Tyra Banks Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Netflix for ‘America’s Next Top Model’ Docuseries
Tyra Banks, the former host of America’s Next Top Model, is taking legal action against Netflix for defamation related to the docuseries Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model. In her lawsuit filed on June 13, Banks claimed that the series was edited in a way that portrayed a false narrative. She hosted the iconic modeling competition show for 24 seasons, from 2003 to 2018, and believes viewers deserve the truth about its legacy.
Seeking a jury trial, Banks is looking to recover damages for lost business opportunities and income. She participated in the Netflix documentary series with the intention of having an open discussion about the successes and shortcomings of America’s Next Top Model. However, according to court documents, the docuseries was falsely marketed as a documentary, leading viewers to expect factual content rather than manufactured drama.
The lawsuit alleges that Banks’ words were manipulated through selective editing, painting a defamatory picture that is unrelated to what she actually expressed. The false narrative created by the producers included accusations such as Banks knowingly allowing a contestant to be sexually assaulted on the show, exploiting trauma for ratings, and then not remembering the incident when questioned. These claims are vehemently denied by Banks as complete fabrications.
Alongside these allegations, the docuseries hinted at a potential 25th cycle of America’s Next Top Model in the works, though no official premiere date has been announced. As the legal battle continues, viewers are left questioning the true nature of reality TV and the responsibility of producers to accurately represent the facts.
