A new Netflix documentary series is set to revisit the controversies of 'America's Next Top Model' (ANTM), the reality show that ran for 24 seasons from 2003. The series, titled 'Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model', premieres next week and examines the toxic culture behind the global phenomenon.
The show, hosted by Tyra Banks, was initially praised for its progressive representation of women of colour and queer people. However, as seasons progressed, it became known for cruel judge feedback and exploitative scenarios. Banks herself acknowledged past insensitivity on Twitter in 2020, agreeing with posts about 'off choices' in the show.
The docuseries follows a podcast, 'Curse of: America's Next Top Model', released last year. It features interviews with former contestants, Banks, and her co-stars, exploring how the show became so toxic. A notorious moment – Banks screaming at contestant Tiffany Richardson – has become a viral meme, often cited as a low point.
According to Danielle Lindemann, author of 'True Story: What Reality TV Says About Us', there were 'cruel aspects' of ANTM, but it remains part of the cultural zeitgeist. The series originally aimed to democratise the fashion industry by launching unknown models, but critics say it ended up perpetuating the prejudices it sought to challenge.
