Working models
What's next for Rochester's "America's Next Top Model" contestant (and what life was really like on reality TV)
By Nood Reynolds
Rochester Magazine: What was the real time frame of the show?
Ashley Weisz: We shot for eight weeks. All of us remained on location until the shooting wrapped so that the paparazzi and press wouldn’t see anyone elsewhere and know the outcome of the competition.
RM: Eight weeks without seeing your daughter?
AW: I can’t tell you how awful that part was. I missed her so much and worried constantly about what I was missing in her development and what my absence was doing to her, but the second I got off the plane she just ran into my arms.
RM: Obviously your mom knew where you were since she had Aria. Anyone else? Where did they tell people you were?
AW: It was very strange for them. We, and anyone who knew, were obligated not to divulge anything. The few people in my life who knew said I was on an extended assignment, but I think my mom’s neighbors and some of my friends really wondered what was going on with me!
RM: What was daily life like?
AW: It was surreal. To prohibit news of the show leaking, we were virtually cut off from the outside world—absolutely no TV, phones or internet—and very minimal contact with our families. It was a real sensory deprivation for all of us—we joked that we could feel phantom phone vibrations.
RM: How crazy was that house? And how did you decide who got to read the Tyra mail?
AW: The house was crazy—on the inside—but it was right in Beverly Hills, so we had neighbors and there were little kids playing outside. There was a light that would blink in the house when Tyra mail came in and whoever noticed it first read it.
RM: How about your schedule?
AW: We had long days—12 to 18 hours sometimes—and spent a lot of time in that limo traveling and waiting for everyone to set up. The Wal-Mart challenge, for instance, was actually shot at 2 a.m. We really didn’t have an itinerary; we could be called at anytime. We found that because we were all so used to entertaining ourselves with TV and internet that the waiting and anticipating made us a little stir crazy. It was easier to work the long hours!
RM: Tell me about the shoots. Did you have a favorite?
AW: We went in random order and everyone got 50 frames. If there were props, like the ninja shoot, we were taught how to work with them, otherwise it was up to each of us to decide what we were going to do and how we were going to pose. The crew was really good about taking as much time with each girl as she needed. We worked with a variety of wardrobe stylists and hair and make-up people, who were all just great and so talented. I think they mixed them up to keep them off balance with knowing any outcomes [the show will wrap up just after we go to press]. My favorite shoot was the Cirque du Soleil—I’m just a huge fan in general and the energy on the set that day was amazing. My favorite picture was the one Tyra took. She is a great photographer to work with.
RM: And the panel appearances?
AW: They were pretty much what you saw on the show. The deliberations went pretty quickly, usually under an hour.
RM: Let’s do a little word association: Tyra.
AW: Multi-faceted, genuine, and very busy.
RM: Nigel?
AW: Excellent director.
RM: Miss Jay?
AW: So funny and irreverent.
RM: Jay Manuel?
AW: Highly adept at what he does.
RM: Okay, spill. Did you get along with all the girls and do you have any new BFFs?
AW: We actually did all get along and I’m in touch with them all on a regular basis. We all kind of come from a bit more introverted, artistic background so we have more in common than just modeling.
RM: Introverted and artistic? You weren’t all “It” girls and Homecoming Queens?
AW: [Laughs]. Oh God no! Maybe Ashley, she’s very engaging, but the rest of us are more quirky than anything. I was in the orchestra room most of the time at Century High School.
RM: Were the girls depicted accurately? Do you think you were?
AW: I think we were. Laura, for instance, is exactly who you see on the show. Obviously I don’t agree with their final assessment of me, but I’m very proud that I stayed true to who I am and maintained my values and integrity throughout it all and didn’t let the experience sway me to be someone I’m not. If anything, it just reinforced my sense of self. The only thing that really bothered me was being late on the Go See challenge. I hate being late and am usually early for shoots. I wouldn’t want that depiction to give anyone casting me in the future the wrong impression.
RM: Are doors opening for you now? What’s next in your career?
AW: Absolutely. The exposure was incredible. I’m exploring options in bigger markets and I would love to work internationally. I really do love all aspects of the business. I also would like to do some acting. I did a bit as a kid and would like to get back into it.
RM: Who are you rooting for on the show?
AW: I think Laura truly has a great Cover Girl face. That shot of her was amazing. And I think Nicole will do very well in the business. Her look is so versatile.
RM: Can’t let you go without asking if you really drive like an old lady or if you were just showing L.A. drivers a bit of Minnesota nice.
AW: I really probably drive like an old lady! I was going the speed limit, not under it, but I won’t speed or be reckless, especially with
passengers.
RM: Probably the mom in you.
AW: No doubt.