America’s Next Top Model (ANTM), the reality TV series created by Tyra Banks, has been a cultural phenomenon since its inception in 2003. The show, which spans 24 seasons, has been a launching pad for many aspiring models, offering them a chance to break into the industry. But what has become of these contestants after the cameras stopped rolling and the runway lights dimmed? In this article, we’ll catch up with some of the most memorable contestants from various seasons of ANTM and see where their careers and lives have taken them since their time on the show.
Introduction to ANTM Alumni
ANTM has been more than just a competition; it has been a career-defining moment for many of its participants. While some winners and contestants have continued to thrive in the modeling industry, others have branched out into acting, writing, activism, and other fields. The show’s impact on their lives has been profound, and their journeys post-ANTM are as diverse as their backgrounds.
Success Stories in Modeling
Several ANTM alumni have made significant strides in the modeling industry. They have walked for high-fashion designers, appeared in major ad campaigns, and graced the covers of international magazines. Here are a few notable names:
- Adrianne Curry (Cycle 1 Winner) – Despite a rocky start post-show, Adrianne found success in modeling and has appeared in numerous magazines.
- Yoanna House (Cycle 2 Winner) – Yoanna has continued to model and also became a host for fashion-related television shows.
- Eva Marcille (Cycle 3 Winner) – Eva transitioned into acting and hosting but still models occasionally.
Branching into Entertainment
Some ANTM contestants have used the show as a stepping stone into the entertainment industry, finding success in acting, hosting, and other on-screen roles.
- Analeigh Tipton (Cycle 11) – Analeigh has pursued an acting career, appearing in movies like “Crazy, Stupid, Love” and “Warm Bodies”.
- Yaya DaCosta (Cycle 3 Runner-up) – Yaya has had a successful acting career, with roles in “The Butler” and “Chicago Med”.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Leveraging their ANTM fame, some contestants have become entrepreneurs, starting their own businesses and brands.
- Lisa D’Amato (Cycle 5 & All-Stars Winner) – Lisa launched a skincare line and has been involved in various business ventures.
- Whitney Thompson (Cycle 10 Winner) – Whitney opened a restaurant and has been active in promoting body positivity.
Advocacy and Activism
Several former contestants have become advocates for various causes, using their platforms to raise awareness and drive change.
- Isis King (Cycle 11 & 17) – As the first openly transgender contestant, Isis has become an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
- Nyle DiMarco (Cycle 22 Winner) – Nyle, who is deaf, has been a prominent activist for the deaf community and accessibility issues.
Challenges and Controversies
Not all ANTM alumni have had smooth sailing post-show. Some have faced personal challenges and controversies that have impacted their careers.
- Brittany Kline (Cycle 16 Winner) – Brittany faced some personal struggles but has since returned to modeling.
- Jael Strauss (Cycle 8) – Jael sadly passed away in 2018 after a battle with breast cancer.
Life Beyond the Limelight
While some contestants have remained in the public eye, others have chosen to step away from the limelight and lead more private lives.
- Nicole Linkletter (Cycle 5 Winner) – Nicole has kept a low profile but continues to model on a smaller scale.
- Dani Evans (Cycle 6 Winner) – Dani has maintained a successful modeling career while keeping her personal life private.
Continued Education and Career Shifts
Education and career shifts have been common among ANTM alumni, with many pursuing degrees and exploring new professional paths.
- Kim Stolz (Cycle 5) – Kim pursued a career in finance and wrote a book about social media and relationships.
- Victoria Henley (Cycle 19) – Victoria went on to study law and has also worked as a radio show host.
Where Are They Now: A Summary Table
To provide a quick overview, here’s a summary table of some of the ANTM alumni and their current endeavors:
| Contestant Name | Cycle | Current Endeavor |
|—————–|——-|——————|
| Adrianne Curry | 1 | Modeling, Reality TV |
| Yoanna House | 2 | Modeling, TV Hosting |
| Eva Marcille | 3 | Acting, Modeling |
| Analeigh Tipton | 11 | Acting |
| Yaya DaCosta | 3 | Acting |
| Lisa D’Amato | 5 & All-Stars | Entrepreneurship |
| Whitney Thompson | 10 | Entrepreneurship, Body Positivity |
| Isis King | 11 & 17 | LGBTQ+ Advocacy |
| Nyle DiMarco | 22 | Activism, Modeling |
| Brittany Kline | 16 | Modeling |
| Nicole Linkletter | 5 | Modeling |
| Dani Evans | 6 | Modeling |
| Kim Stolz | 5 | Finance, Authorship |
| Victoria Henley | 19 | Law, Radio Hosting |
FAQs: America’s Next Top Model Where Are They Now?
Has any ANTM contestant become a supermodel?
While ANTM has launched many successful careers, none of the contestants have reached the status of supermodel in the vein of Naomi Campbell or Cindy Crawford. However, many have become successful models and influencers in their own right.
Do ANTM winners still get modeling contracts?
Yes, many ANTM winners still receive modeling contracts, though the nature and prestige of these contracts can vary greatly.
Has ANTM faced any criticism post-show?
Yes, ANTM has faced criticism for its portrayal of the modeling industry, the treatment of contestants, and for not providing adequate post-show support.
Are there any ANTM contestants who have left the entertainment industry?
Yes, several contestants have left the entertainment industry to pursue other careers or to focus on their personal lives.
What impact did ANTM have on the modeling industry?
ANTM brought modeling into mainstream conversation and helped diversify the types of models seen in the industry, though it also perpetuated certain stereotypes and industry practices that have been critiqued.
Conclusion
America’s Next Top Model has been a significant cultural touchstone for the modeling and entertainment industries. While the show has ended, the legacy of its contestants continues. From high-fashion runways to the silver screen, from entrepreneurship to advocacy, ANTM alumni have taken diverse paths, shaping their destinies beyond the show’s framework. Their journeys remind us that reality TV can be both a beginning and a transformation, leading to unexpected and inspiring life stories. As we look back at where they are now, we can appreciate the platform ANTM provided and the myriad ways in which its participants have used it to craft their narratives and impact the world around them.
