‘America’s Next Top Model’ judges Reflect on Show’s controversies and Future in New Docuseries
A new Netflix docuseries, “Reality Check,” is offering a behind-the-scenes look at the world of reality television, including candid reflections from those involved in the long-running modeling competition, “America’s next Top Model” (ANTM). The series delves into the show’s controversies and teases a potential revival.
Former judge J. Alexander, known for his blunt critiques and signature walk lessons, revealed a past health scare. He suffered a stroke in December 2022, leaving him in a coma for five weeks and impacting his ability too walk and talk. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation, stating, “I taught models how to walk and now I can’t walk, not yet. I’m determined to walk. You’re gonna see me again, I’m sure. It’s not over for me yet.” He shared that fellow judges jay Manuel and Nigel Barker visited him in the hospital, with Barker recalling the emotional experience, saying, “The two of us cried together, and I held him.”
The docuseries also addresses the show’s problematic moments, including challenges that have been widely criticized as insensitive or harmful in retrospect. Former host and creator Tyra Banks acknowledged the scrutiny, and revealed a surprising detail about a controversial elimination decision. She explained that a decision to eliminate a contestant for not smiling enough was not her call, but came “from above.” Banks expressed her belief that her fellow judges, Jay Manuel and Nigel Barker, where unaware of the higher-level directive, stating, “To this day, I think they think that it was me, and Ken [Leydecker, a producer].”
Despite past criticisms, Banks hinted at a possible future for the show. Currently residing in Australia, where she has launched an ice cream venture called “Smize & Dream,” Banks stated, “I feel like my work is not done. You have no idea what we have planned for Cycle 25!” As of now, no official proclamation regarding a “Cycle 25” has been made. Page Six has reached out for comment.