Jay Manuel leaving ‘America’s Next Top Model’ after 18 seasons

TORONTO – Canadian fashion guru Jay Manuel’s longtime run on “America’s Next Top Model” is ending.

In a posting on his blog Friday, the Toronto-raised creative director said after 18 seasons he will not be returning to the CW reality series, which is hosted by former supermodel Tyra Banks.

Series regulars Nigel Barker, a photographer, and J. Alexander, a runway coach, are also leaving.

“Nigel, Miss J and I had a great run, and now it’s time for us to move on,” wrote Manuel, a former makeup artist who directed photo shoots on the televised modelling competition.

“But you know me … I’m already working on many interesting projects. I look forward to sharing with you soon!”

In a posting on her Facebook page, Banks thanked the three for their work on the series she created.

“Working with you is always an absolute pleasure,” she wrote above a picture of the trio.

“Excited for what the future holds for us. XOXO, TyTy.”

Many fans who commented on Banks’s Facebook posting expressed shock and disappointment with the trio’s departure, with some writing that they don’t plan to watch the show anymore.

Born in Springfield, Ill., Manuel moved to Toronto when he was two and attended Dr. Norman Bethune Collegiate Institute in the city.

He’s creative director of Sears Canada’s private label collection, Attitude Jay Manuel, and has hosted his own show, “Style Her Famous.”

Manuel also hosted two seasons of “Canada’s Next Top Model,” has his own makeup line, and is a frequent fashion critic for “E!” channel.

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