New Netflix Show Looks at Problems on 'America's Next Top Model'

A new Netflix documentary called 'Reality Check' is talking about upsetting events that happened on the old show 'America's Next Top Model.' It features people who were on the show and made it. They talk about things that were not good, like not being kind or people feeling bad.
By Newsroom | Television, Documentaries |

A new documentary series on Netflix, "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model," is bringing to light troubling events that occurred during the show's original run. The series features interviews with former contestants and producers, including Tyra Banks, who explore controversies that have, with time, aged poorly. The documentary aims to dissect the show's legacy, examining instances of alleged exploitation, racial insensitivity, and personal distress experienced by participants.

Unpacking the "ANTM" Phenomenon

"America's Next Top Model" (ANTM), which premiered over twenty years ago, was a groundbreaking reality television show that propelled contestants to national attention. It depicted the demanding world of high fashion, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of aspiring models. However, as the Netflix documentary series "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model" reveals, the show also presented scenarios that, viewed through a contemporary lens, raise significant concerns about contestant well-being and ethical production practices.

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The documentary highlights how societal attitudes and media scrutiny have evolved, prompting a re-evaluation of the show's impact.

Allegations of Exploitation and Distress

The documentary series delves into specific incidents that have drawn criticism. One notable account comes from former contestant Shandi Sullivan, who describes an event where she claims to have consumed alcohol and subsequently blacked out. Sullivan has described this experience as potentially resembling sexual assault. She has also spoken about lasting dental problems, attributing their severity to the show's environment, though she also noted the financial necessity of the show for such treatments.

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Another widely discussed moment involves a confrontation between Tyra Banks and contestant Tiffany Richardson. Banks, in an emotional exchange, expressed frustration with Richardson's reaction to being eliminated, a scene that has since become a viral clip illustrating the show's intense pressure.

Producers and Participants Reflect

"Reality Check" features interviews with key figures involved in the show's production, including Tyra Banks herself. Banks acknowledges past missteps and expresses regret for some of the show's more controversial elements. The documentary captures her reflections on the show's impact and her role in its creation, presenting her as someone who has observed the public's reaction to the series.

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The documentary seeks to provide a comprehensive look at the show's history, including both its successes and its problematic aspects.

The Show's Evolving Perception

  • A Product of its Time: Many sources suggest that "America's Next Top Model" can be seen as a product of an earlier era of reality television, often described as the "Wild West," where boundaries were less defined.

  • Increased Scrutiny: With the advent of social media and a greater public awareness of issues like mental health and exploitation, the show's methods and outcomes are now being examined with a more critical eye.

  • Banks' Role: Tyra Banks is portrayed as central to the show's narrative and legacy. Her public persona and her approach to managing contestants are frequently discussed, with the documentary examining her attempts to cultivate an image akin to other media personalities.

Looking Back at Key Controversies

The documentary revisits several contentious moments from "America's Next Top Model," including:

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  • The male model incident: This refers to the episode where male models visited the ANTM apartment, leading to the recounted experience by Shandi Sullivan.

  • Racial dynamics: The series reportedly touches upon instances of racial insensitivity, reflecting the limited representation of Black models in the industry at the time the show began.

  • Intense critiques: Instances where producers or Tyra Banks were perceived to be overly harsh or dismissive of contestants' feelings are also brought to the forefront.

The cumulative effect of these narratives suggests a pattern of challenging experiences for contestants, amplified by the show's widespread visibility.

Expert and Media Analysis

Critics note that while the documentary allows for reflection, some find the explanations and apologies offered to be insufficient. The Huffington Post observed that Tyra Banks "flat-out refuses to address the fallout between her and former friend Manuel," indicating areas where the documentary may not fully satisfy those seeking closure. NPR suggests that the series, while candid, might also be seen as hinting at the inherent contradictions within the pursuit of body image inclusivity in the modeling world.

The framing of these events suggests a tension between past realities of reality television production and current expectations for ethical conduct.

Conclusion and Implications

"Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model" offers a stark re-examination of a show that was once a cultural phenomenon. The documentary's focus on contestant distress, alleged exploitation, and the role of its creator, Tyra Banks, underscores a shift in how such media is perceived. The series highlights the lasting impact of reality television on the lives of participants and prompts a broader conversation about the responsibilities of producers in creating compelling, yet ethical, entertainment.

The documentary's release suggests that audiences and creators are increasingly engaging with the complex legacies of popular culture, demanding accountability for past actions and a deeper understanding of their consequences.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the new Netflix show about?
The show is a documentary that looks back at 'America's Next Top Model.' It talks about difficult moments and problems that happened during the show.
Q: Who is interviewed in the documentary?
People who were on the show as contestants and producers are interviewed. Tyra Banks, who hosted the show, also talks in it.
Q: What kind of problems are discussed?
The documentary talks about things like contestants feeling bad, not being treated kindly because of race, and possible exploitation.
Q: How is the show seen now?
The show is being looked at again because people's ideas about TV and how to treat people have changed over time.