To make an end is to make a beginning…
Posted on April 20, 2012 - Filed Under ANTM, Nigel Barker Today
After many fun filled years with America’s Next Top Model, I will not be returning to the program for cycle 19.
Many of you have come to know me over the past eight years on the show, during which we have shared numerous amazing adventures. It has been an exciting chapter in my life and I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to do the international version of Top Model for Canada, New Zealand, Finland, England, Mexico and even Russia. What a ride it has been!
I will miss the cast, the crew and ANTM will always have a special place in my heart, having made life-long friendships with countless fond memories.
This change will allow me to take on new projects and turn my attention to other business prospects in the worlds of fashion, beauty and entertainment. I also have a number of new ventures that have been in the works, and I look forward to sharing them with you very soon – Stay tuned!
Of course, as you might have expected, my efforts on behalf of Haiti, The HSUS, the Make A Wish Foundation, The United Nations Foundation and many more will continue with full force.
This next chapter promises to be even more thrilling with the sky’s the limit. I look forward to taking you with me.
Much love,
Nigel

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86 Responses to “To make an end is to make a beginning…”
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So sad to hear this, Nigel you will be missed. Thank you for 8 wonderful years, you will be missed. We can hope you will make appearances in the future.Good luck in your new ventures.
Nigel,
I’m gonna miss you being judge at ANTM. Yet, I would want to congratulate you on your future endeavors. I will always be your fan no matter what ever path you may take.. I’m always gonna be here to support and praying for you health, your loving family and more projects to come…
I only met you once but you left behind a part of you that will always remain in my heart.. take care Nigel.
I love you, CP
I CANT BELIEVE THAT YOUR LEAVING. YOUR THE COOLEST AND SEXY GUY IN ANTM. YOUR AN AWESOME PHOTOGRAPHER. HOPE TO HERE FROM YOU THROUGH OUT THE WORLD. WISH YOU THE VERY BEST
WITH MUCH LOVE
JAY
Oh, Nigel. I knew this day would come. While I feel a bit of sadness for your departure, I am extremely happy for you. You brought a quality and refinement to ANTM that I don’t think would have existed without your presence.
Whatever you endeavor to do moving forward, I am certain you will light up the sky, much like Haley’s Comet — a visit, though brief, that is breathtaking and so rare it only comes along once in a lifetime.
I will continue to follow your path and read your inspiring words. I wish you, Crissy, Jack and Jasmine all the best that is to come your way as you welcome new beginnings.
With great respect,
The Divine Ms. Melissa
Going to miss you being on ANTM, what with your slightly predictable love for blondes, and direct critique on the girls, and whatnot.
ANTM will have a big job filling your shoes, but I for one have learned a LOT watching your comments on photography, so thank you for that, and best of luck on your ventures!
Sad to see you leave ANTM. An amazing photographer, judge and nice to look at
good luck for your new adventure x x x
You definitely brought the sexy to ANTM and will be missed! I’m curious to see who fills your shoes, got to admit. That photo is great! I think Mr. Jay might be wearing more makeup than Tyra! lol
Good luck in your future projects. Take care.
That must have been one tough decision for you young man! A great chunk of your life was shared with the show and all the people associated with it, that makes for close friendships and bonds. However, I believe it was a good move at the right time. I for one (and Cherrie for two, plus all your many followers and friends) await to see your new (ad)ventures take off. I am not one given to sentimental writings, so I will state this only the once, many people love you for very many different reasons. This reflects the kind of man you are, both loving and giving, in short, you are a true diamond of a gent! Just leaves me to say, the very best of luck to all you turn your hand to (you don’t need luck, you’ve got the style!) and we, who have come to know and love you, will be here, supporting you.
with fondests regards,
Chrissy.
[...] has also taken to the web, to discuss his exit from the show. He wrote the following on his official website. After many fun filled years with America’s Next Top Model, I will not be returning to the [...]
[...] Photo Via Nigel Barker. Tweet window.fbAsyncInit = function() { FB.init({appId: "195912347143517", xfbml: true}); FB.Event.subscribe('comment.create', function(response) { }); }; (function() { var e = document.createElement('script'); e.async = true; e.src = document.location.protocol + '//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js'; document.getElementById('fb-root').appendChild(e); }()); [...]
[...] past eight years on the show, during which we have shared numerous amazing adventures,” he wrote. “It has been an exciting chapter in my life.” Posted in: BREAKING INDUSTRY NEWS [...]
Hello from Russia!. Nigel is very sorry that you leave the program and will not participate in the 19th cycle of “America Next Top Model” Come to us. Good luck. With love, Marina.
Dear Mr Barker,
I’m sad to hear that you are not going to continue as a judge in America´s Next Top Model, but I guess that all good has to come to an end at some point.
I have to say though, that you have always been one of my favorites. Now I’m looking forward to see what you will be up to next. I wish you all the best.
Sincerely,
Liselotte from Finland
[...] Cycle 19 will feature a college theme.Banks confirmed the cast changes on Twitter.Barker took to his blog to issue a statement. "I will miss the cast, the crew and 'ANTM' will always have a special place [...]
[...] took to his blog to issue a statement. “I will miss the cast, the crew and ‘ANTM’ will always have [...]
[...] took to his blog to issue a statement. “I will miss the cast, the crew and ‘ANTM’ will always have [...]
[...] took to his blog to issue a statement. “I will miss the cast, the crew and ‘ANTM’ will always have [...]
[...] [...]
Oh I’m sad
I’m gonna miss you Mr. Nigel ! ANTM with.out like d sky w/o sun!
Oh I’m sad
I’m gonna miss you Mr. Nigel ! ANTM w/o you like d sky w/o sun!
[...] took to his blog to issue a statement. « I will miss the cast, the crew and ‘ANTM’ will [...]
[...] took to his blog to issue a statement. “I will miss the cast, the crew and ‘ANTM’ will always have [...]
Nigel,
When one door closes another door opens to a whole new world of possibilities.
Thank you so much for all that you do to support our charity as well as the other important causes that you dedicate your passion and energy to.
Great things happen to great people so we look forward to the next adventure.
Your friends at Solving Kid’s Cancer
[...] a blog post, Barker said his departure will “allow me to take on new projects and turn my attention to other business prospects in the [...]
Dear Nigel,
all the best in the years to come. I was thrilled by watching you every week in ANTM… I used to say -when I have a bf I want him to be so gentlemanish as Nigel, lol.
Much love from Mexico, te vamos a extrañar!!!
My God Nigel,I’m so so sad…I can’t believe it!
I can’t imagine ANTM without you.
But it’s a new road and I wish the best for you.
So,good lucky!
Kisses
Ludimila Nascente
Wow, no idea how the show will function without you three, Tyra hasn’t been bearable for many seasons and y’all have been holding it together for her. Good luck in your future endeavors!
Well,Nigel,it sure has been a nice ride with you all these years. You are an oustanding photographer, and a professional and intelligent mentor. It is a given that you are the sexiest thing since sliced bread, so watching you has been a delight in every way! I look forward to your next project, and wish you all the best. God bless.
Dear Nigel,
I was EXTREMELY sorry to hear the news! I am not even sure I’m going to watch ANTM without you and the two J’s.
No doubt, however, this move will open up new opportunities for you, and I wish you every success in your further endeavors.
Hugs from Russia,
Lora
Moscow, Russia
[...] addressed his departure on his blog: Many of you have come to know me over the past eight years on the show, during which we have [...]
You will be missed! You were one of the MAIN reasons to watch the show! Good luck in your future endeavors. Hope to see you somewhere in TV land soon!
Aww Antm 20 won’t be the same without you bringing the dreamy smoulder to judging. Good luck on your future endeavours! Can’t wait to see what’s next!
Nigel
YOu will be missed so much. Good Luck in the future because we will be watching
XOXOX
Nigel, sou do Brazil e adoro o programa!
Uma pena você não participar mais dele…
=[
Apareça no Brasil…
Beijos!
So sad to see you go! You should do your own show… America’s Next Top Fashion Photographer!
Good luck on new ventures!
I have just barely put my toes in as a fashion photographer but I have ALWAYS loved fashion. I have learned so much from watching ANTM and enjoy the crew. Nigel, it will not be the same without you!
You have so much to offer
What am a girl to do? Hahahahaha. I love Jay, Miss J and Tyra and will continue to support them. I can’t wait to find out about your new adventures and will always support! Praying for everyone!
XoXo ~ Trina
It is a pity. Good luck and success.
I can’t belived that u gonna leaved ANTM, I always following every episod and cycle of ANTM, stunning fotograf best and ever in ANTM, I like u so much.I’m gonna miss you. ANTM is not gonna be complite wthoud u there, whatever u take about ur journey hope is gonna be fine.hugs and big kissed ur fan’s from Indonesia. Especially Iam Norris.see u in the next journey.
its very bad man((((respect your Refereeing at ANTM!gud luk in new projectz
I am so sorry to hear this. My 11-year-old daughter and I watch ANTM every week and we think you are amazing!!!
I’ll never forget the one day, my husband came back from working in NYC one day and told us he was standing 6 feet away from you outside a building. We were so jealous!
Good luck!!!
I am not sure if I will watch this show or not.
Why to watch?It isn’t the ANTM that I used to love.
[...] Nigel Barker [...]
[...] that he's off "ANTM," Barker said on his blog that he's looking forward to new [...]
I didn’t watch the show until you arrived on the scene, and I won’t be able to watch it without you and the Js. However, I have no doubt that you all will succeed in whatever future endeavors you undertake. Wishing you all the best,and God bless! Sherry
[...] and her fired cohorts. They’ve been tweeting kind messages to each other. Nigel posted this nice message on his personal blog, regarding his [...]
[...] Nigel’s reaction here. Tweet Posted in Steve Gray [...]
[...] America’s Next Top Model, I will not be returning to the program for cycle 19,” Barker wrote on his blog late Thursday [...]
Sorry you are leaving because you have always been one of the best things on the show. Your comments and honesty were always spot on.I loved the challenges where you were the photographer. Because I would see you more then my own family I will miss seeing you and the other guys leaving the show.
Nigel, Nigel, Nigel – i will miss your sexiness, i will miss your honesty – most of all, i will miss your coolness – and i know that like cream, you will rise to the top…
Wow…this news shocked me this morning…I am going to miss your creative, unique interesting and fascinating photographs…so much. I learn much form you about photography..
Cheers from Australia
Nigel, the loss of your integrity, wit, refinement, and kind spirit will leave a tremendous void on the ANTM show. You are irreplaceable and have taught all who’ve had the pleasure of watching you what a true gentleman is. Best wishes to you. Millions will be eagerly cheering on your future successes. Who doesn’t love to see one of the good guys win?
C. from Upstate NY
Sad to see you go, but even sadder on what ANTM has become. So out with the people who actually work in fashion an in with a rude PR woman and D-list celebrities who know nothing about modeling. Another show off my list.
I read about this on the NY Post and couldn’t believe it. The three of you made the show what it was ever since the beginning. I guess this will be the end of ANTM. When one door closes another one opens.
I will not be watching ANTM any longer. You were the only truly sane thing on that show these days. I hope we will see you with your own competitive modeling show, better yet… with a competitive fashion photographer show. I’d totally tune in. You’re a very inspirational person, such a lovely talent, good luck in your future!
good
Nigel,
I’m sorry to see you leaving ANTM. As a fellow photographer, I especially enjoyed your insights and creative comments. The show, and particularly your contributions to it, helps make me a better photographer and I thank you for that.
All the best to you as you enter the next phase of your career.
This cannot be happening and i can tell you ANTM is making a big mistake letting you and the J’s go!! You all make this show what it is! I watch all the reruns of the past years and enjoy them just as much as when I watched the first time! Whoever made this decision should have talked to he fans! This is very disheartening and I worry for the future of ANTM, one of my most favorit shows!! You will be so very missed Nigel! Unbeleivable mistake!
DIS IS SAD. i will really miss your cute face. Taking a next step in life is a good thing, so i really hope u find what ever it is that u r looking…
well, i just hope that they’ll survive without you. you’re sooooo great! i’m not into fashion much but i watch ANTM because you give us a diff perspective about beauty and how to flaunt it.
So sad to hear this, Nigel you will be missed in cycle 19.
You will be missed Nigel. I wish you best of luck in your next ventures. I love how you always said your opinion but were never rude. You were also incredibly caring towards the contestants. You represent us British people perfectly and you are the perfect gentleman. I look forward to seeing your future work x
You brought a touch of class and warmth. You are an amazing photographer and I am sure you will be missed by many. But life is about adventure and I will be looking forward to seeing what you come up with next!
Best of luck!
As a photographer you gave the most knowledgeable advice. The show won’t be the same without you. Best wishes on your new adventures, keep us posted. I’m so glad I found you on Twitter. Thank you.
Nilsa
Nigel! Say it isn’t so. You are my favorite contributor to ANTM. Although I gave up on the Brit Invasion cycle, I was looking forward to 19. Now I wont watch it at all. I’m hoping this was your desire and not a shrewd business move. If the rumors are true — I’m sure Tyra had a reason for this, but it wont sit well with the fans. Is this for sure??? Please find a way to continue to dazzle us with your wit, style and talents galore. The USA loves you Nigel. I’m a sad woman today.
Dear sexy noted fashion photographer ~Nigel Barker~!
I am so sad to hear this. I loved all three of you on ANTM. Love Tyra, but if you three are gone, I am done watching. You three made the show. It will undoubtedly hurt Tyra but the producers must know how much the fans loved you guys. And while I have your attention … dang you are gooooo’d lookin’! I will miss that sexy smile of yours. I will keep holding out hope that the producers realize what a mistake they are making. xoxo
I have been a fan of ANTM since day one and often watch the repeats. ANTM without you, Nigel (so sexy…..love your accent,too), Jay Manuel and Miss J. just won’t be the same. It’ll be interesting to see what happens to the ratings. All the best to you and your lovely wife and family. Take good care.
[...] his blog he mentioned that the move will allow him to “take on new projects.” Miss J also spoke [...]
Ohhhh Mr. Barker – say it aint so!!! I so adore you and Jay and am saddened to hear we won’t be graced by your stunningness and true fashion eye on a regular basis
I wish it were not so, you and Mr. Jay brought style and class to the show – you were my favorite judge. You made me believe that someone on that show really liked and cared about these girls. I guess what I am saying is that you were likable. I valued your opinion and his above anyone else. And you are an incredible photographer. All I can say is that “Tyra’s loss is the modeling world’s gain”. Anyway, I really do think you are abandoning a “sinking ship” – the show has loss its appeal and I know its ratings. I wish you nothing but the best for the future. God bless!
Darn Nigel, you sure would be missed! Thankfully, since neither Jay nor Miss J are coming back, neither will I.
Good luck with all of the upcoming projects–sure sounds exciting!!
Best wishes and God Bless!
You will be missed, Nigel. I loved every episode you were in and you were my favorite photographer in the show.
Good luck in this new chapter in your life.
PS. I still would want to have a pictorial with you. :>
I just heard the news and I am a complete lost for words. You definitely made the show what it is along with the two Jay’s. I can’t even think of watching the show now.
Well it will be the show’s loss and your gain because you are now open to succeed in other areas of opportunity now. I wish you the best in all your future endeavors.:)
Mr. Barker, you add such an element of class to the show and without class, hmmm..
In any event, you will succeed in the choices you make, in love and life.
BTW, my favorite ANTM episode was the one where your beautiful mother taught the contestants how to wrap a sari. I so wish I had been one of the contestants!
Oh… it’s so sad. We will always love you, Nigel! Best wishes.
PRAISE TO YOU AND EVERYONE ELSE WHO SMILED BRAVELY IN THE MIDST OF TYRA’S NARCISTIC ATTITUDE. I KNEW THAT’S WHY SHE COULDN’T KEEP JUDGES. ALL THE BEST TO YOU.
Hi, Nigel.
I wish you and the Jays would stay instead. I watched all the ANTM Cycles because of the three of you, and not even because of Tyra who talks about herself all the time (Oh, I remember when I did this… and I remember when I had to do that… I had to pose like this even if it was uncomfortable…). Your critics were always objective, and you played no favorites. ANTM had a sense of balance because of the three of you.
I am sure you will do great in your endeavors. All the best to you.
Danya
[...] Evans and Wujek were recently added to the “Top Model” line-up, as a judge and stylist respectively, after Banks, the star and executive producer, shook up her longtime judging panel and booted Nigel Barker, Jay Manuel and Miss J. Alexander. In April 2012, Barker took to his blog to issue a statement. “I will miss the cast, the crew and ‘ANTM’ will always have a special place in my heart, having made life-long friendships with countless fond memories,” he wrote. [...]
[...] Evans and Wujek were recently added to the “Top Model” line-up, as a judge and stylist respectively, after Banks, the star and executive producer, shook up her longtime judging panel and booted Nigel Barker, Jay Manuel and Miss J. Alexander. In April 2012, Barker took to his blog to issue a statement. “I will miss the cast, the crew and ‘ANTM’ will always have a special place in my heart, having made life-long friendships with countless fond memories,” he wrote. [...]
[...] replacement is male model Rob Evans and Johnny Wujek. Nigel Barker, as stated on his blog, will miss the show; yet this will allow him to focus on different projects. J. Alexander reveals [...]
Oi Nigel, boa noite, sobre o comentario da saida de voces do ANTM, se realmente for verdade, o programa não será mais o mesmo, não terá mais graça. É uma pena, tenho todos os programas gravados, eu adoro, mas , nao sei se continuarei assistindo…
beijosss
Aline Eiterer (Brasil)
Nigel, because of who you are and your amazing talent, starting a chapter in your life will not be difficult…AT ALL! Your name says it all and your amazing talent will always follow you….what ever path you chose to go down. Good Luck!
Hi Nigel,
I am sad to hear about this news, heard it quite late actually since airing of Cycle 18 has just ended here in Manila, Philippines and I was checking out teasers on cycle 19 when I came across this. Honestly I still can’t imagine how the next season will be like without you and the two Js
. I truly respect Ms. Tyra and she is one hell of a hardworker and of course the team is just doing everything to regain the show’s ratings but you guys have just been a big part of the ANTM image and I will dare say one of the reasons why the fans have stayed all these years, well atleast I am speaking for myself. Just the same, I am sure you will forge ahead not just because of your talent but most of all your kindness – as that is always rewarded by goodness.
. We still hope to see more of you and the upcoming new successes that you are meant to reach. You are my favorite ANTM judge because you’re critiques are always constructive never offensive – always a gentleman.
.
We will look forward to your new endeavors, Nigel.
This show sucks without you guys…
The show will not be the same without the 3 of you. Y’all really made it for most of us. I love Tyra too but it isn’t the same now and I don’t see myself watching it any longer. I saw what is it without the 4 of you ans was disappointed. The only good change I saw was the public being able to vote and have a say in the out come.
Still, good luck in all you do and God be with you all.
[...] I read that Nigel Barker was the man behind the camera for this new Taylor Swift photo book, all I could think about was how [...]
well just finnished watching cycle 19 i think its safe to say that without and and J’s the show was absolutly without merit or worth this cycle i won’t be back for 20 …. looking forward to your new shot The Face your artistic insight and skills behind the camera and true love of the art of fashion photography is what kept me tunning in cycle after cycle big fan of your work …. ANTM is nothing without you and the J’s …