20 Years Later: Where Are The Fiercest Models Of America's Next Top Model Cycle 2 Now?
Two decades have passed since the dramatic conclusion of America's Next Top Model Cycle 2, which first premiered on January 13, 2004, and the season remains one of the most memorable in the show's history. This cycle, hosted by supermodel and creator Tyra Banks, cemented the show's controversial yet captivating formula, featuring explosive drama, iconic photoshoots, and the unforgettable judging panel of Janice Dickinson, Beau Quillian, and the debut of Nigel Barker. The season's catchphrase, "They are all gorgeous, but only one has what it takes," perfectly encapsulated the high-stakes competition that led to a surprising and well-deserved winner. As of late 2025, fans are still curious about the fate of the models who battled it out for the ultimate prize package.
The second cycle saw a diverse group of aspiring models travel to Milan, Italy, for the international portion of the competition, producing some of the franchise's most famous moments, including the infamous cheating scandal and the defense of a "signature walk." The models were competing for a grand prize that included a modeling contract with IMG Models, a fashion spread in Elle Magazine, and a contract with *Jane* Magazine. Here is a deep dive into the lives and careers of the most iconic contestants from ANTM Cycle 2, and what they are up to today.
The Iconic Cast of America's Next Top Model Cycle 2: A Complete Profile
The season featured 12 finalists, but a few stood out for their talent, personality, and post-show longevity. Below is a look at the most memorable contestants and the ultimate winner.
Yoanna House (Winner)
- Full Name: Yoanna House
- Age During Show: 23
- Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida
- Placement: Winner
- Signature Moment: Her stunning, classic beauty and remarkable transformation after her pre-show weight loss journey, culminating in an elegant final runway walk.
- Current Status: Still in the fashion and entertainment industry, reportedly pursued further education at Harvard Business School.
Mercedes Scelba-Shorte (Runner-Up)
- Full Name: Mercedes Yvette Scelba-Shorte (also known as Mercedes Yvette)
- Age During Show: 22
- Hometown: Valencia, California
- Placement: Runner-Up
- Signature Moment: Her consistently strong portfolio and her candid discussion about living with Lupus, which resonated with viewers.
- Current Status: Works as a fashion model and actress, continuing to advocate for Lupus awareness.
Shandi Sullivan (3rd Place)
- Full Name: Shandi Sullivan
- Age During Show: 21
- Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri
- Placement: 3rd Place
- Signature Moment: Her incredible transformation from a shy Walgreens staffer to a high-fashion model, and the highly-publicized cheating scandal in Milan.
- Current Status: Resides in Brooklyn, New York. She is no longer actively modeling but recently gained attention in March 2024 for recreating her iconic Colosseum photo, showing she still embraces her ANTM legacy.
Camille McDonald (5th Place)
- Full Name: Camille McDonald
- Age During Show: 25
- Hometown: Mamaroneck, New York
- Placement: 5th Place (Returned for All-Stars, Cycle 17, placing 11th)
- Signature Moment: Her "signature walk" and her fierce defense of it against the judges' critiques, creating one of the show’s most quotable moments.
- Current Status: Continued her career in fashion, including a marketing internship at Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) and launching her own lingerie line.
Yoanna House: From Classic Beauty to Business Savvy
Yoanna House’s win was a triumph of drive and classic elegance over raw, untamed potential. Known for her serious demeanor and stunning bone structure, Yoanna was celebrated by the judges for her ability to embody high fashion, particularly in the iconic *Biker Beauty* and *Wigs* photoshoots. Her final runway performance in Milan sealed the deal against the equally strong Mercedes Scelba-Shorte.
After her victory, Yoanna successfully fulfilled her prize obligations, signing with IMG Models and appearing in the pages of Elle Magazine. She walked in the 2004 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, demonstrating her immediate commercial appeal.
Her career trajectory didn't stop at modeling. Yoanna also transitioned into television hosting, notably as the host of the reality show *The Look for Less* on the Style Network. In a move that surprised and impressed fans, recent reports indicate that Yoanna House has pursued a more business-focused path, reportedly attending the prestigious Harvard Business School, showcasing her ambition extends far beyond the runway.
The Enduring Legacy of the Cycle 2 Cast
While Yoanna House took the crown, the most compelling aspect of ANTM Cycle 2 is how many of the other contestants have maintained a presence in the public eye or achieved success in other fields. The season is often cited by fans as one of the best due to the high caliber of the final four and the sheer amount of drama that unfolded, particularly during the international trip to Italy.
Mercedes Scelba-Shorte: Modeling and Advocacy
Mercedes Scelba-Shorte was a formidable runner-up, praised for her bubbly personality and consistently strong photographs. Her most powerful moment came when she bravely discussed her battle with Lupus, an autoimmune disease, bringing national attention to the condition.
Today, Mercedes Yvette (as she is often credited) has continued her career as a model and an actress. She has worked with various brands and has used her platform to remain a visible advocate for Lupus research and awareness. Her enduring grace and professionalism have made her one of the most beloved non-winning contestants in the franchise's history.
Shandi Sullivan: The Colosseum and the Scandal
Shandi Sullivan's journey was arguably the most transformative of the season. She arrived as a shy, inexperienced model and blossomed into a high-fashion contender. Her dramatic haircut and stunning photoshoots, including the iconic black-and-white shot at the Colosseum in Rome, are unforgettable.
However, Shandi is also eternally linked to the season's most controversial moment: a cheating scandal involving her boyfriend back home, which led to an emotional breakdown and a famous scene with Tyra Banks. Despite the drama, Shandi’s modeling potential was undeniable, landing her in third place.
In a wonderful update that proves the show's legacy is alive, Shandi recreated her famous Colosseum photo nearly 20 years later, with the picture circulating online in March 2024. While she no longer pursues full-time modeling, she lives in Brooklyn and connects with fans through platforms like Cameo, embracing her status as an ANTM legend.
Camille McDonald: The Signature Walk and All-Stars
Camille McDonald brought an undeniable confidence and flair to the competition. Her "signature walk," though criticized by judges like Janice Dickinson, became her trademark. This self-assured attitude led to her return for America's Next Top Model: All-Stars (Cycle 17), proving her lasting impact.
Post-ANTM, Camille leveraged her fashion experience into business, securing a marketing internship with the world-renowned designer Diane von Furstenberg. She later launched her own lingerie line, demonstrating a keen understanding of the fashion business beyond the runway.
Topical Authority: The Judges and Behind-the-Scenes Entities
Cycle 2 was pivotal for the judges' panel. It marked the first appearance of renowned fashion photographer Nigel Barker, who would become a fixture on the show for many cycles. It was also the only season to feature Eric Nicholson, the editor-in-chief of *Jane* Magazine, whose participation was tied to the magazine's prize package.
The fiery dynamic between Tyra Banks, the outspoken Janice Dickinson, and the elegant Beau Quillian created a panel that was both terrifying and inspiring. The critiques were often harsh, but the models who could internalize the feedback, like Yoanna and Mercedes, ultimately thrived. The international trip to Milan was a major step up from the first cycle, truly immersing the contestants in the world of high fashion and setting a new standard for the show's production value. The legacy of Cycle 2 is a testament to the fact that talent, drive, and a memorable personality are the true keys to longevity in the highly competitive world of modeling and entertainment.
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