Nothing screams " high manner " like roach and Silly String .
For those who don’t know, this month marks 20 years since the airing of the first episode ofAmerica’s Next Top Model. Anyone else feeling super old right about now?
It’s no secret thatANTMhas been called out in the past for being prettyproblematic. From putting models inblackfaceto forcing them to relive past trauma, this show has faced its fair share of criticism over the past few years.
Some of the most unhinged moments happened during the infamous runway challenges throughout the seasons (referred to as “cycles”). So naturally, I wanted to go back and take a look at some of the bizarre runways contestants were forced to walk down. Here’s my ranking of some of the wildest ones:
17.Let’s start with the most “tame” one: Masquerade Ball (Cycle 20)
Please join me in my secondhand embarrassment over this rejection.
There were also a few anti-trans remarks made during this challenge and the judging panel after. One contestant, Phil, is shown saying, “There’s a 37% chance I kissed a dude” after kissing a transgender contestant, Stefanie.
16.Silly String (Cycle 21)
I just don’t get the creative vision here. I’m not really a fashion expert, but isn’t the point of a runway show to present a designer’s clothing? Are they promoting Silly String? I’m lost.
15.Turntable Runway (Cycle 20)
Not going to lie, I actually do kind of like the look of this one and can somewhat see the vision behind it.
14.From Mortals to Gods (Cycle 17, All-Stars)
But did they just reappear like normal humans? Nope! They were lifted up in a harness, floated around for a bit, then lowered onto the runway to strut to a song THEY WROTE. You can’t make this stuff up.
Not to mention, the conditions were horrendously windy, and the long wigs and masks caused some sight issues in the water.
13.Spinning Carousel (Cycle 17, All-Stars)
And you better believe they fell! I feel nauseated just watching them spin.
12.High Heels (Cycle 6)
One contestant, Danielle, had such a bad fall that she showed up to the judging panel on crutches. She still kept her cool the whole time. Personally, I would’ve cried and gone home.
11.Cobblestone High Heels (Cycle 7)
Just look at those ankles absolutely giving out:
10.Moroccan Tray Balance (Cycle 16)
Two contestants, Molly and Alexandria, ended up dropping their trays. I was truly terrified about a house fire. Miss J might’ve loved it, though.
Sidenote: Did anyone else get super annoyed whenever the audience started laughing at the contestants' slipups? You try balancing a tray of fire on your head, Susan!
9.Four Stories High (Cycle 15)
There is absolutely no way I would trust this flimsy little harness to catch me if I fell. Who was holding this thing? Please tell me it wasn’t Tyra.
Also, there’s no chance the audience could get a good look at the clothes. They were straining their necks just to catch a little glimpse.
8.Fire Hands (Cycle 16)
Also seems a little redundant to have both your runway and models set aflame. But hey, what do I know?
What Idoknow is that it’s giving Aang and Zuko.
7.Cockroach Walk (Cycle 6)
But I guess I did see one at the Met Gala. Cockroaches need some glam too, I suppose.
Hi y' all it ’s me , the#METGALACOCKROACHI’m here to unchurch out the photographer for step on me . He gave me a concussion#MetGala#MetGala2023#fypシpic.twitter.com / o1SHOKfYXs
Most contestants were understandably losing their shit. But one contestant got a little TOO friendly and actually kissed her nasty little companion.
6.Blindfolded (Cycle 11)
Again, this just seems completely unnecessary and purely for ratings.
5.Wobbling Platform (Cycle 7)
I can’t believe that Jay Manuel told the contestants, “I’ve walked it all afternoon and clearly I’m fine.” Sir, that is simply untrue.
4.Plastic Bubbles (Cycle 16)
Worse than the actual fall, though, was getting up. I can imagine it isn’t easy to stand up in water while floating in a giant bubble.
Also, look at Miss J just cackling at these poor women. They were completely set up to be humiliated.
3.Swinging Pendulum
Poor Alexandra fell twice during this challenge: once down the stairs, and again when she was knocked off the stage by a pendulum.
2.Conveyor Belt (Cycle 15)
To literally no one’s surprise, nearly every contestant fell. Given the speed of this thing, and coupled with the outfit choices, it definitely felt intentional.
1.And lastly, the winner for the most absurd challenge: Vertical Runway (Cycle 20)
Backstage, contestants were told not to touch their hair (more directed at the women). It’s literally in their face?? What are they supposed to do??
