Nigel Barker Shares His Perspective on Tyra Banks Following ANTM Dismissal
Former America’s Next Top Model judge Nigel Barker is revealing more insights about the iconic reality series following the release of Netflix’s new docuseries.
“My personal experiences with the show have been overwhelmingly positive. I truly enjoyed my time there,” Barker, 53, shared during his appearance on “The Viall Files” podcast on Tuesday, February 17. “That said, like anyone, I was aware of the tough times some contestants faced.”
Barker acknowledged that he “wasn’t privy to the intricacies” of what contestants experienced during their time on the series.
“The judges were encouraged to remain impartial, so I had limited knowledge of what transpired beyond the photo shoots and judging sessions,” he elaborated, citing some “eye-opening” realizations he had while watching the Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model docuseries.
This three-part docuseries premiered on Netflix on Monday, February 16, featuring interviews with Barker.
During the podcast episode, Barker mentioned that he would “depart immediately after” filming, often deliberately, to avoid engaging in any gossip surrounding the behind-the-scenes activities.
Netflix’s Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model highlighted controversies, behind-the-scenes dramas, and more. What are some of the standout revelations? The three-part docuseries features rare interviews with executive producers Tyra Banks and Ken Mok, alongside former judges Jay Manuel, Miss J. Alexander, and Nigel Barker as they discuss […]
The photographer openly discussed Jay Manuel’s revelations in the docuseries and provided updates on his current relationship with Tyra Banks. Keep reading for the most significant moments from Barker’s appearance on “The Viall Files”:
Does Nigel Barker Still Communicate with Tyra Banks?
Barker disclosed that there are no hard feelings between him and Banks, despite his departure from ANTM in 2012.
“Tyra and I are still on good terms. While we don’t talk that often, we usually catch up once or twice a year at events and maintain a cordial relationship,” Barker noted, mentioning their occasional encounters.
“She tends to avoid confrontations, based on my experiences,” he said. “There were challenging moments, and when I left the show, I was definitely hurt. I felt it was not handled appropriately by the show.”
He added, “I’m resilient, and life goes on.”
How Did Nigel Barker React to Jay Manuel’s Revelations in the Docuseries?
Barker mentioned during the podcast that he was unaware of the challenges Manuel faced while on the ANTM set. (Manuel and Banks had a falling out after he chose to leave the show following season 8, but ultimately stayed until he was dismissed after cycle 18.)
“I genuinely didn’t realize how much he was struggling during the show, to be honest,” Barker explained. “As soon as I finished watching it, I called him and said, ‘Wow, Jay, I really wish I had understood what you were personally going through on the show.’ It’s interesting because I was aware of certain details, like when he wanted to exit the show, but I never understood why that was the case.”
Netflix’s America’s Next Top Model docuseries disclosed Tyra Banks’ current relationships with many former contestants who gave their honest opinions about the show. Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model, now streaming, showcases interviews with alums Whitney Thompson, Giselle Samson, Shannon Stewart, Shandi Sullivan, Danielle Evans, and Keenyah Hill, along with new confessions from executive producers […]
Barker clarified that Manuel was “very discreet” and aimed to “shield certain individuals on the show.”
How Were the ‘Best’ Photos Selected on ‘ANTM’?
Previously, Barker mentioned that often the best photographs weren’t chosen. He reiterated this during his podcast appearance, stating that Banks had the final say on the “best shot,” leaving photographers with minimal input.
“In my view, sometimes it wasn’t the top picture,” he asserted. “As a professional photographer, even when I shoot for a leading magazine, I don’t have the authority to pick which photos are published. Just last week, I shot a cover for a magazine and honestly believe a different image should have been selected for it.”
