Is America's Next Top Model Cycle 9 Just Hanging in There?

I was an avid watcher of America's Next Top Model for a couple of the earlier cycles, but as it went on I was embarrassed to admit I was watching it. Now it's in its 9th cycle. Is it still as interesting to watch? I am not sure. I'm not even sure why I watch it anymore. I like the advice they give to the girls, but I'm noticing its similar.

And this cycle it seems that they are becoming too commercial. The eco friendly bus is just their way of appeasing environmentalists. While all of the sudden having a smoke-free house is totally reasonable, it's almost like they are trying to save any bad reputation they may have gotten in the last cycle showing all these "role models" who smoked. Are these girls really role models though? Do girls still look up to them and want to be them? I really didn't think they did until I watched it with a twelve year old. Then I realized they are impressionable.

That is why anything ANTM is going to do to make a better impression on people is going to get my watch. If they are going to encourage people to do good things, then why not. If a twelve year old can see she does not have to be popular to be a model, then that's cool too. If people can see not all models are dumb and some might even go to Yale, then so be it. Maybe some kids will want to go to Yale because of Victoria. Maybe now other people with Aspergers will see that they can fit in with people. At first I felt like they were letting the girl with the disability on just to vary the show, but she's really beautiful. And knowing someone with Aspergers who has a very similar personality it is neat to see that this girl is actually able to build confidence and see that she is talented.

I didn't think I'd get hooked this season-again. But I'll admit, these new causes and things they're supporting are great. I'm hooked. Now let's see them get taken to Africa and do work with orphans as part of their final trip. Then I'll really be impressed.