Fun In the Sun!

Last week on “America’s Next Top Model”: The girls went to Brazil! They learned how to move with the art of Capoeira. Tyra sent the girls into a bordello to take pictures as Carmen Miranda, much to rich girl Natalie’s chagrin. Aminat and Fo fell flat for the judges while Allison gave my nerves a break and soared to the top of the pack. In the end, though, Natalie was sent home for just being pretty. Five girls remain, who leaves Brazil tonight? Find out!

SAO PAOLO! Aminat is surprised she was chosen over Natalie. No one misses her. Celia is happy to be there despite being ancient by the fashion industry.

TYRA MAIL! “You need to hit the ground running if you want to fly.” They figure hand-gliding and then admire Allison’s picture. She says she’s nervous but stays positive. Fo is amazed she’s still there and wants to win this to prove herself she can do this.

SAO PAOLO! The Brazil Bus takes the girls to the headquarters for Brazilian Fashion Week. It’s GO-SEES! Allison wants to die. The designers are looking for style, personality and soul. Good thing they sent Sandra home already. She’d fail the last one. Oh, I’m catty today, aren’t I. Anyway, the girls—as usual—have a time limit. They must be back by 3:30. Place your bets on who will be the late one this time! I say Allison, just because she’s already a bundle of nerves. The girls learn how bad foreign traffic is while Celia decides to work backwards.

Celia and Teyona end up at the same place so Teyona heads on. The designer is worried about her age but would book her. Score one for Celia. Allison ends up at Osklen. She is worried about her walk, which gives Ms. J’s nightmares. The designer thinks Allison would be great for photo campaigns…not catwalk. Fo meets with Cris Barros, who likes her look. I like Cris’ dresses but Cris doesn’t like Fo’s height. Teyona freaks out and flips out as she keeps running into other girls. Hon, at this point, you won’t see anyone if you keep leaving. Aminat hopes to rock the catwalk for the designers. And they agree.

Teyona gets to Ellus and actually does a go-see. The designer likes her. Aminat gets a second booking while another one comments on Fo’s height. She’s worried about time, knowing you can’t be late for a designer.

SAO PAOLO! The girls are still stuck in traffic. I would prefer mass transit. Fo goes to Osklen…didn’t we see this before the break? He sees her as commercial, not high fashion. Teyona is a bit lost but finds her next designer. Who likes her. Allison goes to a designer, who tells her to relax and gets pointers. Once again, she gets “ad campaign” not “fashion show.” Something tells me that’ll haunt her at panel. I still love Cris Barros’ dresses. And she loves Celia. Teyona once again leaves when she sees Celia there. She returns to headquarters. Aminat hopes the other girls are late. Fo goes on one last go see. She gets “commercial” again. This will also haunt her. She’s about 15 minutes away from the meeting spot. Aminat joins Teyona at the spot. Allison follows her. Lost my bet. Celia is next, just at 3:30. Fo is still stuck in traffic and already knows she’s disqualified.

Paulo, their challenge leader, can’t be there so his assistant takes them to a heli-pad. But Celia and Fo were late and have to take a cab. Aminat, Teyona and Allison get to ride the helicopter. And they enjoy their ride as well as the sites of Sao Paolo. They touch down and meet with Paulo. Allison is called exotic but insecure and needs to work on her walk. The designers loved Aminat’s walk. The designers just loved Teyona. The winner gets a piece from every designer’s collection. And Teyona wins that. Is this her first challenge win?

Back at the apartment, Teyona’s prizes are waiting for her. She does a victory dance. She doesn’t let anyone touch her prizes and Fo cries in confessional. Celia hopes for an amazing photoshoot.

And now, SPEAK UP MCKEY! She blathers on about…something. I could care less.

TYRA MAIL! “Top Models get maximum exposure. Tomorrow, you’ll know what that feels like.” The girls figure bathing suits which panics Allison. Great, let me start pep talking myself.

The girls meet Mr. Jay at the beach as Nigel shows up with a giant map. It is swimsuit time and they have to model their way to stand out in a crowd. And Sutan is there to be his catty self. Fo wants to show Nigel she improved while Teyona stares in shock at the bottoms. Aminat is surprised to see the crowd are Brazilian locals. Nigel thinks she looks amazing but needs to be in control of that. He tells her to stop focusing on everything else. Fo is out next. Mr. Jay tells her to be aggressive but isn’t impressed. Allison is surprised at the size of the bikini as well and hopes the nerves give her an adrenaline rush. And it works. Yeah, Allison! Nigel praises her and tells her to believe in herself. Teyona follows, confident. Mr. Jay comments on her shoulder position. And she impresses Nigel with her angles. Celia finishes us off but is surprised by the scene. It throws off her preparation. Nigel isn’t impressed and calls her over to show her what he wants her to do. Which includes getting close with a local. Mr. Jay wants to bash his head in. Fortunately, it’s a wrap!

Back home, you know the drill. Someone’s getting the stiletto boot. Celia and Fo are especially worried. Allison wonders if it’ll be Celia and her in the bottom two, but then they figure it might be Aminat. She promises she isn’t going anywhere and going to remain there.

SAO PAOLO! And Tyra with kids on a beach. Woah, not a flattering shot of Tyra! Anyway, there are prizes, there are judges, there is Ms. J’s…is that even a tie? And the guest judge is Cris Barros, the designer whose dresses I loved. Teyona goes first before the judges. They applaud her for her challenge win. She booked all three go-sees. Nigel praises Teyona on set and for standing out. Paulina says she can use her body while Cris thinks she looks Brazilian. The judges praises Teyona’s dress, from the designer. They love Celia’s outfit. She booked three of four go-sees. Nigel calls her distracted and didn’t have any attitude. Paulina warns her not to practice a lot before the shoot and Tyra calls her corny. Cris tells her to relax and feel the moment.

Aminat follows Celia. She booked two of three go-sees. Nigel tells her to emote more and Paulina loves her body. But tells her to use it. Tyra actually compliments Naomi, saying she has the best body in the industry. Fo is next before the judges. Nigel calls out her hunching and Cris says she doesn’t look natural. Tyra tells her to work on angles and then proportions, pulling things from camera and working shadows. Fo didn’t book any go-sees. Cris says she needs more practice and not tall enough. Ms. J wonders if it was nerves. Allison is the last up. Tyra praises her confidence. Nigel praises her and calls her a surprise. Tyra praises her sexuality and is impressed. Cris says she has attitude. Tyra tells her she booked one out of four, saying it must be her demeanor.

Top Models in Action. Samantha from the last cycle is up. She lives in LA and walked in Amsterdam fashion week. Amazingly, they still didn’t throw her out of Europe.

SAO PAOLO! The judges deliberate. They love Teyona. Cris continues calling Celia “unnatural.” He says she can’t rehearsal. Tyra mentions tension and then says she needs a strict dance teacher. They call Fo a disaster. Tyra admits to falling apart with famous photographers. Nigel and Cris love Allison. ELIMINATION! The first picture goes to Teyona. She is joined by Allison and Aminat. Celia and Fo land in the bottom two. They have things that the fashion industry looks down on. Celia’s age and Fo’s height. But Celia has to take great pictures to get them to overlook her age. There are small models, like Kate Moss, but they have something that gets the industry to overlook it. And age wins over height as Celia gets the picture. Fo is sent home.

Tyra tells her that the judges struggled with the decision and then makes Fo promise not to grow her hair out. She agrees and then hugs the girls. She curtsies and leaves. She cries again…and says she has self-respect. And she is going to get her high school diploma and get going with her life.

Still in the Running:

Celia

Aminat

Tahlia

Kortnie

Isabella

Nijah

Allison

London

Sandra

Natalie

Fo

Jessica

Teyona

Next week: Samba! Tyra shoots the girls in the jungle.

Quote of the Episode:

“I’m African…And I’m never on time.” –Aminat

Agree with the judges? Glad as I am that Allison pulled it together and rocked the photoshoot? Do you agree with the Final Four? Who do you think will be in the Final Three? Wow, we’re almost done…

Another One's Off the Market.

“Is Denise looking for Joseph or a husband?” 

I chose this quote as the Quote of the Episode for the casting episode of "Any Dream Will Do." Little did I know that she was looking for both! 

Britain's Daily Mail reported that Denise van Outen, West End leading lady and judge on "Any Dream Will Do," tied the knot with Joseph contestant Lee Mead. I'd link to the article, but it does spoil the show if you haven't seen it. If readers and viewers remember, Denise was smitten with Lee and had lipstick over his headshot. 

The couple married in a low key ceremony in France over the weekend with just family and a few select friends present. I love Denise's dress. Not too sure about the headband though. 

Now, though, I do claim the right to milk this for it's worth in my recaps. Also, to the person who linked my blog in the Ben James-Ellis fan forum, you linked the wrong day. You linked the second (not-so) live shows, not this week's entitled "Dead Ringer for Joseph." Also, yes, I am a Lee fan. 

You CAN Learn Something New

I have started volunteer work at The Conference House, a 17th Century stone manor located at the southern tip of Staten Island. It was home to the Billopp family but is more famous for the events of September 11, 1776. It hosted the only peace conference held during the American Revolution, attended by John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania and Edward Routledge of South Carolina as well as Lord Richard Howe. The conference wasn't a success and the Billopp house remained a British garrison as the war raged on. The Billopp family, prominent Loyalists, fled New York for Nova Scotia in 1779, though they weren't living in the house after the second abduction of Col. Billopp--from his own bed!

I give tours and was working with another gentleman this past weekend. After our shift was over (a very busy shift, I might add), we were talking and he informed of the Battle of Staten Island. A Revolutionary War battle had taken place on our humble island...and even more surprising to me, it had occurred down the block from my house, on the shores of the Arthur Kill! In August of 1777, Howe was evacuating New York, starting what would be known as the Philadelphia Campaign (resulting in the successful capture of the colonial capital). Gen. John Sullivan led troops across from New Jersey to Blazing Star, now known as Rossville/Charleston. However, their guide across the Arthur Kill was a Tory and ruined their surprise. The enemy met them and a fight ensued. Prisoners were taken and men were killed. The Americans retreated, embarrassed.

Who knew a battle had occurred so close to where I live? I should campaign to have a New York Historic Site blue sign put up to commemorate it.

If you wish to visit the Conference House, go to this website for more information. Tours are given every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Come! It's an interesting house with a fascinating history located in a beautiful park next to the water. The weather is perfect.

Dead Ringer for Joseph

Last week on “Any Dream Will Do”: There was a double elimination! Lee and Lewis continued to lead the pack and Ben got rave reviews. He still ended up in one sing-off, though, but was saved. Seamus was sent home after his arrogant Joseph edit finished. Antony was also sent home and I worried his girlfriend would go on a murderous rampage, starting with Zoe.

Graham introduces the “Song of the King” by banging the gong. My sister loves Craig…mostly because he’s Scot. I’ll confess, this was my least favorite song growing up. I’d always fast-forward it when listening to it, trying to fall asleep. Now, I enjoy it. Just to show how tastes can change. But my favorite song is still “Close Every Door.” Anyway, the boys finish the song.

Graham introduces the panel: Zoe Tyler, Bill Kenwright with his own Joseph scarf, Denise van Outen, and John Barrowman. The Phantom’s Overture plays to introduce Webber. Graham says the Josephs are one big happy family, which shows clips of the boys talking about the stress and trash talking the others.

Coming Up: My sister’s Scottish love.

Ben and Craig are up first. We see Ben getting hugged by his mother after being saved. And that’s it. Huh. Way to short him, show. Craig’s parents have cutout pictures on his face on sticks. Not creepy AT ALL. My sister nearly has a heart attack when they show his girlfriend, but I assure her this was two years ago. She thinks there was more Craig because of the creepy factor. Graham says that Joseph was written in 1967, so the boys will be performing songs from the past four decades. Webber wants acting from both, especially Craig so it’s not Cabaret.  Ben’s up first with “Addicted to Love.” Not bad, though my sister cringed at one point. But he does exude sex appeal. Craig follows him with The Four Seasons’ “December 1963 Brackets Oh What a Night” (actually quote). My sister nearly dies. He has a very beautiful voice and fits the song well. I think he’s upped the acting a bit more.

Graham asks about Ben’s sing-offs. He says he’s there and picking himself up. Craig was also saved last week and is grateful to Webber. Oh god, his parents brought those creepy masks with them?! Zoe starts with Ben and his bum notes. But she feels he’s improved and has star quality. As for Craig, she says he was better vocally than bed but not as much star quality. She wants him to go that extra mile but is unsure if he’s there. Bill follows and wants to help Craig. He wants him out of the comfort zone and to get the edge. He calls Craig great and says he can go far. He calls Ben a contender. He says Ben’s smiles light up the place and the audience was addicted to him. Webber says he was saving Ben and Craig, not sending Antony and Seamus home. He then says he wasn’t sure if he should’ve saved Ben and is worried. He praises Craig. I’d say that Ben better get enough votes else Webber would send him home.

Coming Up: Lee gets a bad critique. The hell?  

Lee and Keith are next. Lee thought he was average and is not pleased. Rehearsals are painful. Zoe fears he’ll burn out. Keith follows about his family coming to support him. Does anyone else think that Keith looks like he could play a younger Jack Harkness (John Barrowman) on Torchwood? Lee sings first with “All Right Now.” Another song now appropriated to commercials. Yeah, I can see why Lee gets the bad critique. It’s not his week, not helped by the fact my TV cut out his vocal. Thankfully, I have a DVR so I can rewind. Thank you, Verizon FiOS. Keith follows Lee’s performance with “Love Is All Around.” All I can think of is “Love Actually” and Bill Nighy’s performance of “Christmas is All Around.” Keith’s diction is still improving and he’s a great vocal. He’s also a good actor.

Critique time! Graham talks to Lee about being his own worst critic. Keith talks about singing “Close Every Door” but never finishing. John gets this round. He thinks that they are serious contenders but Lee struggled a bit. He was impressed with Lee’s professionalism. He calls Keith’s performance “vocal perfection.” Denise agrees Keith is a major contender and that they both have star quality. But she wasn’t thrilled with Lee’s performance. Zoe agrees with the two, calling Lee “a bit rubbish.” Graham leaves the panel and goes to Webber. He tells Lee that he gave it all in rehearsal but that he needs to save his voice for the main show. He wants Keith to show him a more grown up side.

Coming Up: Lewis gives an impromptu song.

Lewis and Rob the builder follow Lee and Keith. Lewis doesn’t want to slip up. He talks about not fitting in because he liked to sing. He said he was bully. He went to a stage school so he could be around others who were like him. Rob wants to prove he could be Joseph. So he gets a shave and a haircut. Webber wants better posture from Lewis and wants Rob to prove he’s more than a builder and wonders if Michael Crawford could build a conservatory. Crawford wonders why he got dragged into this. Lewis sings “Dancing in the Moon.” Lewis’ performance comes complete with a moon! We get a shot of Nana Jean. I think Lewis could definitely be a big West End star. Heck, he could over here and be a big Broadway star. Rob sings “Back for Good.” I don’t think high notes are Rob’s friend but otherwise, he’s a good actor. He makes me believe his girlfriend has left him and he wants her back. And there’s a girl wearing a hard hat in the audience. That’s sweet.

Graham says that Webber was worried about Lewis learning the lines. He asks if he could name all the colors of the coat. The audience claps along. He gets pretty far down before stopping. Graham asks if Webber could do it. Rice is going home thinking “I can.” Rob tells the judges he has no bad techniques to get rid of. Brilliant! Bill is up first and he praises Rob. He tells Rob though he was a bit nervous and to get over it. He tells Lewis to go to Keith’s level because he could be Joseph. Zoe is next. He says Lewis cracked and needs to work on his breathing. She tells her to sort her head out and get back in the competition. Zoe says she thought Rob was okay but doesn’t like Rob’s soft side. Webber thinks there’s a side of Lewis we’re not seeing. He wants to see Lewis’ comedic side to get him out of his shell. He says Rob has talent but he has something that needs to get out as well.

Coming Up: John and Denise bring out the claws.

Last up are Chris B and Daniel! (I could probably stop calling him Chris B now, right?) We get to see Chris B crying. He says he’s a leading man. He and Webber see how many sentences they can say which include the word “worry.” Webber coaches him through rehearsal. Zoe says Daniel has a fantastic voice but doesn’t think he can be Joseph because he’s too nice. Chris sings “All Night Long.” I think the Josephines have been wearing the same outfit for every guy with just changes in colors. Once again, I don’t think Chris is quite ready to be a leading man but there’s a potential he needs to tap into so he can get to that stage. Daniel finishes us off with “All About You.” All this does is show that Daniel is a nice guy. He should’ve been given a song where he had to be the bitter ex or something like that. Either way, he has the singing chops.

Graham asks about Chris’ nerves and about Daniel’s musical ambitions. He asks about Daniel’s song for the musical Cats. They play a clip of him singing it. Everyone applauds. John gets to go first and says they have stage presence. He doesn’t think Chris hasn’t recovered from his knocks. He calls him bland and wants the old Chris back. He calls Daniel “nice, nice, nice.” He wants to see the naughty Daniel, eliciting catcalls from the audience. Denise says she sees a platter of cheese. She wants Chris to be toughened up and wants to see something different from Daniel. He argues that he showed a different style, showing his innocent side. John says they still wanted a different side. He then argues with audience, who yelled to give him a better song, that actors sing whatever song they are given. Webber disagrees with the panel about Daniel. He thinks Daniel succeeds. He’s not sure about Chris.

Coming Up: Meat Loaf?

Meat Loaf is on the show. Graham mentions Meat Loaf’s musical theater background. He tells the boys to believe every word they sing, to become that character. John nods in the background. Webber says he doesn’t see any difference between musicals and rock. It’s either good or bad. A group performance? What? The boys sing Meat Loaf’s “Dead Ringer For Love.” Excuse me while I get up and dance. Graham tries to quiet down the audience. They show a show from 1972 called “The Liver Boys” which had Bill Kenwright. Everyone gets a good laugh.

Coming Up: A Joseph Mission? Dare I hope?

HOLY CRAP IT’S A JOSEPH MISSION! I LOVE YOU PRODUCERS! John visits the house and is horrified. He sends them to Les Mis’ barricade set to run them through their paces. The actors show them how to scale the barricade and then sing “Do You Hear the People’s Sing?” They aren’t thrilled with Lee’s, Daniel is clearly out of breathe. Keith, Lewis and Chris are all out of breath as well. The actors say they have to be more serious. The audience laughs as Chris finishes. Ben excels at this mission, the actors are pleased. They also love Craig. My sister, were she still up, would be pleased.

Meat Loaf performs “Cry Over Me.” I have a friend who would be dying right now.

Coming Up: Elimination time!

Graham announces the results. Keith is safe. Daniel is also safe. Rob could still be Joseph. All the hardhats in the audience applaud. Lee’s bad week didn’t hurt him—he’s safe as well. Chris prays but to no avail. He’s in the sing off. Ben is safe. Craig and Lewis are called down as Chris joins them. Lewis is safe, meaning that Craig is in the sing off. Lewis hugs…some…guy…Anyway, Craig and Chris perform “The Long and Winding Road.” Already I say that Craig excels, hands down. He has the stronger vocals and the stronger stage presence.

They go before Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber. With no frills, no frittering, Webber just comes out and says he’ll save Craig. Told you he’d get it hands down. Chris says he wanted to win and is sad he has to leave now. He says that Lewis will be the one to win. Graham sends him center stage to say good-bye. The boys singing “Poor, Poor Joseph” before Chris starts “Close Every Door.” John mouths the words. Denise looks like her heart is broken. Daniel and Lewis take off Chris’ coat. He finishes the song strong. Bravo, Chris.

Could Still be Joseph:

Rob

Lee

Chris B

Daniel

Craig

Keith

Seamus

Antony

Lewis

Johndeep

Ben

Chris C

Next week: John Barrowman coaches the remaining seven on acting as the (not-so) live shows continue!

Quote of the Episode:

“Ooh, it’s like the Brady Bunch”—Graham after eight screens of “I will be Joseph”.

Do you think like I do that Chris wasn’t ready for the West End stage just yet? Disagree with the decision? Are you as happy as I that they finally showed a Joseph Mission? Also, thanks to everyone who links my blog to other sites! Glad to get the exposure! 

Chiquita!

Last week on America’s Next Top Model: The girls learned that Mr. Jay’s job is not to just stand around and be fabulous when they had to be Creative Directors. Ciara stopped by to be fabulous as the girls posed as obsessed fans. London’s weight gain was spectacularly noticeable and I wonder if she had an underlying health issue besides “not eating right.” The girls learned they were going to Brazil, except for London who was sent packing. Six girls remain, who will not get over the jetlag? Find out!

Wanna be on top?

The girls head to Sao Paolo, Brazil. There they take part in a race around the city. BFFLs Celia and Allison fall behind while Fo and Natalie are in the lead, leaving Aminat and Teyona somewhere in the middle. They end up in the botanical garden with Fo and Natalie winning. Celia and Allison beat Aminat and Teyona. The girls are introduced to the Girl from Ipanema—Helo Pinheiro. She tells them to work on movement, a big part of modeling. She then gives them their house keys and they fete her with flowers.

The girls run screaming into their Brazilian digs. Aminat flips out—there’s a Jacuzzi. Fo and Natalie get expensive sandals. Pictures of McKey line the walls. The girls have to share beds and Natalie is surprised at how not impressed with Brazil she is. Aminat says that Natalie is getting cocky and arrogant. Because she doesn’t like Brazil? There’s no rule saying you have to like every place you visit.

Someone sent a stripper to their high school reunion? What?

SAO PAOLO! Natalie wonders where the ocean is as Celia complains about Natalie’s complaining.

TYRA MAIL! “Fight or flight? You better give me both?” The girls think photo shoot while Aminat says she wants this more than a fat kid wants cake. Their Brazil Bus brings them to watch some street fighters get down. Eddie Murphy introduces them to Capoeira. And no, it’s not that Eddie Murphy. He says it’ll help them move and create strong positions. He teaches them some moves. Natalie struggles a bit and is outdone by Allison. Teyona does some flips and Fo play kicks her. Aminat and Celia fight out. Celia even real kicks Aminat. Celia protests it was an accident and Aminat threatens to break her legs. Celia and Aminat goes at it again while Mr. Jay shows up with Ms. J. It’s a photo challenge! They introduce Paschoal Rodriguez, their photographer. The winner will get 50% more frames, but reducing another girl’s by 50%.

Teyona goes up first. Mr. Jay reminds her to model. Allison follows and Mr. Jay loves her. Celia rocks it until she blocked her face. Fo is reminded to remember her face. She gets praise. Natalie ends up falling. Even literally. The Jays imitate Aminat’s face…and it’s not pretty. The winner is Fo! Aww, I thought Allison did pretty well. She takes her frames from Teyona. It’s payback from Fo for Teyona picking Celia for her challenge win. Which made sense—Celia modeled Teyona into a win!

TYRA MAIL. “Tomorrow you will enjoy the fruits of your labor.” Celia predicts hot Brazilian men feeding them grapes. Teyona says she now knows Fo considers her major competition. They have it out over last week’s challenge.

Time for SPEAK UP MCKEY! Sutan is still the star of this. SUTAN FOR AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL! They are really going to drag out this runway, aren’t they?

SAO PAOLO! The girls leave their house and take the Brazil Bus to Mr. Jay. They go to a neighborhood built for a poor. He mentions Carmen Miranda…AKA the Chiquita banana lady. The girls will be style that way and need to bring Brazilian sex appeal to the picture. Daniel Klajmie says hi and sounds Norwegian. The girls are sent to hair and make up. Sutan is waiting for them. Seriously, SUTAN FOR AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL! He tells the girls about Carmen Miranda. Celia dubs Christian “King of Hairspray and Bobby Pins.”

Celia goes first. He asks her to be provocative. He wouldn’t call her incredible. Teyona and Aminat are still talking about Fo in her hearing range. Aminat calls her (Fo) a child. Allison follows BFFL Celia. He tells her to bring it. Mr. Jay praised her and said her face came alive. Yay, Allison! Natalie enters the neighborhood. A dog enters her shot. She’s probably never been in a poor area before, I bet. She’s surprised. Mr. Jay calls her great. Aminat is next. Mr. Jay makes a face. And it isn’t a good face. He tells her to use some of the movement from the Capoiera challenge. He’s still not impressed. Aminat tells Teyona to work the camera since she lost half her frames. Mr. Jay is glad she learned how to smile. Fo comes out and kinda bombs. Mr. Jay isn’t happy.

TYRA MAIL! Someone’s going back to the USA. Natalie says she’s not nervous and dares Tyra to find a bad picture. Aminat feels she improved. Fo is nervous.

SAO PAOLO! Now there’s two girls! There are prizes, there are judges, there is Ms. J’s disaster of tie. Guest judge is Fernanda Motta, host of Brazil’s Next Top Model. Tyra does the…samba? Aminat goes first. Tyra warns the girl about the dangers of too much sun. Nigel asks her to vary it up. So does Tyra. Paulina calls Aminat boring as a model. Natalie follows. Nigel isn’t blown away. They are used to Natalie’s face. She blames Mr. Jay for telling her to do the same thing. Tyra doesn’t believe her. Celia is next. They call her sultry put posey. Fernanda says it doesn’t look like she’s excited. Tyra calls it her weakest. BFFL Allison follows. Nigel is surprised—he likes it. They love her face and say she captured Carmen Miranda’s spirit. Yay, Allison! Fo is applauded for the challenge win. Ms. J calls her casual, Fo argues she’s colorful. Nigel says she looks good because she looks confident. Nigel calls her a remake. Fernanda says the fashion is missing. Last up is Teyona. Tyra calls her dress her nightie. Nigel says she’s sassy, Tyra calls it editorial.

Top Models in Action! This week is Cycle 3 winner Eva. She’s engaged and has moved on to acting, playing a character named Tyra on the Young and the Restless.

SAO PAOLO! The judges deliberate. Fernanda doesn’t feel any energy. They call her boring. They love Allison. Paulina keeps pushing the “I think Fo should be an actress” envelope. Aminat is called a one-trick pony. And they finally mention that Celia looks old. Because she does! However, that doesn’t mean I don’t think she’ll make top three. I’ll be surprised if she wins. Teyona is the reason Tyra created ANTM, Tyra says. ELIMINATION! The first name called is Allison. She is joined by Teyona, Fo, and Celia. Aminat and Natalie land in the bottom two. Natalie: Pretty girl, obvious model. However, she is posing and uninspiring. Aminat: Great body, a model. She thinks she does more than she actually does. Fierceness is only in her head. So who is going back to America? Natalie. Okay, Aminat, that means you are now the bitch. Deal with it.

Tyra tells Natalie that it’s not about being pretty and taking pretty models. She tells her to take the lessons learned to reach the next level. Natalie says good-bye and leaves. She says she learned to have thick skin and wonders why she’s going home.

Still in the Running:

Celia

Aminat

Tahlia

Kortnie

Isabella

Nijah

Allison

London

Sandra

Natalie

Fo

Jessica

Teyona

Next week: Go-sees! Allison is told to relax. Nigel gets another photoshoot—this time on the beach.

Quotes of the Episode:

“It was Carmen Miranda on crack as a drag queen.” –Mr. Jay, about Fo.

“I mean, this is like Saturday night to me.” –Sutan, dressing Celia up in her Chiquita outfit.

Surprised Natalie left? Thought Aminat was a goner? Are you as happy as I am that Allison turned it around and got first call today? Who do you think will end up in the final three? 

Go, Go Joseph...Right Out the Door

Last week on “Any Dream Will Do”: The (not-so) live shows continued, with the boys showing off their acting skills. Lee, Lewis, Keith and Rob soared to the top of the pack while Ben struggled after landing in the bottom two the week before. He was saved however and Chris B landed in the bottom two with Johndeep. Despite my prayers to the contrary, Johndeep was eliminated. Who doesn’t take another step toward the multicolor coat tonight? Find out!

This week, Graham is wearing a green suit with a pink shirt. I’m a bit scared. He reminds us that TWO Josephs will be kicked off by the end of the show. The final ten come out to sing “Go Go Joseph.” The audience claps along. They end in a V-formation and look like very colorful geese.

As the Josephs scurry off the stage, Graham introduces the judges and of course, Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber. Graham notes that last week Chris B got high praise from the panel yet still winded up in the bottom two. Webber is angry at the public for their voting ways. He’s worried that more wrong decisions will come but he’s more worried about the Josephs after helping with them. He calls them wimpy but praises their talent. Graham reminds us that Joseph was a Biblical Gary Stu and tells us that the Josephs will be performing pop songs that show off their ability to command a stage and hold an audience.

Seamus is tired of being reminded he’s old. He says he’ll be performing a Mick Jagger song and he’s ancient! Lewis talks about how famous Nana Jean has become since he made the show. She’s been his campaign manager. We go to commercial…

Coming Up: Seamus’ lack of success puzzles the panel.

Seamus starts the performances with the Rolling Stones “Start Me Up.” He gets to dance with the Josephines. He’s talented and has a good voice, but I don’t know if I would say he has stage presence. Lewis sings “I Saw Her Standing There.” Beatles are always a good bet.  And it lets him dance again. I fell kind of bad for these two—the Josephines are upstaging them stage presence-wise. But Lewis I feel is telling a story with his singing and movements, unlike Seamus who was doing more of a Mick Jagger strut across the stage.

The two are brought before the panel. Seamus got a good luck message from Shaky Stevens, a singer Seamus sang back-up for. Graham throws to Bill, who says he’s impressed but doesn’t think Seamus understands the journey. But he thinks he’ll remain. He calls Lewis a frightening talent and praises him for getting out of the comfort zone. Denise calls Seamus “special” but thinks he’s a bit arrogant. She tells Lewis to stand straight and not to hide his height. Andrew praises the two, wondering why Seamus hasn’t hit stardom yet and telling Lewis to listen to the words.

Coming Up: John and Rob flirt. Knock it off, John.

Graham mentions the Josephs got to go to the Spiderman premiere, a taste of stardom. Antony mentions going from schoolboy to pin-up. Rob’s home town watches him on giant TV screens and root for him. “Can he win it, yes he can!” fans chant. It’s adorable. Rob the Builder is celebrating his 24^th birthday and singing “Pretty Woman.” Rob knows how to connect with the audience, looking at us at certain times as if confiding certain points to us, letting us in on his thoughts. Antony follows with “Patience.” It’s the first slow song on the evening. Antony is very good at acting while singing. Hitting the high notes, not so much. My dad hears it and says “He’s gone. Bad song to pick.”

It’s time for judgment! Graham points out Rob’s family, complete with banners and a cake! John isn’t sure if they are star quality. He calls Rob confident but not sure if the raw talent will hold him together like his brick and mortar. John thinks Antony looks great as does John’s partner (who probably won’t appreciate the flirting with Rob) but doesn’t think his vocal would hold up. Zoé  agrees and Antony’s girlfriend boos the entire time she talks. Zoé ignores her and praises Rob. Webber worries about Rob’s ability to tell a song and mentions Antony’s bad vocal.

Coming Up: Chris B cries.

Graham notes that Chris B has Webber’s support while Ben has the support of the home viewers. Chris B cries about it. More tears are shed here than America’s Next Top Model. Keep going boys, you may past the Elle wannabes from “Legally Blonde the Musical: The Search for Elle Woods.” Ben talks about his brutal panel but how amazing he feels that the home viewers voted for him.

Chris B sings “Tell Her About It.” I think Chris has good stage presence, but I don’t think his voice would hold me for an entire show. Especially if he was the lead. I see him right now singing the best friend roles until his voice gets stronger. He’s still young, it can mature—it has the potential. Ben follows with “Life is a Roller Coaster.” You know, I’m starting to think this was the performance that started to warm me up to Ben…Focus, Mr. Cameraman, focus. His vocal is excellent tonight and he commands the stage. Even the panel is bopping along.

Graham throws it to Bill. He praises Chris for putting the disappointment behind him. Bill praises Ben for his stage presence and talent. John follows. He praises Chris for bouncing back but thinks he held back a bit. He says tonight was Ben’s best performance and that he really likes to perform. Webber is worried about putting Chris in a West End theater. But he praises the both.

Coming Up: Lee v. Daniel

Daniel thinks his main competition is Lee while Lee thinks his main competition is Daniel. Amazing! Daniel reveals he’s done understudy work on the West End, so Lee isn’t the only professional in the competition.

Daniel starts the battle with “Lady is a Tramp.” He seems to channel the Rat Pack with he performance. One of my favorites of the evening. Lee sings “I Don’t Want To Talk About It.” Both are from musicals. Hmm…Good lord, I really wish I was a Josephine if I could interact with Lee this way! Kissing, lying my head on his lap…Yes, ladies and gentlemen, Daniel and Lee are serious leading men contenders. Lee’s voice is gorgeous and boy can act!

Daniel and Lee talk about being on the West End and being in the house. Denise feels the way I do. She loved Daniel’s performance. She points out Lee went a little flat but was still a superstar. Bill loved Daniel’s performance and his vocal. Bill looks ready to cry as he lavishes praise on Lee. Graham asks Webber if the guys are right for the role. The teleprompter reminds Webber to thank the band. He loved both boys, especially Lee’s acting.

Coming Up: John wants to smack Keith.

John works with Keith to improve his diction. Keith promises to work hard. Craig agrees he has been holding back because he’s scared. Bill works with Craig. He wants to bust loose. Keith starts with “Crocodile Rock.” So far, good diction. He loses it a bit when he gets into the heavy dancing (for a Joseph show). But I think I have to put Keith’s performance up there with Daniel’s and Lee’s. Craig finishes with “Sign, Sealed and Delivered.” No offense to Craig, all I can think of is how many commercials use this song now. I myself wouldn’t consider this as Craig going big. Denise though is enjoying it so much, John makes sure she doesn’t fall out of her seat!

Keith also thinks Daniel is his main competition. John is happy the boys took his notes. He gives Keith a “fantastic” on diction but says he needs movement work. John thinks Craig is getting out of his shell. Denise agrees with John but doesn’t think Keith needs movement work. Graham goes back to Webber, who is reminded by the teleprompter to thank the Josephines. He loved Keith’s performance. He tells Craig it was a good performance but instructs him to watch it so he can see the Cabaret moves his pulls.

Coming Up: Elimination Round #1.

We come back. Zoé  thinks Keith is her Joseph. Bill thinks his is Lee. Denise and John think theirs is Daniel. But now Graham will reveal who is safe and who isn’t. Chris B, Seamus, Daniel and Keith are all safe. Lewis, Rob and Lee are also safe. Nana Jean goes nuts in the audience. Craig, Ben and Antony are ordered off the stairs. Craig is in the bottom two. Ben thinks his days are numbered, you can tell on his face. But he’s safe. He does a victory jump as Antony realizes he is joining Craig. Antony’s girlfriend looks ready to kill someone. Graham reveals Craig has the lowest votes but Webber could save him. The two sing “Everything I Do.”

Who is the lady sobbing as Antony sings? He sounds a little flat and off-key. Lord, I hope Antony’s girlfriend doesn’t come to beat me up. But Craig is definitely the better of the two.  It’s Webber’s decision now. He saves Craig. Oh Jesus, hide the sharp objects from Antony’s girlfriend! I agree that Antony has a bright future head of him but he’s not ready for eight shows a week…NOW. (Or then).

Antony gets his farewell from the other nine. Amp up his mike, sound guy, the band is playing over him. Ben and Chris B take off his coat. Antony’s family sobs in the audience as he finishes.

Could still be Joseph:

Rob

Lee

Chris B

Daniel

Craig

Keith

Seamus

Antony

Lewis

Johndeep

Ben

Chris C

Coming Up: Another elimination.

Zoé doesn’t think Craig is Joseph. Bill says Rob, which John agrees with. Chris B is Denise’s. Graham goes into elimination mode. Daniel is safe. Keith is also safe. Rob the Builder is safe. Lee is back for me to ogle next week. Nana Jean doesn’t have to hire goons, Lewis is safe as well. Chris B survives as well. He does a victory sprint. Seamus, Craig and Ben are called down. Ben and Craig are feeling déjà vu. However, Ben lands in the sing-off this time. Seamus lands in the sing-off well while Craig hugs him on his way to safety-dom. If it were down to England, Seamus would be packing his bags. The audience gasps. Ben and Seamus perform “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother.”

Seamus and Ben have to equally good vocals, though Ben acts the dickens out of his part. Of course, I wonder since I’ve seen this before if that’s tainted my view of Seamus…The two finish with a hug and go before the Lord. Webber is blown away from the sing-off. But he saves Ben, who immediately starts to cry. He parties on stage and gets a Joseph hug. Webber says Ben had the better performance but hopes Seamus goes farther.

The Josephs say farewell. Oh, the thing that taints me comes up at the end of this performance. Ben and Chris B try to take off the coat, but either it gets stuck or something because Seamus ends up throwing it off. And he finishes with “For I have been promised a SHOW of my own.” Umm, cocky much? And a bit disrespectful to Tim Rice.

Could Still Be Joseph:

Rob

Lee

Chris B

Daniel

Craig

Keith

Seamus

Antony

Lewis

Johndeep

Ben

Chris C

Wait…I WAS PROMISED A JOSEPH MISSION! Why didn’t I get to see ten guys in loincloths? Producers?

Next week: It sees we’ll see another Joseph mission, but I think they’re just using the ones from the BBC. Anyway, it’ll be the fourth (not-so) live show!

Quotes of the Episodes:

“He certainly wasn’t afraid to dress up in over the top brightly colored clothes and look like an idiot. I wonder what that must feel like.”—Graham Norton, in his brightly colored outfit.

“It’s Dreamcoats at dawn!”—Graham

So, what do you think of tonight’s double elimination? Think the right people went home? Did Seamus’ final verse turn you off as well? 

God, Weight and Ciara

Last week: The girls had an acting teach with Clay! Aiken! London won though Celia tried to camp her way to the top. However the teach did nothing to help the girls with their CoverGirl commercials. At panel, Allison and Tahlia landed in the bottom two. Tahlia was let go for lack of self-esteem and I got to hold on to the hope Allison may win this another week. Who will be eliminated tonight?

Wanna be on top?

NEW YORK! Allison and Celia talk about Allison’s one face problem, complete with clip of Tyra’s criticism. Celia tries to help, saying she has to think of sex. TMI, Celia, TMI! Aminat is sweeping her nerves away as we get recap of her criticism.

TYRA MAIL. “A Top Model knows how to be direct.” Teyona figures this means they will be going abroad. Sorry, Teyona, but only six girls go abroad. Meanwhile, London talks about her relationship with God. I always wonder, as a Church-going girl, if they let the model wannabes go to religious services.

The girls meet Mr. Jay, who blathers on about being a Creative Director—AKA, his job. Ann Shoket is dragged out to judge the girls on this challenge, featuring South Pole Jr. “Street style with attitude.” Question: How else do you wear street style? The girls get paired up. Sutan knits while Christian actually works. Natalie and Teyona are paired off. Natalie gives Teyona huge hair. Mr. Jay is impressed with Allison’s handling of Aminat, particularly her styling. Fo and London are paired up with London worrying about her weight. Switch up! Aminat fumbles her time with Natalie. They try to get her out of hair and makeup as we go to commercials…

The Star Trek movie looks pretty good.

NEW YORK! Mr. Jay lays into Aminat when she protests that it wasn’t her fault. She continues to blame the hair and make up people. Teyona styles Celia as “hood diva.” Mr. Jay loves it and makes sure it was Teyona and not Celia. London worries about turning Allison into urban street, so she goes rocker. Allison varies her faces but Mr. Jay realizes that Allison looks like Fo pre-makeover. Celia styles Fo in a dress she says “speaks to her.” The girls go before Mr. Jay and Ann. They choose Teyona as the winner and she picks Celia and Aminat to share the prize. Fo feels shunned as she’s friends with Teyona. The three go shoot their pictures for Seventeen. At the house, Celia tells Allison that she (Allison) should’ve won.

TYRA MAIL! “You haven’t had too much R&R, maybe it’s time for some R&B”

Mr. Jay comes in to wake the girls. The girls are a bit shocked and cover themselves up. He tells them hair and make up are in the living room and someone needs to make him breakfast. As the girls get ready, the doorbell rings. It’s recording artist Ciara. Aminat flips out and hugs the artist, who looks like she’s being attacked. Mr. Jay says she’ll be joining them in their shoot.

So they hop into the Barbie Top Model Limo to the stage the shoot will take place on. Mike Ruiz is the photographer. London is worried when she sees the outfits—she’s worried about her weight. Celia goes first and has to work with Ciara. The artist even goes down to go over her pictures with Celia. Meanwhile, they wrap up London and then she dons the Olympic rings. Natalie confesses about London’s self-esteem issues with her weight.

This week in SPEAK UP MCKEY! McKey helps Ashley from the Make-a-Wish foundation get ready for her runway.

NEW YORK! Lodon goes up and as Mike tries to give her directions, Mr. Jay worries about London’s sudden and noticeable weight gain. He talks to the stylist who agrees. So he takes her off to the side to give her some caring advice. And it doesn’t come across as “you’re fat, stop eating,” it’s “you need to take care of yourself.” Teyona and Natalie follow London, with Natalie trying to work on her face. They tell Natalie to ugly it up and she works it. Fo is praised for her variety. Mr. Jay asks for Allison’s inner creative director. Mr. Jay tries to talk her past the hesitation. He realizes she works better when she’s pissed off. And Aminat follows and struggles. They praise Ciara and tell Aminat to bring it. She doesn’t.

TYRA MAIL! Someone’s going home and not going abroad. Who will it be? Struggling Aminat? Weight-gaining London? And she cries in the bathroom, wondering if God is testing her.

NEW YORK! Oh, good, Tyra didn’t kill the little girl. We have prizes, we have judges, we have Ms. J’s ridiculous tie, I love Paulina’s hair and the guest judge is Mike Ruiz. And then a near naked man comes in and Tyra has to guess his country from the nuts. And there is not a way for me to reword that where it doesn’t sound dirty. Tyra announces the girls are going to Brazil and the panel goes nuts with maracas.

But first, someone isn’t going to Brazil. Natalie is called first and is told to mind her face more. Aminat comes in and is praised for her outfit. Her photo not so much. They say the Aminat they knew went home apparently. Celia is praised for everything: outfit and picture. Even she likes her picture. The panel applauds Teyona for her challenge win. They call her fierce and Tyra praises her for acting like a rabid fan. London comes in and is praised for smiling for eyes but is told she’s a bit cartoonish. And then Ms. J brings up London’s weight. Ms. J loves Fo’s outfit. Tyra and Nigel love her angles. Allison finishes up. They are happy to see a new face. But now she forgot her body a bit. Allison praises Mike for her experience and I can’t tell if Nigel is really pissed off.

Top Models in Action! They talk about Bre from Cycle Five.

NEW YORK! The judges deliberate. Mike thinks Aminat is better on the runway than the photos. They praise Teyona’s consistency. They think London is unique and Tyra loves her smiling eyes. Mike loves Fo. They think Allison is pretty but one-note. Still? Anyway, ELIMINATION! Someone’s not going to Brazil. First name and best picture is Teyona. She will be joined in Brasilia by: Fo, Natalie, Celia, and Allison. Celia and Allison celebrate. London and Aminat are in the bottom two. Aminat: Strong body and good face, but only runway. London: Best bone structure, smiles with her eyes, but it doesn’t make it to the photo. So who is going to Brazil and who goes home? Aminat gets to go to Brazil. Wow, I was not expecting London to go home before Allison. Wow. I didn’t prep myself for this favorite to go.

Tyra praises London’s beauty and tells her it needs more. London hugs the girls good-bye and leaves. She praises God and leaves the house.

Still in the Running:

Celia

Aminat

Tahlia

Kortnie

Isabella

Nijah

Allison

London

Sandra

Natalie

Fo

Jessica

Teyona

Quote of the Episode:

“I have the face, I have the body and I have the damn personality! Why am I getting the C’s and B’s on the photoshoot?”—Aminat

Next week: The girls go to Brazil! Fo fights with someone.

So, surprised with London’s departure? Are you transferring your support for her to Fo like I am? Is Teyona surprising you?

CLAY! AIKEN! ZOMG!

Last week: The house divided over Celia’s speech at panel. She and Tahlia make up though. The girls practice facial expressions and Allison struggled. In the end, though, Sandra was sent home despite being the cycle bitch.  Eight girls remain, who will fill the bitch vacuum left by Sandra’s departure? I mean, who will be eliminated? Find out!

I was out running an errand for my Nana, so I missed the first five minutes. I enter with Aminat and Natalie arguing which according to the recapper on Zap2it.com, it was over how Natalie doesn't pitch in. 

TYRA MAIL! “Tomorrow you will be molded into a fine piece of Clay.” The girls figure it involves sculpting and being naked.

The Barbie Top Model Bus brings them to Harlem Stage Theater where Paulina meets them. She talks about acting as a way to impress people when they start modeling. Celia and Aminat go up first. They are given a sentence (I have never said that to anyone). Aminat has to say it bossily but it is more threatening. Celia nails pitifully. Teyona gets to yell “I have no idea what you are talking about” shockingly while Natalie has to do it threateningly. Neither impress Paulina. Fo and London have “You have got to be kidding me.” Fo gets in Paulina’s face. Allison gets to say “You need to get out of here” arrogantly, but Paulina says it’s like she’s scared. She’s not impressed with Tahlia’s idea of “ecstatic.” She makes her jump up and down but Tahlia holds back. Allison thinks they are nuts.

Paulina says she had to push them, particularly Tahlia. She gives them a script for their challenge. The girls practice it, a has-been model going in for a fitting. London says she comes from a family of actors and feels she will do well.

More Hannah! Montana, not the Moose Girl.

We come back to Harlem Stage with Allison reminding us about the challenge. Paulina introduces their stage partner. And only if you were living under a rock, you didn’t know it would be American Idol alum Clay Aiken. I do love his face. He’s actually not a bad actor. London pleases Paulina. Clay is able to vary it up for each girl. They note that Natalie has an attitude. Hmm, I smell Natalie filling that bitch vacuum. Clay calls Tahlia lazy and insecure. Celia decides to go campy and over-the-top. John Barrowman would  tell her to reel it in. Paulina wishes Celia would bring that to her photos.

The prize is $5,000 worth of merchandise of Joe’s Jeans. London wins the challenge, to Celia’s chagrin. She celebrates. Aminat wonders how they will know London’s size. But she’s worried because has gained some weight. And you can kinda tell, but she still looks gorgeous.

TYRA MAIL! “Do you play well with others?” Umm, no. The girls think they will be with men, despite all having boyfriends. Allison hopes for a photoshoot to redeem herself.

 The girls go to see McKey shooting a CoverGirl commercial. Mr. Jay introduces her to the winner. She looks like she has no clue what to be there. And she starts reciting her Cover Girl script. The girls will be doing a commercial in groups but they will have a teleprompter. Remember last cycle’s CoverGirl commercial? Where McKey nearly tripped? Group One practices while Group Two talks to McKey. They say where they are from and Natalie calls the other girls hicks. You can imagine how well that went over.

The director walks the groups through the commercial. Celia goes first and joins her commercial mates: Aminat, Teyona and Allison. Celia nails it. Teyona goes next and stumbles a bit. Mr. Jay reminds her to look at the camera. Aminat follows and stumbles over the words as well. Mr. Jay wonders where Aminat’s energy goes when the camera starts. Meanwhile, Tahlia asks McKey how she brought herself out of her shell. They bond. We go back for Allison’s commercial. Mr. Jay reminds her it is not a photo shoot. She stumbles but Mr. Jay is more concerned about Allison’s face. She needs to work on her faces. Please, Allison, I want to stop preparing myself for your departure!

Group One feels good, except Allison. They give her a pep talk as we go to…

McKey talking to Sutan. He’s more engaging than she. I love you Sutan!

Group Two prepares to go next, practicing. This group is Fo, Tahlia, Natalie and London. Natalie looks wonderful but she gets confused. They really nail the “Easy, Breezy, Beautiful Cover Girl.” Fo follows Natalie. Mr. Jay’s criticism is more to Tahlia than Fo, who does pretty well. London is up next. The Cover Girl rep thinks it sounds door-to-door salesman. That’s odd, I thought it sounded like her commercials. She thinks she might naturally overact. Tahlia finishes. She says she nailed her lines and this trips over them. They are on the damn teleprompter, girl! Mr. Jay wants her to bring more spirit. Tahlia has to push her way to the front of the group. Mr. Jay tells Tahlia the work is hard and it’ll be hard till she decides to stop.

TYRA MAIL! Someone’s getting eliminated. I’d say place your bets, but I am doing this Sunday night so you do know who got the boot. Allison and Celia talk about elimination.

NEW YORK! What, now video with Tyra and the child? There are prizes, there are judges, there is Ms. J’s stupid tie that I had to explain several times to my sister and the guest judge is Clay Aiken. Celia is up first. They like her outfit. Nigel likes it while Paulina says she has a natural talent. Clay even praises her as well. Tyra reminds Celia that Cover Girl is youthful and Celia didn’t exude that. Teyona follows Celia. I do like what we see of her commercial but Nigel’s right, she is squinting. Eyes, girl, eyes! Allison is next and the panel slams her for repeating outfits. They tell her not to do that. They order her to switch clothes with Teyona during the deliberation. In editing, the commercial came out better than what we saw during shooting. All hail the powers of the editor! Clay does feel she did better than the teach while Tyra praises her look, if not her delivery. Aminat finishes up Group One. Tyra says it was Teyona’s commercial. The panel get her for her diction. But it’s like how they nailed Dani(elle) and she won the whole she-bang!

The move to Group Two, starting with London. They applaud her for being the challenge winner. They aren’t pleased with her commercial or her outfit. Natalie is next and they like her outfit better. They like London better in Natalie’s commercial. Clay doesn’t think she was gelling with the group and Tyra thinks she was forgettable. She tells her to work on flirting like London. Fo goes up and admits to stumbling a bit over her lines. The judges like how Tahlia looks but tell Fo to keep practicing. Tahlia comes up next. I love her dress. Tahlia admits to struggling. They liked Fo better in Tahlia’s but Nigel calls them “background.” Nigel gives Tahlia criticism and Clay cracks up laughing at his wording. They see the potential but they want her to bring it out. Clay’s actually a good guest judge.

Top Models in Action! Heather from Cycle 9. I loved her. She’s modeling and studying video game art. She looks beautiful.

The judges deliberate. They weren’t thrilled with this batch of commercials. Tyra says she never read a teleprompter, Paulina says she wasn’t allowed to speak. Nigel likes Teyona and Paulina says that Nigel finally said something smart. Nigel thinks Fo could be a better actress but Tyra thinks she disappears. Clay thinks she has potential. Can we keep him? They praise Tahlia for her knowledge but Clay points out her self-esteem issues. They comment about London’s weight gain. Paulina praises London’s face. Paulina wasn’t thrilled with Aminat. They are letting her speak a lot tonight, aren’t they? They want Natalie to give more “oomph.”

ELIMINATION! Tyra praises the fashion switch. Allison’s dress doesn’t flatter Teyona in my mind but she should wear a dress she owns. But Allison looks great. She tells them they did horrible in their commercials, but there was one bright spot: Celia. She is followed by Natalie, Teyona, Fo, London, and Aminat. That leaves Allison and Tahlia in the bottom two. This is where I gave myself the pep talk to prepare myself for Allison’s departure. Allison: Editorial, high-fashion girl. But she has one face. She needs variation. Tahlia: Is perfect for Cover Girl. The camera loves her but Tahlia doesn’t seem to love the camera. So, who stays? Allison. Tyra tells her to go past the eyes and bring out her personality. She tells Tahlia to increase her self-esteem.

Tahlia agrees in her exit interview. She hopes to have inspired someone by going as far as she did.

Still in the Running:

Celia

Aminat

Tahlia

Kortnie

Isabella

Nijah

Allison

London

Sandra

Natalie

Fo

Jessica

Teyona

Next week: The girls get to be creative directors. R&B Ciara shows up to do a photoshoot.

Quote of the Episode

“I think Natalie looked like a Bond girl doing Cover Girl. I want it shaken, not stirred.”—Nigel

I was shocked when Tyra called Allison’s name. I was prepared for her to leave and my friends agreed—and we all like her! I am still not sure she’ll make it overseas. Do you?