Heidi Klum Makes Her Return to Project Runway After 8 Years Away
After an eight-year hiatus, Heidi Klum is stepping back into the Project Runway spotlight. PEOPLE confirms that the German supermodel, who originally hosted the fashion competition from 2004 to 2017, will return for the upcoming season.
Klum, 51, played a pivotal role in shaping Project Runway’s success, earning nine Emmy nominations and sharing a 2013 win with co-host and close friend Tim Gunn. Her final season aired in 2017, after which she and Gunn bid farewell to the franchise they likened to their “baby.”
A New Chapter for Project Runway
The show, which began on Bravo before moving to Lifetime and then returning to Bravo, now finds its latest home on Freeform, Disney+, and Hulu. Since its debut in 2004, Project Runway has highlighted a diverse range of talented designers, and Klum was there to send many home with her signature “auf wiedersehen.”
The competition has expanded over the years with spinoffs like All Stars and Project Runway: Junior, while launching careers for designers such as Christian Siriano, winner of season 4 and now a household name in fashion.
Klum’s Legacy and Return
Known for her bold, trendsetting style, Klum brought her vibrant personality to the runway and set the tone for each episode with her unforgettable fashion statements — from tailored pantsuits to glitzy metallic dresses.
Reflecting on her departure in 2018, Klum said, “I am incredibly proud of the show, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. I’m thankful for the fans and for the opportunity to celebrate creativity and elevate so many talented designers.”
She left alongside Gunn to co-create Making the Cut for Amazon Prime Video, while Karlie Kloss and Christian Siriano assumed hosting and mentoring duties in subsequent Project Runway seasons.
What to Expect in Season 21
Season 21 will debut this year with 10 weekly episodes. While the premiere date and judges remain under wraps, Klum’s return signals an exciting new era for the franchise. Fans can expect fresh challenges, cutting-edge fashion, and Klum’s signature charisma back on their screens.
From Runway to Supermodel Stardom
Heidi Klum’s meteoric rise began when she won a national modeling contest in Germany at age 19. This victory launched her international career, leading to a coveted contract with Victoria’s Secret. She quickly became one of the brand’s most recognizable “Angels,” gracing countless runways and catalogs for over a decade. Her infectious energy and charismatic presence made her a standout, solidifying her status as a true supermodel of the 2000s. This period established her not just as a mannequin, but as a vibrant personality with mass appeal.
Building a Multimedia Business Empire
Heidi Klum masterfully leveraged her modeling fame to build a vast business and entertainment empire. She is the charismatic host and executive producer of the groundbreaking reality competition Project Runway, a role that earned her multiple Emmy Awards and cemented her reputation as a savvy industry insider. Beyond television, she has launched successful ventures including her own lingerie line, a collaboration with the retailer Lidl, and a namesake fragrance collection. Klum understands the power of her brand, seamlessly transitioning from a model on the runway to a formidable businesswoman and producer behind the scenes.
The Art of the Spectacle and Personal Brand
Heidi Klum is a master of spectacle, most famously demonstrated by her annual, incredibly elaborate Halloween costumes. These meticulously planned transformations generate global media attention each year, showcasing her commitment to showmanship and keeping her relevant in pop culture. Furthermore, her personal life, including her role as a mother and her marriage to musician Tom Kaulitz, is often shared with her massive social media following. This strategic blend of high-profile business ventures, television success, and viral personal moments has created a unique and enduring brand that continues to thrive long after her peak runway years.
