"Top Model" hopefuls getting second chance

(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-03-17 14:37

LOS ANGELES– The "America's Next Top Model" hopefuls whose New York audition on Saturday was canceled after a stampede -- which resulted in six women being injured and the arrest of two women and a man -- will get a second chance.

The show's host/executive producer, Tyra Banks, issued a statement Monday saying that "we are doing everything we can to make sure that ALL the girls who weren't seen get an opportunity to audition."

Chaos erupted Saturday outside a midtown Manhattan hotel, where thousands waited to audition for the 13th cycle of the reality show. After a car belching smoke pulled up near the line of women late in the afternoon, someone cried "Fire!" and sparked panic. Witnesses told WINS radio that the situation was compounded when a man leapt from a car and began grabbing women's purses.

A New York Police Department official said two women and a man were arrested on charges of inciting to riot and disorderly conduct.

"It is so important to me to redefine beauty and make sure that everyone gets a fair chance to pursue their dream," Banks said Monday.

The upcoming 13th cycle of the popular CW reality series will feature, for the first time, only young women 5 feet, 7 inches and under.

"I'm rooting for all of you!" Banks said in closing.