Nigel Barker Talks About 'America's Next Top Model' Show and His Job

Nigel Barker, who was a judge on 'America's Next Top Model' for many years, is talking about the show. A new TV show is looking back at the modeling contest and what made it special. Barker also shares what he has done in his career since the show ended.
By Newsroom | Television, Fashion |

Nigel Barker, a familiar face from his nearly decade-long tenure as a judge and fashion photographer on "America's Next Top Model" (ANTM), is reflecting on the groundbreaking reality series. A new Netflix documentary, "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model," revisits the show's impact with input from former judges, producers, and contestants, eight years after its conclusion. Barker's insights into the show's unique approach to the fashion industry and his subsequent career ventures are central to the ongoing discussion about the program's cultural footprint.

‘Times are different now’: Nigel Barker on America’s Next Top Model - 1

Historical Context of "America's Next Top Model"

"America's Next Top Model," which aired for over a decade, aimed to discover and launch aspiring models. The show was known for its dramatic challenges, elaborate photoshoots, and the judges' critiques. Nigel Barker served as a key figure on the judging panel, offering his expertise as a photographer. The series concluded, and now, a documentary offers a look back at its production and effects.

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‘Times are different now’: Nigel Barker on America’s Next Top Model - 2

Barker's Reflections on the Show's Format

Barker has spoken about ANTM's distinctive style, contrasting it with contemporary television.

‘Times are different now’: Nigel Barker on America’s Next Top Model - 3

  • The show embraced "the most exciting, outrageous and avant-garde ideas."

  • Barker noted that the show's extravagant photoshoots often mirrored or pushed the boundaries of what happens in the actual fashion world.

  • He believes the show's authenticity, with its "highs and lows," made it compelling, suggesting that a repetitive format would not suffice.

Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes

The documentary and Barker's interviews have brought to light lesser-known aspects of the show's production.

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  • Barker shared a memory of judges not wearing pants during hot filming days, opting for a more comfortable attire beneath the desk.

  • This detail highlights some of the practical challenges and candid moments experienced off-camera during the show's run.

Post-ANTM Career Developments

Following his departure from "America's Next Top Model," Nigel Barker has continued to build upon his career in photography and expand into new areas.

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  • Photography: Barker has "doubled down" on his core profession, with his photographic work remaining a central aspect of his career.

  • Entrepreneurship: He has launched The Barker Company, a line of ready-to-drink cocktails.

  • Media Presence: Barker also hosts a podcast, further diversifying his professional activities.

Panelists' Experience with Departure

Reports suggest that some original panelists, including Barker and Jay Manuel, felt a sense of betrayal regarding how their exits from the show were managed.

  • Concerns were raised about the communication and handling of their departures by Tyra Banks and the network.

  • The timing and manner of these changes are described as not being "handled with grace."

Expert Commentary

While direct expert analysis from the provided text is limited, Barker's own statements provide insight into the show's impact and the nature of reality television. His reflections suggest a broader shift in the television landscape, where the unique, bold format of ANTM may be less common today.

Conclusion and Implications

The release of "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model" and Nigel Barker's continued engagement with the show's history underscore ANTM's enduring cultural relevance. Barker's reflections highlight the show's innovative approach to the fashion industry and the personal and professional journeys of those involved. His own career trajectory, marked by a sustained focus on photography and diversification into new ventures, illustrates a post-ANTM professional evolution. The documentary and Barker's participation provide an opportunity for audiences to re-examine the series' legacy and its place in the evolution of reality television.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What was 'America's Next Top Model' about?
It was a TV show that looked for new models. Judges helped them learn and compete.
Q: What is Nigel Barker doing now?
He is still a photographer and has started a drink company. He also has a podcast.
Q: Is there a new show about ANTM?
Yes, a new TV show on Netflix looks back at the history and impact of 'America's Next Top Model'.
Q: Did the judges like how they left the show?
Some judges, like Nigel Barker, felt they were not treated well when they left the show.