Reality Check: ‘America’s Next Top’ Finale

By: Kyle Christensen
Features Editor

Wednesday’s episode of “America’s Next Top Model” sent Amanda, the second half of the ghostly pale twin pair, back to the United States, with the field narrowed down to the remaining three girls who will shoot a CoverGirl ad and compete in the final catwalk challenge in Barcelona. And unlike cycles of years past, this season’s thriving triumvir of supermodel-in-training talent has produced no real likely front-runner for whom viewers may identify (the ANTM finale will air on Dec. 6, at 7 .p.m. central, so schedule your study sessions around the extravaganza).

Switching to the CW network might have allotted the program a better selection of unbiased executives in the editing room, as every one of these contenders has been shown at their absolute highest and lowest, from squabbles with fellow models to repugnant photo shoots that would leave any high-fashion magazine filing for bankruptcy.

In the end, though, one girl has to be declared the champ, and here is this reality junkie’s take on Cycle Seven’s ultimate leader board.

Third Place: Eugena- She’s survived duo visits to the Bottom Two this season, and despite some mediocre attempts near the beginning has improved drastically over the course of the entire competition, but as host Tyra Banks commented recently, she is simply getting by on her “potential” alone, as opposed to her actual capabilities. This latest photo shoot of the girls nearly submerged in freezing water, showed that when forced to cope with difficult elements, Eugena does not have what it takes to prevail as a “role model” in this industry. Her bags should be packed by the time Banks finishes her next sentence.

Runner-Up:CariDee- Despite being elected by viewers as the “CoverGirl of the Week” for a remarkable four weeks in a row, the judging panel has never taken a liking to the blonde bombshell from Fargo, North Dakota. Her sardonic commentary is often misperceived as downright snobbiness, in addition to the well-intended ice breaking, but still offensive “stick in your ass” comment to judge Nigel Barker. If she can’t prove she has the chops for eloquent spokesmodeling, the producers would never dare attach her name as a pillar figure of the entire program. A pretty face will never compensate for a filthy mouth.

Winner: Melrose- It’s been so long since the detestable villain has inherited the riches on a reality show, and Melrose seems to be in the right place, at the right time to become victorious. Those dazzling eyes, seductively sulking lips and gracefulness have been a godsend for every roll of film she has ever blessed with her image, and having dominated at an astounding four reward challenges. Though her arrogance and catty criticisms toward her housemates may not be exemplary behavior (at 23, she is one of the oldest in the bunch, but sometimes has the maturity of a toddler), Melrose’s propensity for style and chicness could very well supersede any signs of that poor sportsmanship. Love her or hate her, past “Model” winners Adrianne, Yoanna, Eva, Naima, Nicole and Danielle might have to initiate yet another demented diva into their clan.