Tyra Banks Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Netflix for ‘Top Model’ Docuseries
Tyra Banks is taking legal action against Netflix and the directors of the “America’s Next Top Model” docuseries, claiming they twisted interview footage to paint her in a negative light. The lawsuit, filed in California on Saturday, alleges that the three-part docuseries, “Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model,” aired false information about Banks’ role on the show.
In addition to defamation, the lawsuit accuses the production company EverWonder Studio of breach of contract and false endorsement. Despite multiple requests for comment, representatives for Netflix, directors Mor Loushy and Daniel Sivan, and EverWonder Studio remained silent. Banks’ representative also opted not to make any statements.
The docuseries, which explored the controversies surrounding “America’s Next Top Model,” received mixed reactions. Some criticized the timing of the investigation, while others felt Banks should be held accountable for questionable moments on the show over its 24 seasons. Banks claims that the producers selectively used only about 16 minutes from her 3 1/2-hour interview, distorting her words to fit a false narrative.
The lawsuit highlights instances where the docuseries misrepresented events, such as implying that Banks was aware of a model’s assault story when she was not during the interview. Banks asserts that she did not have the chance to review the series before it aired, preventing her from correcting inaccuracies or withdrawing her involvement. Despite Banks’ requests, Netflix and EverWonder Studio did not provide access to the unedited interview footage.
Ultimately, the lawsuit emphasizes the importance of presenting accurate information and the consequences of presenting a distorted narrative. Though the creators defended the series’ authenticity, Banks’ legal action raises important questions about accountability and truth in entertainment productions.
