A new Netflix docuseries, Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model, revisits the legacy of the popular reality show, examining both its successes and controversies.

The series, spanning three episodes, features reflections from Tyra Banks, former contestants, and judges, including photographer Nigel Barker.

While some criticise Banks for her role in the show, others, like Barker, highlight the pressures and challenges faced by everyone involved.

“Were there mistakes? Yes. Lots. Was Tyra responsible for all of them? No, of course not,” Barker told CNN. “But was she a part of it? Yes.”

He also noted that women in leadership are often judged differently from men.

The show, which aired from 2003 to 2018, became a cultural phenomenon for its focus on high fashion, celebrity proximity, and strict beauty standards.

Over time, some challenges drew backlash, including a racially themed photo shoot and another involving a contestant portraying a gunshot victim.

Weight criticism of contestants also became controversial.

One former contestant, Shandi Sullivan, revealed in the docuseries that she was sexually assaulted while filming in Milan during cycle 2, describing being incapacitated by alcohol and unable to consent.

The incident was recorded by production and aired with a misleading narrative.

Sullivan said she participated in the docuseries to reclaim her story and highlight the lack of control she had during the original show.

Banks told the filmmakers that addressing the Milan incident was “not her territory.”

Barker explained that judges were often kept separate from production details and were unaware of many incidents as they happened.

Other former judges and crew members also shared their experiences.

Creative director Jay Manuel said his friendship with Banks cooled after he tried to leave the show. Runway coach J.

Alexander, known as Miss J, revealed his health struggles, including a stroke in 2022, and noted that while Barker and Manuel visited him, Banks did not.

Barker reflected on his own journey, noting that the show launched his photography career and helped him establish businesses and collaborations, including a book with Taylor Swift.

He agreed to participate in the docuseries to provide perspective alongside Banks and the other judges.

While Banks hinted at the possibility of reviving the show, Barker cautioned that any return would need the right cast and approach to succeed, noting how the series declined after he and other judges were let go.