America's Next Top Model Cycle 9 Episode 1

The Girls Go Cruisin'

Photo Shoot in San Juan Puerto Rico

The ninth cycle premiered with 33 potential contestants each receiving a phone call from Tyra Banks, announcing that they were the semifinalists. They convened at a port in San Juan, Puerto Rico and met J. Alexander, who gave them boarding passes for a luxurious Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas, their residence for the week until the 13 finalists were decided. Their first task was to walk a runway modeling life-jackets. At breakfast, the women met Tyra, before proceeding to their interviews with the judges. Memorable moments included Janet's mock waxing of Tyra, Heather revealing that she had Asperger syndrome, and Lisa's revelation of being an exotic dancer.

They docked at St. John’s, Antigua for a beach photo shoot, where they met Cycle 8 winner Jaslene Gonzalez. After the shoot, the final 20 were selected. Tyra asked the final 20 why they should become America's Next Top Model, before the final deliberations with Mr. and Ms. Jay were done and the final 13 contestants were chosen. Marvita Washington failed to make the final cut, but later successfully became a contestant on Cycle 10.

Call-out Order: Mila Bouzinova, Bianca Golden, Jenah Doucette, Chantal Jones, Ambreal Williams, Victoria Marshman, Sarah Hartshorne, Saleisha Stowers, Kimberly Leemans, Ebony Morgan, Janet Mills, Heather Kuzmich, Lisa Jackson

Note: Was surprised to know that Jennifer was not picked. She was better than some of the girls here. Oh well, maybe Tyra thought that her rigged show that is ANTM would need more drama in this cycle. What else is new? Exactly.

Source: Wikipedia
Photo Credits: ANTM / Jim Wade