Tyra Banks Confronts Intense Scrutiny After Netflix Documentary Release
Tyra Banks, the iconic supermodel and reality-TV mogul, is currently embroiled in a storm of controversy following the debut of Netflix's documentary series, Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model. The series has ignited widespread outrage, with viewers, former contestants, and even past associates criticizing Banks for her perceived failure to take responsibility for the show's problematic practices.
Documentary Sparks Widespread Criticism and Viewer Backlash
Reality Check has proven to be a massive success for Netflix, amassing over 14 million views in its first week and topping the platform's English-language charts. However, this popularity has come at a significant cost to Banks's reputation. The documentary delves into long-standing concerns about America's Next Top Model, including allegations of body-shaming, tasteless extremes, and a lack of duty of care towards contestants. Banks participated in a four-hour interview for the series without any prior questions or editorial control, leaving her vulnerable to a raw and unflattering portrayal.
Co-director Mor Loushy emphasized that Banks had no influence over the final product, stating she "had no say, no influence, no anything." This lack of control has resulted in a documentary that many critics argue highlights Banks's failure to adequately address her role in fostering a toxic environment on the show.
Former Contestants and Judges Voice Their Discontent
The backlash has been particularly vocal from former America's Next Top Model contestants. Brittany Brower described the documentary as "triggering" and criticized Banks for not taking accountability. Brittany Corinne Hatch went further, labeling the show "a systemic labor violation and a psychological experiment" and asserting that Banks "DESERVES. EVERY. OUNCE. OF. HATE."
Some, like Lisa D'Amato, felt the documentary did not go far enough, calling it "tame and sugarcoated" compared to the actual experiences of contestants. Victoria Henley compared her contract for the show to The Handmaid's Tale, describing it as "deeply troubling."
Former judges have also joined the criticism. Jay Manuel revealed that Banks froze him out after he expressed concerns about the show's creative direction, and he noted her lack of vulnerability in the documentary. J Alexander, who suffered a severe stroke, has not received a visit from Banks, though she did send a text. A GoFundMe campaign for his recovery has raised nearly $30,000 since the documentary's release.
Banks's Limited Apology and Ongoing Defiance
In the documentary, Banks admitted to going "too far" during her infamous "rooting for you" tirade against contestant Tiffany Richardson in cycle four, acknowledging, "You know, I lost it." However, this fell short of a full apology. Richardson reportedly rejected Banks's account in a since-deleted Instagram post, calling her a "lying ass bitch" and accusing her of bullying.
Despite the criticism, not everyone is against Banks. Isis King, the show's first trans contestant, credited it with positively impacting her life and career. Jaslene Gonzalez appreciated the support in dealing with an abusive relationship. Adrianne Curry, the first winner, acknowledged being hurt but argued the backlash is disproportionate, stating, "Being a dickhead isn't illegal, people." She also respected Banks for refusing to apologize insincerely, saying, "she isn't sorry."
Banks's New Ventures and Speculation About a Reboot
Amid the controversy, Banks has shifted her focus to new endeavors, particularly her ice-cream business, Smize and Dream, based in Australia. She has promoted innovative products like "hot" ice-cream and "ice-cream you can chew," expressing a desire for this to be her true legacy rather than her modeling career.
However, speculation about a potential reboot of America's Next Top Model persists. Banks hinted at unfinished business in the documentary, mentioning, "I feel like my work is not done. You have no idea what we have planned for Cycle 25." This has led to questions about whether the current controversy might be a strategic move to gauge interest in reviving the series, despite the timing appearing tone-deaf given the renewed scrutiny.
The documentary has also inspired dark humor on TikTok, where users create hypothetical, traumatizing Top Model challenges, skewering the show's absurd photoshoots and Banks's perceived lack of compassion.
As Banks navigates this turbulent period, the documentary has undeniably reshaped public perception, forcing a reckoning with the legacy of America's Next Top Model and her role within it.
