What happens when ambition meets a pressure cooker, where dreams are crafted under the unforgiving glare of the camera? The crucible of "America's Next Top Model" (ANTM) cycle 5, unveiled on UPN in 2005, provides a fascinating, albeit sometimes unsettling, lens through which to examine this very question.
Cycle 5, which premiered on September 21, 2005, and concluded on December 7, 2005, was more than just a reality television show; it was a cultural phenomenon. It brought viewers a diverse group of young women, each vying for a coveted spot in the cutthroat world of high fashion. Hosted by Tyra Banks, with Nigel Barker behind the lens and Twiggy joining the judging panel, the show promised makeovers, house drama, and the pursuit of the ultimate prize: a contract with Ford Models, a $100,000 contract with CoverGirl, and a photo spread in a Ford Fusion (Americas) national advert. But behind the glossy veneer of glamour, the cycle proved to be a complex mix of ambition, rivalry, and the relentless scrutiny of the public eye.
The cast of cycle 5 was particularly memorable, each contestant bringing her own unique backstory and personality to the table. From the "small town girl" to the openly lesbian model, from the outspoken drama queen to the girl with a troubled past, the cycle was a melting pot of experiences and aspirations. The dynamics between the contestants created a constant undercurrent of tension and excitement, making the show highly engaging for viewers. The introduction of Miss J Alexander and the departure of Janice Dickinson added additional nuances to the season, while providing further dimension.
| Contestant | Bio & Information | Career Highlights | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nicole Linkletter Nathanson | Born February 27, 1985, in United States. | Winner of ANTM Cycle 5, Contract with Ford Models, CoverGirl contract, Ford Fusion ad campaign. | Known for her poised demeanor and consistent performance throughout the competition. |
| Lisa D'Amato | American fashion model. | Competed on ANTM Cycle 5, Won ANTM All-Stars Cycle 17 | Known for her outspoken personality and tendency to start drama. |
| Kyle Sharee Kavanagh | American fashion model. | Competed on ANTM Cycle 5. | Known for being the small town girl who worked at a dairy queen. |
| Kimberly Lynn Stolz | American fashion model. | Competed on ANTM Cycle 5. | Openly lesbian, known for her boyish appearance. |
| Coryn Renee Woitel | American fashion model. | Competed on ANTM Cycle 5. | Known for her rivalry with Lisa D'Amato. |
| Brittney Bre Lavelle Scullark | American fashion model. | Competed on ANTM Cycle 5. | Known for swimming competitively before modeling |
One of the most intriguing contestants was Kyle Sharee Kavanagh, the "small town girl" who worked at a Dairy Queen before the show. She formed strong friendships with Kim Stolz and Nicole Linkletter. She quickly became known for being a bit of a sweetheart. Though she did not have a signature moment, her consistency in the challenges and her reward challenge win made her a standout among the other women.
Kimberly Lynn Stolz, with her boyish appearance, was constantly critiqued for being too masculine, a common theme in the show's history. Stolz, a graduate of Brearley School and Wesleyan University, was openly lesbian, a fact that added another layer to her portrayal. Her candidness about her identity, as well as her unique look, helped to set her apart.
Coryn Renee Woitel's story was one of resilience. At her auditions, she shared her difficult upbringing, having grown up with a mother who struggled with drug addiction and never knowing her father. The show's host and creator, Tyra Banks, applauded her honesty and encouraged her to embrace her authenticity. Woitel's rivalry with Lisa D'Amato was a central storyline, and in an episode five challenge, Lisa pointed out what she viewed as Coryn's biggest flaw being too muscular.
Then there was Lisa D'Amato, who was already a force of nature in Cycle 5. Known for her outspokenness and tendency to stir up drama, she brought a unique blend of charisma and creativity that captivated audiences. In later cycles she would return, demonstrating that the journey on ANTM sometimes has more than one chapter.
Brittney Bre Lavelle Scullark, a native of Harlem, New York, brought a different flavor to the competition, having been a competitive swimmer since the age of nine. Her participation in the Juneteenth fashion show in NYC also gave her a head start. Her presence added further dimension to the season.
The winner, Nicole Linkletter Nathanson, was a standout from the beginning. Her prizes included a contract with Ford Models, a $100,000 contract with CoverGirl, and a photo in a Ford Fusion national advertisement. She became the embodiment of consistency and poise, and her win was a testament to her dedication and talent.
The judging panel added to the show's overall appeal. Tyra Banks, Nigel Barker, and Miss J Alexander remained familiar faces, while Twiggy joined as a judge and replaced Janice Dickinson, who made a guest appearance as a photographer. This combination of experience and fresh perspective provided a range of expertise and opinions, adding further variety to the series.
The backdrop of the show offered interesting insights as well. The cycle reflected the broader societal trends of the time. The show's popularity underscored the public's fascination with the fashion industry, and its appetite for drama and reality television. From the makeovers and the house drama to the pressure of the photo shoots, viewers got an inside look into the world of modeling.
The contestants themselves offered a range of reflections about the experience. Lisa D'Amato, who would later win Cycle 17, brought her signature intensity to the show. In another cycle, Elyse Sewell, who made it to the top three in cycle 1, revealed that she preferred medical school to modeling, yet has gone on to have a successful international career, as well as writing a book.
The show's history has its complexities, as seen by the reflections of the contestants. While many saw the experience as a stepping stone to success, others expressed criticisms about the show's practices. One contestant alleged that the show did not care for its contestants once they left the competition.
Cycle 5 of "America's Next Top Model" was a captivating journey through the trials and triumphs of aspiring models. From Kyle Kavanagh's small-town charm to Lisa D'Amato's unfiltered personality, each contestant contributed to the show's enduring legacy. The cycle provided a glimpse into the often-glamorous, yet undeniably competitive world of high fashion, and it continues to resonate with viewers who remember its memorable cast, its iconic moments, and the dreams that were both realized and challenged on the path to the top. The show continues to be a touchstone, a reminder of a time when reality television was just beginning to define the entertainment landscape, and the pursuit of beauty, fame, and success took center stage.
