says she’s on the verge of being “too soft and sweet”. Huh? Renee’s not my favorite but no one deserves this. Go Michael!
At deliberations, Dionne’s photo is called the weakest and it should be all over right? I mean, shouldn’t a model have to take great photos? Let’s face it, Naomi Campbell ain’t being booked on her sparkling personality. Just ask her assistants. If they’re still alive. So I figure this is all over. Dionne goes home. I sit back with a cold one. Everyone’s happy. Right?
Elimination time! First up is Jaslene, then Natasha, then predictably Renee, and it’s down to Dionne, who has yet to take a good picture, and Brittany who has yet to take a bad picture. And they choose Dionne to go home, everything’s right with the world and I casually open my Fosters and take a good sip secure in the knowledge that the judges made another great decision.
No, instead it is Brittany! Brittany who goes home cause she had a bad day while Dionne is free to stick around, take another lousy picture and bitch about everyone in the house. Damn! If I had a weave (and who’s to say I don’t) I’d totally pull it out right now. Yes, our little moppy redhead great picture taking girl is sent off and I must say she leaves with a great deal of grace and restraint. Don’t worry Britt. You can still have the timeless long-running career of one Paul Hogan, beloved Australian and star of Crocodile Dundee. And Crocodile Dundee 2. And.... oh bloody hell, just try to keep your original hair and teeth okay?
Next week! The girls destroy Aborigine culture! Renee talks trash! Natasha gets sick! Brittany, if allowed to stay, would have taken another kick-ass picture!
G-Rated Sexpot: Beyonce's elegant 'pinup' quality to help sell new Armani perfume
WASHINGTON - In choosing Beyonce Knowles to represent his new fragrance, Emporio Armani Diamonds, designer Giorgio Armani embraced an entertainer who has capitalized on the art of being an all-American pinup.
The majority of modern female pop stars who rely on sex appeal to build their careers - as well as whatever talent might be at their disposal - tend to focus on either a Lolita-esque licentiousness or an attitude of carefully modulated raunch. But Beyonce has mostly followed a different path. She combines her formidable talent with a feline sex appeal that is reminiscent of such old-fashioned pinups as Raquel Welch, Ann-Margret and Farrah Fawcett, but updated for a contemporary audience.
During her Destiny’s Child period, Beyonce and her co-stars were as neatly groomed and tightly coordinated as a Motown girl group. Once she began her solo career, she memorably performed on Today wearing a dress that would have been at home at a garden party and that prompted host Katie Couric to remark on how wholesome the singer seemed. Now 25, she has gone on to favor form-fitting dresses, ball gowns and minidresses, most of which are no more provocative than what one might see on a Miss America stage. And when she has worn a dress with a dramatically low-cut neckline, she never appears to be in danger of falling out of it. At her most spangled, Beyonce projects showgirl style. And what is a showgirl but the hardest-working version of a pinup?
There have been moments when Beyonce’s videos and her dancing have been beyond erotic. But she has avoided any meltdowns, scandalous behavior or tawdry fashion moments - or at least none have been caught by the cameras. She has not married willy-nilly, shaved her head or been hauled off to rehab to be treated for “exhaustion.”
To a great degree, Beyonce has kept the most enticing details of her personal life to herself. A pinup should not encourage familiarity, just exude glossy perfection. And the only people who radiate perfection are those about whom little is known.
Beyonce is unique in that she is among the rare black women who have been able to pull off this trick across racial lines and one of the few pop stars who have been able to sustain it. It looked as if she might be losing her polished sheen when she made the hyperkinetic dance video for “Deja Vu” in which her face got awfully close to Jay-Z’s crotch. Her fans took such offense that they launched an online petition to have the video reshot. And then along came Dreamgirls and Beyonce’s skillful, hollow perfection was all over the big screen.
The model Tyra Banks has managed an accomplishment similar to Beyonce’s. She traded in the high-fashion world - with its intimations of drug use, mind games and catty behavior - for a polka-dot bikini on the cover of Sports Illustrated and a pair of angel wings in Victoria’s Secret commercials. She honed her image as the sweet-faced model with the Barbie-doll figure.
But once she became a TV mogul, Banks began chipping away at that persona, transforming herself into tough-love Tyra on America’s Next Top Model, and tell-all Tyra on her talk show. Pinups do not get mammograms on TV to prove to the audience that their breasts are real. A pinup would coyly keep her fan club guessing.
Armani has worked with Beyonce before, notably last year when she performed during the presentation of his Emporio collection in London. Emporio Armani, which is a younger, more trend-driven collection than the designer’s signature brand, has a long history of working with musicians, from the Fugees to John Legend. Beyonce also has a history of fronting fragrances. In 2004 she helped launch True Star, a Tommy Hilfiger scent, and a year later promoted True Star Gold. (Emporio Armani Diamonds is expected to be in stores in September.)
Hilfiger’s brand exploits multicultural Americana, as well as its close relationship with popular music. Armani sells a philosophy of glamour and elegant good taste.
Beyonce is the rare pop star who fits into both categories. She’s the sexpot a boy could bring home to Mama.
Jordin is your winner
HOLLYWOOD - Glendale's idol is now America's. Jordin Sparks won the American Idol crown Wednesday in a record vote totaling 74 million.
At 17, she is the youngest contestant and first Arizonan to take the honor, a title that has turned unknown singers into Grammy winners and music-chart toppers.
Sparks bested the Seattle area's Blake Lewis in a finale show that was expected to top 30 million viewers.
"I gave it my all, and I left it all out there," Sparks had said after Tuesday's final competition show.
Sparks was 11 years old when she watched the show's first season and saw her favorite winner, Kelly Clarkson, set the Idol precedent.
Since then, she constantly talked about auditioning for the show, according to family and friends.
"When I was 16, I didn't care about getting my driver's license. All I thought was that I had to get ready for American Idol," she said in an earlier episode of the show.
After turning 16, she attended her first Idol audition, in Los Angeles. Show producers originally rejected her. She went to a second audition in Seattle in November and made it onto the program.
At Wednesday's results show, seeing Sparks' goal finally fulfilled, her uncle Matt Wiedmann and childhood best friend, Damon Mays, 16, of Glendale, stood on the edge of the Kodak Theatre's fourth-floor balcony and hugged each other when host Ryan Seacrest read her name.
"Oh, my God . . . I keep thinking to myself, 'It's just Jordin,' " Mays said.
As soon as newly crowned Sparks began a repeat of This Is My Now, a tune she also sang Tuesday, Wiedmann and Mays muscled their way through security down to the huge, confetti-strewn arena's pit area.
There, Sparks' brother, P.J., mother, Jodi, and former professional football player father, Phillippi, stood celebrating.
Shortly afterward, they rushed backstage, where they were welcomed and congratulated by Idol producer Simon Fuller. Family and friends stood by, waiting for Sparks to emerge from a dressing room before heading off to the show's afterparty.
Before the show, more than 3,000 fans gathered to watch celebrities like Smokey Robinson, Teri Hatcher and others walk the red carpet.
Other stars, including Gladys Knight, Bette Midler and Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry, performed live during the show.
"This is completely changing Jordin's life," said close family friend J. David Sloan, who owned Mr. Lucky's, a Valley nightspot where a younger Sparks often won singing contests. "She's on her way to stardom."
In the midst of Wednesday's show, Sony BMG President Clive Davis told the audience, "There's a drama about discovering talent that rises to the top."
Davis pointed out the Idol franchise's success stories. He presented Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood with a special award for selling more than 6 million records and acknowledged Season 5 cast-off Chris Daughtry and his new band for selling 2.5 million records in less than a year.
"I think we're seeing a turning point now in American Idol, where getting on the show may be enough to start a career," said Erik Gunther, senior editor of the Yahoo Buzz index.
Sparks received star treatment right down to her threads, wearing three gowns designed for her by fashion house Badgley Mischka.
Couture designer Mark Badgley said on the red carpet that the former plus-size model's figure flatters.
"Her proportions are nice to work with. She's tall, statuesque and has a nice silhouette. . . . Her size doesn't matter," he said. "It's her confidence."
In Glendale, the weekly rally at Westgate City Center drew a huge crowd that cheered with signs and pompoms each time Sparks appeared on the Jumbotron screens.
After Sparks won, Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs said, "This is just so wonderful - for Jordin and for Glendale."
Fans Brandi Phillips, 17, and Erika Jeffries, 14, found out Sparks won an hour before it was announced in Arizona.
"I'm so happy for her because she has showed the world that young people have a lot of talent," said Phillips, of Glendale. "She'll be really famous, and she won't let the fame go to her head."
Next, Sparks will complete a round of TV spots, likely with Jay Leno, Ellen DeGeneres and David Letterman.
Fox TV publicists said her schedule is not yet determined.
Family members said Sparks gets only two weeks to spend at home in Glendale before revving up for the Idol concert tour, which starts this summer.
After Tuesday's performance, Sparks had said of coming home that she is most excited to "sleep in my own bed, play with my dogs and sit and read books."
At 17, she is the youngest contestant and first Arizonan to take the honor, a title that has turned unknown singers into Grammy winners and music-chart toppers.
Sparks bested the Seattle area's Blake Lewis in a finale show that was expected to top 30 million viewers.
"I gave it my all, and I left it all out there," Sparks had said after Tuesday's final competition show.
Sparks was 11 years old when she watched the show's first season and saw her favorite winner, Kelly Clarkson, set the Idol precedent.
Since then, she constantly talked about auditioning for the show, according to family and friends.
"When I was 16, I didn't care about getting my driver's license. All I thought was that I had to get ready for American Idol," she said in an earlier episode of the show.
After turning 16, she attended her first Idol audition, in Los Angeles. Show producers originally rejected her. She went to a second audition in Seattle in November and made it onto the program.
At Wednesday's results show, seeing Sparks' goal finally fulfilled, her uncle Matt Wiedmann and childhood best friend, Damon Mays, 16, of Glendale, stood on the edge of the Kodak Theatre's fourth-floor balcony and hugged each other when host Ryan Seacrest read her name.
"Oh, my God . . . I keep thinking to myself, 'It's just Jordin,' " Mays said.
As soon as newly crowned Sparks began a repeat of This Is My Now, a tune she also sang Tuesday, Wiedmann and Mays muscled their way through security down to the huge, confetti-strewn arena's pit area.
There, Sparks' brother, P.J., mother, Jodi, and former professional football player father, Phillippi, stood celebrating.
Shortly afterward, they rushed backstage, where they were welcomed and congratulated by Idol producer Simon Fuller. Family and friends stood by, waiting for Sparks to emerge from a dressing room before heading off to the show's afterparty.
Before the show, more than 3,000 fans gathered to watch celebrities like Smokey Robinson, Teri Hatcher and others walk the red carpet.
Other stars, including Gladys Knight, Bette Midler and Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry, performed live during the show.
"This is completely changing Jordin's life," said close family friend J. David Sloan, who owned Mr. Lucky's, a Valley nightspot where a younger Sparks often won singing contests. "She's on her way to stardom."
In the midst of Wednesday's show, Sony BMG President Clive Davis told the audience, "There's a drama about discovering talent that rises to the top."
Davis pointed out the Idol franchise's success stories. He presented Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood with a special award for selling more than 6 million records and acknowledged Season 5 cast-off Chris Daughtry and his new band for selling 2.5 million records in less than a year.
"I think we're seeing a turning point now in American Idol, where getting on the show may be enough to start a career," said Erik Gunther, senior editor of the Yahoo Buzz index.
Sparks received star treatment right down to her threads, wearing three gowns designed for her by fashion house Badgley Mischka.
Couture designer Mark Badgley said on the red carpet that the former plus-size model's figure flatters.
"Her proportions are nice to work with. She's tall, statuesque and has a nice silhouette. . . . Her size doesn't matter," he said. "It's her confidence."
In Glendale, the weekly rally at Westgate City Center drew a huge crowd that cheered with signs and pompoms each time Sparks appeared on the Jumbotron screens.
After Sparks won, Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs said, "This is just so wonderful - for Jordin and for Glendale."
Fans Brandi Phillips, 17, and Erika Jeffries, 14, found out Sparks won an hour before it was announced in Arizona.
"I'm so happy for her because she has showed the world that young people have a lot of talent," said Phillips, of Glendale. "She'll be really famous, and she won't let the fame go to her head."
Next, Sparks will complete a round of TV spots, likely with Jay Leno, Ellen DeGeneres and David Letterman.
Fox TV publicists said her schedule is not yet determined.
Family members said Sparks gets only two weeks to spend at home in Glendale before revving up for the Idol concert tour, which starts this summer.
After Tuesday's performance, Sparks had said of coming home that she is most excited to "sleep in my own bed, play with my dogs and sit and read books."
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