Netflix Seeks Dismissal of Tyra Banks Defamation Lawsuit Over Documentary Editing

Netflix has filed a formal request to dismiss a defamation lawsuit brought by Tyra Banks, the host of "America's Next Top Model," concerning a documentary series about the show. The dispute centers on a Netflix documentary directed by Israeli filmmakers Daniel Sivan and Mor Lushi, which exposed darker aspects of the reality series. Banks, 52, sued Netflix and the directors in June, alleging she was falsely portrayed as insensitive toward a contestant who claimed sexual assault during the show's second season in Milan.

Banks contended that although she was interviewed for three hours, only about 16 minutes were used, with editing decisions creating a misleading impression, particularly regarding her recollection of contestant Gendi Sullivan. Netflix's lawyers argued that Banks' dissatisfaction does not amount to defamation, emphasizing that Banks herself has made similar editorial decisions during the show's 24 seasons. They noted that the full response Banks gave about Sullivan was included at the start of the documentary's second episode.

Netflix defended the Israeli directors, calling them respected documentarians who fairly presented Banks' perspective alongside others. The documentary sparked widespread discussion about reality TV culture and the trauma contestants endure. Banks' attorney, Tom Clare, criticized Netflix's dismissal request, asserting the core issue is whether the editing distorted the truth. He urged Netflix to release the full unedited interview to allow the public to judge for themselves.

The legal battle is expected to continue for months, with the court needing to decide if documentary editing that omits parts of an interview constitutes defamation or is a legitimate editorial judgment.