Tyra Banks Responds to Sexual Assault Allegations in ‘Next Top Model’

Tyra Banks addressed the controversial assault on America’s Next Top Model, a Netflix docuseries that reexamined the season 2 episode where Shandi Sullivan was sexually assaulted during an Italian filming trip. While recalling the traumatic event, Banks said she could not discuss production details due to her role as a media personality rather than behind-the-scenes director.

In the documentary released on February 16, Sullivan recounted how locals would join them for meals and drive the models around Italy in Vespas. She described herself as being too intoxicated to eat anything and consuming two bottles of wine during dinner. Local men then took advantage of her inappropriately.

Sullivan claimed that she blacked out under their influence and was sexually assaulted, with the entire incident captured on camera. The producer’s failure to intervene or consider pulling Sullivan from the show further enraged her. On the show itself, the assault was presented as a romantic misunderstanding given Sullivan’s then boyfriend Eric’s relationship status.

Banks responded by telling Sullivan at the time: “Everyone has messed up, Shandi. I’m not judging you. But I think that we have to fight against our carnal desires. It’s all about your relationship and how open it is between you and who else is in it.” The remarks were seen as a criticism of the show’s handling of what she saw as an abuse of power during filming, despite the show defending its stance on the incident.