In a candid reflection, Alexandra Underwood, a former participant in the 14th cycle of “America’s Next Top Model,” recently shared her perspective on the widely circulated runway accident involving a massive pendulum. This incident, which unfolded 16 years ago, left a significant mark on her public image. Underwood also touched upon the recent apology from Whoopi Goldberg and delved into the ongoing debates surrounding the reality competition, especially in the wake of Netflix’s new docuseries, “Reality Check.” Despite the challenges and controversies, Underwood has forged a successful modeling career, distinguishing her journey from those of many other contestants who have voiced negative experiences with the show.

Former 'ANTM' Contestant Alexandra Underwood Breaks Silence on Infamous Runway Incident

In a recent exclusive conversation with Entertainment Weekly, former “America’s Next Top Model” (ANTM) Cycle 14 contestant Alexandra Underwood revisited the unforgettable moment from 2010 when she was struck by a colossal swinging pendulum during a runway challenge. This widely memed incident, which resulted in injuries and her eventual fall from the stage, has long overshadowed her career. Underwood confessed that the initial embarrassment was profound, stating, “It was inappropriate for the show to put me in that position. I was on ANTM, not American Gladiator.”

Adding another layer to this narrative, veteran talk show host Whoopi Goldberg recently issued an on-air apology for laughing at Underwood’s fall back in 2010. This apology came after Netflix’s new “Reality Check” docuseries re-aired the clip. However, Underwood graciously dismissed the necessity of the apology, revealing, “I remember laughing at Whoopi laughing at me. Her reaction gave me permission to laugh at it, too.” She detailed the extent of her injuries, noting the visible scrapes on her legs and torn gown, which were captured by the cameras. This was, in fact, her second mishap of the day, having already stumbled down a flight of stairs before facing the pendulum-laden runway.

Underwood, who ultimately secured third place in her cycle, later signed with the prestigious Wilhelmina agency, a contract typically awarded to the show's winners. She candidly acknowledges her unique position, remarking that she is an “outlier” among former contestants. Many other participants and even judges have critically re-evaluated the show and its creator, Tyra Banks, in recent years, citing allegations of misconduct and exploitation. However, Underwood maintains a positive outlook on her time on the show, viewing it as an invaluable learning experience. She conceded that while her experience was largely positive, “some of the other girls absolutely deserve an apology for what they were put through.”

The discourse around “America’s Next Top Model” continues to evolve, with Adrianne Curry, winner of Cycle 1, defending Banks in a 2023 interview, stating that Banks “didn’t owe me s---” and that her success was a product of her environment. Similarly, talk show host Sherri Shepherd passionately defended Banks amidst the “Reality Check” controversy, highlighting the challenges Banks faced as a Black woman navigating the television industry. Despite these defenses, Banks’ representatives have yet to comment on the various allegations raised in the docuseries.