Local man chosen as Ellen DeGeneres' 'New Gardener'

photo Derek Yates
photo Derek Yates

Local model/actor Derek Yates has been chosen as Ellen DeGeneres' "New Gardener," a recurring bit that the talk show host will feature in the coming months, and will appear on the "Ellen DeGeneres Show" today at 4 p.m. on NBC. A viewing party is planned from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Big River Grille & Brewing Works on Broad Street where Yates work.

Yates earned the right to try out for the part via video contest, with many of the contesants appearing shirtless, and was flown to Los Angeles to compete against two other finalists on Sunday. Taping for the show took place on Monday.

The contestants were asked to do a runway walk, take off their shirts and answer some questions.

See his video audition here.

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