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From Fierce Model To Crisis Counselor: 5 Shocking New Careers Of April Wilkner ANTM Cycle 2

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Over two decades after she first graced our screens on *America's Next Top Model* Cycle 2, April Dawn Wilkner remains one of the most memorable and successful contestants in the show's history. Her fierce intelligence, striking portfolio, and famously reserved personality made her a fan favorite, securing her a fourth-place finish in the competition. The question "Where is April ANTM Cycle 2 now?" has captivated fans for years, and the answer, as of , is a powerful testament to a career that has evolved far beyond the runway, including a surprising and important pivot into mental health advocacy.

April Wilkner's journey post-*ANTM* is a masterclass in career versatility, blending high-fashion modeling with television hosting, acting, and a profound commitment to public service. Her story proves that a strong foundation in a reality competition can lead to a diverse, impactful, and enduring professional life, culminating in her most recent and inspiring role.

April Dawn Wilkner: Complete Biography and ANTM Profile

April Dawn Wilkner was one of the most formidable competitors on the second season of the iconic reality series, *America's Next Top Model* (ANTM). Her time on the show was marked by a series of high-ranking photos and a reputation for being an intellectual and serious contender, often clashing with the more dramatic personalities of the Cycle 2 cast.

  • Full Name: April Dawn Wilkner
  • Date of Birth: May 7, 1980
  • Birthplace: Providence, Rhode Island, U.S.
  • Education: Gallatin School of Individualized Study at New York University (NYU)
  • ANTM Cycle: Cycle 2 (2004)
  • ANTM Placement: 4th Place
  • Historical Note: She was the first Asian American contestant to appear on *America's Next Top Model* Cycle 2.
  • Post-ANTM Career Highlights: Fashion Model (Signed with various agencies), Television Host/Correspondent, Actress, Mental Health Advocate, #988 Suicide Crisis Counselor.
  • Notable Agencies: New York Models Management, Race Models, Wilhelmina Models, and most recently, Natural Models Management.
  • Key ANTM Rivals/Castmates: Yoanna House (Winner), Mercedes Yvette (Runner-up), Shandi Sullivan.

The Enduring Modeling Career: Signed Over 20 Years Later

Unlike many reality show contestants whose careers fade quickly, April Wilkner leveraged her platform into a sustained, international modeling career. Her striking look and professional demeanor resonated with industry professionals long after her elimination in the final four of *ANTM* Cycle 2. She proved that success on the show is not solely defined by winning the title awarded by Tyra Banks.

Following her appearance, April was quickly signed and began working extensively. She spent a significant period modeling in the competitive fashion market of Hong Kong, expanding her portfolio and global experience. This international work cemented her status as a legitimate working model, moving beyond the "reality star" label.

In a powerful testament to her longevity and timeless appeal, April Wilkner announced in recent years that she had signed with a new major agency: Natural Models Management in Los Angeles. This is a remarkable achievement for a model who competed on television over two decades ago. Her current stats listed by the agency show her continued relevance in the fashion industry, particularly in the commercial and lifestyle sectors.

Her ability to secure a new contract with an agency like Natural Models Management highlights the shift in the industry towards celebrating diverse, experienced, and naturally beautiful models. The ANTM Cycle 2 alum continues to book jobs, proving her initial assessment by the judges—that she was a high-fashion model—was correct.

From Runway to Reporter: April's Pivot to Television Host and Actress

April Wilkner quickly realized that her skillset extended beyond posing for a camera. Her articulate nature and on-camera confidence, often seen in her interviews on the show, led her to a successful career as a television host and correspondent. This transition allowed her to remain in the media spotlight while using her intellectual background from the Gallatin School.

She became a familiar face to sports fans, working as a host for New York Rangers fan features, a significant role that showcased her ability to connect with an audience live and on-screen. Her work has included guest interviews on major entertainment programs, including *Entertainment Tonight* and *Extra*, often discussing her experience on *America's Next Top Model* and her subsequent career.

Furthermore, April has ventured into acting, adding another layer to her multifaceted career. She has appeared in various projects, including a recurring role as McKenzie Matthews on the CBS soap opera *Guiding Light*. A more recent project mentioned is the movie *Chasing Taste*, showcasing her dedication to the craft of acting alongside her modeling and hosting duties.

The Most Powerful Pivot: Mental Health Advocacy and Crisis Counseling

The most unique and inspiring chapter of April Wilkner's post-*ANTM* life is her deep commitment to mental health advocacy and public service. This move demonstrates a powerful shift from the self-focused world of modeling to a career dedicated to helping others.

April now uses her platform to promote mental wellness and has taken on the crucial role of a #988 Suicide Crisis Counselor. This is a significant, high-stakes position that requires immense dedication, empathy, and training. She actively encourages others to "Take Action for Mental Health," a message she promotes through various media appearances and her own digital content.

Her personal YouTube channel, titled APRIL IN ACTION, is a key hub for her advocacy work. While she still shares glimpses of her modeling and acting life, a considerable portion of her content is dedicated to mental health awareness, interviews with first responders, and discussions about the American Federation for Suicide Prevention. This work provides a profound answer to the "where are they now" question, showing that her life has found a new, meaningful purpose that is far more impactful than any fashion spread.

April Wilkner's story is a powerful example of transforming reality TV fame into a platform for genuine social contribution. She successfully navigated the cutthroat worlds of high fashion and television, only to find her true calling in a field that demands compassion and strength. From a fierce competitor on ANTM Cycle 2 alongside Yoanna House and Mercedes Yvette, April has become a fierce advocate for mental health, proving that the greatest success is often found in service.

april antm cycle 2
april antm cycle 2

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