Netflix is set to release a three-part documentary, Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model, on February 16, examining the legacy of the early 2000s reality show that captivated more than 100 million viewers worldwide. The docuseries promises a behind-the-scenes look at the show, exploring its controversial and problematic moments.
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ANTM creator and host Tyra Banks appears in the series, reflecting candidly on her role. In the trailer, she admits, “I knew I went too far… it was very intense, but you guys were demanding it.” The documentary also features appearances from former contestants and winners, as well as judges Jay Alexander, Nigel Barker, and Jay Manuel, who discuss the show’s most contentious moments. Barker said, “It was wrong, and for some reason no one seemed to see it … we felt betrayed,” while Manuel added, “I realised Tyra would do anything for the success of her show.”
“I haven’t really said much, but now it’s time.”
Tyra Banks, Jay Manuel, Nigel Barker, Miss J Alexander and former contestants are featured in an explosive new documentary about America’s Next Top Model, one of the most popular — and controversial — reality shows of all-time.… pic.twitter.com/wIxQjQiqnG
— Netflix (@netflix) January 26, 2026
The series revisits ANTM’s infamous practices, including harsh critiques of contestants’ appearances, extreme stunt photoshoots, and compulsory cosmetic procedures such as drastic haircuts and dental surgeries. Netflix says the documentary also responds to social media scrutiny and public commentary on the show’s impact and ethical controversies.
However, not all former cast members are on board. Adrianne Curry, winner of the show’s first season, declined to participate, calling the retrospective examination “absurd” and critical of what she described as a “woke lens” applied more than two decades later.
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Directed by Mor Loushy and Daniel Sivan, the team behind American Manhunt: Osama Bin Laden, the three-part docuseries aims to unpack the cultural and social implications of one of television’s most influential reality competitions.