After a seven-season absence, Heidi Klum is back where she belongs — at the helm of Project Runway— and she’s ready to reclaim her title as queen of fashion TV.
Season 21 of the iconic design competition premiered on July 31, 2025, with Klum, now 52, making her grand return as host and judge. Her comeback marks the first time she’s appeared in a full-time role on the series since departing in 2017 after Season 16.
A Homecoming Worth the Hype
Klum, who co-created Project Runway in 2004 and left alongside mentor Tim Gunn to launch Amazon’s Making the Cut, described the experience of returning as “like coming home” in an interview with E! News.
And while much has changed — including the show’s move to Freeform — her presence instantly brings a familiar energy and authenticity that fans have been craving.
“Heidi’s return isn’t just nostalgic — it’s strategic,” writes Nicole Powell. “It’s the jolt of glamour, grit, and gravitas the show needed.”
What’s New in Season 21?
Klum is reunited with longtime judge and Elle magazine editor-in-chief Nina Garcia, bringing back a dynamic duo that helped shape the show’s early success. Christian Siriano, one of Project Runway’s most successful alumni, also returns as mentor — guiding a fresh batch of designers through the challenges of couture and chaos.
But this season adds a bold new twist with the addition of Law Roach, the unapologetically outspoken celebrity stylist known for his work with Zendaya and Celine Dion. And according to Garcia, viewers should brace themselves:
“It’s going to be spicy,” she teased.
Klum added, “Law doesn’t mince words. I don’t know if we’ve ever had that kind of honesty on the show before. There’s going to be a lot of bleeping this season — and I love it!”
What to Expect
• Network: Freeform
• Air Time: Thursdays at 10 PM EAT
• Streaming: Available the next day on Hulu and Disney+
• Episodes: 10 total
• Grand Prize: $100,000 and a major career boost
With high stakes, higher fashion, and Klum’s undeniable star power back in the mix, Project Runway Season 21 is shaping up to be the series’ most stylish revival yet.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new viewer, it’s safe to say: Project Runway just got its edge back.
