Quick Read
- Heidi Klum returns to host ‘Project Runway’ after eight years, marking the show’s 21st season.
- The judging panel includes Nina Garcia, Law Roach, and Christian Siriano as mentor.
- Twelve designers from diverse backgrounds will compete for a $200,000 prize and a feature in Elle magazine.
- Celebrity guest judges include Tyra Banks, Michael Kors, and Sofía Vergara.
- Season 21 promises unfiltered creativity, high stakes, and intense competition.
On July 31, 2025, the much-anticipated 21st season of Project Runway premiered, marking the triumphant return of its original host, Heidi Klum. After stepping away from the show in 2017 following 16 groundbreaking seasons, Klum’s return to the catwalk has reignited excitement among fashion enthusiasts and long-time fans of the series. This season introduces an eclectic group of designers and a refreshed judging panel, promising a thrilling blend of creativity, competition, and drama.
Heidi Klum’s Homecoming: A Seamless Return
Heidi Klum, now 52, described her decision to return to Project Runway as an easy one. Speaking to USA Today, she said, “It was a very easy yes for me. I helped create the show, and I love the show. It’s my first baby.” Klum’s departure in 2018, alongside mentor Tim Gunn, led to their creation of Amazon Prime’s Making the Cut, which ran for three seasons. Despite her success elsewhere, Klum admitted that Project Runway held a special place in her heart.
“It feels so amazing to be back,” Klum told E! News. “It really feels like coming home.” Her return also sparked excitement among her fellow judges and the broader fashion community. Celebrity stylist and new judge Law Roach, known for his work with Zendaya, said, “To hear Heidi was back, it was like, ‘Okay, this feels good. This feels like history.’”
A Revamped Judging Panel
The judging panel for Season 21 features a mix of familiar and fresh faces. Joining Klum are long-time judge Nina Garcia, Editor-in-Chief of Elle magazine, and newcomer Law Roach, who brings his expertise as an A-list stylist. Christian Siriano, the Season 4 winner who has since built a multimillion-dollar fashion empire, returns as the contestants’ mentor. Siriano’s ability to guide the designers with honest critiques has become a hallmark of the show.
Guest judges this season include former Project Runway judge Michael Kors, comedian Nikki Glaser, supermodel Tyra Banks, and actress Sofía Vergara. Klum expressed particular excitement about Vergara’s involvement, saying, “I was so happy that she said yes, because she’s wearing, ultimately, the winning look.”
A Diverse Cast of Designers
This season features 12 designers from varied backgrounds, each bringing their unique perspectives to the runway. Among them are Joseph McRae, a self-taught designer and former electrical engineer; Veejay Floresca, a trans woman from the Philippines known for her modern yet artistic designs; and Ethan Mundt, a drag queen and former RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant who blends high fashion with avant-garde artistry. Other notable contestants include Madeline Malenfant, inspired by Renaissance aesthetics, and Angelo Rosa, whose designs reflect his Dominican heritage and New York grit.
Returning contestants from previous seasons also add to the intrigue. Caycee Black, known for her gender-fluid designs, and twin brothers Jesus and Antonio Estrada, bring their evolving styles back to the competition. Their presence highlights the show’s commitment to celebrating both fresh talent and seasoned creativity.
Unfiltered Creativity and High Stakes
Season 21 promises to be “as unfiltered as you want it to be,” according to Klum. With a $200,000 cash prize, a feature in Elle, and a mentorship with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) at stake, the competition is fierce. The challenges push designers to their creative limits, from crafting futuristic ensembles to reinventing classic silhouettes.
Christian Siriano emphasized the high level of talent this season, noting, “The females this season are very strong. The men are very boisterous, but I will say that the females are some quiet killers, which I like.” Nina Garcia added that the judges’ critiques are as honest as ever, stating, “Some take it well, some don’t.”
The premiere’s two-episode launch set the tone for a season filled with drama, laughter, and jaw-dropping designs. Streaming options on Hulu and Disney+ ensure that fans can easily follow the journey of these aspiring fashion stars.
As Klum, Garcia, Roach, and Siriano guide the contestants through the highs and lows of the fashion world, Season 21 of Project Runway stands poised to inspire, challenge, and entertain like never before.