Netflix Docuseries Explores 'America's Next Top Model' Legacy

Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model premieres on Netflix, offering an inside look at the iconic reality competition show.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A new three-part Netflix docuseries, 'Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model', premieres on February 16th at 3 a.m. ET. The series promises a comprehensive look at the reality competition that launched the careers of numerous models and captivated audiences for 24 seasons, featuring interviews with former contestants, judges, and producers, including the show's creator and host, Tyra Banks.

Why it matters

America's Next Top Model became a cultural phenomenon known for its dramatic eliminations and often controversial challenges. The docuseries aims to provide an inside perspective on the show's impact and legacy, exploring the explosive drama, public meltdowns, and controversies that still fuel viral moments today.

The details

The docuseries features interviews with former contestants such as Eva Marcille, who won the third cycle of the competition in 2004 and went on to appear in Tyler Perry's House of Payne and The Young and the Restless, as well as joining the cast of Bravo's The Real Housewives of Atlanta. Other notable contestants featured include Lio Tipton and Yaya DaCosta.

  • Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model premieres on Monday, February 16, 2026 at 3 a.m. ET.

The players

Tyra Banks

The creator and host of America's Next Top Model, who is featured in the docuseries offering an inside perspective on the show's impact and legacy.

Eva Marcille

A former contestant who won the third cycle of America's Next Top Model in 2004 and went on to have acting roles in Tyler Perry's House of Payne, The Young and the Restless, and The Real Housewives of Atlanta.

Lio Tipton

A notable former contestant featured in the docuseries.

Yaya DaCosta

A notable former contestant featured in the docuseries.

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The takeaway

The Netflix docuseries 'Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model' offers an in-depth look at the iconic reality competition show, exploring its lasting impact on the modeling industry and pop culture, and providing an insider's perspective on the drama and controversies that made it a must-watch phenomenon.