Thaindian News

By Meena Kar
Dec 2, (THAINDIAN NEWS) Cycle 15 of America’s Next Top Model finally announced its winner after a season of great drama and some extraordinary fashion. Ann Ward, one of the most talked about contestants on the show for her height (6′2″) and for her back-story, was pitted against Chelsey Hersley, the blond bombshell and one of the favorites to win the show.

Tyra Banks announced the winner as Ann Ward and the model broke out in tears after seeing her name on the screen. She said that she thought of all the people that made fun of her. She added that all of them would regret picking on her and feel that they should have been nicer to her. Runner Up Chelsey Hersley remained still after the winner was announced and lacked much expression when the winner gave her a hug. The disappointment was obvious as many predicted in the course of the season that she was the obvious winner.

The 19 year old model from Texas will now get a contract with IMG Models, fashion spreads in Vogue Magazine and $100,000 contract with the cosmetic giant CoverGirl. The finale was filmed in Milan and other locations in Italy and the finalists were given some of the toughest challenges as models.

Ann Ward’s victory has also sparked a debate in the fashion industry about the encouragement of anorexic and thin models who only act as hangers for clothes without a hint of flesh being visible from anywhere. Ann Ward has also struggled with her walk but it was her photographs that made her a favorite among the judges. Chelsey Hersley also provided tough competition to Ann Ward throughout the season and looked far more experienced on the ramp.