Tyra Banks Fires Her “Next Top Model” Co-Stars

"ANTM turned us in2 a family," the supermodel tweeted

Tyra Banks has given her three co-stars on "America's Next Top Model" — J. Alexander, Jay Manuel and Nigel Barker — the axe, the New York Post reported.

Alexander was a runway trainer for contestants, Manuel was the creative director and Barker was a photographer and judge, the Post reported.

All three had been with the show since it began nine years ago but were told Thursday that their contracts wouldn't be renewed for another season.

Barker confirmed the news on his website, E! Online reported, writing, "It has been an exciting chapter in my life."

Tyra confirmed their departure on Twitter, too.

"Fierce & love 2 my @NigelBarker, @MrJayManuel & Miss J. #ANTM turned us in2 a family. Excited for what the future holds for us. XOXO TyTy," she tweeted.

According to a source for the Post, the firings were part of a larger shake-up of the "Top Model" format, and the producers plan to boost the show's web presence and social media element.

Contact Us