Many people watched what happened when 24 aspiring models were whittled down through the weeks on Bravo's Make Me a Supermodel challenges. America decided again and again who would win. After interviewing Ronnie Kroell back in January for Windy City Times, it was exciting to see him triumph after hard critiques and, ultimately, wind up as the runner-up in the competition.
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Ronnie Kroell. Ronnie Kroell and 'Supermodel' winner Holly Kiser. Photos courtesy of Bravo.
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In an e-mail interview, Kroell talked about the competition, his mother and his own future.
Windy City Times: Congratulations on making it into the final two for Make Me a Supermodel. You did Chicago proud! How does it feel to be home in Chi-town?
Ronnie Kroell: Thank you. I love New York, but I am 'in love' with Chicago. I jumped into my car, rolled down the windows, blasted the radio and screamed with happiness as I cruised down Lake Shore Drive and admired the skyline. It's been wonderful to have Chicago's support throughout this challenging competition. It's a journey that I will not soon forget.
WCT: It was great to see you improve so much throughout the show. What was your favorite challenge?
RK: I would have to say that my favorite challenge was working with Lemon, the snake, in a tank full of water on one of the most frigid days of the year. After being placed in the bottom three for two weeks in a row that shoot was my opportunity to prove to the panel that I was not just an 'all-American boy' but, rather, a strong model with the ability to show versatility.
WCT: Was it hard being 'up for the vote' by the judges and then America obviously liking you?
RK: Each time I went before the panel I had prepared myself for the worst. This industry is tough and, therefore, the panel had to be critical of us; otherwise, we would never grow. I was elated to know that America saw my passion, my heart and my improvement throughout the competition. America gave me the gift of seeing out this incredible journey to the very end and for that I am sincerely thankful.
WCT: Which judge's advice helped you the most?
RK: Jennifer Starr was quite possibly one of the most difficult panel members to impress. Many times in the competition, she stated that it would be difficult for me to overcome the all-American catalog look and break into high fashion editorial. While her harsh critiques were difficult to swallow, her advice of spending more time on the treadmill and less time on weight training would help me to slim down and achieve greater versatility.
WCT: I liked how your mother visited you on the last episode and you didn't have the drama of the other people. Was it weird being around Ben's wife?
RK: Umm … can you say awkward? I was a little nervous initially to meet April because I wasn't sure how my friendship with Ben was being portrayed. It turned out that she thought it was very sweet and she herself wanted a 'Bronnie' T-shirt. I couldn't believe that my mom made the trip out to see me in NYC, especially since she has a deep fear of flying. I am really lucky to have such an incredible mom who supports me in all that I do; she has been a role model and a true inspiration. In fact, I think she now has more fans than I do. LOL!!
WCT: How did it feel being in the top four and, finally, the top two?
RK: It was an honor to be in the top two with Holly [ Kiser, the eventual winner ] . She and I share the similar struggle of trying to break into the modeling industry for the past 10 years, and this competition has given us both the opportunity of a lifetime. Even though I did not 'win', in my heart I have already won and will continue to follow this dream with a smile.
WCT: Are you going back to school now or has the show changed your plans?
RK: Actually, I am currently considering an opportunity to be represented by NY Models and plan on moving forward with my journey to become a supermodel. [ Getting ] my degree is a must, but where I choose to complete that degree is to be determined. I have not made any solid plans as of yet, but rather I am simply taking some time to enjoy my family and friends. I believe that knowledge is the key to success in any industry. Most importantly, I am eager to learn, not only about modeling, but about life in general. What more can one say—it certainly is an adventure!!
WCT: What advice would you give the wannabe supermodels for season two?
RK: 1. Dream BIG! 2. Lead with your heart and follow through with your head. 3. Never give up on your dreams and they will not give up on you. 4. Treat others with respect and gratitude. 5. Just be you—an amazing, talented, incredible you.
WCT: Thanks for taking the time to chat with me again, and welcome home!
RK: Thank you; the pleasure is truly mine. I appreciate all the kindness and support that Windy City Times has shown me throughout the competition and look forward to chatting with you again soon. 'Watch what happens … '