ANTM Winner Eva Marcille Shocked by Docuseries Allegations

The reality star says she had no idea about the controversies covered in Netflix's 'Reality Check' series.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Eva Marcille, the winner of America's Next Top Model cycle 3, has expressed shock and dismay after watching the new Netflix docuseries 'Reality Check' that delves into controversies from the show's history. Marcille says she was unaware of the wide-ranging allegations covered in the series, including criticism over shoots that required models to wear dark makeup, alleged on-camera sexual assault, and instances of the judges body shaming contestants. While Marcille says she will always be grateful to Tyra Banks for the opportunities ANTM provided, she acknowledged that the show's environment 'could not exist without producers aiding and abetting what was going on.'

Why it matters

The revelations in the 'Reality Check' docuseries have reignited discussions about the treatment of contestants on 'America's Next Top Model' and the role producers played in shaping the show's controversial moments. As a former winner, Marcille's reaction highlights how some participants may have been unaware of the full extent of the issues behind the scenes.

The details

In an interview on CBS Mornings, Marcille said she was 'gobsmacked' and 'amazingly horrified' after watching the docuseries, as she had no prior knowledge of the allegations. She reached out to former ANTM creative director Jay Manuel, asking if the show she participated in was the same one being covered. Marcille noted that the documentary crew did not ask her to participate. The docuseries covers a range of controversies, including criticism over shoots that required models to wear dark makeup, alleged on-camera sexual assault, and instances of the judges body shaming certain competitors.

  • The 'Reality Check' docuseries on Netflix premiered in February 2026.

The players

Eva Marcille

The winner of America's Next Top Model cycle 3 in 2004 and a former cast member of The Real Housewives of Atlanta.

Tyra Banks

The creator, host, and executive producer of America's Next Top Model.

Jay Manuel

The former creative director of America's Next Top Model.

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What they’re saying

“When I first found out there was a documentary, I was amazed. I remember reaching out to [former creative director] Jay Manuel like, 'Is this the same Top Model that we did, because how don't I know about this?'”

— Eva Marcille, ANTM Cycle 3 Winner (CBS Mornings)

“It was very surprising, and then I watched it. After I watched it, I was gobsmacked. I was in awe. I told Jay my mouth was wide open. To be a part of a club and not know what's going on in the club is crazy.”

— Eva Marcille, ANTM Cycle 3 Winner (CBS Mornings)

“I will always say, especially for Top Model — initially — she set out to change the world, to change what the modeling industry looked like, sounded like, felt like, and expected. And she did that for me.”

— Eva Marcille, ANTM Cycle 3 Winner (CBS Mornings)

The takeaway

The revelations in the 'Reality Check' docuseries have highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in the reality TV industry, particularly when it comes to the treatment of contestants. Marcille's reaction shows that even winners may have been unaware of the full extent of the issues behind the scenes, underscoring the importance of addressing these concerns and ensuring the well-being of all participants.