Netflix released 'Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model,' a three-part documentary examining the reality competition show that ran from 2003 to 2018 and attracted over 100 million viewers globally at its peak. The documentary features interviews with creator and host Tyra Banks, producer Ken Mok, judges Jay Manuel, J. Alexander, and Nigel Barker, plus numerous former contestants.
The documentary addresses multiple allegations: Cycle 2 contestant Shandi Sullivan described being intoxicated during filming in Milan in 2004 and alleges production filmed her in a sexual encounter she says she was too drunk to consent to, estimating she'd consumed two bottles of wine and was 'blacked out.' Producer Ken Mok stated crews treated the show 'as a documentary' and their practice was not to intervene. Banks said through a spokesperson she had no role in the incident.
Multiple contestants described pressure regarding appearance: Cycle 6 winner Dani Evans said Banks urged her to close a gap in her teeth, while contestant Joanie Sprague underwent dental surgery including tooth removal as part of a makeover. Contestants described widespread body-shaming and eating disorders on set. A 2005 photo shoot involved painting models' skin to portray different ethnicities, which many viewers characterized as blackface. Manuel said he asked to be excused from that shoot due to his family's history with apartheid, but Banks told him to proceed. Banks said she 'didn't think it was controversial' at the time but understands why it's seen as problematic now.
J. Alexander revealed he suffered a stroke in December 2022 that left him unable to walk and in a coma for five weeks. He stated Banks has texted about visiting but has not done so. Banks addresses various controversies in the documentary, sometimes deflecting to 'industry standards' or viewer demands, though she acknowledges some incidents went 'too far.' She suggested interest in rebooting the show for a 25th cycle, though nothing has been formally announced.
