As the shock settles in over the firings of America’s Next Top Model‘s Nigel Barker, J. Alexander (“Miss J”) and Jay Manuel, creator and executive producer Tyra Banks is easing the blow with an explanation.
Related: Tyra Axes Nigel Barker, J. Alexander & Jay Manuel From ‘America’s Next Top Model’
“We reached a point, where were [sic] feel the show needs a new boost,” she told Access Hollywood . “[...] It’s very difficult because I love my guys, they’re my guys. They’ve been there since the beginning of the show.”
The series, currently in its eighteenth cycle, is looking to switch things up next season with a “social media slant” as reported by Page Six.
The news reached the masses last week via Banks’ official Facebook page. She stated:
“To my Nigel Barker, Miss J, and Mr Jay: Thank you for all of our years together on America’s Next Top Model. Working with you is always an absolute pleasure. Excited for what the future holds for us.”
Alexander and Manuel have been with the show since its inception in 2003; Barker joined the series in 2004.
Despite the shakeup, Banks maintains that she will work with the trio in the future.
“My partner Ken Mok and I have projects we’re developing, and we’re a family, it doesn’t end,” she said.
Tyra was on hand at TIME’s 100 Most Influential People In the World event Tuesday night in New York where she, Rihanna, Hillary Clinton and more were honored.