Germany's Next Topmodel 2024 - A beloved contestant is eliminated: Heidi Klum's shocking dismissal before the semi-finals.
In this week's episode of Germany's Next Topmodel 2024, the competition narrows down to four female contestants and six male contestants. Sports brand Fila is seeking a male and a female model for a major European campaign. At a photo shoot, the models will showcase Fila's products. Lea and Jermaine are chosen for the campaign, impressing the Fila representatives: "Lea has a very unique look. She had many outstanding photos." As for Jermaine, they say, "He's someone special. He didn't try to be cool, he just is." The Model Loft hosts a shocking surprise for all participants- their friends and family members have journeyed to Los Angeles to see their loved ones after several months. However, this causes distress for Grace as none of her Syrian family members obtained visas to enter the United States. "I somehow knew that no one could come. I've always hoped, but it seems it didn't work out," she laments, tears in her eyes. Instead, she receives a video message from her sister and mother.
Beach Challenge
The beach photo shoot poses several challenges for the contestants- working in pairs, they reenact a fencing scene. They're tethered to a large metal framework with a belt and bungee cord, aiming to jump as high as possible and target the other person with a sword. The women wear voluminous dresses with petticoats and corsets, while the men wear tightly-bound pants. Fabienne and Jermaine encounter medical issues. Fabienne experiences dizziness and shortness of breath from a constraining corset, while Jermaine is affected by the constricting belt. "I can't feel my legs anymore," he cries out. Their team mates come to their aid, enabling them to continue the shoot.
Special Guests
Regular guests in the series, Creative Director Thomas Hayo and Photographer Kristian Schuller, are present. They commend the concept of having male participants, stating, "I think it's great that there are men in the show this year. It's just like a bouquet that's now complete!" Although the ladies excel in the shoot, some men struggle with the task. High jumps on a bungee cord prove challenging due to their lack of strength and endurance. Criticism is directed towards Armin and Linus. Hayo comments, "The spark didn't jump," and Schuller laments, "There was no energy and convincing body language." Klum is displeased, saying to Armin, "I thought you'd make the final. It's a real shock to me that I can't show you a photo," and telling Linus, "You were too laid-back about the whole thing."
Elimination
Several challenges are presented to the contestants in this episode. Lea and Jermaine are chosen for the Fila campaign, leaving the remaining participants heartbroken. However, Grace is devastated as her Syrian family members are unable to attend due to visa issues. The beach photo shoot results in health concerns for Fabienne and Jermaine. Fabienne suffers from dizziness and shortness of breath due to a tight corset, while Jermaine feels the constriction of the tight belt on his legs. The women prove more successful than the men. Armin and Linus are reprimanded by the jury.
In an unexpected turn of events, Heidi Klum sends Armin home. "I previously saw you as a top 2 finalist. That's why I'm surprised that I must say: Unfortunately, there's no photo for you," Klum states. She criticized his actions which she perceives as a lack of zeal and motivation. "I only want models in the semi-finals who truly want it," she explains. Her harsh critique stings Armin more than his elimination.
Klum's Quote of the Week
"Don't slack off so close to the goal"- Heidi Klum to candidate Linus.
