America’s Next Top Model is entering its 18th cycle and along with the new season we get a new judge. Andre Leon Talley has deided to part ways with the show, replacing him will be the fashion pr heavyweight Kelly Cutrone. Hit the jump to read the rest of the story.
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Someone just got sent home—and this time, it wasn’t a model-in-training.
E! News has confirmed that Vogue editor-at-large André Leon Talley is parting ways with America’s Next Top Model after four seasons cycles on the show, and will be replaced by reality vet and take-no-prisoners PR heavyweight Kelly Cutrone (who’s surely smizing wide this morning).
To quote another fashion reality show, one minute you’re in, and the next you’re out. So what do Tyra Banks & Co. have to say about the judge swap?
Save the cattiness for the catwalk—these once and future coworkers have only good things to say about the switcheroo.
“We have greatly enjoyed working with André Leon Talley and he has been an amazing asset to the America’s Next Top Model family,” exec producer Ken Mok said. “We wish him all the best in his future endeavors. We are also pleased to announce the newest addition to the judging panel, renowned fashion publicist Kelly Cutrone, and are excited to welcome her to the team as we head into cycle 18.”
For his part, the outsized personality that is Talley seemed equally at ease with his replacement, telling Page Six that his leaving was “a mutual agreement” between himself and the show producers, and told People his time on the CW reality hit was “a great ride” and “one of the best moments of my life.” He also called pal and host Tyra “an incredible role model.”
As for Cutrone, the 45-year-old People’s Revolution honcho and veteran of The Hills, The City and Kell on Earth is ready and willing to step into his fashionable shoes.
“I am a huge fan of America’s Next Top Model and have watched the show for years,” she said in a statement. “Having worked in various aspects of the fashion industry over the course of my career, I am excited for this new opportunity and hope to bring a different perspective to the show.”
The 17th all-star cycle of ANTM, which still features Talley, is currently airing. The 18th, which will mark Cutrone’s debut, is expected to launch next year.
