Tyra Banks Fires ‘America’s Next Top Model’ Co-hosts & Judges, The Judges Respond

Tyra Banks is parting ways with three of her expert judges on runway show, ‘America’s Nest Top Model’. Not returning for the show’s 19th cycle will be photographer Nigel Barker, 39, creative director Jay Manuel, 39, and runway coach J. Alexander, 53.

The news came as a shock and many wondered if it was, in fact, true. Confirming the news, Banks took to her official Facebook page with the message, “To my Nigel Barker, Miss J and Mr. Jay: Thank you for all of your years together on America’s Next Top Model,” wrote Banks. “Working with you is always an absolute pleasure. Excited for what the future holds for us.”

The judges have provided their expert opinions and knowledge of the modelling industry since the show’s creation back in 2003.

Adding to Bank’s confirmation the show’s executive producer, Ken Mok, told Page Six, “Nigel Barker, Jay Manuel and J. Alexander have been an integral part of the America’s Next Top Model brand and they helped turn this show into the household name it is today. They have been amazing assets to the show and will always be a part of the Top Model family. We will continue to actively work with each of them on future projects.”

At the moment there’s no word on who’ll replace the three judges. Meanwhile, here’s what the judges had to tweet about their being let go.

Despite his firing, Nigel Barker (@nigelbarker) has no hard feelings. He tweeted, “@tyrabanks best of luck with cycle 19, It has been a pleasure working with you the past 8 years. Much love Nigel…#ANTM @TyraBanks @MrJayManuel @Miss_JAlexander http://www.nigelbarker.tv… I’ll miss you on the show but look forward to our next adventures!”

He included a link pointing readers to his official blog further expressing his gratitude and that no love is lost.

Jay Manuel: (@mrjaymanuel) kept it simple with, “It’s a wrap everybody… http://bit.ly/Ica0gY“. The link also takes followers to a blog expressing his gratitude to have had the experience but not to worry, he’s already got some great projects in the works.

Miss J Alexander (@Miss_JAlexander) doesn’t seem to be taking the news well however. He sent out several tweets in response to his let go.

“I Suggest Americas Next Top Model cycle 1-13 I start to dissapear Cycle 14-18 And CYCLE 19 POOOF GONE..!…. @MisterEditor @Miss_JAlexanderI’m Still not Following you..? Damn I’m sure I’m doing something wrong…Thats probably Why i got Fired..?

Honestly, the show lost it’s appeal for me, at least. 6 cycles ago. However, I do believe the show will not be the same without the three original judges. We wish them well.