Key Points
- NIGEL Barker is looking ahead, not back.
- The former America’s Next Top Model judge revealed he hasn’t spoken to Tyra Banks since the release of Netflix’s Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model, the documentary revisiting the show’s most controversial moments.
- Speaking at an event for his Barker Company Espresso Martini at Bowtie Bar in Times Square, Barker gave a brief “no” when asked whether he had been in touch with Banks.
NIGEL Barker is looking ahead, not back.
The former America’s Next Top Model judge revealed he hasn’t spoken to Tyra Banks since the release of Netflix’s Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model, the documentary revisiting the show’s most controversial moments.
Speaking at an event for his Barker Company Espresso Martini at Bowtie Bar in Times Square, Barker gave a brief “no” when asked whether he had been in touch with Banks.
Still, he shared that he remains connected to more than 25 former contestants from the long-running modelling competition, according to Page Six.
Barker, who appeared on ANTM from 2004 to 2011 alongside Banks, Miss J. Alexander and Jay Manuel, suggested the franchise may have run its course.
While there has been talk of a reboot, he said he may be more interested in new fashion-focused projects instead of revisiting Top Model.
He also opened up about mentoring his teenage daughter Jasmine as she enters the modelling world. Barker said he wants to help guide and protect her, adding that success in today’s industry is increasingly tied to personality and social media presence.
The fashion photographer also offered advice for aspiring models, warning them to avoid agencies that ask for money upfront for photo shoots or representation.
With renewed attention on America’s Next Top Model thanks to the Netflix documentary and related TV specials, Barker appears focused on supporting the next generation and exploring what’s next in fashion entertainment.
Why This Matters
Barker’s refusal to engage with Tyra amid the documentary’s fallout underscores lingering tensions and reframes ANTM’s legacy, while his focus on mentoring the next generation highlights industry shifts toward social-media savviness and ethical guidance for aspiring models.
