CBS has unveiled the identities of the participants in The Cut, a new reality series with iconic design mogul Tommy Hilfiger, whose rags-to-riches journey is the basis for the competition in which these contestants will find themselves. Literally living Tommy's life in fast forward, these 16 style-savvy contestants will compete in a series of grueling style assignments which test their talent, business acumen, sales and marketing expertise, social skills, resourcefulness and style IQs. The series will premiere on Thursday, June 9 8:00 ET/PT on CBS.

Reality Reel Media
05.31.05

Hilfiger hosts the series and will ultimately offer the winner an American dream come true -- the opportunity to design his or her own collection under the Tommy Hilfiger label, and to become the next great American designer.

Looking for creative genius, Hilfiger has chosen 16 hopefuls from various regions of America. Living in a Manhattan loft, this colorful and eclectic group ranges from a desperate housewife in St. Louis who hopes to escape from suburbia, and a Brooklyn street artist who is looking to provide a better life for his five kids, to a New Orleans socialite used to the finer things in life, and a spirited 21-year-old former Miss Minnesota who is looking to prove she is much more than a pretty face. Each week, these 16 contestants will face an exacting and demanding Hilfiger. Out of this intense creative challenge, which will test their ability to handle diverse and unexpected situations and assignments, the next generation's great designer will emerge.

Following are the 16 participants:

Felix: Los Angeles, Age: 35, Single
Professional Skate Boarder and Freelance Designer
The son of Cuban immigrants, this self-made skateboard pro is unrelenting in his work ethic and stubborn to a fault.

Jeff: Chicago, Age: 42, Married with 2 children
Salesman
This fashion industry veteran has the self confidence to claim, "I have the potential to blow the mind."

Deanna: West Hollywood, Calif., Age: 23, Single
Retail Manager and Stylist for a boutique on trendy Melrose Avenue
This avant-garde, brash stylist clashes with her fellow competitors as much as the off-the-wall clothing she wears.

Chris C: San Francisco, Age: 26, Single
Student
From the wrong side of the tracks, this Hilfiger fanatic is looking to grab the attention of his idol.

Wes: New Orleans, Age: 25, Single
Creative Director
The "All American boy with a twist" employs lethal tactics to get an edge over his competition in this game.

Jessica: St. Paul, Minn., Age: 22, Single
Miss Minnesota USA, 2004
A Midwest beauty queen who wants to prove she is much more than a just a pretty face.

Vlada: Chesterfield, Mo., Age: 24, Single
Sales Associate
This Russian beauty is looking to use her natural assets to charm her way to the top.

Julie: St. Louis, Mo., Age: 37, Married with 3 children
Full-Time Mom
A desperate housewife who is looking to escape suburbia.