In three further castings, the candidates can secure various jobs. Grace, Xenia and Kadidja introduce themselves to the Ardell label, which specializes in artificial eyelashes. We are looking for a model for a large TV and photo campaign. In the end, Xenia wins the race. She is invited to another casting alongside Grace and Kadidja as well as Frieder, Armin and Linus. Those responsible for the Italian beauty brand Borotalco are looking for a female and a male model for an advertising shoot. The job goes to Kadidja and Frieder, who will be photographed for the campaign in Sicily. Another order awaits five male models: Armin, Jermaine, Luka, Julian and Marvin star in the music video by the Austrian singer and ESC participant Kaleen. However, the result is not that surprising: the official video was published at the beginning of March. It has been known for a long time that the GNTM talents are involved there.
After the castings, the real challenge awaits: a nude shoot. The candidates pose in a huge pool in front of star photographer Rankin’s camera. Wind and rain machines should provide additional action. The models are only barely dressed: they wear skin-colored adhesive underwear and a transparent raincoat. “I hope the underpants stay stuck with all the water,” says Heidi Klum. In fact, there is a need for optimization. Candidate Linus has to be the first to appear in front of the camera. He jumps and jumps around wildly – and suddenly he’s holding his underwear in his hand. “My thing is gone,” says the 25-year-old. Klum can only say “Oh God,” covers his eyes and quickly sends Linus backstage. The other candidates are spared such a mishap.
The word nude shoot is enough to make several candidates panic. “In Arab culture, nudity is a taboo subject,” says Syria-born Grace. Marvin is horrified as he inspects the skimpy adhesive underpants. “I don’t want my family and friends to see me like that on TV. It’s an uncomfortable feeling because it’s very intimate. You reveal a lot about yourself that you wouldn’t otherwise reveal.” Xenia clarifies: “For some it’s hard to be underwater, for some it’s hard to go up and for me it’s hard to be naked.” Kadidja even bursts into tears because she is afraid of her family’s reaction. “They see it critically. I can understand that. I’m their little baby and then I show a side of myself on television that no one knows,” says the 21-year-old. She draws some hope from the presence of Heidi Klum. “It’s easier for me to know that Heidi is there too. Because she’s also a woman and she has daughters. That definitely gives security. When my mom isn’t there, Heidi is like a mom to me.”
A GNTM season without Rankin is possible, but pointless. The Brit has been appearing on the show as a photographer or guest judge for many years. He is known for his high standards and direct comments. Anyone who hears him say: “You’re not a model” can actually pack their bags right away. During the nude shoot, it’s Kadidja who gets it. “She doesn’t have it,” says Rankin. Heidi Klum also thinks: “She looks sad and cold.” The 21-year-old is unable to hide her insecurity about the lack of clothing. Grace is also unable to convince the photographer. He is enthusiastic about Lea (“She’s a model”), Xenia (“I really liked it”) and Fabienne (“She’s incredible”). The male models also score points with Rankin, especially Jermaine, Armin, Frieder, Julian and Luka. Heidi Klum admits: “I’ve become a huge fan of the twins. They are so ambitious and carry out the tasks really well.”
Due to a storm, the decision is moved from the outdoors to the backstage area and takes place in quick succession. While Klum and Rankin make their verdict, all candidates are present and are not called in front of the jury one after the other as usual. So everyone can hear the duo’s sometimes harsh words. Marvin and Kadidja have to worry about moving forward due to their poor performance in the photo shoot. “I’ve always thought highly of you, but today I was disappointed,” Rankin tells Marvin. The 23-year-old did not show off his body. “You’re a good-looking man, but you just didn’t deliver today.” Klum criticizes the lack of energy and fear of nudity. Rankin also speaks of disappointment with Kadidja. “I was convinced that you had modeling potential. But today you didn’t understand what I wanted from you and that’s what this job is about,” says the photographer. In the end, Heidi Klum decides to give Kadidja another chance and sends Marvin home. The 23-year-old is visibly disappointed, but accepts his expulsion with composure. “I may have lost the chance to win now, but I definitely won’t give up. This is just the beginning,” says Marvin as he says goodbye.
“I love it when I’m right.” (Heidi Klum to photographer Rankin)