For more than two decades, America’s Next Top Model has remained one of the most influential — and controversial, reality television shows in history. Created and hosted by supermodel Tyra Banks, the series first aired in 2003 and went on to redefine the modelling industry while producing global stars such as Eva Marcille and Winnie Harlow.
Tyra Banks, one of the world’s most celebrated supermodels and media moguls, built her career by breaking barriers in fashion, television and business. Through America’s Next Top Model, she positioned herself as a mentor and gatekeeper to the modelling world, inspiring millions of young women to pursue their dreams.
However, over the years, the public has increasingly criticised Tyra and the show for how contestants were treated on and off camera. Former models have spoken out about harsh critiques, unrealistic beauty standards and emotionally challenging experiences, with many sharing deeply personal journeys that revealed the darker side of the competition.
Now, with Netflix’s highly anticipated three-part documentary series,‘REALITY CHECK: INSIDE AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL. For the first time, Tyra addresses the controversy head-on, while former contestants reclaim their narratives and share untold stories.
As the documentary unfolds, public opinion remains divided. Some viewers praise Tyra for opening the conversation, while others argue that she has yet to fully take accountability for the show’s impact.
The documentary will premiere on the 16th February 2026
Here are some of the reactions that erupted:
This is straight bullshit! It would have been a believable documentary had you not have Tyra Banks, Ms J and other judges on here trying to control the narrative
— I said so. (@charcekage) January 26, 2026
Tyra literally says “you guys demanded this?!?” We did not demand these girls to be starving and bullied https://t.co/pOAmVJRMVk pic.twitter.com/vLAZ6Sl47Z
Tyra taking accountability in this documentary oh this gon be a good watch… 1pt for Netflix https://t.co/JbPVk4hhx8 pic.twitter.com/0n4VT8AsWd
I’ll watch the documentary but I dont want to see Tyra reframe her whole legacy because ppl today are super sensitive. That show was great, there were things I didn’t know existed until she showed it. We learned, laughed and cried on the show. It was inspiring to watch and idc
— 📰 (@mr__crooner) January 26, 2026
Tyra Banks in that ANTM documentary: pic.twitter.com/ML7q8eKjpW
— hedy lamarr’s birth chart sister (@Maaruucci) January 26, 2026
Tyra Banks said let me go ahead and expose myself, take ownership and make money off it before they get ahold of this idea and put this shit on Netflix. Lol she's smart and basically said pic.twitter.com/oiXxv3RpD1
I know that this documentary is going to make me dislike Tyra Banks even more than I do now.
— Raye (@rayesofsunny) January 26, 2026
That trailer actually pissed me off!
Oh I’m definitely watching the Tyra banks documentary about ANTM
— ☀️ (@Curlssssssssss) January 26, 2026
a PRO Tyra banks documentary explaining HER wrongdoings on HER show and the entire trailer is her being like “you guys wanted it” 😭😭😭😭
There’s a special place in hell for Tyra Banks…but I will be sat for that ANTM documentary
— julianꨄ (@jul13an) January 26, 2026
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