The iconic reality television series *America’s Next Top Model* (ANTM) is being re-examined through a critical lens in light of a new Netflix documentary that dives deep into its controversial history. What was once viewed as a groundbreaking programme is now prompting discussions about its ethical boundaries and the treatment of contestants. With contributions from former host Tyra Banks and other judges, the documentary reveals both the triumphs and the troubling moments that defined the show during its 24-season run from 2003 to 2018.
A Legacy of Controversy
Tyra Banks’ infamous tirade against contestant Tiffany Richardson—“I was rooting for you! We were all rooting for you! How dare you?”—has become emblematic of the show’s more shocking episodes. This dramatic moment, which aired two decades ago, continues to resonate, highlighting the extreme pressures contestants faced. However, this was merely one of many instances that sparked heated debates about the lengths reality television would go to for entertainment.
Throughout its run, ANTM showcased a range of controversial practices, including body-shaming, race-swapping, and dangerous challenges that pushed contestants to their physical and emotional limits. During the pandemic, a new generation of viewers discovered the series and were left questioning its very existence: “How did this ever get made?”
The Contestant Experience
Sophie Sumner, the winner of ANTM’s eighteenth cycle and a former contestant on *Britain’s Next Top Model*, provides insight into the relentless pressure contestants faced. Reflecting on her experiences, she states that the American version often felt like a “mental wind-up,” where judges would scrutinise every aspect of a contestant’s appearance, a reflection of the harsh modelling culture of the time.
Sophie recounted a particularly harrowing challenge in which producers pushed her to do a photoshoot atop the 1,100-foot tall Macau Tower during a rainstorm, despite her acknowledged fear of heights. She laughed when asked about the show’s duty of care: “We didn’t have any help on the show. It was all about the drama and the ratings.”
While she believes the show provided her with vital exposure, she emphasised that many contestants left with unrealistic expectations of fame and success.
A Changing Perspective
The documentary *Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model*, set to premiere on Netflix on 16 February, aims to explore these complex narratives further. Tyra Banks, who created the show to showcase diversity within the modelling world, admits in the documentary that certain moments went “too far.” She expresses regret over the harsh treatment that some contestants received, yet the legacy of those moments continues to haunt many.
Ebony Haith, a contestant from the show’s inaugural season, has openly discussed the long-term impact of her experiences. At 23, she was subjected to comments about her skin texture and personality, which she claims have left lasting scars. “I’m still healing from it,” she confides, highlighting the pervasive nature of the damage inflicted during her time on the show.
The Role of Social Media
Today’s reality television landscape is markedly different, with social media playing a pivotal role in shaping public perception. Content creators like Oliver Twixt have built careers dissecting the nuances of reality shows and their implications. He notes that while it may not be fair to judge ANTM by contemporary standards, it is essential to acknowledge its role in pioneering the genre.
“ANTM opened doors for discussions about different ethnicities and body types in fashion,” he states. “But it also did significant harm.” This duality is at the heart of the debate surrounding the series and its legacy.
Why it Matters
The critical re-evaluation of *America’s Next Top Model* is not just about a television show; it represents a broader societal shift in how we view media and its impact on individuals. As conversations around mental health, representation, and ethical standards in entertainment evolve, so too must our understanding of the past. The documentary serves as a reminder of the complexities of reality television—where entertainment often came at a significant human cost. As we reflect on these revelations, it becomes clear that acknowledging the missteps of the past is essential to fostering a more compassionate and responsible media landscape for the future.
