The first season of Next Top Model by Cătălin Botezatu premiered on Thursday February 3, 2011 at 20:20 on Antena 1. The competition was hosted by Romanian fashion designer Cătălin Botezatu, with a judging panel that included photographer Gabriel Hennessey, makeup artist Mirela Vescan, hairstylist Laurent Tourette, and model agent Liviu Ionescu.[1][2][3]
To qualify, contestants had to be between 16 and 25 years old at the time of applying, stand at least 170 cm tall, and hold a valid Romanian or Moldovan passport.[4] Filming for the season began in late 2010.
Twelve contestants were selected by the judges from a shortlist of 50 semifinalists, narrowed down from a pool of approximately 5,000 applicants.[5] They lived together at the Monte Carlo Palace in Bucharest before traveling to various locations, including Egypt, Finland, the United Arab Emirates, and France, in the latter half of the competition.
The season crowned 16-year-old Emma Dumitrescu from Bucharest as the winner. Among her prizes was a modeling contract with MRA Models valued at €50,000.[6] The series was renewed for a second season, which began airing in September 2011.
The judges visited several cities in Romania, for a round of auditions where they chose a shortlist of 50 semifinalists to possibly compete in the show. The chosen semifinalists later arrived in Bucharest for a final round of interviews with the judges. At the end of the week, they chose 10 finalists (Roxana, Otilia, Inga, Mădălina, Lucia, Laura, Emma, Alexandra, Anca, Sara), and later added an additional two contestants (Adela and Diana) once the models had moved into their new apartment at the Monte Carlo Palace.
Special guests: Olga Calpajiu, Guido Dolci (Major Model Management)
The contestants began the week by receiving their highly anticipated makeovers, and later received a runway lesson from model Bianca Drăgușanu in order to prepare for a runway show challenge, where they showcased designs by host Cătălin Botezatu. Later, they participated in a wildlife-themed photo shoot set in a botanical garden. At judging, Roxana received best picture. Anca and Otilia landed in the bottom two, and Anca was eliminated from the competition.
Featured photographer: Gabriel Henessey
Special guests: Bianca Drăgușanu, Busta Rhymes, Ana Catharina (guest judge)[10]
The models had a workout and aerobic session at the gym followed by a runway lesson with Brazilian model Ana Catharina at a ballet studio. Later in the week they had a makeup lesson with judge Mirela Vescan, followed by a Maybelline commercial challenge with makeup artist Nick Barna, which was won by Inga and Mădălina. For the photo shoot, the contestants had to pose in a meat storage facility. At elimination, the editor of Romanian Cosmopolitan was guest judge. Otilia received best picture. Diana and Lucia landed in the bottom two, and Diana was eliminated from the competition.
The remaining ten models sat down for a lesson with actress Alina Pușcaș, from the TV series Narcisa Salbatica, and were later flown abroad to Egypt. Upon arrival they were taken to the city of Giza, and had a runway presentation and photo shoot challenge at Karnak wearing colorful designs by Cătălin Botezatu, where Roxana was chosen as the winner. Later in the week the contestants had a fragrance photo shoot on the beach. At judging, Luxury magazine editor Leon Arhire was guest judge. Alexandra received best photo, while Roxana was awarded the opportunity to appear in a pictorial for Luxury. Inga and Sara landed in the bottom two, and Sara was eliminated from the competition.
Featured photographer: Gabriel Henessey
Special guests: Alina Pușcaș, Leon Arhire (guest judge)
The remaining nine contestants participated in a runway challenge presentation on the beach, which was won by Alexandra. Later in the week, they traveled to the Giza Plateau for a photo shoot wearing gowns, with the Sphinx and the pyramids of Giza, Khafre, and Menkaure as the backdrop. The contestants had to adapt to challenging conditions, including the heat and strong winds, to deliver their best shots. At judging, Laura received best photo. Adela and Emma landed in the bottom two, and Adela was eliminated from the competition.
The remaining eight models returned to Romania. Back at the hotel they received a visit from judge Liviu Ionescu and one of the models from his agency, Silvia Giurca. They had to participate in a mock casting modeling a pair of glasses. Later that week the contestants were taken to a casino for a runway presentation challenge wearing black couture gowns, which was won by Emma. Lucia and Emma got into an argument, which ended in a physical altercation back at the house. On set, the models had a nude photo shoot wearing a single article of clothing from a mannequin. At judging, Lucia was disqualified for having instigated the fight that had taken place earlier that week. After deliberation, Alexandra received best photo. Emma and Inga landed in the bottom two, and Inga was eliminated from the competition.
The models were flown to Rovaniemi, Lapland in time for the holiday season, and had a guided tour of Santa Claus Village with host Cătălin Botezatu. Later in the week they had an outdoor runway presentation in the snow, after which Mădălina began to feel ill from the cold, and had to be evacuated. The remaining five contestants took part in a winter themed photo shoot wearing fur pelts and bikinis, with Mădălina returning shortly after. Later that night, the models made a visit to the Arctic Snowhotel. At judging, Roxana received best photo. Emma and Otilia landed in the bottom two, and Otilia was eliminated from the competition.
The contestants checked in at the airport as the competition moved to Dubai. Upon arriving at their penthouse suite in the luxurious Fairmont Hotel, the models participated in a rooftop runway challenge over a pool, during which Laura took an unexpected dive. Mădălina was declared the winner of the challenge. Later, the models were driven to the desert for a sleek dune bashing photo shoot, where they had to pose with falcons. At judging, Mădălina received best photo. Alexandra and Laura landed in the bottom two, and in a shocking turn of events, both were allowed to remain in the competition.
The contestants were introduced to model Dana Dorobantu for a brief chat before being challenged to perform in a scripted perfume commercial in Arabic at their penthouse pool. Mădălina was chosen as the winner of this challenge. Later, the models wore designs by Cătălin Botezatu while posing inside the hotel's panoramic elevators as they moved between floors. Their week continued at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club, where they viewed a polo match and participated in a photo shoot. That evening, they were treated to an outing to watch the Burj Khalifafountain show, and took part in their final challenge the following morning —a swimwear runway presentation that concluded with a photo shoot on the beach overlooking the Burj Al Arab. At judging, Mădălina received best photo. Alexandra and Roxana landed in the bottom two, and Alexandra was eliminated from the competition.
Featured photographer: Gabriel Henessey
Special guest: Dana Dorobantu, Mohammed Al Habtoor
The remaining four contestants returned to Romania, arriving in Transylvania for a week of challenges inspired by the region's legends and mysticism. They participated in a series of vampire and goth inspired runway presentations accompanied by themed photo sessions. After being treated to a horseback riding lesson, they faced their final photo shoot challenge on the grounds of the historic Corvin Castle by modeling ecclesiastical-inspired robes. However, the results of the shoot left much to be desired. At judging, Emma received best photo. Laura and Roxana wound up in the bottom two, and Laura was eliminated from the competition.
The final three arrived at the Ramada hotel in Brașov for the penultimate week of the competition. They were taken to the Brașov Opera House for a ballet lesson with instructor and choreographer Genoveva Breaz before participating in a dramatic runway show. Later, they traveled to the historic town of Sighișoara, where they enjoyed a private luncheon with host Cătălin Botezatu. They then took part in a semi-nude conceptual photo shoot in a salt mine and were treated to a nighttime tour of the city, ending the evening by bonding over dinner. Their final challenge of the week was a baroque-inspired runway presentation. At judging, Mădălina and Emma were selected as the finalists, while Roxana bid farewell to the competition.
The finalists were taken to the offices of judge Liviu Iunescu's MRA Models, where they participated in a series of photo shoots to build their professional portfolios. They later reunited with the previously eliminated contestants at the Pensiunea Mai in Rășinari before walking in a runway show at the Promenada. They then traveled to Paris, where they met with an agent from Major Model Management and received their comp cards and photo books from the shoots they had completed earlier that week. They attended a casting for French designer Christophe Guillarmé and enjoyed an outing at the Galerie des Champs-Elysées. To conclude their journey, they participated in a Black Swan inspired photo shoot on the streets of Paris before facing the judges one last time for the final deliberation, where Emma was crowned the winner.
Featured photographer: Oltin Dogaru, Radu Chindris, Gabriel Henessey
The contestant were scouted at a separate audition and later added to the cast.
The contestant was eliminated.
The contestant was disqualified from the competition.
The contestant was part of a non-elimination bottom two.
The contestant won the competition.
Post–Top Model careers
Anca Vasile signed with MRA Models. She took a number of test shots and appeared on magazine editorials for Look! December 2011. She walked in fashion shows for Laura Olteanu, Kinga Varga, Association 100%, and Eveniment.[44] She retired from modeling in 2013.
Sara Măgurean signed with MRA Models. She took a number of test shots and appeared in a magazine editorial for Ce Se Intampla Doctore in July 2011. She retired from modeling in 2012.
Adela Neagu signed with MRA Models. She took a number of test shots and walked in a fashion show for Eveniment. She retired from modeling in 2012.
Inga Ojog took a number of test shots and was featured in Revista Nunta in February 2013, Aquarelle Moldova in June 2015, Moldova în Progres, and Formula Krasoti Moldova in June 2020. She walked in fashion shows for Liudmila Storojuc, Wanda's Dream, DiVero Atelier, Flavia Vieriu, Clara Rotescu, Amarena Secret, Cătălin Botezatu, and Corina Hamureac during Odessa Fashion Week 2019, as well as several designers during Bucharest Fashion Week such as Istituto Cordella, Cristiana-Maria Purdescu, and Ioana Cãlin. Besides modeling, she currently runs the IO Models School, appeared in the movie Vay Başıma Gelenler and competed in several beauty-pageant competitions like Miss Tourism Queen International 2011, Miss World League Of Beauty and Fashion 2012, Miss European Tourism 2012, Miss Summer International 2012, Miss European Tourism 2014, Miss Litoral 2014, Miss Model of the World 2015, and Miss Kemer International 2016.[45][46]
Otilia Pană took a number of test shots and walked the runway for Mireasa Anului 2011.[47] Besides modeling, she competed and won the Miss Heaven October 2011 beauty pageant.[48] She retired from modeling in 2016.
Alexandra Băbăscu signed with MRA Models, Avenue Models, Ican Model Management, Major Model Management in Milan, Time Model Agency in Zürich, Noubelles Model Placement in Kressbronn, Relatum Models in Zagreb, Model One in Hong Kong, Modelline Group in Beijing, Upfront Models & Looque Models in Singapore, Rep Models, Up Models & Art Room Model Management in Istanbul. She took a number of test shots and appeared in magazine editorials for Playboy Fashion in July–August 2012, Bazaar Jewelry China, Femeia, and Jute.[49] She modeled and shot campaigns for Western Union, Band of Creators, Simona Semen, Perk by Kate, Gnana Studio A/W 2018, Impulse, Yearcon China, Robinsons. Băbăscu walked in fashion shows for Alexandre de Paris, Cathias Edeline, Gujin-Carnival Lingerie during Shanghai Underwear Show 2013, Triumph. Besides modeling, she appeared in the music video "Breathe" by Alex Mica and is currently a runway coach for Bold Models School.
Laura Dumitru signed with MRA Models, Joy Model Management in Milan, Model One in Hong Kong and Fashion Model Management in Taipei. She took a number of test shots and modeled for Fashion Sense, Queen Boutique, Isabel Queen, Dorin Negrau. She appeared in magazine editorials for Revista Unica, Viva, Shopping Report May 2011, Joy October 2012, Marie Claire April 2013, Jessica Hong Kong March 2014, Zip Hong Kong, and 180 Magazine Canada. Dumitru walked in fashion shows for Adrian Oianu, Dorin Negrau, Ermanno Scervino, Laura-Lo Spaccio S/S 12/13, Andra Cliţan, George Hojbota, Milan Fashion Week, as well as several designers during Hong Kong Fashion Week such as Amaya Arzuaga, and Moiselle. Besides modeling, she appeared in the music videos "Dead man walking" by Smiley and "Las-o Jos" by Super Ed. She retired from modeling in 2018.
Roxana Cristian signed with MRA Models. She took a number of test shots, appeared in magazine editorials for Absolutely Fabulous, and Tech In Style #5 2011.[50] She also walked the runway for Bianca Popp, and Ramelle Atelier.[51] She modeled for Bianca Popp, Haine Ieftine Outlet & Second Hand, Amoreze Berlin, White Fashion, Ramelle Atelier Spring 2016, Coly Bacău, Timar Shoes, Bonsay Store Summer 2017, and Codrina Dragomir.[52] She retired from modeling in 2020.
Mădălina Barbu signed with MRA Models and Ice Model Management in Istanbul. She took a number of test shots and walked in fashion shows for Laura Olteanu, Andrei Iordache, and Association 100%, as well as several designers from UNArte. She appeared in editorials for Tabu June 2011, T3 Turkey November 2011, Joy December 2011, GQ December 2011, Femeia December 2011, and Advantages August 2012. She retired from modeling in 2014.
Emma Dumitrescu collected her prizes and signed with MRA Models. She also signed with Rue des Modèles, Ice Model Management in Istanbul, Union Models in London, Francina Models in Barcelona, One Management in New York City, MC2 Model Management in Miami, Major Model Management, and Incoming Models in Milan. She appeared on magazine cover and editorials for Bravo Girl!, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Unica, Beau Monde Bride, Glamour June 2011, Tabu October 2011, Mireasa #1 2012, Intimita Italy, Harper's Bazaar Türkiye November 2012, Steadfast October 2016, Fort Lauderdale USA April 2017.[53] She modeled and shot campaigns for Eugenia Enciu, Balizza, Rodi Mood S/S 2012, L'Oréal, Çift Geyik Karaca S/S 2012, Andree Salon, Fan Courier, Vodafone, Pepsi, MIAU by Clara Rotescu S/S 2018, Rhea Costa, and Nespresso. Besides modeling, Dumitrescu appeared in the music video "I'm Sorry" by Akcent ft. Sandra Năftănăilă. She retired from modeling in 2020, and has since become a real estate agent.[54]
Controversy
There was controversy surrounding the season's sixth episode due to a physical altercation between 23-year-old Lucia Popa and the show's eventual winner, 16-year-old Emma Dumitrescu. Dumitrescu, one of the season's two youngest contestants along with Sara Măgurean, often drew Popa’s ire over their perceived immaturity. Tensions escalated following that week's photo shoot and runway challenge, which Dumitrescu won. Back at the apartment, the two got into an argument that culminated in Popa throwing water in Dumitrescu’s face. The confrontation escalated into a physical struggle, with both contestants grappling and pulling each other's hair until the other contestants intervened to separate them. At the start of that week's judging, host Cătălin Botezatu reprimanded them for their behavior and disqualified Popa from the competition. Dumitrescu landed in the bottom two alongside fellow contestant Inga Ojog but was allowed to remain in the competition on the strength of her photos and potential.
Notes
^At the end of episode 1, Adela and Diana were introduced to the competition after the finalists had been selected.
^In episode 6, Lucia was disqualified for her violent behavior towards Emma before the actual elimination began.
^In episode 7, Mădălina did not participate in the photo shoot.
^In episode 8, Alexandra and Laura Landed in the bottom two, but neither of them was eliminated.
^"Next top model". 2011-06-10. Archived from the original on 2011-06-10. Retrieved 2017-07-09.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
^techinstyle.ro, Tech In Style -. "Tech In Style". White Fashion - techinstyle.ro. Archived from the original on May 20, 2011. Retrieved August 10, 2023.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
^www.whitefashion.ro, White Fashion -. "White Fashion". White Fashion - www.whitefashion.ro. Archived from the original on January 23, 2016. Retrieved August 10, 2023.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
