Speculation is mounting that one of the most iconic reality television shows from the 2000s could be poised for a dramatic comeback. America's Next Top Model, which first premiered in 2003 and captivated audiences with its blend of high-fashion challenges and intense drama, may be returning for a highly anticipated Cycle 25.
Tyra Banks Drops Major Hint About Show's Future
Supermodel and creator Tyra Banks has recently fueled rumors of the show's revival through her latest public comments. In the Netflix documentary series, Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model, Banks teased viewers at the end of episode three with a tantalizing revelation. She stated, "After the show I had so many big ideas for my life. I'm obsessed with pivoting and I live in Australia now. I feel like my work is not done. You have no idea what we have planned for Cycle 25."
While Banks did not explicitly confirm the show's return, this statement has ignited widespread excitement among longtime fans. The 52-year-old entrepreneur has previously hinted at a potential revival, noting in a 2024 interview with E! News that external factors have delayed efforts. She explained, "We have tried, so it's not us. It's the powers that be. I'm not the biggest boss in the room, so it's not my doing. Maybe one day."
Legacy and Controversies of the Iconic Series
America's Next Top Model originally launched in 2003 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon, offering a unique glimpse into the competitive world of modeling. The format featured aspiring models from diverse backgrounds living together while tackling weekly photoshoots, all vying for the coveted 'Top Model' title. This combination of fashion, drama, and personal stories made for compelling television, drawing millions of viewers over its 24-season run, which concluded in 2018.
However, the show has faced criticism in recent years for its treatment of contestants and controversial challenges. A new generation of viewers, who discovered the series during the COVID-19 pandemic, have called out problematic elements such as the race-swapping photoshoot and instances of body-shaming by judges. Additionally, dramatic storylines that exploited models' personal hardships, including difficult breakups, have been scrutinized.
Netflix Documentary Sheds Light on the Series
The documentary Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model, currently streaming on Netflix, provides an in-depth look at the show's impact and legacy. It explores both the entertainment value and the controversies that have surrounded the series over the years. This renewed attention has sparked discussions about whether a modernized Cycle 25 could address past issues while reigniting the show's original appeal.
As fans eagerly await official confirmation, the possibility of America's Next Top Model returning for Cycle 25 remains a hot topic in entertainment circles. With Tyra Banks' hints and the show's enduring popularity, the stage may be set for a comeback that could redefine reality television for a new era.
