New Show Reveals Problems on 'America's Next Top Model'

A new show called 'Reality Check' on Netflix shares stories from former contestants of 'America's Next Top Model.' They talk about difficult times they had on the show. The show explores how the contestants were treated behind the scenes.
By Newsroom | Television, USA |

A recent documentary, "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model," has brought renewed attention to serious allegations made by former contestants regarding their experiences on the long-running reality television show. These claims suggest a pattern of manipulation, exploitation, and personal distress experienced by participants during their time on the program, prompting a re-examination of the show's production practices and ethical considerations. The documentary features interviews with several former contestants who detail challenging and, at times, damaging encounters, raising questions about the accountability of reality television production.

Background of the Program and Documentary Release

"America's Next Top Model" (ANTM), created by Tyra Banks, premiered in 2003 and ran for 24 cycles across UPN and The CW. The show followed a group of aspiring models competing for a contract with a modeling agency and a magazine spread. The recent documentary, "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model," released on Netflix, delves into the behind-the-scenes realities of the show, offering a stark contrast to its glossy on-screen presentation. This documentary aims to provide a comprehensive look at the show's history and the impact it had on its participants.

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Allegations of Exploitation and Mistreatment

Multiple former contestants have come forward with accusations detailing negative experiences during their time on ANTM. These accounts suggest that the pursuit of dramatic television overshadowed the well-being of the contestants.

  • Psychological Distress and Manipulation: Several contestants reported feeling manipulated and vulnerable.

  • Jael Sullivan stated that producers withheld her phone, preventing her from contacting her boyfriend. Access to a phone was only granted when she threatened to leave the show.

  • Kimberly Steward (though not explicitly named in provided summaries, her dental issues are referenced) experienced significant distress and permanent dental problems, which she felt unable to address independently, yet later acknowledged the experience might have helped her afford treatment.

  • Racial Bias and Identity Disclosure: The documentary highlights instances of racial insensitivity and the non-consensual disclosure of personal information.

  • Ebony Haith revealed that production outed her sexuality without her permission, an act that caused her significant distress. Haith also faced criticism from fellow contestants for her efforts to manage her skin, which were seen as an intense regimen.

  • Concerns about the representation of Black models were also raised, with the show being noted for not featuring many Black models during its initial run.

  • Body Shaming and Unrealistic Standards: Contestants were subjected to criticism regarding their physical appearance.

  • Keenyah Hill, a Season 4 contestant, was notably called out for her weight, an event that highlighted the show's focus on rigid beauty standards.

  • Tyra Banks's Conduct: The behavior of host Tyra Banks has also been a point of contention.

  • Banks's confrontation with contestant Tiffany Richardson after an elimination, where she misunderstood Richardson's response as ungrateful, has been described as a moment of spectacular temper. This incident became a viral moment for its intensity.

  • Miss J. reportedly questioned Banks's reaction to an incident, suggesting a disconnect in how situations were perceived.

  • Banks's focus on maintaining a contestant's "natural look" was questioned by Jayla Sullivan, who felt Banks prioritized ratings over Evans's personal choices.

  • Manuel suggested Banks was willing to do "anything for the show," while Banks believed she and Mok had control over decisions.

Industry Response and Accountability

The revelations from the documentary have spurred discussions about the ethical responsibilities of reality television production. Critics point to a lack of accountability in how contestants were treated, especially given the intense pressure and scrutiny they faced.

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  • The Financial Times review noted the "many horrors, little accountability," suggesting a systemic issue within the show's operation.

  • The Guardian described how ANTM evolved from showcasing "misfits to bullies," indicating a shift towards a more toxic environment over time.

  • Despite the criticisms, some acknowledge the show's enduring appeal and success, with one researcher noting that even after reviewing all 24 cycles, the reasons for its popularity remained understandable.

Contrasting Perspectives and Legacy

The documentary presents a complex picture, with former contestants expressing a range of feelings about their experiences. While some recount deeply negative encounters, others, like Jael Sullivan, while feeling manipulated, did not necessarily regret the experience, viewing it as a path to opportunities they might not have otherwise had. This highlights the ambivalent legacy of ANTM, a show that launched careers but also left participants with lasting psychological and, in some cases, physical impacts. The show's continued relevance and the ongoing discussions about its production methods underscore the lasting impact of early 2000s reality television on its participants and viewers alike.

Read More: Nigel Barker Talks About 'America's Next Top Model' Show and His Job

Sources:

  • The Wrap: "14 Biggest Revelations From 'Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model': Tyra Banks Teases Cycle 25"

  • Link: https://www.thewrap.com/creative-content/tv-shows/reality-check-inside-americas-next-top-model-netflix-shocking-revelations/

  • USA Today: "'Top Model' accusations in Netflix doc – Sexual assault, racism, exploitation"

  • Link: https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2026/02/16/netflix-americas-next-top-model-doc-accusations/88665038007/

  • The Guardian: "‘From misfits to bullies’: how America’s Next Top Model became toxic"

  • Link: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/feb/15/americas-next-top-model-antm-netflix-series

  • TV Insider: "9 Shocking ‘ANTM’ Scandals Revisited in 'Reality Check' Doc"

  • Link: https://www.tvinsider.com/1245022/americas-next-top-model-scandals-reality-check-documentary/

  • realityblurred: "Inside America’s Next Top Model review: many horrors, little accountability"

  • Link: https://www.realityblurred.com/realitytv/2026/02/reality-check-inside-americas-next-top-model-netflix-review/

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the new show about?
The new show on Netflix is called 'Reality Check' and it talks about the experiences of people who were on 'America's Next Top Model.'
Q: What did the contestants say?
Some contestants said they felt treated badly, like their feelings were not important and they were sometimes tricked.
Q: Was Tyra Banks involved?
Tyra Banks was the host. The show talks about her actions and how she talked to the contestants.
Q: Is this the first time these problems were talked about?
No, some of these issues have been talked about before, but the new show brings them up again with more stories.
Q: Did everyone have a bad time?
Not everyone had the same experience. Some people felt it was hard but still helped them get famous.