Kelly Cutrone Fires Back at Jay Manuel Over ANTM Drama

Kelly Cutterone, the fashion publicist who served as a judge on America’s Next Top Model (cycles 18‑22), has taken a strong stance against Jay Manuel’s recent criticism of Tyra Banks in the Netflix docuseries Reality Check.

Manuel’s Allegations

• Wanted to Leave: Manuel claimed he wanted out after cycle 8 and felt ignored by Banks on set.
• Cold Treatment: He alleged that Banks treated him “coldly” afterward.

Cutrone’s Response

• Rebuttal: Posted an Instagram comment labeling Manuel’s claims “untrue” and questioning his fashion credentials.
• Mockery: Highlighted Manuel’s past work at a Toronto cosmetics counter before joining the show, calling his recent book on Banks a “failed attempt to stay relevant.”
• First‑Day Rudeness: Accused Manuel of calling her an “ejector seat” on day one and threatening dismissal.
• Docuseries Awkwardness: Joked about a future spokesperson role for spray‑tanning, implying Manuel’s appearance was clumsy.

Other Contestants Speak Up

• Ambreal Williams: Said Manuel dismissed her after cycle 9.
• Sarah Hartshorne: Wrote that he “didn’t get along with anyone,” noting he rolled his eyes at a photographer while flaunting an iPhone.

Manuel’s Perspective

• Fired After Cycle 18: Alongside photographer Nigel Barker and runway coach Miss J. Alexander.
• Leak Trouble: Claims a leak about their firing caused issues before the official announcement.
• Exclusion from Banks’ Conversations: Felt “doomed” for the rest of the cycle after telling Banks he wanted to leave.

Tyra Banks’ Take

• Avoided Discussion: Prefers not to talk about Manuel, calling him a “special man” without elaboration.
• Legacy: Acknowledges past mistakes but emphasizes her role in bringing diverse models to mainstream fashion.

Controversial Shoots & Allegations

• Racial Portrayals: Models asked to portray different races.
• Sexual Harassment Claims: Allegations surfaced in the docuseries.

Cutrone’s Defense

• On‑Set Running: Defended her decision to stop a contestant from running, citing industry standards.
• Hierarchy Respect: Criticized Louise Watts for lacking respect for hierarchy and misrepresenting the editing process.

Final Thoughts

• Banks’ Legacy: “I won’t let my reputation be defined by online rumors; the show has changed the world over 24 cycles.”
• Cutterone’s Stance: Continues to defend her reputation and the integrity of America’s Next Top Model.