For those not in the know, every six months former supermodel Tyra Banks hosts a reality tv show for aspiring models. Despite its title, America’s Next Top Model, the show is primarily about Ms Banks and her agenda, which includes the highly conceited point of view that she alone can diversify the fashion industry. As such, she opens up her competition to different types of girls, from so-called “petite” (5’7″ & under) to “plus-size” (around size 12). This year the line up includes Esther Petrack, a self-proclaimed Modern Orthodox Jew from Boston.
During casting Esther was questioned by Trya as to how she would deal with Shabbat, because after all, “Models have to work 24/7.” Really, who knew modeling was like being an ER doctor? Oh, of course, we forgot for a minute how self-important this show is. After describing what keeping Shabbat entails (no computers, etc.), the former Maimonides student answered that she would work on Shabbat if necessary (see video below).
While some in the blogosphere are decrying her acquiescence and even going so far as to claim that her case reveals everything that’s wrong with Modern Orthodoxy, we disagree. Stating that someone’s personal journey is representative of an entire philosophy going wrong is ridiculously simplistic. But more than that, so many people can identify with Esther’s story. Ambition clashing with personal or communal values – how do you compromise?
Whether or not Esther makes it far remains to be seen. First of all, she is hindered by her bust size (big) and she hasn’t been getting too much time on camera. (A fellow contestant did, however, use the word “kosher” in conversation with Esther, which leads us to believe that her religion is being discussed in the house.) But if you go by past seasons, this could mean that she’s being primed for a comeback, which seems likely as her last two photos were vastly better than her first two. Hopefully we’ll be hearing more from this dark-haired beauty about her religious story.
What we can say so far is that having someone to root for makes watching much more exciting. So go Team Esther!
