Here Is Why We're So Excited About the New 'America's Next Top Model' Judges
America's Next Top Model will get a fierce, fresh makeover when it premieres on VH1 this fall. That includes a new host (Rita Ora) and brand new judges whose on-screen slay will surely have everyone talking. Ora is joined by supermodel Ashley Graham, Paper magazine Chief Creative Officer Drew Elliott and celebrity stylist Law Roach. These three are fashion industry powerhouses with the intel, experience and expertise to find literally America's next top model. Don't believe us? These fast facts about the judges will definitely change your mind. (C'mon, you know the dude who created Kim Kardashian's "Break the Internet" moment knows his stuff.)
Ashley Graham
Graham broke the glass ceiling for models by becoming the first plus-size woman to book the cover of Sports Illustrated's swimsuit edition. She's also been in international editions of Harper's Bazaar, ELLE and graced the cover of Glamour's "Chic at Every Size" issue earlier this year. With a recent music video credit to her name--DNCE's "Toothbrush"--Graham is an expert in the art of crossover. She has the new-age smarts to find a model who can stand out, break barriers and take risks. Just like her.
Drew Elliott
As the chief creative officer for Paper, one of culture's most cutting-edge glossies, Elliott knows where the fashion industry is headed, and that's a major plus for our contestants. As Tyra Banks said, "It’s no longer just about having the highest cheekbones and best pout and the best hair." It's about breaking through the 24/7 noise of the Internet and creating something that really resonates with people. This is something Elliott knows all about. He was the brains behind Kardashian's Winter 2014 Paper cover--you know the one where she bared her booty and subsequently broke the Internet? The girls are in good hands.
Law Roach
With an impressive roster of celebrity clients--Ariana Grande! Zendaya! Celine Dion!--this stylist has his finger on the pulse on what's happening in fashion right now. He has the uncanny ability to create ensembles that feel simultaneously current and forward-thinking. This will totally help our contestants, who need to become fashion architects--à la Roach--if they want any chance of penetrating the industry.