The Dark Side of the Catwalk: Unpacking “America’s Next Top Model” in New Docuseries
A compelling new documentary miniseries, “Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model,” has landed on screens, pulling back the curtain on the glossy facade of the iconic 2000s reality competition. The three-part series, available to stream on Netflix across Australia, delves into the often harrowing realities faced by contestants during the show’s 24-season run from 2003 to 2018, leaving viewers both shocked and deeply reflective.
For those unfamiliar with the phenomenon, “America’s Next Top Model” (ANTM), helmed by the formidable Tyra Banks, was a cultural touchstone. Each season introduced a fresh batch of aspiring models who battled it out for a coveted modelling contract. The judging panel was a who’s who of the fashion industry, featuring runway coach J. Alexander, photographer Nigel Barker, and photo shoot director Jay Manuel, alongside a rotating cast of guest judges including fashion luminaries like Janice Dickinson, Kimora Lee Simmons, Twiggy, André Leon Talley, and Kelly Cutrone.
In recent years, the controversies surrounding ANTM have frequently resurfaced on social media, mirroring a broader societal re-evaluation of how contestants were treated on ’00s reality television. Alongside other shows that faced intense scrutiny, such as “The Biggest Loser,” the methods of communication, the treatment of participants, and the challenging situations they were placed in have all come under a harsher, more critical spotlight.
“Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model” amplifies this scrutiny, presenting a raw and unflinching look at the show’s inner workings. The docuseries features interviews with former judges and, notably, Tyra Banks herself, alongside contestants who recount experiences of frankly abysmal conditions. Beyond the usual reality TV drama, participants endured life-altering makeovers, including rushed dental procedures, body-shaming, aggressive on-set environments, the exploitation of personal traumas, and instances of racism. One contestant even bravely detailed an alleged sexual assault that reportedly occurred while filming was underway, painting a picture of a deeply troubling production.
The impact of these revelations has been significant. Shortly after the docuseries’ release, former contestant Lisa D’Amato, who is not featured in the Netflix series, took to Instagram to express her view that the documentary’s most shocking revelations were “sugar coated.” She stated, “Watched the Netflix docu on ANTM and I still think it is sugar coated. It was wayyyyyyy worse for so so many of us.” D’Amato has indicated that further personal accounts of her experiences, promising “even deeper torture,” will be revealed on E!’s “Dirty Little Scandals” soon. Her upcoming project with American broadcaster is expected to offer her unfiltered perspective.
For many millennials, whose formative years were punctuated by watching ANTM, the documentary has proven to be both a shock and a trigger. The show was an undeniable part of their teenage landscape, and for those curious to explore its less glamorous side, the details are readily available.
Where to Stream “Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model” in Australia
The entire three-part miniseries of “Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model” is currently accessible on Netflix for Australian viewers. This documentary offers a critical and essential examination of a show that, while celebrated for its entertainment value, also harboured significant ethical concerns behind the scenes. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater accountability and ethical considerations in the production of reality television.
