As we learned last week, America's Next Top Model is not Norelle Van Herk, who was one of the nicer wannabes on UPN's dramafest (Tuesdays, 9 pm/ET). Trivia tidbit: Norelle's mother originally wanted to call her "Chanel," until she realized it'd be weird to name her child after a French fashion house. So she made up another name instead. Good call, Mom! But we digress. Here, the 20-year-old babe from Newport Beach, Calif. — yeah, she's from The O.C. — discusses her loss and unexpected gains in the mannequin contest.
TV Guide Online: You underwent the biggest makeover. What was it like losing the braces, shearing your locks and all in front of mostly older female rivals?
Norelle Van Herk: I was nervous to get my hair cut because I've always had long hair. I probably wouldn't have been brave enough to do it on my own, but I think the transformation really helped my confidence.
TVGO: Good for you.
Norelle: I'm my worst critic,read more