Sarah Murdoch Wants a Plus-Size Top Model

HERE'S the skinny on Sarah Murdoch's first mission in her role as the new host of Australia's Next Top Model - she wants to find a plus-size superstar.

In an industry obsessed with body image, the 36-year-old media darling and tireless charity campaigner says that discovering a larger role model entrant is her ultimate goal for the fifth series of the Foxtel show.

The mother-of-two and wife of Lachlan Murdoch began her duties as the program's presenter - replacing Jodhi Meares - joining Charlotte Dawson in auditioning hopefuls at Westfield Parramatta yesterday.

"I am really pushing for a plus size model this series because I am a big believer in healthy body types and encouraging girls to be the right body type," the Bonds ambassador said.

"It's not about getting an overweight girl but someone who is healthy because one size doesn't fit all."

When the US version of the model search show introduced plus-size models last year it was praised for encouraging a broad range of body types.

Murdoch, who also will be a co-executive producer of the program, says that she hopes to add a new flavor and dimension to the program as host.

She said that this will include equipping the finalists with financial knowledge.

"I want to make sure these girls are going into the industry with the right knowledge because it's a very grown-up world," Murdoch told The Daily Telegraph.

"You can be financially independent from a young age if you have a good head screwed on your shoulders. I would like to have more about the business side of things and the best way to financial plan."

After attracting criticism from parents and school support groups over the bullying controversy which marred the last series, Murdoch is also keen to consult counsellors and nutritionists to send the right message about a fashionable weight.

Source: news.com.au

11:44 - Wednesday, October 22, 2008 - post comment