We Were All Rooting For You

De: Franchesca Ramsey

Narrado por: Franchesca Ramsey

The resurgence of viral clips from the long-running hit reality television show America’s Next Top Model left fans and foes alike wondering–how did a show so outrageous and at times offensive ever get on the air? For years, Americans dutifully watched as contestants faced uncomfortable situations regarding their race and gender, body-shaming, stereotyping, and problematic photoshoots. The show, which first premiered in 2003 and ran for 24 cycles, was helmed by supermodel Tyra Banks–the first Black female host of a smash network reality show. It was wildly popular, and groundbreaking too, bringing plus-sized models, transgender models, and many Black, Asian, and other diverse contestants onto the show at a time when they would never have otherwise have made it on TV.

So was Top Model ahead of its time? A cringe-inducing byproduct of a less-enlightened era? Somehow both at once? Host Franchesca Ramsey–a fan since the show first premiered–takes us behind-the-scenes of this wild reality circus, to examine how it was made, what it stood for, and what it illustrates about how representation and beauty standards have changed since 2003, including conversations with contestants, judges, producers, experts and more.

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Interesting

This is well worth the listen, especially if you’re a Tyra Banks fan! It took me back and the interviews were well done.

Memory lane

This took me down memory lane. I can remember where I was and what I was doing while I was hearing episodes and the iconic moments from the show. Tyra was a genius when it came to this. I love me some Rupal’s Drag race too!

Completely unbiased and real.

I loved this because even though the host is a fan of ANTM, they have an unbiased opinion and is very honest about the harmful effects of the show. They interview real producers, judges, and casts from the show. Very well researched. 10/10

A fun trip down memory lane

This was a fun retrospective of America's Next Top Model with the insanely talented Francesca Ramsay.

Valid summary

I was surprised to find this a valid and balanced view of one of the first reality shows - and the effects of reality TV in general.

the ugly pretty history of ANTM

This was such a great nostalgic weekend listen. Thank you Franchesca and Audible for a catwalk down memory lane! And thank you Tyra for the many hours of entertainment and all the fabulous characters and concepts you introduced to the world. All Star season for models over 40? Just an idea ;)

Great. No notes.

Great length breezed through this. The content was full - no filler. Guests were great and made sense for the section they were in. Favorite part- talking about RuPaul parallels and the casting. Favorite guest convo- The Janice Dickinson- could listen to her for hours.

Good

I like the true behind the story. Loves all the interviews. Fantastic hosts! Some sadness learning behind the scenes and after status.

Great read

As a long time ANTM fan, I love hearing the insights and thoughts from people on the show. The show is undeniably a cultural gem, but not without its problematic aspects and this book delves into the darker nature and moments. Well done and researched 👏

As addicting as the show itself

I was also a Top Model fan and i really enjoyed the memories through this podcast. I saw some of the issues then that are discussed now. but, what I found addicting about the show at the time was being inspired by the drive some of the contestants had to achieve their dreams. The contestants were put through challenges that they kept working through. I found the show inspiring to keep pushing through the challenges i was facing in my life, even if my goal was not to be a top model. Watching people strive for their dreams through challenges they're faced can be inpiring. Even if sometimes a bit problematic, often in life, we are put through challenges that are problematic. Thank you for a walk down show memories and a great podcast!