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A former contestant on America's Next Top Model (ANTM) is speaking out about a reportedly uncomfortable encounter with former judge Jay Manuel. Rae Williams, who appeared on Cycle 7 in 2007, alleges that Manuel gave her a dismissive look at an awards show, leaving her feeling hurt and undervalued. The incident, she says, is just one example of a pattern of perceived negativity from Manuel during and after her time on the show.

Williams recounts the experience to Entertainment Weekly, explaining that she felt Manuel's disapproval from the very beginning of the competition. The seventh cycle, known for its glamorous cruise ship setting, brought together Williams and other aspiring models to compete for the coveted title alongside Tyra Banks. However, Williams claims Manuel's attitude towards her was consistently cold.

“You could tell from the first episode that he did not like me,” Williams stated. “It wasn’t just one thing. It was a vibe. It was a feeling.” She describes feeling consistently scrutinized and judged, with Manuel seemingly holding a negative opinion of her from the outset.

The awards show encounter, which occurred years after the filming of Cycle 7, reportedly solidified Williams's feelings. “I was walking past him at an awards show, and he just looked at me like, ‘ugh,’” she recalled. “He didn’t even acknowledge me. It was like I wasn’t even there.”

Williams’s allegations add another layer to the ongoing conversations surrounding the treatment of contestants on America’s Next Top Model. The show has faced criticism in recent years for its portrayal of body image, mental health, and the pressures placed on young women in the fashion industry. While Tyra Banks has publicly addressed some of these concerns and apologized for past mistakes, Williams’s experience highlights the potential for negative interactions with judges and the lasting impact they can have on contestants.

Manuel has not yet publicly responded to Williams’s claims. The incident has reignited discussions about the power dynamics within reality television and the responsibility of those in positions of authority to treat contestants with respect and professionalism. Many fans of the show are expressing their support for Williams, sharing their own experiences and highlighting the importance of accountability within the entertainment industry.

Williams’s story serves as a reminder that the cameras may stop rolling, but the impact of reality television can linger long after the final episode airs. Her willingness to speak out sheds light on the often-overlooked emotional toll of competing on these shows and encourages a more critical examination of the industry's practices.