Ex-ANTM Contestant Recalls Tyra Banks, Ken Mok Clashes

Alexandra Underwood, who competed on America's Next Top Model Cycle 14 in 2010, has shared details about behind-the-scenes conflicts. She stated that producer-host Tyra Banks and executive producer Ken Mok frequently argued during panel deliberations, suggesting their differing visions for the show's portrayal.

Underwood also alleged that eliminations were predetermined, a sentiment previously echoed by former creative director Jay Manuel. She recalled a specific incident during a photoshoot involving gowns made of human hair, where contestants were encouraged to jeer at each other. Underwood expressed distress over this requirement, noting that she was crying in her photo shown at panel because she felt pressured to be mean, which was not what she signed up for.

These revelations come after numerous past contestants and judges have spoken out about problematic experiences during the show's production. Previous reports, including those from 2023, highlighted controversial photoshoots where contestants were asked to portray different races using dark makeup. Underwood's current interview with Entertainment Weekly adds further context to the show's alleged production issues.