Tyra Banks Top model tell-all: netflix documentary EXCLUSIVE

Netflix lands Tyra Banks for exclusive ANTM documentary, addressing controversies.

Breaking the Silence

Tyra Banks is stepping back into the spotlight, revealing all about her America’s Next Top Model journey.

In a surprising move, the supermodel-turned-mogul has sat for an interview with Netflix for their upcoming documentary series about the show’s controversial history.

This rare appearance marks one of her few deep dives into ANTM since the series wrapped its final cycle in 2018.

Behind the Catwalk Curtain

The multi-episode Netflix documentary promises an unfiltered look at the modeling competition that dominated TV for 15 years.

While other participants haven’t been announced yet, insiders confirm they’ll include key figures from the original show.

Fans can expect a wide-ranging exploration of ANTM’s 24-cycle run that transformed how we view beauty and reality television.

Owning Past Mistakes

At the 2025 Essence Black Women in Hollywood event, Banks acknowledged saying “some dumb shit” during her time on the show.

But she also fiercely defended her team who “fought to bring diversity to television” when representation was severely lacking.

This documentary might finally give Banks the platform to address criticisms while highlighting the show’s groundbreaking moments.

From Runway to Reality TV Pioneer

Before creating ANTM in 2003, Banks conquered the modeling world, working with both high fashion houses and commercial brands.

Her transition to television was revolutionary, as she not only hosted but created and produced the show that would jump networks multiple times during its impressive run, eventually expanding her empire with The Tyra Banks Show.

Confronting the Controversy

During the pandemic, ANTM faced intense scrutiny as viewers revisited problematic moments from the series.

From questionable judging to controversial photo challenges, the show’s legacy became complicated.

A 20th anniversary oral history in 2023 featured 14 contestants sharing stories ranging from misconduct allegations to the infamous race-switching photo shoots that sparked heated debates about artistic expression versus cultural insensitivity.

The Future of the Franchise

While the show hasn’t officially been canceled, sources close to Banks confirmed last year that she had no plans to revive ANTM for a 25th season.

This documentary might serve as the final chapter in the Top Model story—or perhaps the beginning of a new conversation about reality TV’s evolution and impact on beauty standards worldwide.


Yaya DaCosta Forgives Tyra Banks: ANTM Healing Journey

Yaya DaCosta opens up about forgiving Tyra Banks, closing old ANTM wounds with compassion and growth.

Why is Tyra Banks being addressed by Yaya DaCosta at this time?

Following Tyra’s recent ESSENCE Awards speech, the Chicago Med star finally talked about her time as America’s Next Top Model.

Banks’ admission that “we didn’t always get it right” rekindled conversations about ANTM’s contentious moments, ranging from damaging criticism to tone-deaf challenges.

What criticism of ANTM reappeared?

In 2020, old videos of Banks instructing competitors to “fix” their physical characteristics or take part in racially offensive photo shoots (such as those with a Blackface theme) went viral.

DaCosta didn’t hold back when criticizing the show’s “manipulative editing” and the way it “weaponized insecurities.”

She even acknowledged that her “most shocking” moments were never broadcast.

How did Banks and DaCosta get back in touch?

DaCosta, who had interrupted her speech to use the restroom, ran into Banks backstage at the same awards show.

Rather than creating tension, the two laughed together as they recalled DaCosta’s memorable acting challenge with Taye Diggs.

She acknowledged that “the old me would have panicked,” but this time, her anger was replaced by warmth.

What was different between them?

Forgiveness. DaCosta lingered to give Banks a tight hug so she could feel “completely forgiven.”

She has been rephrasing her ANTM trauma for years, even attributing her success in Hollywood to the show’s teaching of her how to “regulate my nervous system.”

She is now focused on putting an end to that chapter: “I’m free at last.”

What does DaCosta want his fans to know?

“Forgiveness isn’t for others—it’s for you,” she stressed.

She went on to advise viewers to “choose freedom, compassion, and kindness” in order to let go of grudges.

For DaCosta, healing meant reclaiming her story—and she’s inviting others to do the same.


Yaya DaCosta & Tyra Banks’ ANTM Reckoning

  • ANTM was criticized for its insensitive challenges and editing techniques.
  • Despite its shortcomings, DaCosta attributes career tools to the show.
  • Backstage at the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood event, a couple bonded.
  • During a Taye Diggs challenge, Banks complimented DaCosta’s abilities.
  • DaCosta’s embrace represented forgiveness and closure.
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