Title: GNTM 2025: Yu Tsai's Contentious Return as Photographer - A Nightmare for GNTM Contestants
- Author: Respectfully Yours
- Estimated Reading Time: Approx 2.5 Min
- GNTM 2025, Episode 9
- Current contestants: 17
GNTM 2025: What really went down?
Model-turned-photographer Yu Tsai resumes his reign of terror over Germany's Next Topmodel contestants. - Model-terrorizing Photographer Yu Tsai returns yet again to Global Next Top Model's runway.
Basking in the afterglow of a restful sleep, Tom Kaulitz spilled some beans during a brotherly podcast with Bill. Heidi Klum, his wife, is an early riser who thrives on mornings. A phenomenon experienced firsthand by the remaining GNTM contestants who found themselves rousted from their beds at 6:30 AM by Heidi's booming megaphone. Contrary to Klum's sunny expectations, the women greet the morning in less-than-perky pajamas - still without a toothbrush or shower. Their destination: the studio, where photographer Yu Tsai was waiting to shoot their portfolios.
Known for his tough criticisms over the years, Yu Tsai's reputation precedes him. In his words, "I think it's great to always tell the truth." This time, Lulu, Aaliyah, Jule, Eva, and Laura were particularly in the spotlight. "A photographer is only good if the model also works. Right now, you're making me look bad," Yu Tsai ruthlessly criticizes Laura. He tells Eva her performance is tiresome, and Katharina is accused of being lazy. The group passing Yu Tsai's scrutiny includes Canel, Zoe, Lisa, Magdalena, and Daniela.
The atmosphere changes, turning decidedly more optimistic during the decision, which this time takes place at Schloss Tüssling as a tribute to Lesley "Twiggy" Lawson. The contestants are expected to walk down the extra-long catwalk with a smile and embracing the spirit of the 60s icon.
The weekly strife
Yu Tsai's photography session takes a turn for the worse for several contestants, none more than Lulu. As the first to face his camera, she offers a smorgasbord of poses. Unsatisfied, Yu Tsai quips, "I'm taking pictures of her sitting on the toilet in the morning. She offered many poses that look like she has to take a big shit. She disappointed me. I love her look. She looks like a rockstar. But she didn't bring the energy to the set."
Lulu is especially hurt by the toilet reference, while Heidi Klum finds the remarks humorous. Disrespectful words are all Lulu hears, while constructive criticism is nowhere to be found. Lulu's mother Katrin, another contestant, is irate. "I feel personally offended. Whoever offends my child, offends me too. I wish he would apologize to Lulu and she could do the shooting again," fumes the 56-year-old. However, apologies are not on the horizon. Instead, Katrin faces Yu Tsai, arguing thatcondescending criticism should never be the norm on set. When speaking to Yu Tsai, he defends his actions by saying, "I didn't shout at her or laugh at her. I criticized her. I'm sorry to have to tell you this, but that's common on the set."
Legendary Guest Juror
As a legend in the fashion industry, British model Lesley "Twiggy" Lawson was discovered at just 16 years old and epitomized the "Swinging Sixties." Recognized for her slender figure, short hair, and doe eyes, she transformed the image of a model. Klum and Twiggy share a longstanding friendship, and she pays tribute to the icon while delivering her expectations to the remaining contestants. Twiggy, having a great affection for the 60s, wants the contestants to embody the joy, fun, and optimism that characterized the era. Spinning, wide smiles, and creative poses are high on her wishlist for the runway. Those who can't deliver may fall short in Twiggy's eyes. Twiggy voices her disapproval of candidates Safia, Jule, Katrin, and Magdalena. In contrast, her favorites are Daniela, Katharina, Zoe, and Laura.
Parting Ways
As the competition progresses, 21-year-old Jule bids her farewell. Her performance was not compelling, and her inner spark lacked the sparkle that Twiggy and the judges were looking for. While Jule departs with grace, she remains frustrated that she was eliminated at this juncture, as the competition continues in LA for the remaining 16 contestants.
Klum Quote of the Week
As a mother, Heidi Klum will always regard her children with affection. "For a mother, her child will always be her child. But let's be honest, Lulu is already 32 years old" (Heidi Klum on the confrontation between Lulu, Katrin, and photographer Yu Tsai)
- Germany's top model, Heidi Klum, and Twiggy, the fashion icon from the Swinging Sixties, serve as guest jurors in GNTM 2025's Episode 9.
- In a heated moment during Yu Tsai's photography session, the contestant Lulu encounters sharp criticism from the photographer, which leaves her feeling hurt and seeking an apology.
- Internationally acclaimed model Lesley "Twiggy" Lawson delivers her expectations for the contestants' runway performance, emphasizing joy, fun, and the spirit of the 60s, while expressing her disapproval of candidates Safia, Jule, Katrin, and Magdalena.
