A Makeover for Top Model

Big changes are in store for America's Next Top Model!

Host and producer Tyra Banks, 38, has fired her panel of experts, The New York Post's Page Six reported Friday. They were reportedly informed Thursday morning that their contracts would not be renewed for Cycle 18.  Banks later confirmed that photographer Barker, 39, runway coach Alexander, 53, and creative director Manuel, 39, will be leaving America's Next Top Model via her official Facebook page.

"To my Nigel Barker, Miss J, and Mr Jay: Thank you for all of our years together on America's Next Top Model," Banks wrote. "Working with you is always an absolute pleasure. Excited for what the future holds for us."

Let's hope this improves the program, which I used to absolutely live for on Wednesday nights.  Unfortunately, the last two cycles - All Stars and now British Invasion - are fairly lame.  Part of that is due to Tyra herself, who has become more of a caricature of herself and slightly wacky - more so than normal.  I had high hopes when she brought in Vogue's Andrea Leon Talley but now he's gotten the boot, replaced by bitch extraordinaire Kelly Cutrone.  Perhaps the end has finally come to Top Model, or something much more entertaining will arrive in its place.  Next season will show!!

Farewell Nigel, Ms. Jay and Mr. Jay