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“Top Model” Welcomes Its First Deaf Contestant, Nyle DiMarco

Communicating via ASL "helps to bring out stories when [I'm] modeling," says the 25-year-old stunner.

America's Next Top Model Cycle 22 debuted last week, introducing the long-running series’ first hearing-impaired contestant. "I strongly believe that being deaf gives me a huge advantage because of my native language, American Sign Language," 25-year-old Nyle DiMarco told Washington Life.

“ASL requires facial and body expressions, so that is indeed a skill that would not only surprise people but bring energy and story out of a picture."

He says communicating via ASL "helps to bring out stories when [I'm] modeling for a photo—and makes for an interesting character when [I'm] acting.” And he should know—DiMarco has already appeared on the ABC Family drama Switched at Birth.

The Maryland native rarely uses an interpreter during shoots, relying instead on lip-reading, body gestures and texting on his phone to communicate. DiMarco admits, though, that in the past photographers have questioned his ability, "but they have been proven wrong—and even impressed.”

Oh, we’re impressed ​(and heartbroken that he’s straight).

Though he’s definitely in it to win it, DiMarco says he hopes to raise awareness and inspire other deaf people to become models and performers. "There are many beautiful deaf people out there but the agencies and photographers think we’re not able to model, let alone collaborate.”

Fans are definitely ready for Nyle to win this season.

Check out more of Nyle DiMarco below.


h/t: Instinct

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