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Wait… is America's Next Top Model… not finished?
The next three-part Netflix docuseries, Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model initially seems to offer just that – a reality check. A 2026 reappraisal of an iconic but infamous early aughts reality show that was not without its controversies. The last thing we were expecting from this check-in? An announcement that the series would actually be returning to our screens for a brand new season.
America's Next Top Model is and was nothing short of iconic. After premiering in 2003 with model Tyra Banks at the helm, the modelling competition show became a smash hit. On one hand, the new docuseries sheds light on just how fun the show was and remains to this day. After all, its given us enough memes to keep our group chats going for decades to come. And, at one point or another, we've all tried to smize, havent' we?
However, the Netflix docuseries also digs into the misogyny, fatphobia, and sexism that not only powered the Y2K era, but also became embedded in the show's foundations. Although the show's host, Tyra Banks, along with the executives that brought the series to life do their best to keep at a diplomatic arm's length from the show's various controversies (racial prejudice and filming a young woman have sex while black out drunk are amongst them), they do at least attempt to reflect on the show's mistakes.
The patriarchal grip on beauty standards is stronger than ever.
My general takeaway after watching the series? Thank goodness America's Next Top Model is a thing of the past.
…but is it though? Because at the end of the series, Banks surprised us all with a hint that perhaps, this docuseries wasn't about putting the infamous reality show to bed – it was about bringing it back to life.
When was the last America's Next Top Model cycle?
America's Next Top Model ran for 15 years and 24 “cycles,” which saw a group of would-be models living together and taking part in a series of modelling challenges as they vied for one career-changing modelling contract.
Banks stepped down as host in 2015 and Rita Ora replaced her for Cycle 23. Banks returned for the final cycle, Cycle 24, which aired in 2018.
We were all rooting for you!
Is America's Next Top Model returning for Cycle 25?
Apparently, yes it is.
Banks seemingly confirmed the return of the reality show at the end of episode 3 of the new docuseries. “After the show I had so many big ideas for my life. I'm obsessed with pivoting and I live in Australia now,” she said, before adding, "I feel like my work is not done. You have no idea what we have planned for Cycle 25."
