Born in Springfield, Illinois, in 1972 and raised in Toronto after being adopted by Canadian parents, Jay Manuel began his career as a model and makeup artist in the 1990s before becoming one of fashion television's most recognisable creative forces. He trained at York University in pre-med and opera studies before pivoting to fashion — a leap that would take him from behind the makeup chair to in front of millions.

He is best known as the Creative Director and Producer of America's Next Top Model, a role he held across 18 cycles from 2003 to 2012, helping shape the visual identity of one of the most influential reality TV franchises in history. He went on to host and executive produce Canada's Next Top Model, served as co-host of Fashion Police for seven years, and covered red carpet events at the Emmys, Grammys, Golden Globes, and Oscars as a fashion correspondent for E! Network.

In 2017, he launched Jay Manuel Beauty, his own cosmetics line. In 2020, he published his debut novel, The Wig, The Bitch & The Meltdown — a satirical behind-the-scenes look at the world of fashion reality television. In 2026, his name returned to the centre of public conversation with Netflix's documentary series Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model, which revisits the show's legacy and his experience within it — prompting a wider reassessment of his influence on the industry.