Former America's Next Top Model Contestant Exposes Contract's Injury Liability Clause
In the wake of Netflix's explosive new docuseries Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model, former contestant Lauren Utter has provided fans with a startling glimpse into the extensive contract she signed to participate in the reality show. Utter, who competed in cycle 10 of the modeling competition, took to Instagram to share photographs of memorabilia from her time on the program, including a page from the alleged participant agreement.
Shocking Contract Language Revealed
The shared document page contains a clause stating that if a contestant is 'killed, injured or harmed' during filming, the show's producers are 'released from any claim based upon producers' failure to inspect or investigate.' The contract specifically addresses transportation to and from locations, as well as incidents occurring in or around the show's accommodations.
'I understand that during production of the program, I may travel to various locations (including internationally),' the contract reads. 'I acknowledge and agree that should I be killed, injured or harmed during the transportation to or from any location in connection with the program... this participant agreement shall release the released parties from any claim whatsoever in connection therewith.'
Utter's Ironic Commentary
Utter captioned her Instagram post with ironic humor, writing: 'I was on #ANTM and I didn't [die]! Yay!' She added: 'Apparently Netflix is dropping a doc soon so I just wanted to share some souvenirs. Did you know if we [died] on the show they assume no responsibility? Cool right?'
Alongside the contract page, Utter shared a handwritten note from an unnamed casting associate that praised her personality while offering fashion advice: 'Lauren, you're a rockstar - 'nuff said. You scare me a li'l. But for the most part, you are one of the coolest chicks this show has ever seen. Stay true to yourself (never wear pink again!) and know that you're a hottie, whether you like it or not.'
Fan Reactions and Wider Controversies
The revelation sparked significant reaction from fans in the comment section:
- 'So wild, glad you survived,' one fan wrote
- 'Killed, injured or harmed? What?' exclaimed another
- 'Wow. That's crazy,' penned a third commenter
- 'Honestly insane,' read a fourth response
- 'What the?' questioned a fifth
This contract revelation comes as part of broader controversies surrounding the reality competition series, which has faced criticism over dangerous runway challenges, problematic photoshoots, and disastrous makeovers. Multiple former contestants have complained about being fat-shamed and experiencing harassment from male models on set.
Tyra Banks' Reflections in Netflix Documentary
The new three-part Netflix series features interviews with executive producer and judge Tyra Banks, catwalk coach J Alexander (Miss Jay), creative director Jay Manuel, photographer Nigel Barker, and executive producer Ken Mok. In the documentary, Banks acknowledges pushing boundaries too far during the show's run from 2003 to 2018 across UPN, CW, and VH1 networks.
'I knew [I] went too far,' Banks admits in the series. 'I kept pushing more and more and more because I tried to give fans what they wanted.'
Banks specifically apologizes to cycle four contestant Keenyah Hill, who famously stopped a photoshoot after feeling uncomfortable with a male model's behavior. Hill alleged in the documentary: '[One model] was touching me, grabbing me; I felt he was taking advantage of the moment to touch me.'
Reflecting on her initial advice to Hill about using 'feminine wiles' to handle such situations, Banks now expresses regret: 'I was trying to empower her with the information that I had... but it should have been, "Stop," down. And that's what would happen today. We all now understand the protections that women need.'
The former supermodel adds: 'I say to Keenyah, boo boo, I am so sorry. None of us knew. Network executives didn't know, and I did the best that I could at that time. But she deserved more. She did.'
The Daily Mail has reached out to Banks, CW, and VH1 for comment regarding the contract revelations and broader show controversies.
