ASIA PACIFIC – November 28, 2013 – Asia’s Next Top Model Season 2 (AsNTM S2), the Asian adaptation of the globally successful model reality series America’s Next Top Model, returns to FOX International Channels (FIC) Asia this January 2014.
The show, which follows 16 model hopefuls from 12 countries in Asia in their quest to become the next Asian supermodel, will air on Asia’s finest leading English-language entertainment channel, Star World, on 8 January, 2014, FIC said in a press release.
AsNTM S2 is one of FIC Asia’s most significant pan-regional original productions to date; tailor-made in Asia specifically for an Asian audience. The first season of the reality talent model series attracted a regional viewership of over 39 million, leading FIC Asia to commission the second season that promises to be bigger, better and more glamorous than ever before.
With a multi-million dollar budget, AsNTM S2 has attracted both local and prominent international partners, including FMCG giant Unilever who have grown their involvement with the show this year by bringing on board two of their key brands – TRESemmé as a prize sponsor and prestigious skin care brand Pond’s. Unilever’s participation in the show was recommended and facilitated by their media agency, Mindshare.
FIC welcomes back Subaru as a prize sponsor and also new partners, Malaysia Airlines and YTL Hotels, supported by Tourism Malaysia. AsNTM S2 was shot primarily in Malaysia, the core country for this particular cycle, and showcases some of Malaysia’s most breath-taking and picturesque sceneries. Additional partners also include Harper’s Bazaar and Storm Model Management.
The winner of AsNTM S2 will become the 2014 Face of TRESemmé in South East Asia, the opportunity to appear on the cover and be featured in a fashion spread of Harper’s Bazaar Singapore and Harper’s Bazaar Malaysia, a cash prize and a three-month modelling contract with leading international modelling agency, Storm Model Management and also will be awarded the brand-new Subaru XV.
FIC commissioned internationally renowned production company Active TV to produce the show. A major part of the production took place at Astro Studios in Kuala Lumpur as part of FIC’s commitment to support Malaysia’s local film and television industry.
AsNTM S2 will be available on Star World, reaching 17 countries and territories across Asia and the Middle East. Familiar faces from Season 1, including the host and head of the judging panel, Asian supermodel Nadya Hutagalung and model mentor Joey Mead King will be joined by new additions, including, resident photographer, Mike Rosenthal and movement coach Adam Williams. A star-studded cast of famous faces from the fashion and entertainment world will also make an appearance, such as high fashion shoe designer, Jimmy Choo; international songbird, CoCo Lee; beauty guru for the Kardashian sisters, Rob Scheppy; pop music powerhouse from Sweden, Icona Pop; and Australia’s premier couturier, Alex Perry, all of whom will offer their expert advice to these ambitious Asian models.
Simeon Dawes, Executive Vice President of Advertising Sales and Partnerships for Asia Pacific and Middle East at FOX One Stop Media, FIC’s integrated ad sales arm, said “Through strong partnerships with TRESemmé, Subaru, Malaysia Airlines, Tourism Malaysia and YTL Hotels, FOX International Channels expects to build on the success ofAsia’s Next Top Model and deliver another great season for Star World’s target audience; young, powerful and successful women with exceptional taste in entertainment. We wish to thank each and every one of our partners,whose involvement allows us to keep creating great television for Asia.”
We are delighted to partner FOX International Channels for Asia’s Next Top Model. This is a very important partnership for Unilever which enables us to unlock the magic for our brands. The appeal of Asia’s Next Top Model is next to none and thus makes it a perfect platform for TRESemmé and Ponds. Leveraging our great experience in Season 1, we are all set for the excitement of Season 2. I am really looking forward to the new season and strengthening our partnership with FIC.” added Rahul Welde, Unilever VP of Media
Glenn Tan, Executive Director of Tan Chong International Limited, said “Asia’s Next Top Model embodies elements such as excitement, aspiration and making the best out of real life situations and these key characteristics are synonymous with our Subaru cars. We were happy to come back on this second cycle of Asia’s Next Top Model, as the show grows in Asia and gets even more exciting, and we believe the excitement around the show will further strengthen Subaru’s appeal in Asia.
“It’s a real pleasure to be back on board for the second cycle of Asia’s Next Top Model,” commented Jean Madden, Senior Brand Manager for TRESemmé, “The series is a great platform to showcase the transformative power of our hair care products used by professionals all around the world, from the shoots of Asia’s Next TopModel to backstage at New York Mercedes-Benz Fashion week”
"Mindshare recommends Unilever to grow their involvement to more brands by leveraging Asia’s Next Top Model. The Top Model franchise is not only one of the most entertaining and globally successful formats from an audience’s point of view, but also a very brand-friendly format where more brands makes for a better show," said Roy Sudipto, Managing Partner Client Leadership, Mindshare
Aja Ng, YTL Hotels Director of Public Relations shared, “Having our resorts and hotels such as the private island Pangkor Laut Resort and The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur serve as a backdrop to the models’ trials and experiences gives us the opportunity to not only showcase Malaysia through our stunning locations, but also build a rewarding partnership with Asia’s Next Top Model and Fox International Channels.”
Y.Bhg. Dato’ Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, the Director General of Tourism Malaysia, concluded, “We are proud to support Asia’s Next Top Model. This partnership with FOX International Channels has given us the chance to show off the variety, multiculturalism and beauty at the heart of our society and country. It’s also timely as the show will help to promote Visit Malaysia Year 2014 to the Asia region as a fantastic shopping and luxury destination”
Asia’s Next Top Model Season 2 will premiere at 9:40 pm HKT / SGT on 8 January 2014 on Star World. For more information, visit the Star World Asia website.
