Tyra Banks

All posts tagged Tyra Banks

Judge Tyra Banks: Miss U or Missed U?

Posted by Norman on December 22, 2014
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks. Tagged: , , , .

Supermodel, Reality TV Mogul and Bestselling Author Tyra Banks is said to be another judge of the 63rd Miss Universe

Supermodel, Reality TV Mogul and Bestselling Author Tyra Banks is said to be another judge of the 63rd Miss Universe

wpid-wp-1419089357906.jpeg The list of judges for the 63rd Miss Universe is slowly increasing in number and what a line-up it could be if we are to follow the celebrity wattage of Manny Pacquiao and now, Tyra Banks.

The fierce catwalk diva behind the uber successful America’s Next Top Model will most likely be looking for a modelesque delegate with the right attitude to werk it. While she will definitely be making adjustments in the assessment of the ladies, there’ll always be certain factors she’ll stick to no matter what.

So what say you, dear readers? Could Tyra’s inclusion be good or otherwise for MJ Lastimosa? šŸ˜‰

Top Model Philippines on ABS-CBN

Posted by Norman on May 31, 2014
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , , .

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Top Model Philippines will be hosted by Anne Curtis

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The older version of Philippines Next Top Model back in 2007 hosted by Ruffa Gutierrez

And since we are in the subject of Asia’s Next Top Model in the previous post, allow me to herald the big return of Top Model Philippines on local TV via ABS-CBN. While there was already a previous local adaptation back in 2007 (Philippines Next Top Model won by Grendel Alvarado) on the now defunct RPN-9 and a supposed second adaptation (but altogether cancelled before auditions) of Top Model Philippines on the ETC cable channel last 2012, this will be a totally fresh take on the reality model search that has made Tyra Banks a global name. Trust the network to inject its own innovations that might even surprise the original American host and creator of the same.

Audition dates and venues have yet to be finalized, but I will blog them as soon as all the details are provided. But one thing is for sure. Anne Curtis will be the host (actually, I would have preferred a taller lady like Bea Alonzo, but oh well…) and this should keep her away from doing all those sold-out concerts at the Araneta Coliseum in the meantime. šŸ˜‰

Sunday Specials: Make Me Up Part 2

Posted by Norman on July 28, 2013
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks. Tagged: , , , .

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More Hollywood Celebrities without and with make-up (Photos supplied by Chrome)

In a way, beauty queens are just like celebrities in that they constantly need to be made-up before stepping out of the shadows and exposing their faces to the press and paparazzis.

Just look at the plain-faced Pamela Sue Anderson above and you will conclude that her cosmetic make-over is so major that, without the enhancements, she could pass off as a worn-down mother of six who couldn’t care less if she would look like one while shopping at the nearest dollar store.

Among the four above, Tyra Banks surprised me the least because she has not really been that alienating when it comes to making quick public appearances wearing the lightest of make-up. And she is the one whose looks are not drastically different from each other. Unlike Beyonce who will not strike anyone as Goddess-like when dressed without glitters and wearing a plain beanie hat.

To be continued…

Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1: Season Finale Update…..Jessica wins!

Posted by Norman on February 18, 2013
Posted in: 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , .

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Asia's Next Top Model Cycle 1 Winner Jessica Amornkuldilok of Thailand

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Stephanie (L) and Kate in their Harper's Bazaar Singapore cover shoot.

The Grand Finals of Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1 ended on a high note with the anticipated victory of Thailand’s Jessica Amornkuldilok.

The season’s last show started with the final 3 models – Jessica, Kate and Stephanie – preparing to leave Hong Kong. On their return to Singapore, they found themselves staying in a smaller house (with only two bedrooms) at the Capella. Jessica quickly cornered the single room for herself, which left Kate and Stephanie sharing the master bedroom. It started to dawn on the new roommates that the Thai is slowly distancing herself, and admitted that she doesn’t want to help anyone anymore with her tricks.

The girls were each given a Canon Ixus camera and a long English script to practice and memorize. The challenge was to shoot a commercial for the digicam brand. Everyone took it seriously. And the following morning, it was host Nadya who took the task of directing the same. At a back room, mentor Joey Mead King met up with the girls’ surprise guests – Jessica’s boyfriend Joe, Stephanie’s Korean boyfriend Kim and Kate’s handsome brother Inan.

So back to the TVC shoot. Stephanie gave the best 15-seconder. Her better English diction, smiling eyes and easy vibe helped in doing so. The two others also delivered, but they had a relatively hard time delivering the lines clearly. At any rate, getting some quality time with their loved ones after the test upped their confidence and morale big time.

On to the next challenge. The Harper Bazaar’s cover girl photoshoot. This is Stephanie’s Achilles heel and Jessica’s territory. Kate slid in the middle and pumped up her sexiness even more.

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Tyra Banks (L) with host Nadya during the final runway challenge.

And for the one final challenge – a runway show at Resorts World Sentosa in a venue surrounded by a gigantic aquarium. The top 3 wore designs by Singaporean Frederick Lee. Additional models were former ANTM US vs UK winner Sophie Sumner, plus three of Singapore’s popular models and six of the previously eliminated contestants including Sofia, Aastha, Helena, Filantropi, Trang and Kyla. And of course, the presence of Tyra Banks made everything even more special.

Stephanie aced the runway. Kate did okay, but her challenging pieces prevented an impressive catwalk. But it was Jessica who always knew how to shine. She gave the most dramatic glide among the three.

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The top 3 (left to right) - Stephanie, Kate and Jessica - during their final judging.

Judging time came. It may sound anti-climactic but everyone knew that Jessica will be announced winner. At one point, guest judge Tyra Banks served as devil’s advocate and questioned the chances of the already 27 year-old Thai to start a modeling career in her late 20s. It even sounded that she wants Stephanie to win because the Filipina is more current in looks and moves. She also made it clear that Kate is a lock for 3rd among the trio, and even baptized the Taiwanese-Brazilian the ‘Kate Upton’ of Asia.

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A weeping Jessica after she was named winner.

In the end, and after a crying monologue from Jessica detailing why it took her this long to embark on an international modeling portfolio, she was declared Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1 winner. Hugs and kisses and tears overflowed.

Good luck, Jessica! And take good care of this excellent opportunity now in your hands. Kate! I will never forget your crazy personality. And Stephanie, you obviously placed runner-up. It may not be the top spot, but it will definitely open doors for you, as has been happening the past couple of months where you had to keep mum about the results.

Done! Looking forward to Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 2. Fingers tightly crossed for that! šŸ˜€

Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1: Week #12 Update…Hong Kong, here they come!

Posted by Norman on February 11, 2013
Posted in: 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , .

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The remaining ladies (l-r Kate, Jessica, Stephanie and Sofia) were overjoyed upon learning that they will all be going to Hong Kong!

In this week’s episode of Asia’s Next Top Model, the four remaining ladies were given a welcome surprise – a trip to Hong Kong! But it won’t be just a leisurely dimsum-filled sightseeing visit to one of the most exciting cities in the region. On the contrary, the challenges awaiting the contenders were anything but relaxing.

Go see (no pun intended). šŸ˜‰

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The models were billeted at The Mira, one of HK's coolest design hotels.

Upon arriving in Hong Kong, the girls headed straight to check-in at The Mira, a fab expensive hotel right on busy Nathan Road. They occupied one of the biggest suites. Having won the last best photo, Jessica was rewarded with spa treatments, which left Sofia and Stephanie enjoying the jacuzzi and a sulking Kate (she was too sensitive to comments about her oft annoying ways) taking a bubble bath alone.

The next morning, Host Nadya dropped by with celebrity model Cara Grogan to introduce the next challenge – casting/go-sees. As a group, the quartet headed to five stops, as follows:

1) Shanghai Tang for runway…Stephanie was booked.
2) Starz People casting for a foaming wash commercial…Jessica and Kate were booked.
3) Coty for Fragrance campaign…Jessica was booked.
4) Dream Nation for runway…Stephanie and Jessica were booked.
5) Cocomojo Bags for print…Kate was booked.

Sofia had zero booking. Jessica had three so she won a 2-night stay at the Mira. And so as to ease the day-long stress, Nadya brought all four on a Chinese boat ride around the Hong Kong harbor and spent some bonding time with everyone.

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Nadya took all four girls aboard a Chinese tour boat that circled the Hong Kong harbour.

The main photoshoot challenge the following day had a theme of 1920s Screen Goddesses. Wearing imperial-inspired designs by Shanghai Tang, all four were shot amidst the buzzing streets of Central District. Jessica commanded attention, but was too immersed in her internalization that half of her shots were wasted because she didn’t focus on the camera clicks that were less audible in public. Stephanie was visibly nervous during hers, perhaps due to the added pressure of not having won Best Photo yet. Sofia was at her awkward worst. It didn’t help that her gown was a bit unsettling for her long frame. Meanwhile, Kate was nailing shot after shot, but had to hold on to a pole to control her constantly moving hands.

During judging time, somebody broke Jessica’s winning streak. Kate, for a fresh change, gave the Best Photo. She automatically qualifies for the Grand Finale next week. Runner-up was Jessica and she will join Kate in the Top 3. Bottom two were Stephanie and Sofia. What can I say? The Filipina really has nine lives! Once more, she avoided elimination at the expense of Sofia, and becomes the third contender for the finals.

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Who will win Asia's Next Top Model Cycle 1 in next week's finale?

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Tyra Banks guests in the finale.

Next week is the big night for Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1 where one among Jessica, Kate and Stephanie will be declared winner by no less than Tyra Banks herself. You wouldn’t want to miss that, even as Jessica is showing signs of giving in to pressure when she needed to be at her absolute best. Will she cave in to her weakness on the runway and allow Stephanie to shine at what the latter does best?

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Only three girls remain, who will come out on top?

Watch the finals on February 17, only on Star World at 8:55pm. šŸ˜‰

P.S. Apologies for the absence of the Best Photo. The producers failed to upload the same on time.

Just how far did Stephanie Retuya make it in Asia’s Next Top Model?

Posted by Norman on January 17, 2013
Posted in: 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , .

The Philippines' Stephanie Retuya is one of the six (6) remaining contenders in Asia's Next Top Model Cycle 1.

The Philippines’ Stephanie Retuya is one of the six (6) remaining contenders in Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1.

All sorts of spoilers have flooded the net on the final results of Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1 on Star World, foremost of which was the information posted in Wikipedia (already removed by now) stating that Helena Chan of Hong Kong topped the competition. But then again, there are earlier (alleged) leaks (supported by a photo and an alleged albeit already vanished video) showing that Jessica Amornkuldilok of Thailand and Stephanie Retuya of the Philippines made it as the Top 2 finalists with our own bet being declared as winner (with ANTM’s Tyra Banks even hugging her).

What to believe in? Well, if you ask me, I would rather ignore them and continue watching the program till the end. Besides, it’s our way of showing support to the models, the hosts/mentors (Nadya Hutagalung, Joey Mead King, Daniel Boey & Todd Anthony Tyler), the producers and the cable network (or your own country’s official free-tv airing network). I’m sure the competition is going to heat up even more in the next few weeks when the remaining six ladies get trimmed down one after the other.

Keep on watching Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1 on Star World, Sunday nights at 8:55PM. šŸ˜‰

Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1: Week #1 Update

Posted by Norman on November 26, 2012
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , .

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Helena of Hongkong (left) won the 'Quirky' Photoshoot Challenge in the first episode of Asia's Next Top Model Cycle 1. Stephanie of the Philippines was named runner-up.

In the premiere telecast of Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1 last night on Star World, viewers got to meet the 14 wannabes up close and a little more personal. While the bubblier members of the group (like Kate of Taiwan, Monica of Thailand and Helena of Hongkong) benefited from longer airtime, there are those whose limited English skills still allowed them to get good exposure, most particularly Trang of Vietnam.

We also got to see host and head judge (and ex-MTV VJ) Nadya Hutagalung display her gorgeousness and sophistication on the small screen once more. She’s no Tyra Banks for sure, but let’s cut her some slack to ease that stilted image and delivery in future episodes. The counterpart of mentor Jay Ruiz in the original is Fil-Aussie Joey Mead who looks to have the work cut out for her.

Anyways, the initial baptism of fire for the girls happened right in the middle of Singapore’s Orchard Road where they had to walk the runway in an impromptu fashion show. This definitely rattled a few of the girls who had little to no modeling experience (like Melissa of Malaysia), and gave the relative professionals an edge (like Trang of Vietnam who was picked best in the activity).

As the ladies were introduced to their first photoshoot test, Judge and Photographer Todd Anthony Tyler brought them to Little India where they were asked to do “quirky” in all the shots. Wearing colorful creations by Singaporean designers Louis & Afton, they were each given an accessory to play with while being shot for ten minutes per model.

Many of them failed to impress Todd, Judge Daniel Boey and the designers, but four ladies delivered what was required – Rachel of India, Jessica of Thailand, Helena of Hongkong and Stephanie of the Philippines. It was an elimination challenge, so what followed was a deliberation among the judges on who gave the best photo/s, who should stay, and who should be sent packing home as the show’s dreaded first cut.

Helena of Hongkong was picked as winner (see picture above), with Stephanie of the Philippines as runner-up. Jessica of Thailand cried when she wasn’t called among the Top 2 (she thought she gave the best photo), but was immediately consoled by host Nadya. The rest of the ladies who will still continue in the competition were called one by one, until only the two worst performers remained – Melissa of Malaysia and Kyla of Singapore. Both were criticized by all the judges, but the Malaysian got the slight edge for her good attitude when she wouldn’t fit in her assigned dress and was mentioned as being a plus-size model. With a heavy heart, Kyla accepted her fate as the first casualty of Asia’s Next Top Model.

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Kyla Tan of Singapore was the first to be eliminated in Asia's Next Top Model.

Watch out for Episode #2 next Sunday at 8:55PM on Star World. šŸ˜‰

November 25 is the World Premiere of Asia’s Next Top Model on Star World!

Posted by Norman on November 4, 2012
Posted in: 2 Shout-out-Looks, 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , , .

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The Pan-Asian contestants of Asia's Next Top Model with host Nadya Hutagalung (in black) .

Asia’s Next Top Model (AsiaNTM) with host Nadya Hutagalung

Don’t forget to tune in to Star World on November 25 because the Premiere of Asia’s Next Top Model will be on that date. Greenlighted (and fully supported/promoted) by Tyra Banks, the reality-cum-model search will have fourteen (14) contenders from all over the Asian region fighting to be #1 and in the process, win the prize package which includes cash and the all-important modeling contract with one of the most reputable agencies internationally.

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Stephanie Retuya is the Philippine entry to Asia's Next Top Model (Photo credit: Philippine Fashion Week)

Hosted by the lovely Nadya Hutagalung, the show will have the Philippines’ Joey Mead King serving as a secondary judge, and Stephanie Retuya as the country’s entry.

America’s Next Top Model (Cycle 15) winner Ann Ward: Too thin to win?

Posted by Norman on December 8, 2010
Posted in: 5 TV Tales. Tagged: , , , , .

America's Next Top Model (Cycle 15) winner Ann Ward

At 6'2", Ann Ward is reed-thin but blazingly unprecedented in the winners' roster of America's Next Top Model.

When Cycle 15 of Tyra Banks’s hit show started a couple of months back, I had my eyes fixated on another girl – week after week – in the Top 14. Jane Randall, that Ivy Leaguer from Baltimore was the one I thought could win it all. Up to the point when the Top 4 contenders (Jane, Kayla, Ann and Chelsea) were announced, I was still rooting for her. And then the biggest surprise happened. Jane and Jayla were booted in favor of Ann and Chelsea.

Jane Randall - my personal favorite from ANTM Cycle 15.

I must admit to being so disappointed that Jane was eliminated. From that point on, I transferred my gaze on Chelsea and never on Ann – a 6’2″ shy and gangly girl from Texas who won one challenge after another but never really floated my boat, so to speak. The prize package for the winner – including a much-desired cover on Vogue Italia – was just too grand. I never saw Ann as high fashion ingenue. But I’m no expert in analyzing fashion models so the judges must have seen something unique in her.

Ann will always be the thin and reserved girl who rarely get noticed inside the house but, according to the judges, get into ‘superpower’ mode in all the challenges. She had this scary look that needed to be overhauled big time. And everytime I noticed her arms, they were just so dangerously slim supporting her slouched head and shoulders. But when the competition was down to the Final 2, I may have finally seen what the rest of the world did – a highly unorthodox beauty who can capture your attention in an unusual way.

I find it hard to remove this image of Ann Ward in my head during the early parts of Cycle 15.

If you look at the image on the left, you will agree with me that Ann looked really scared and scary. But this was early on during Cycle 15 and some major corrections have already been put in place. Her thinness is not something worth emulating so there’s really no need for young American girls to go anorexic just to enter the show.

All I can say is….best of luck in your modeling career and let’s hope you won’t disappoint the people behind Vogue Italia. Comparing the image here and the big one on top, you’ve really gone a long way! šŸ˜‰