Armed with the regional title of Ocala 's Next Top Model, Kimberly Leemans entered America 's Next Top Model with a brand of confidence that became a potential for both high fashion and commercial work. But despite the young girl's talent, Tyra was not satisfied with the overall package, and she was sent home in the second episode.
For the 20-year-old aspiring model, however, this early boot from America 's Next Top Model won't stop her from fulfilling her dreams. In fact, she is still pursuing modeling, as she released her now photos from a local fashion spread featuring her on high-waisted clothing.
The Orlando Sentinel had a conversation with Leemans, wherein she talked about her experiences in America 's Next Top Model. She admitted that the series often portrays the personalities differently, and what the viewers see isn't usually the whole story. Moreover, the reality show environment would at times make people do things unexpectedly. Leemans admitted that before the show, she disliked the fact that girls cry when they lose. However, on her elimination night, she admitted she was "boo-hooing on national TV."
The young aspiring model also did not expect to freak out when she met Tyra Banks, but found herself ecstatic upon meeting the model and mentor.
Leeman said that she was disappointed at the way America 's Next Top Model portrayed her, saying, "I was devastated. I knew I had better pictures than the ones they chose. The editing is crazy. They took comments I made all out of context. That really lit up the message board. When the viewers hate you, they really hate you."
In addition, she said that reality TV amplifies the drama just for entertainment. "The impression that we're cat fighting all the time is not accurate. That's reality TV. It's hyped up to be more dramatic that it really is. Behind the scenes, we had so much fun."
America's Next Top Model has become a launching point for model wannabes who aspire to get a taste of the spotlight even with their inclusion on the competitive reality show. Of course, many participants would want to be crowned as the next Top Model and even go beyond the fame of the being hailed the winner of the program, as it entails great prizes that would definitely help boost a career in the modeling world such as a representation from a renowned modeling agency, a spread in a notable magazine and a contract with CoverGirl cosmetics. Given the exposure from the show, does America's Next Top Model really certify a modeling career?
Although America's Next Top Model does not guarantee its winners a successful modeling career, many hopefuls, participants and most especially the winners are eager to be headed towards a glamorous life. In the case of Top Model cycle one winner Adrianne Curry, her exposure on the show has proved to be highly advantageous. She has acquired a number of modeling gigs and has graced various magazines. She also appeared on commercials, television series, game shows and reality shows, and is now a host of an online radio show.
Eva Pigford, America's Next Top Model cycle three winner, has also had a lucrative career after her stint on the competitive reality show. Aside from her prizes on Top Model, she appeared on the cover of many magazines such as Brides Noir, Woman's Health and Fitness, King Magazine and Essence magazine.
She also represented brands like DKNY, Samsung, and Red by Marc Ecko. In addition, she also guest starred on several television programs and has worked in films like The Walk, Crossover, and is currently preoccupied with shooting another movie with Chris Rock.
While these two models prove that there can be success after America's Next Top Model, people will just have to wait and see if other Top Model winners will have the same fate.