In a reflective piece, Catia Hultquist discusses the lasting impact of the popular reality show 'America's Next Top Model,' which aired in the early 2000s. She notes how the show's portrayal of beauty standards contributed to toxic body image ideals and bullying among aspiring models, highlighting the grotesque aspects of the competition that are only now being confronted. The piece references a new Netflix documentary that critically examines these themes and how they influenced viewers and participants alike.

Hultquist expresses gratitude for not having been exposed to the harmful messages of the show during her formative years, acknowledging the long-term effects that such portrayals can have on impressionable audiences. She reflects on her own experience, mentioning that her knowledge of the term 'smize' (smiling with the eyes) is a small remnant of the show's pervasive influence on cultural perceptions of beauty.

The article serves as a commentary on the evolution of reality television and its implications for society, particularly concerning body positivity and the ways in which the media shapes our understanding of identity. Hultquist's insights are situated within a broader discourse on media responsibility and the ongoing need to challenge harmful beauty standards.