ANTM's Dark Secrets: Assault & Tyra's Tears

A new three-part docuseries, "Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model," is revealing the controversies and behind-the-scenes drama that plagued the long-running competition. Rare interviews with executive producers Tyra Banks and Ken Mok, alongside former judges Jay Manuel, Miss J. Alexander, and Nigel Barker, dissect the show's most challenging moments.

Many former contestants have shared personal experiences, including allegations of discrimination and sexual assault, both on and off-screen. They also discuss how the show's perspective has evolved, particularly concerning photoshoot challenges that have not aged well. Tyra Banks, the show's host and executive producer, defended the show's initial aim to diversify the modeling world.

Revelations include Tyra Banks' conflict with network executive Les Moonves over casting a Hispanic-Latino contestant. The series also explores the falling out between Banks and creative director Jay Manuel, who felt unsupported after Banks' terse response to his desire to leave. Furthermore, the firings of judges Miss J. Alexander, Jay Manuel, and Nigel Barker in 2012 are revisited, with the judges expressing a sense of abandonment by Banks.

The docuseries also highlights a disturbing incident where Cycle 2 contestant Shandi Sullivan was sexually assaulted during a trip to Italy. The assault was filmed and used as a plotline, despite Sullivan being too inebriated to consent, drawing criticism towards production and Banks for how the situation was handled. Miss J. Alexander also disclosed his recent health struggles, including a stroke, coma, and subsequent inability to walk or speak, noting he had not yet received a visit from Banks.

Examining past controversial photoshoots, such as those centered on homelessness or smoking, and insensitive concepts like race-swapping and eating disorders, participants acknowledge the problematic nature of these challenges through a modern lens. Banks referred to some ideas as "dumb s***," while Mok cited a challenge celebrating violence as a significant mistake. Models also recounted undergoing orthodontic procedures and developing eating disorders for the competition.

Reflecting on her role, Banks admitted to going too far in a heated moment with a contestant and acknowledged that Black girls face many societal challenges. She also expressed a desire for continued evolution and openness to criticism, stating, "That is the only way you change. That is the only way you get better is by somebody calling you out on your s***."