Supermodel, television personality, and entrepreneur Tyra Banks has filed a defamation lawsuit against Netflix in connection with a documentary examining America’s Next Top Model (A.N.T.M.) and its cultural legacy.
According to court filings, Banks alleges that a three-hour interview she participated in for the documentary was edited down to just 16 minutes, with producers selectively using footage to support what she describes as a false and defamatory narrative about her role in the long-running reality competition series.
Banks claims the documentary omitted important context and presented her statements in a misleading manner, resulting in reputational harm. The lawsuit argues that the final edit created an inaccurate portrayal of events surrounding the show and her involvement as its creator and host.
America’s Next Top Model was one of television’s most influential reality competition programs, running for multiple seasons and launching the careers of numerous aspiring models. In recent years, however, the show has faced renewed scrutiny, with critics revisiting certain moments and practices through a modern lens.
The lawsuit marks a significant legal challenge for Netflix and the documentary’s producers. Banks is reportedly seeking damages and other remedies, alleging that the edited presentation unfairly distorted her words and actions.
Netflix has not publicly commented on the lawsuit. Legal experts note that defamation cases involving documentaries often center on whether the content presented viewers with a materially false impression and whether any alleged inaccuracies caused measurable harm.
The case is expected to draw widespread attention given Banks’ high-profile status and the enduring popularity of America’s Next Top Model. As the legal proceedings move forward, both the entertainment industry and fans of the series will be closely watching the outcome.
