Jay Manuel

Jay Manuel is a Canadian makeup artist, creative director and television personality best known for his longtime role on America’s Next Top Model. Manuel was born in Springfield, Illinois, and raised by his adoptive parents in Toronto, Canada. He briefly studied pre-med and opera before shifting his focus to the beauty and fashion industries, ultimately pursuing a career in makeup artistry and creative direction.

Manuel built his reputation working with top photographers and celebrities before becoming the creative director and on-air personality on America’s Next Top Model alongside Tyra Banks in 2003. During his tenure on the hit reality competition series, he also served as a producer and became known for overseeing photo shoots and mentoring contestants.

Outside of the show, Manuel has worked as a makeup artist for major fashion magazines, including Marie Claire, Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. He went on to host Canada’s Next Top Model, an ANTM spinoff and, in 2020, he published his debut novel, The Wig, the B**** & the Meltdown.

Manuel openly identifies as gay and has remained relatively private about his romantic life.