Former model and TV host Tyra Banks has filed a lawsuit against Netflix, claiming that the documentary series Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model misrepresented her role in controversies surrounding the once-popular reality show.
The lawsuit alleges that her statements were altered and taken out of context, creating what Banks describes as a “false and defamatory narrative” about her involvement in disputed events during the production of the show.
Banks argues that the series is presented as a documentary, which implies an expectation of factual accuracy rather than constructed storytelling. She also claims that portions in which she took responsibility for certain mistakes were removed from the final cut.
“Many clips were taken out of context and re-edited to support a false and defamatory narrative,” the lawsuit states, according to E! News.
The documentary revisits long-standing controversies surrounding America’s Next Top Model, including allegations of contestant mistreatment, body-shaming, and racial issues. One former contestant, Shandi Sullivan, claimed she was intoxicated during filming in Italy in 2003 and that producers failed to intervene appropriately.
In the filing, Banks argues that she clearly stated in interviews that she was not involved in production decisions, but that editing created the impression that she was responsible for what occurred.
“That narrative of Ms. Banks is a complete fabrication that Netflix broadcast to a global audience of millions,” the lawsuit claims.
The series also addresses other controversial moments from the show, including former contestants speaking about pressure related to appearance and body image. Banks herself acknowledges in the documentary that she views some past decisions differently today.
Despite criticism, she maintains that her legacy should not be reduced solely to controversy, but also includes the long-term cultural impact of the show.
Netflix has not yet publicly commented on the lawsuit.
